10 Best Generator Brands 2025 in the United States

The Kohler 26RCAL-200SELS is a powerful standby generator designed mainly for residential use, delivering up to 26,000 watts of power. It can run on two fuel types—liquid propane or natural gas—which adds flexibility depending on what fuel source is more accessible or cost-effective for you. The generator includes a 200 amp automatic transfer switch that seamlessly switches your home's power to the generator during outages, ensuring your home stays powered without manual intervention. Starting is handled by an electric system, making it easy to get going quickly without the hassle of pull cords.

At 625 pounds, this model isn’t portable and is intended to remain stationary outside your home. Standby generators of this size typically produce moderate noise, so it might be noticeable but should remain manageable if placed correctly. The built-in safety features are standard for this type of equipment, helping to protect both the generator and your home’s electrical system. With a 5-year manufacturer warranty, you receive solid support if issues arise.

If you are looking for a reliable, high-capacity generator that can handle a full household’s power needs during outages, the Kohler 26RCAL-200SELS is a suitable choice, especially if you prefer dual-fuel options. Keep in mind that it’s a heavy, stationary model meant for installed backup power rather than portable use.

The Generac Guardian 22kW Home Standby Generator is designed to provide reliable whole-house backup power during storms and outages. It delivers a strong 22,000 watts of power, which is enough to keep most household appliances and systems running smoothly. It runs on natural gas or liquid propane, offering flexibility depending on your fuel availability. One of its standout features is the automatic start system, meaning it turns on by itself when the power goes out, so you don’t have to worry about manual operation. The generator also supports remote monitoring via Wi-Fi, letting you check its status from anywhere, which is convenient for peace of mind.

This model includes a 200 Amp automatic transfer switch, ensuring a smooth and safe transition of power to your home. Safety features like automatic voltage regulation, overload protection, and short circuit protection help keep both the generator and your home’s electrical system safe. The engine is air-cooled and designed for durability while running quietly compared to other generators of similar power. However, at 466 pounds, it’s a heavy unit and not portable, so it’s meant to be permanently installed outside, typically by a professional electrician.

The fuel efficiency and quiet operation are definite advantages, though the weight and need for professional installation might be considerations for those seeking something simpler or more mobile. This generator is suitable for full home backup but may be more capacity than small households require. For those wanting a dependable, high-capacity standby generator with advanced features and remote monitoring, this Generac offers solid value backed by a 5-year warranty.

The Generac Guardian 10kW Home Standby Generator is designed to provide reliable whole-house backup power during storms or outages, delivering a solid 10,000 watts of clean, stable electricity. It runs on natural gas or liquid propane, offering flexibility depending on your fuel preference or availability. One of its strong points is quiet operation; it features a special quiet-test self-test mode that runs the engine at lower speeds to reduce noise and save fuel, making it less disruptive around the home compared to louder models.

The electronic ignition system ensures smooth and automatic starts whenever power goes out, so you don’t have to manually operate it. The generator is also WiFi-enabled, allowing you to monitor performance and maintenance alerts remotely, which is convenient for peace of mind. While it weighs 338 pounds and isn’t portable, this is typical for standby generators meant for permanent home installation. It requires professional installation by a certified electrician, so it’s not a plug-and-play option.

With a 5-year limited warranty and a durable aluminum build, it’s built to last and handle regular use. Its noise level is low but not completely silent, so very quiet environments might still notice it. This generator is well suited for homeowners looking for dependable, automatic backup power with modern remote monitoring features, valuing quiet operation and fuel flexibility.