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10 Best 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

Westinghouse 11000 Peak Watt Dual Fuel Portable Inverter Generator, Remote Electric Start, Transfer Switch Ready, Gas and Propane Powered, Low THD - Safe for Electronics, Parallel Capable, CO Sensor

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,500
Power Output (Wattage)
Fuel Type
Portability

Most important from
1124 reviews

Power Output (Wattage)
This generator ran flawlessly for three straight days during a power outage, powering everything in a 4,000 sq ft house.
Fuel Type
The dual fuel capability, especially the ease of switching between propane and gasoline, provides great flexibility.
Portability
Despite its weight, the built-in handle and wheels make it easier to move around.
Noise Level
Although a bit noisy, the generator's robust build and performance make it worth the price.
Start Type
The generator's remote start feature is incredibly convenient, especially during storms.

The Westinghouse 11000 Peak Watt Dual Fuel Portable Inverter Generator is a versatile and powerful choice for residential backup power. It provides a significant power output with 9000 running watts and 11000 peak watts on gasoline, and 8100 running watts with 10000 peak watts on propane. This dual fuel capability offers flexibility depending on fuel availability. The generator is equipped with a 9.8-gallon fuel tank that supports up to 17 hours of run time, making it suitable for extended power outages.

Portability may be a concern for some users as it weighs 187.4 pounds, making it quite heavy to move around without assistance. It comes with a convenient remote electric start, push button, and recoil start options for ease of use. The inverter technology ensures clean power, safe for sensitive electronics. The generator is also CO sensor equipped for added safety. The included components such as oil, oil funnel, remote, and tool kit make it a plug-and-play option right out of the box with minimal assembly required.

The LED data center provides valuable information such as fuel level, power output, and remaining run time, adding to its user-friendly features. Its size and weight could be drawbacks for users looking for a more portable solution. Additionally, while it is transfer switch ready, the high wattage output might be more than what some residential users need. Nevertheless, its robust power output, dual fuel flexibility, and user-friendly features make it a reliable choice for residential use.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,500
Power Output (Wattage)
Fuel Type
Portability

Most important from
1124 reviews

Power Output (Wattage)
This generator ran flawlessly for three straight days during a power outage, powering everything in a 4,000 sq ft house.
Fuel Type
The dual fuel capability, especially the ease of switching between propane and gasoline, provides great flexibility.
Portability
Despite its weight, the built-in handle and wheels make it easier to move around.
Noise Level
Although a bit noisy, the generator's robust build and performance make it worth the price.
Start Type
The generator's remote start feature is incredibly convenient, especially during storms.
#2

Westinghouse 28000 Peak Watt Home Backup Portable Generator, Electric Start with Auto Choke, Transfer Switch Ready 30A & 50A Outlets, Gas Powered,Blue

Rating
8.2
Power Output (Wattage)
Fuel Type
Run Time

Most important from
256 reviews

Power Output (Wattage)
This generator is perfect for powering the entire house, including AC units and appliances, during a hurricane, and it comes at a fraction of the cost of higher-end models.
Fuel Type
Despite its noise and weight, it provides major power output and great value, working reliably for whole house power with the flexibility of dual fuel options.
Run Time
The electric start and remote control make it incredibly convenient to operate, holding enough fuel to avoid frequent trips to the gas station.
Portability
Solid machine with a large fuel tank and extended handles, making it well-built and easy to maneuver despite its size.
Start Type
The electric start and remote control make it incredibly convenient to operate, holding enough fuel to avoid frequent trips to the gas station.

The Westinghouse 28000 Peak Watt Home Backup Portable Generator is a heavy-duty option designed for significant power needs, making it suitable for home backup during power outages. With 20,000 running watts and 28,000 peak watts, it offers substantial power, able to handle multiple appliances simultaneously.

Its gas-powered engine and a large 17.2-gallon fuel tank provide up to 17 hours of run time at 25% load, ensuring long-lasting operation during extended outages. The electric start with auto choke simplifies operation, and the generator is transfer switch ready, making it easy to integrate into your home's electrical system. Safety features like GFCI outlets and automatic low oil shutdown add to its reliability.

Its size and weight (583 pounds) make portability a challenge despite its reinforced steel handles. This generator is best suited for those needing high power output for residential backup and don't mind compromising on portability and noise.

Rating
8.2
Power Output (Wattage)
Fuel Type
Run Time

Most important from
256 reviews

Power Output (Wattage)
This generator is perfect for powering the entire house, including AC units and appliances, during a hurricane, and it comes at a fraction of the cost of higher-end models.
Fuel Type
Despite its noise and weight, it provides major power output and great value, working reliably for whole house power with the flexibility of dual fuel options.
Run Time
The electric start and remote control make it incredibly convenient to operate, holding enough fuel to avoid frequent trips to the gas station.
Portability
Solid machine with a large fuel tank and extended handles, making it well-built and easy to maneuver despite its size.
Start Type
The electric start and remote control make it incredibly convenient to operate, holding enough fuel to avoid frequent trips to the gas station.
#3

Honda EU7000IS 7,000 Watt Inverter Portable Backup Generator, Super Quiet, Electric Start

Rating
7.9
Power Output (Wattage)
Noise Level

Most important from
24 reviews

Power Output (Wattage)
Outputs are stable and reliable, giving confidence in its performance during power outages.
Noise Level
Runs significantly quieter compared to older models, making it ideal for residential use.

