10 Best Portable Generators Rating 2025 in the United States

The Generac 18,000-Watt Portable Generator is a strong choice if you need a powerful, gas-fueled backup for your home or outdoor activities. Its 18,000 running watts and 22,500 starting watts mean it can handle large appliances and tools easily. It runs on gasoline, with a large 14.2-gallon tank providing about 9 hours of use per fill, which is good for extended power needs. Safety is a highlight here, with COsense Technology protecting against dangerous carbon monoxide and a low-oil shutdown feature that helps prevent engine damage. The engine is electronically fuel-injected, which improves efficiency and reliability.

At 427 pounds, this generator is quite heavy, so while it’s called portable, it will require some effort or a transport method to move around. It includes only three power outlets, which might limit how many devices you can plug in simultaneously. The TruePower Technology ensures your sensitive electronics like phones and computers get clean, steady power.

This model is well suited for homeowners or recreational users who need reliable, high power during outages or remote work but may not be ideal if you want something lightweight or very quiet.

The Westinghouse 12500 Peak Watt portable generator is a strong choice if you need reliable home backup power. It delivers 9500 running watts with a peak up to 12500 watts, which is enough to keep essential appliances and tools running during outages. It runs on gasoline, with a 6.6-gallon tank providing up to 12 hours of continuous use, so you won’t have to refuel too often during typical power interruptions. Starting it is easy thanks to the remote electric start and included key fob, plus you have a recoil start as a backup.

This model is built with a sturdy 457cc 4-stroke engine that includes helpful safety features like automatic low oil shutdown to protect the engine from damage. You get a variety of outlets: standard household 120V, transfer switch ready 30A and 50A outlets for connecting to home panels or RVs, and even USB ports for charging small electronics. The outlets have rubber covers adding an extra layer of safety against moisture and dust.

Weighing 220 pounds, it’s not very light but still portable enough with built-in handles and wheels, making it manageable for most users who need to move it around occasionally. Noise levels are typical for generators this size—not quiet but acceptable for outdoor use. It’s EPA compliant and comes with a 3-year warranty and nationwide customer support, which adds peace of mind. While its size and weight might be bulky if you need something very compact or ultra-lightweight, and gasoline engines require regular maintenance and fuel storage considerations, this Westinghouse model is a straightforward, powerful generator for home backup or outdoor work with multiple outlet options and easy starting.

The Westinghouse 28000 Peak Watt Tri-Fuel Portable Generator is designed primarily for larger homes requiring reliable, high-capacity backup power. It delivers impressive wattage—up to 28,000 peak and 20,000 running watts on gasoline, with slightly reduced output on propane and natural gas—making it capable of powering many appliances and even whole-home systems when hardwired by an electrician. Its tri-fuel capability provides flexibility to use gasoline, propane, or natural gas according to availability and convenience. With up to 13 hours of runtime at 25% load on a full tank, it supports extended operation during outages.

Portability is reasonable given its size; the generator features sturdy, never-flat wheels, foldable handles, and a lift bracket, though its 557-pound weight means it still requires effort to move. This unit is suited for users who need powerful backup and value multiple fuel options over a lightweight design. It offers a comprehensive set of outlets, including multiple 120/240V options and standard duplex outlets, all protected by rubber covers, making it versatile for home or jobsite use.

Safety features such as automatic low-oil shutdown, a CO sensor, overload protection, and automatic voltage regulation provide peace of mind, especially when running sensitive electronics that benefit from the low total harmonic distortion this generator provides. Convenience is enhanced by the remote electric start and fuel gauge. While the noise level is typical for such high-output generators and may be loud for some residential areas, and its size and weight limit portability compared to smaller units, this Westinghouse model remains a robust, flexible, and feature-rich choice for home backup or heavy-duty use.