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 Generac GP9500E TF is a powerful portable generator designed to deliver up to 12,500 watts of starting power and 9,500 watts running power, making it well-suited for home backup, job sites, and RV use. One of its standout features is the tri-fuel capability, allowing you to run it on gasoline, propane, or natural gas. This versatility can be very convenient if fuel availability is a concern. The generator offers an easy electric start, eliminating the need for manual pulling, which adds to its user-friendly design.

With a 7.5-gallon gasoline tank, it can run up to about 9.5 hours at half load, providing solid runtime for extended use. Its rugged build includes covered outlets, a steel frame, and heavy-duty wheels, making it durable and relatively easier to move despite its weight of 219 pounds. The unit also includes safety features like a CO sensor and low oil shutdown, enhancing safe operation.

The generator’s weight and size may influence portability and storage considerations. This generator provides a reliable, versatile power source with multiple fuel options and strong power output, making it well-suited for emergency home backup or heavy-duty outdoor work.