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 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.

The DuroMax XP15000HXT is a powerful home generator designed to keep your entire house running during outages, delivering up to 15,000 watts of starting power and 12,000 watts running. One standout feature is its tri-fuel capability, allowing you to run it on gasoline, propane, or natural gas, which offers great flexibility depending on what fuel is easiest for you to access. It has a large 670cc engine and an advanced digital display that helps you monitor fuel levels and output at a glance.

Starting the generator is easy with both push-button and remote start options, making it convenient to use even from inside your home. Safety is a priority too, thanks to its CO Alert system that automatically shuts down the generator if dangerous carbon monoxide fumes are detected. The generator includes multiple outlets, including a heavy-duty 50 amp outlet for whole-house connection, which is ideal for serious home backup needs.

It weighs 362 pounds, so while it’s called portable and comes with wheels and handles, moving it around might still require some effort. Some users might find the noise level typical for a generator this powerful, which means it could be noticeable in quiet neighborhoods. The DuroMax XP15000HXT’s combination of high power, fuel versatility, and safety features makes it a strong choice for homeowners who want a reliable, flexible backup generator, especially if you need to power multiple appliances or even your entire home during outages.