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10 Best Portable Electric Generator 2026 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

EF ECOFLOW Solar Generator DELTA 2 Max 2048Wh with 220W Solar Panel, LiFePO4 Battery Portable Power Station, Up to 3400W AC Output, AC + Solar Fast Dual Charging 0-100% in 1 Hr For Outdoor Camping RV

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,397
Power Output (Wattage)
Fuel Type
Noise Level

Most important from
2309 reviews

Power Output (Wattage)
Handles household appliances effortlessly, making it a dependable backup during power outages.
Fuel Type
Multiple charging options from AC, solar panels, or even car outlets provide exceptional flexibility.
Noise Level
Operates quietly and reliably, ensuring it won't disturb your environment even during overnight use.
Outlets and Connectivity
Supports numerous output devices simultaneously, enhancing convenience for both outdoor adventures and home backup.

The EF ECOFLOW Solar Generator DELTA 2 Max is a powerful and versatile option for anyone needing portable electricity, especially for outdoor activities like camping or as a backup at home. It offers a strong power output of 2400W continuous and can handle surges up to 3400W, which means it can run most household devices and even some high-wattage appliances. It uses a clean, rechargeable LiFePO4 (LFP) battery, known for being long-lasting and safe, with up to 3000 charge cycles before losing much capacity. This makes it more durable and cost-effective over time compared to typical batteries.

Charging is impressively fast: you can get 80% power in just under an hour using a combination of AC and solar input, thanks to its ability to handle up to 1000W from solar panels. The generator is quite portable considering its capacity, weighing 71 pounds and sized compactly, although it will require some effort to carry around. On the noise front, it’s very quiet at about 30 decibels, so it won't disturb your peace while running overnight. It also provides plenty of outlets (15 total), letting you power multiple devices simultaneously. The expandable battery capacity up to 6kWh is a smart feature if you want more energy storage for longer use or power outages.

A potential downside is that at 71 pounds, it’s not the lightest option, so it may not be ideal for frequent carrying over long distances. Additionally, while fast charging is a benefit, it relies on good solar conditions or AC power sources nearby. This generator suits campers, RV users, and homeowners seeking a reliable, quiet, and clean power solution with a strong focus on battery longevity and fast charging.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,397
Power Output (Wattage)
Fuel Type
Noise Level

Most important from
2309 reviews

Power Output (Wattage)
Handles household appliances effortlessly, making it a dependable backup during power outages.
Fuel Type
Multiple charging options from AC, solar panels, or even car outlets provide exceptional flexibility.
Noise Level
Operates quietly and reliably, ensuring it won't disturb your environment even during overnight use.
Outlets and Connectivity
Supports numerous output devices simultaneously, enhancing convenience for both outdoor adventures and home backup.
#2

DuroMax XP11000iH 11,000-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Digital Inverter Generator - Gas & Propane, Remote Electric Start, Transfer Switch Ready, RV & Emergency Ready

Rating
9.4
Power Output (Wattage)
Run Time
Noise Level

Most important from
195 reviews

Power Output (Wattage)
Peace of mind during power outages, capable of running air conditioning and lights.
Run Time
Much more efficient since the inverter allows it to idle down and save fuel.
Noise Level
Extremely powerful, yet extremely quiet. Even under heavy load, it's probably half as loud as other models.

The DuroMax XP11000iH is a powerful portable electric generator with a peak output of 11,000 watts and running watts of 9,000, making it suitable for emergency home power, jobsite use, and camping with your RV. Its dual fuel technology allows it to run on both gasoline and propane, offering flexibility in fuel choice. The generator is equipped with inverter technology, providing clean and stable power for sensitive electronics like televisions and computers.

It also features a CO Alert that shuts off the generator when unsafe carbon monoxide levels are detected, enhancing safety. The remote electric start allows for convenient operation, and it is transfer switch ready, making it easy to connect to an automatic transfer switch for seamless power transition during outages. Additionally, it has parallel capability, enabling you to connect two units for double the power output. The generator is compliant with EPA and CARB emissions standards, making it environmentally friendly.

Its weight of 216 pounds may affect portability, especially for solo users. The DuroMax XP11000iH offers robust power and versatility, particularly for those needing reliable, flexible power sources for varied uses.

Rating
9.4
Power Output (Wattage)
Run Time
Noise Level

Most important from
195 reviews

Power Output (Wattage)
Peace of mind during power outages, capable of running air conditioning and lights.
Run Time
Much more efficient since the inverter allows it to idle down and save fuel.
Noise Level
Extremely powerful, yet extremely quiet. Even under heavy load, it's probably half as loud as other models.
#3

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
9.4
Power Output (Wattage)
Fuel Type
Portability

Most important from
1313 reviews

Power Output (Wattage)
The generator runs flawlessly for extended periods, providing uninterrupted power during multi-day outages.
Fuel Type
Switching between propane and gasoline is seamless, with included hoses making connections simple and easy.
Portability
Despite its weight, the built-in handle and wheels make moving the generator manageable.
Start Type
The remote key fob allows for convenient start and stop without going outside, perfect for storm preparation.

