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10 Best Portable Generators 2025 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Jackery HomePower 3000 Portable Power Station, 3600W (Surge 7200W) Output, 3072Wh LFP Battery Solar Generator, Essential Home Backup for Home Use, Power Outage, RV, Emergencies (Solar Panel Optional)

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,355
Runtime
Portability

Most important from
398 reviews

Runtime
The battery life is impressive, powering essential devices like refrigerators and TVs for hours or even days during outages.
Portability
The 60-pound weight is manageable for occasional moves, and adding wheels is optional but not essential for portability.

The Jackery HomePower 3000 is a strong portable power station designed mainly for home backup and outdoor use like RV trips. With a high 3600W continuous output and a surge capacity of 7200W, it can easily handle essential appliances such as refrigerators, fans, and WiFi routers during power outages. Its large 3072Wh lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) battery offers long runtime — enough to keep a fridge running for 1 to 2 days, or a household’s essential devices for up to 15 hours. This makes it a solid choice for emergency preparedness.

Portability is better than many competitors: weighing about 60 pounds and being 43% lighter and smaller than similar 3kWh models, it remains heavy but still manageable for those who might need to move it occasionally. It features multiple outlet types, including AC, USB-C, USB-A, DC, and even an RV-specific TT-30 port, which adds to its versatility in powering various devices simultaneously.

Charging options are flexible, supporting fast recharge via AC and DC, a car charger, and solar panels (sold separately). While the solar charging capability is a great eco-friendly feature, reaching 80% charge takes around 9 hours with two 200W panels, which might be slow if quick power is needed. The built-in UPS with a very fast switch time (≤20ms) ensures essential devices keep running without interruption during outages, which is an important safety and convenience feature. The battery uses advanced technology to ensure long life (up to 4000 cycles while keeping 70% capacity), so this unit is built for durability. The weight might be heavy for some to carry frequently, and the total number of AC ports is limited to four, which could require additional power strips for multiple devices. The Jackery HomePower 3000 presents a reliable, versatile, and relatively portable solution for those needing strong backup power at home or on the road, especially if quiet operation and long battery life are priorities. It is well suited for users seeking a clean, electric alternative to gas generators and who are prepared to invest in solar panels for sustainable charging.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,355
Runtime
Portability

Most important from
398 reviews

Runtime
The battery life is impressive, powering essential devices like refrigerators and TVs for hours or even days during outages.
Portability
The 60-pound weight is manageable for occasional moves, and adding wheels is optional but not essential for portability.
#2

Jackery Solar Generator 1000 v2 with 2x100W Solar Panel,1070Wh Portable Power Station LiFePO4 Battery,1500W AC/100W USB-C Output,1Hr Fast Charge for Outdoor,Off-Grid Living,RV,Emergency

Rating
9.7
Noise Level
Wattage (Power Output)
Outlets and Power Connections

Most important from
3180 reviews

Noise Level
Delivers quiet operation at around 30 decibels, making it ideal for overnight use without disturbing sleep or outdoor activities.
Wattage (Power Output)
Handles high power loads smoothly, running 1500 watt heaters and small compressors with stable output and reliable surge capacity up to 3000 watts.
Outlets and Power Connections
Versatile charging options include three AC outlets, USB-C and USB-A ports, and a 12V cigarette lighter port, accommodating a wide range of devices simultaneously.
Portability
Portability is enhanced by a well-designed carrying bag and a convenient swing handle, making it easy to transport for camping, van builds, or emergency use.

The Jackery Solar Generator 1000 v2 is a well-rounded portable power station designed for outdoor activities like camping, road trips, and emergency backup at home. It delivers a solid 1,500W continuous power output with 3,000W surge capacity, meaning it can handle most household essentials including fridges and AC units. Its 1,070Wh battery capacity provides substantial runtime, enough to keep small appliances running for hours depending on usage.

