10 Best Home Generators 2025 in the United States

The Generac Guardian 26kW Home Standby Generator is a solid choice for homeowners looking for reliable whole-house backup power. Its 26,000-watt output is strong enough to keep most household appliances and systems running smoothly during an outage. It runs on natural gas or propane, which are common and convenient fuel options for home standby generators. The generator features an automatic electronic start, meaning it turns on by itself when power goes out, so you don't have to worry about manual operation.

One of the standout features is its Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing you to monitor the generator remotely and receive maintenance alerts, which adds convenience and peace of mind. The unit is built with a durable aluminum casing and includes a 200 Amp transfer switch that integrates the generator seamlessly with your home's electrical system.

The generator is described as super quiet and low maintenance, but it weighs over 500 pounds and is not portable; it's designed to be permanently installed outside your home. Installation should be done by a licensed electrician, which is typical for this type of equipment. This generator is well suited for homeowners wanting dependable and automatic backup power for their entire house, especially if remote monitoring and quieter operation are important to them. Its size, weight, and need for professional installation mean it is not a portable or DIY-friendly option.

The Westinghouse 11000 Peak Watt Dual Fuel Portable Inverter Generator is a robust choice for those needing a reliable home generator. With a high power output of 9000 running watts (gasoline) and 8100 running watts (propane), it can handle most home appliances and electronics safely due to its low THD (Total Harmonic Distortion) of less than 3%. The dual fuel capability is a significant advantage, allowing flexibility between gasoline and propane. Its runtime is impressive, offering up to 17 hours on a 9.8-gallon tank, making it suitable for prolonged use during power outages.

The remote electric start feature, alongside push-button and recoil options, adds convenience, ensuring easy operation even in emergencies. The generator includes various safety features like a CO sensor and automatic low oil shutdown, enhancing its safety profile. Equipped with multiple outlets, including transfer switch-ready options, it is versatile for different power needs. However, its weight of 187.4 pounds may pose a challenge for portability despite being labeled as portable.

Minimal assembly is required, and it comes with essential components like an oil bottle, funnel, and propane regulator. This generator is backed by a 3-year limited service warranty and a nationwide customer service network, offering peace of mind. Users who prioritize power output, fuel flexibility, and runtime may find this generator particularly beneficial.

The DuroMax XP16000iH is a powerful home generator offering 16,000 peak watts and 13,000 running watts, making it well-suited for whole home backup during emergencies or for heavy-duty use on job sites and camping. One of its main perks is dual fuel capability—it runs on both gasoline and propane—giving you flexibility depending on fuel availability or your preferences. It features inverter technology, which means it produces clean, stable electricity safe for sensitive electronics like computers and TVs. Starting the generator is easy and convenient with a remote electric start, plus it has a battery tender to keep the battery charged and ready.

With a 10.5-gallon tank, it can run around 10 hours on a full tank, which is decent for extended use but could mean refueling during very long outages. The generator weighs 368 pounds, so while it’s technically portable, moving it around will require some effort or equipment. It also includes safety features like low oil shutoff and a carbon monoxide sensor, adding peace of mind. The digital control center is helpful for monitoring output and hours used.

Considering its power and fuel options alongside its size and runtime, this generator is an excellent choice for those needing robust, flexible power backup and who are comfortable handling a heavier unit.