The Westinghouse 11000 Peak Watt Dual Fuel Portable Inverter Generator stands out with its substantial power output, offering 9000 running watts and 11000 peak watts on gasoline, and slightly less on propane. This makes it a robust choice for residential use, capable of running multiple appliances simultaneously. One of its notable features is the dual fuel capability, allowing you to switch between gasoline and propane, providing flexibility in fuel options.

It also boasts a commendable run time of up to 17 hours on a 9.8-gallon fuel tank, reducing the need for frequent refueling during extended outages. The generator is equipped with a remote electric start, push button, and recoil start, making it convenient and user-friendly. It also includes various outlets, including standard household and transfer switch ready outlets, with rubber covers for added safety, which is particularly beneficial during adverse weather conditions.

The LED data center provides real-time information on fuel level, power output, remaining run time, voltage, and total hours, helping users manage the generator efficiently. On the downside, the generator is quite heavy, weighing 187.4 pounds, which might pose portability challenges despite its built-in wheels. It's relatively noisy, which could be a concern for residential areas. Additionally, while it includes many useful components like a remote start key fob and various accessories for ease of use, the initial setup might require some effort. This generator is suitable for users needing high power output and flexibility in fuel choice, with a few considerations regarding weight and noise.

Rating
9.4
Power Output (Wattage)
Fuel Type
Portability

Most important from
1313 reviews

Power Output (Wattage)
The generator runs flawlessly for extended periods, providing uninterrupted power during multi-day outages.
Fuel Type
Switching between propane and gasoline is seamless, with included hoses making connections simple and easy.
Portability
Despite its weight, the built-in handle and wheels make moving the generator manageable.
Start Type
The remote key fob allows for convenient start and stop without going outside, perfect for storm preparation.

Buying Guide for the Best Portable Electric Generator

Choosing the right portable electric generator involves understanding your power needs and the specific features that will best suit your situation. Portable generators are useful for providing backup power during outages, powering tools on job sites, or even for recreational activities like camping. To make an informed decision, you need to consider several key specifications that will determine the generator's performance and suitability for your needs.
Power Output (Wattage)Power output, measured in watts, indicates how much electricity the generator can produce. This is crucial because it determines what and how many devices you can run simultaneously. Generators typically range from 1,000 watts to over 10,000 watts. For small appliances and electronics, a generator with 1,000 to 3,000 watts is usually sufficient. For larger appliances or multiple devices, you may need 3,000 to 7,000 watts. For whole-house backup, look for generators with 7,000 watts or more. Assess your power needs by listing the devices you plan to power and their wattage requirements.
Fuel TypePortable generators can run on various types of fuel, including gasoline, propane, and diesel. Gasoline is the most common and widely available, but it has a shorter shelf life and can be harder to store. Propane burns cleaner and has a longer shelf life, but requires a separate tank. Diesel generators are more fuel-efficient and durable, but they are typically more expensive and noisier. Choose the fuel type based on availability, storage convenience, and your preference for maintenance and environmental impact.
Run TimeRun time refers to how long the generator can operate on a full tank of fuel. This is important for determining how often you will need to refuel, especially during extended power outages. Generators with larger fuel tanks generally have longer run times. For occasional use or short outages, a generator with a run time of 5-8 hours may be sufficient. For longer outages or continuous use, look for models with run times of 10-12 hours or more. Consider your typical usage scenarios to determine the appropriate run time.
PortabilityPortability is determined by the generator's weight, size, and design features like wheels and handles. If you need to move the generator frequently, such as for camping or job sites, look for lightweight models with built-in wheels and handles. For home backup use where the generator will stay in one place, portability may be less critical. Assess how and where you plan to use the generator to decide on the level of portability you need.
Noise LevelNoise level, measured in decibels (dB), indicates how loud the generator will be during operation. This is important for comfort and compliance with local noise regulations. Generators typically range from 50 dB (quiet) to over 80 dB (loud). For camping or residential areas, a quieter generator (50-60 dB) is preferable. For job sites or remote locations, noise may be less of a concern. Consider where you will use the generator and how important noise level is to you.
Start TypeGenerators can have different start types, including manual recoil start, electric start, and remote start. Manual recoil start requires pulling a cord, which can be physically demanding. Electric start uses a push button or key, making it easier to operate. Remote start allows you to start the generator from a distance using a remote control. Choose the start type based on your preference for convenience and ease of use. Electric and remote starts are generally more user-friendly, especially for those who may have difficulty with manual recoil.
Outlets and ConnectivityThe number and type of outlets determine what devices you can connect to the generator. Common outlets include standard 120V household outlets, 240V outlets for larger appliances, and USB ports for charging electronics. Some generators also offer connectivity features like Bluetooth or Wi-Fi for remote monitoring and control. Consider the types of devices you need to power and ensure the generator has the appropriate outlets. Additional connectivity features can add convenience but may not be necessary for everyone.

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