One of its standout features is fast charging — it can fully recharge in about an hour, which is much quicker than many competitors, and it also supports solar charging via the included foldable 2x100W solar panels, making it great for off-grid use. Weighing just under 24 pounds with a handy handle, it’s portable enough to carry to campsites or store in an RV. The unit runs quietly at around 30 decibels, so it won’t disturb your peace while running overnight.

It offers versatile charging options including three AC outlets, USB-C and USB-A ports, and a car port, allowing you to power multiple devices at once. Safety is well covered with UL certification and fire/shock resistant battery tech. A small downside is the solar panels ship separately, which may require coordination. While the battery life is rated for 4,000 cycles, the upfront cost might be higher than gas-powered generators, though it’s cleaner and requires no fuel. For those seeking a quiet, efficient, and eco-friendly portable generator primarily for light to medium power needs outdoors or emergencies, the Jackery 1000 v2 is a strong contender.

Rating
9.7
Noise Level
Wattage (Power Output)
Outlets and Power Connections

Most important from
3180 reviews

Noise Level
Delivers quiet operation at around 30 decibels, making it ideal for overnight use without disturbing sleep or outdoor activities.
Wattage (Power Output)
Handles high power loads smoothly, running 1500 watt heaters and small compressors with stable output and reliable surge capacity up to 3000 watts.
Outlets and Power Connections
Versatile charging options include three AC outlets, USB-C and USB-A ports, and a 12V cigarette lighter port, accommodating a wide range of devices simultaneously.
Portability
Portability is enhanced by a well-designed carrying bag and a convenient swing handle, making it easy to transport for camping, van builds, or emergency use.
#3

Jackery Explorer 1000 v2 Portable Power Station,1070Wh LiFePO4 Battery,1500W AC/100W USB-C Output, 1 Hr Fast Charge, Solar Generator for Camping,Emergency, RV, Off-Grid Living(Solar Panel Optional)

Rating
9.4
Power Output (Wattage)
Run Time
Portability

Most important from
3180 reviews

Power Output (Wattage)
The Explorer 1000 maintains 40% battery life after running a 1,000W heater for an hour, showing impressive endurance and reliability.
Run Time
The Explorer 1000 maintains 40% battery life after running a 1,000W heater for an hour, showing impressive endurance and reliability.
Portability
With its lightweight design and convenient swing handle, the Explorer 1000 is easy to carry around, unlike the heavier and less convenient DJI model.
Noise Level
Jackery Explorer 1000 outperformed the DJI Portable Power Station, managing battery life exceptionally well and remaining super quiet even under load.

The Jackery Explorer 1000 v2 Portable Power Station is a robust option for those seeking reliable portable power. With a substantial 1,500W AC output and a 3,000W surge peak, it can handle multiple high-demand appliances like fridges and electric pots, making it ideal for camping, RV trips, and off-grid living. Its 1,070Wh capacity ensures a solid power reserve, and the lightweight design at 23.8 pounds, coupled with a foldable handle, enhances its portability.

This generator is user-friendly with its smart app control that allows for easy mode switching, including a swift one-hour emergency charging option, though users must activate this feature via the app each time. The versatile connectivity options include two USB-C ports, one USB-A port, one DC car port, and three AC outlets, catering to various charging needs. The LFP battery promises longevity, maintaining over 70% capacity after 4,000 cycles, translating to about 10 years of use. However, its run-time might vary depending on the devices connected, and it requires solar panels for optimal off-grid performance, which are sold separately.

The noise level is managed well with a 30 dB quiet mode, suitable for overnight use. The fast charging capability is impressive but needs manual activation through the app, which might be a small inconvenience for some. This product is well-suited for those needing a reliable power source in outdoor or emergency scenarios where versatility and longevity are key.

