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10 Best Portable Generators 2025 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Honda EU7000IS 7,000 Watt Inverter Portable Backup Generator, Super Quiet, Electric Start

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,158
Power Output (Wattage)
Noise Level
Start Type

Most important from
22 reviews

Power Output (Wattage)
Outputs are steady at 122VAC/244VAC, offering reliable performance.
Noise Level
Great quality and quiet operation, producing only 58-62 dB, won't disturb you or your neighbors.
Start Type
Despite a discharged battery on delivery, the generator can be started with the pull cord, though this may be challenging for some users.

The Honda EU7000IS is a solid choice for anyone in need of a reliable portable generator, particularly for home backup power, RVs, or outdoor events. With a maximum output of 7,000 watts and a running wattage of 5,500 watts, it can easily power multiple appliances or tools simultaneously. One of its standout features is the electric start, which simplifies the operation, especially for those who may struggle with the manual pull-start method. Additionally, the generator boasts a super quiet operation and fuel efficiency, making it less intrusive during use, which is great for residential areas or camping trips.

Portability is a bit of a mixed bag. While it does offer a compact design, weighing 270 pounds, this is on the heavier side for a portable generator. Users might find it challenging to move around without additional help or equipment. Its runtime of approximately 6.5 hours is decent but may require refuel for longer power needs, so planning is essential for extended use.

The inclusion of the Honda My Generator app with Bluetooth capability is a modern touch, allowing users to monitor the generator’s performance from a distance. Safety is also a priority with the CO-MINDER feature, which detects carbon monoxide levels, enhancing user security when operating the generator in enclosed spaces. The three-year residential warranty provides peace of mind, ensuring that customers have support if any issues arise.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,158
Power Output (Wattage)
Noise Level
Start Type

Most important from
22 reviews

Power Output (Wattage)
Outputs are steady at 122VAC/244VAC, offering reliable performance.
Noise Level
Great quality and quiet operation, producing only 58-62 dB, won't disturb you or your neighbors.
Start Type
Despite a discharged battery on delivery, the generator can be started with the pull cord, though this may be challenging for some users.
#2

Jackery Solar Generator 300, 293Wh Backup Lithium Battery with 1XSolar Panel SolarSaga 100W, 110V/300W Pure Sine Wave AC Outlet for RV Outdoors Camping Travel Blackout

Rating
10.0
Portability
Runtime
Outlets and Power Connections

Most important from
10257 reviews

Portability
A compact and lightweight power station that’s easy to carry anywhere and durable enough to handle some abuse.
Runtime
Charges quickly, especially when using both wall outlet and USB-C input, reaching 80% in about 2 hours.
Outlets and Power Connections
Supports running multiple devices simultaneously with two AC outlets plus USB-C, USB-A, and 12V ports, allowing up to six devices to charge at once.
Noise Level
Runs quietly and reliably, perfect for camping or indoor use without the noise or fumes of traditional generators.
Wattage (Power Output)
Ideal for powering low to moderate consumption devices like fans, lights, laptops, and small tools, but not suited for high-power appliances like hair dryers or blenders.

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.

Rating
10.0
Portability
Runtime
Outlets and Power Connections

Most important from
10257 reviews

Portability
A compact and lightweight power station that’s easy to carry anywhere and durable enough to handle some abuse.
Runtime
Charges quickly, especially when using both wall outlet and USB-C input, reaching 80% in about 2 hours.
Outlets and Power Connections
Supports running multiple devices simultaneously with two AC outlets plus USB-C, USB-A, and 12V ports, allowing up to six devices to charge at once.
Noise Level
Runs quietly and reliably, perfect for camping or indoor use without the noise or fumes of traditional generators.
Wattage (Power Output)
Ideal for powering low to moderate consumption devices like fans, lights, laptops, and small tools, but not suited for high-power appliances like hair dryers or blenders.
#3

Jackery Explorer 1000 v2 Portable Power Station,1070Wh LiFePO4 Battery,1500W AC/100W USB-C Output, 1 Hr Fast Charge, Solar Generator for Camping,Emergency, RV, Off-Grid Living(Solar Panel Optional)

Rating
10.0
Power Output (Wattage)
Run Time
Portability

Most important from
3304 reviews

Power Output (Wattage)
The Explorer 1000 maintains 40% battery life after running a 1,000W heater for an hour, showing impressive endurance and reliability.
Run Time
The Explorer 1000 maintains 40% battery life after running a 1,000W heater for an hour, showing impressive endurance and reliability.
Portability
With its lightweight design and convenient swing handle, the Explorer 1000 is easy to carry around, unlike the heavier and less convenient DJI model.
Noise Level
Jackery Explorer 1000 outperformed the DJI Portable Power Station, managing battery life exceptionally well and remaining super quiet even under load.

The Jackery Explorer 1000 v2 Portable Power Station is a robust option for those seeking reliable portable power. With a substantial 1,500W AC output and a 3,000W surge peak, it can handle multiple high-demand appliances like fridges and electric pots, making it ideal for camping, RV trips, and off-grid living. Its 1,070Wh capacity ensures a solid power reserve, and the lightweight design at 23.8 pounds, coupled with a foldable handle, enhances its portability.