The Honda EU7000IS is a powerful inverter generator that boasts a starting wattage of 7,000 watts and a running wattage of 5,500 watts, making it suitable for home backup power, RVs, and outdoor events. It runs on fuel and features a super quiet operation, which is great for residential areas or camping sites where noise can be a concern. The generator includes an electric start, which simplifies the startup process, and it also offers Bluetooth capability through the Honda My Generator app for remote monitoring and control. Additionally, it comes with an advanced CO-MINDER system to detect harmful carbon monoxide levels, enhancing safety.

One of its significant strengths is its fuel efficiency, providing a runtime of up to 6 hours and 30 minutes on a single tank. However, the generator is quite heavy at 270 pounds, which might affect its portability despite being labeled as portable. Users might find it challenging to move without assistance or additional equipment. The 3-year residential warranty is a reassuring feature, offering peace of mind with your purchase.

The noise level is exceptionally low for its power class, making it an excellent choice for noise-sensitive environments. Though it is a bit on the pricier side, its combination of power, efficiency, and advanced features makes it a worthy investment for those needing reliable backup power or portable energy solutions.

Rating
7.9
Power Output (Wattage)
Noise Level

Most important from
24 reviews

Power Output (Wattage)
Outputs are stable and reliable, giving confidence in its performance during power outages.
Noise Level
Runs significantly quieter compared to older models, making it ideal for residential use.

Buying Guide for the Best Generators

Choosing the right generator can make it much easier to handle power outages, run equipment at job sites, or even enjoy comforts during camping trips. To find the best fit for your needs, it's important to understand the key specifications that affect how a generator will perform in different situations. Each user's main need—whether it's for emergency home backup, powering tools, or recreational use—should guide their decisions as they compare different options.
Power Output (Wattage)Power output, measured in watts, tells you how much electrical equipment your generator can run at once. This spec is crucial because using a generator that's too small for your needs can lead to overloaded circuits, while buying one much larger than required means unnecessary size and maintenance. Power output is usually divided into 'starting watts' (the initial burst needed for appliances like fridges to kick on) and 'running watts' (the steady power required). For light, occasional use like camping, small generators around 1,000-2,000 watts may suffice. Medium duty, such as running a few household essentials or some tools, often needs 3,000-5,000 watts. Heavy duty, like whole house backup or construction jobs, usually begins at 6,500 watts and up. To choose, list out what you want to run and check their wattages to find the right fit.
Fuel TypeGenerators run on fuels like gasoline, diesel, propane, or even dual-fuel combinations. Each has its pros and cons in terms of availability, storage, and long-term maintenance. Gasoline is easy to find and portable but spoils over time and needs more frequent maintenance. Diesel engines are more robust for heavy, prolonged use but generally louder and heavier. Propane stores well for longer periods and burns cleaner, making it popular for occasional or emergency use. Some models can switch between fuels, offering flexibility. When deciding, think about how often you'll use the generator and which fuels are most convenient and safe for you to store and access.
Run TimeRun time measures how long a generator can operate on a single tank of fuel at a specified load (usually half capacity). This spec matters because longer run times mean fewer interruptions to refuel, which can be essential during outages or long events. Short run time (around 4-6 hours) might be enough for camping or intermittent use, while 8-12 hours or more is more comfortable for overnight backup or all-day job sites. Match this to your expected usage pattern; if you need to run things overnight, look for longer run times at your typical load.
PortabilityPortability describes how easy it is to move the generator. Small, lightweight models with handles are great for outdoor recreation or occasional use, while larger, heavier units may have wheels and sturdy frames for mobility on job sites or around the home. If the generator is mostly staying in one place for emergencies, weight might not matter much; but if you plan to move it often, check the weight and ensure it has features like wheels or ergonomic handles.
Noise LevelNoise level, measured in decibels (dB), tells you how loud the generator will be running, which can affect your comfort and local regulations. Quiet generators (below 60 dB) are more suitable for camping, RVs, or residential neighborhoods, while construction site models can be much louder (70 dB and above). If you need peace and quiet or will be using it near other people, focus on lower-noise options; for remote or outdoor work, higher noise may not be as important.
Outlets and ConnectivityDifferent generators offer various combinations of outlets, such as standard household, RV, twist-lock, or USB types. Some models also include features like parallel connections (to link two generators for more power) or transfer switch compatibility for easier home backup. The right choice depends on what you need to plug in: For electronics, look for pure sine wave or inverter generators; for direct home connection, ensure the generator meets relevant safety and transfer switch requirements.

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