Rating
9.4
Power Output (Wattage)
Run Time
Portability

Most important from
3180 reviews

Power Output (Wattage)
The Explorer 1000 maintains 40% battery life after running a 1,000W heater for an hour, showing impressive endurance and reliability.
Run Time
The Explorer 1000 maintains 40% battery life after running a 1,000W heater for an hour, showing impressive endurance and reliability.
Portability
With its lightweight design and convenient swing handle, the Explorer 1000 is easy to carry around, unlike the heavier and less convenient DJI model.
Noise Level
Jackery Explorer 1000 outperformed the DJI Portable Power Station, managing battery life exceptionally well and remaining super quiet even under load.

Buying Guide for the Best Portable Generators

Choosing a portable generator can seem overwhelming, but the most important thing to remember is to match the generator's abilities to how you plan to use it. Consider where, when, and how often you’ll use the generator—whether it’s for backup power during outages, for camping, for powering tools at a job site, or for outdoor events. Portable generators come with a wide range of features and specifications, so understanding your unique needs will help you pick a model that is reliable, safe, and convenient for you.
Wattage (Power Output)Wattage, or power output, measures how much electricity the generator can deliver. This is important because it determines what devices or appliances you can run at the same time. Portable generators are typically separated into three segments: small (under 2,000 watts), medium (about 2,000 to 5,000 watts), and large (over 5,000 watts). If you just want to charge phones, run a few lights, or power a laptop when camping, a smaller unit is sufficient. For powering refrigerators, sump pumps, or multiple appliances during a blackout, look for something in the medium to large range. Make a list of what you need to power at once, check the wattage requirements for each, and make sure the generator’s running and surge (peak) watts cover your needs.
RuntimeRuntime tells you how long the generator can operate on a full tank of fuel at a specific load (usually 25% or 50% of its capacity). This is critical if you need power over longer periods without frequent refueling. Generators with longer runtimes are convenient for overnight use or during extended power outages. When reviewing runtimes, think about how long you realistically need your equipment to run before you can refill the tank. If you're using it for short stints, a shorter runtime is fine, but for prolonged use, longer endurance is better.
PortabilityPortability considers weight, handle design, and whether the unit has wheels. Smaller and lighter generators are easier to move from place to place, making them suitable for camping or events. Heavier models with wheels and handles are designed to make moving the generator manageable even for one person. If you’ll be transporting the generator frequently or lifting it by yourself, prioritize lighter models with good handles. For use at a job site or as a semi-permanent backup at home, portability may not matter as much.
Noise LevelNoise level is measured in decibels (dB), showing how loud the generator will be when running. This is a big concern for camping, neighborhood use, or areas with noise restrictions. Generators typically range from very quiet (under 60 dB, about as loud as normal conversation) to quite loud (over 70 dB, similar to a vacuum cleaner or lawnmower). Choose a quieter generator if you’ll use it in close quarters or want minimal disturbance, whereas at a noisy job site, noise may be less important.
Fuel Type & Tank CapacityFuel type determines what kind of fuel the generator uses—typically gasoline, propane, or both (dual-fuel). Gasoline is the most common, but dual-fuel generators offer flexibility, especially useful during emergencies. Tank capacity tells you how much fuel the generator can store, affecting how often you need to refill it. Pick a fuel type that is easy for you to store and access. A larger tank is handy for longer runtime and less frequent refueling, especially in situations where frequent checking is inconvenient.
Outlets and Power ConnectionsOutlets and power connections define how many and what types of devices you can plug in at once. Common options include standard household (120V), twist-lock, USB ports, and sometimes 240V outlets for larger appliances. Check what you need to plug in—if you have many appliances or require something like an RV plug, make sure the generator comes with those connections. More outlets mean more flexibility, but make sure you still stay within the generator’s total wattage output.
Safety FeaturesSafety features like automatic shutoff for low oil, carbon monoxide sensors, overload protection, and grounding options protect both you and your equipment. For home or populated area use, especially inside garages or near tents, a CO shutoff can be a lifesaver. Overload protection keeps your devices from getting damaged by surges. When deciding, consider where and how the generator will be used, and look for features that match those safety needs.

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