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 DuroMax XP13000HX is a powerful portable generator with a high output of 13,000 starting watts and 10,500 running watts, making it capable of powering a whole home during outages. Its dual fuel option allows you to run it on gasoline or propane, which is great for flexibility and fuel availability—propane burns cleaner and lasts longer in storage. The generator features a robust 500cc engine with all copper windings, designed for durability and long life. Starting it is easy with the electric push-button start and a digital display for convenience.

Portability is supported by included wheels and a handle, but at 245 pounds, it’s quite heavy, so it may not be ideal for frequent moving by one person. It offers a good range of outlets, including regular household plugs, a 30 amp, and a 50 amp transfer switch-ready outlet, making it versatile for different power needs. Safety is addressed with a carbon monoxide (CO) alert system, which is important when using a generator at home.

While the product is described as portable, it is fairly bulky and may be noisy during operation, which is common for generators of this size but worth considering if noise is a concern. This generator is well suited for residential users needing reliable, strong power backup with flexible fuel options and multiple outlets, though it requires some effort to move around and might be loud in quiet neighborhoods.

The Honda 664240 EU2200i Portable Inverter Generator is a versatile and reliable option for various uses including home backup, camping, and work sites. Its power output is impressive, providing up to 2200 watts with a running wattage of 1800 watts, making it capable of handling most small to medium appliances. The generator runs on gasoline and boasts an efficient Eco-Throttle System, allowing it to run between 4 to 9.6 hours on a single 0.95-gallon tank, depending on the load, which is perfect for overnight use or extended applications.

Portability is another strong point, as it weighs just 46.5 pounds and has compact dimensions of 19" x 12" x 21", making it easy to transport and store. One of the standout features is its noise level; operating at 48 to 57 dBA, it is quieter than a normal conversation, ensuring minimal disturbance in quiet environments like campsites or residential areas. The generator also supports parallel connectivity, allowing you to double the power output to 4400 watts by connecting a second unit with an optional cable.

Safety features include Honda's advanced inverter technology that delivers stable and clean power, protecting sensitive electronics. However, there are a few drawbacks to consider. The fuel tank is relatively small at 0.95 gallons, which might require more frequent refueling during heavy use. Additionally, the cost may be on the higher side compared to other models with similar specifications. The generator comes with standard 120V outlets but lacks additional connectivity options like USB ports for directly charging smaller devices. In summary, the Honda EU2200i is a high-quality, quiet, and efficient portable generator with strong safety features, suitable for users looking for reliable power in a compact and portable form.