This generator is user-friendly with its smart app control that allows for easy mode switching, including a swift one-hour emergency charging option, though users must activate this feature via the app each time. The versatile connectivity options include two USB-C ports, one USB-A port, one DC car port, and three AC outlets, catering to various charging needs. The LFP battery promises longevity, maintaining over 70% capacity after 4,000 cycles, translating to about 10 years of use. However, its run-time might vary depending on the devices connected, and it requires solar panels for optimal off-grid performance, which are sold separately.

The noise level is managed well with a 30 dB quiet mode, suitable for overnight use. The fast charging capability is impressive but needs manual activation through the app, which might be a small inconvenience for some. This product is well-suited for those needing a reliable power source in outdoor or emergency scenarios where versatility and longevity are key.

Rating
10.0
Power Output (Wattage)
Run Time
Portability

Most important from
3304 reviews

Power Output (Wattage)
The Explorer 1000 maintains 40% battery life after running a 1,000W heater for an hour, showing impressive endurance and reliability.
Run Time
The Explorer 1000 maintains 40% battery life after running a 1,000W heater for an hour, showing impressive endurance and reliability.
Portability
With its lightweight design and convenient swing handle, the Explorer 1000 is easy to carry around, unlike the heavier and less convenient DJI model.
Noise Level
Jackery Explorer 1000 outperformed the DJI Portable Power Station, managing battery life exceptionally well and remaining super quiet even under load.

Buying Guide for the Best Portable Generators

Choosing a portable generator can seem overwhelming, but the most important thing to remember is to match the generator's abilities to how you plan to use it. Consider where, when, and how often you’ll use the generator—whether it’s for backup power during outages, for camping, for powering tools at a job site, or for outdoor events. Portable generators come with a wide range of features and specifications, so understanding your unique needs will help you pick a model that is reliable, safe, and convenient for you.
Wattage (Power Output)Wattage, or power output, measures how much electricity the generator can deliver. This is important because it determines what devices or appliances you can run at the same time. Portable generators are typically separated into three segments: small (under 2,000 watts), medium (about 2,000 to 5,000 watts), and large (over 5,000 watts). If you just want to charge phones, run a few lights, or power a laptop when camping, a smaller unit is sufficient. For powering refrigerators, sump pumps, or multiple appliances during a blackout, look for something in the medium to large range. Make a list of what you need to power at once, check the wattage requirements for each, and make sure the generator’s running and surge (peak) watts cover your needs.
RuntimeRuntime tells you how long the generator can operate on a full tank of fuel at a specific load (usually 25% or 50% of its capacity). This is critical if you need power over longer periods without frequent refueling. Generators with longer runtimes are convenient for overnight use or during extended power outages. When reviewing runtimes, think about how long you realistically need your equipment to run before you can refill the tank. If you're using it for short stints, a shorter runtime is fine, but for prolonged use, longer endurance is better.
PortabilityPortability considers weight, handle design, and whether the unit has wheels. Smaller and lighter generators are easier to move from place to place, making them suitable for camping or events. Heavier models with wheels and handles are designed to make moving the generator manageable even for one person. If you’ll be transporting the generator frequently or lifting it by yourself, prioritize lighter models with good handles. For use at a job site or as a semi-permanent backup at home, portability may not matter as much.
Noise LevelNoise level is measured in decibels (dB), showing how loud the generator will be when running. This is a big concern for camping, neighborhood use, or areas with noise restrictions. Generators typically range from very quiet (under 60 dB, about as loud as normal conversation) to quite loud (over 70 dB, similar to a vacuum cleaner or lawnmower). Choose a quieter generator if you’ll use it in close quarters or want minimal disturbance, whereas at a noisy job site, noise may be less important.
Fuel Type & Tank CapacityFuel type determines what kind of fuel the generator uses—typically gasoline, propane, or both (dual-fuel). Gasoline is the most common, but dual-fuel generators offer flexibility, especially useful during emergencies. Tank capacity tells you how much fuel the generator can store, affecting how often you need to refill it. Pick a fuel type that is easy for you to store and access. A larger tank is handy for longer runtime and less frequent refueling, especially in situations where frequent checking is inconvenient.
Outlets and Power ConnectionsOutlets and power connections define how many and what types of devices you can plug in at once. Common options include standard household (120V), twist-lock, USB ports, and sometimes 240V outlets for larger appliances. Check what you need to plug in—if you have many appliances or require something like an RV plug, make sure the generator comes with those connections. More outlets mean more flexibility, but make sure you still stay within the generator’s total wattage output.
Safety FeaturesSafety features like automatic shutoff for low oil, carbon monoxide sensors, overload protection, and grounding options protect both you and your equipment. For home or populated area use, especially inside garages or near tents, a CO shutoff can be a lifesaver. Overload protection keeps your devices from getting damaged by surges. When deciding, consider where and how the generator will be used, and look for features that match those safety needs.

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