10 Best Portable Generators 2026 in the United States

The Generac 7705 GP15500EFI is a powerful portable generator offering 15,500 running watts and 19,300 starting watts, making it well-suited for home backup, RV use, or job sites that require heavy-duty power. It runs on gasoline with a 5-gallon tank, supporting a long runtime during extended outages. One standout feature is the electronic fuel injection engine, which helps it run efficiently and more reliably than many traditional generators.

Safety is a priority with integrated COsense technology that detects harmful carbon monoxide levels and alerts you, important for both indoor and outdoor use. The generator includes six outlets protected by covers and a durable frame with heavy-duty steel tubing and never-flat wheels. Despite weighing 450 pounds, which may make moving it challenging, the wheels assist with mobility. The electric start simplifies powering it up without the need for pull cords.

Noise levels are described as quiet for its class, though it is not silent and may still be noticeable in quiet neighborhoods. Maintenance is simplified with an hour meter and low-oil shutdown to protect the engine. Though heavier and larger than some portable models, this generator delivers high wattage and safety features, making it a reliable choice for robust emergency power or outdoor use.

The Jackery Solar Generator 300 is a compact and lightweight portable power station ideal for camping, road trips, and emergency backup. It provides a stable 300-watt output from its 293Wh lithium-ion battery, enough to run small appliances or charge multiple devices like phones, laptops, and cameras simultaneously via its two AC outlets, USB-C, USB-A, and car port. One of its strong points is fast rechargeability: it can recover 80% battery in around 2 hours when using both wall outlet and USB-C input, and it supports solar charging with the separate 100W SolarSaga panel, making it a green and quiet alternative to fuel-powered generators.

Weighing just over 7 pounds, it’s easy to carry but the runtime is limited by the battery capacity—likely a few hours for heavier devices—which means it’s best suited for short trips or topping up devices rather than powering large equipment for extended periods. It runs silently without fumes, which is a big plus for outdoor and indoor use. The unit includes safety features like pure sine wave output for sensitive electronics, but it doesn’t have a built-in fuel tank since it’s battery-powered, so planning for recharging is essential.

This generator is well suited for users who need lightweight, portable, and clean power for small devices during outdoor activities or brief outages, instead of heavy-duty or long-term power needs.

The Jackery Explorer 2000 v2 is a powerful and compact portable generator designed primarily for home backup, camping, and small business use. It offers a substantial 2200-watt output with a large 2042Wh battery capacity, allowing you to run multiple appliances or devices for extended periods during outages or off-grid situations. Its LiFePO4 battery technology is built to last up to 10 years, which is excellent for long-term reliability and safety compared to traditional gas generators. Weighing just under 40 pounds, it’s lighter and smaller than many other 2kWh portable power stations, making it easier to transport but still not something you'd casually carry over long distances.

Charging options are versatile and quick: you can recharge it in just over an hour using AC power or via solar panels in about 6 hours, with a silent charging mode suitable for quiet environments. The noise level during operation is very low, under 30 decibels, so it won’t disturb your indoor activities or sleep. It includes three AC outlets plus a fast-charging USB-C port, making it compatible with various devices from household appliances to phones and laptops. Safety-wise, it features advanced temperature control and is certified for uninterruptible power supply use, ensuring steady power without interruptions during storms or emergencies.

Some considerations include its weight and bulkiness, which may limit casual outdoor use like hiking. Additionally, since it runs solely on battery power, it depends on electricity or solar input for recharging, which might restrict usage in extended off-grid scenarios without access to solar panels. This generator suits users seeking a quiet, reliable, and long-lasting electric power source for emergency backup or outdoor activities where carrying some weight is manageable.