We Use CookiesWe use cookies to enhance the security, performance, functionality and for analytical and promotional activities. By continuing to browse this site you are agreeing to our privacy policy

10 Best Power Generators 2025 in the United States

How do we rank products for you?

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.

headphones-stars

Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Westinghouse 14500 Peak Watt Tri-Fuel Home Backup Portable Generator, Remote Electric Start, Transfer Switch Ready, Gas, Propane, and Natural Gas Powered

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,450
Fuel Type
Run Time
Portability

Most important from
1433 reviews

Fuel Type
Hooked up to natural gas, it started within 2 minutes and sounded loud initially but settled down quickly.
Run Time
The tri-fuel capabilities, long runtime, and easy start mechanism make it a convenient choice for dependable power.
Portability
Easy to assemble with two people, and the remote start feature makes it convenient to operate.
Noise Level
Hooked up to natural gas, it started within 2 minutes and sounded loud initially but settled down quickly.
Start Type
Easy to assemble with two people, and the remote start feature makes it convenient to operate.

The Westinghouse Outdoor Power Equipment 14500 Peak Watt Tri-Fuel Home Backup Portable Generator is a robust and versatile power generator suitable for larger homes or as a reliable portable power source. It boasts a high power output with 14,500 peak watts and 11,500 running watts on gasoline, 13,500 peak watts and 10,500 running watts on propane, and 12,000 peak watts and 9,500 running watts on natural gas.

Its tri-fuel capability allows flexibility in fuel choice, catering to different availability and cost preferences. The generator can run up to 19 hours on a full 9.5-gallon gasoline tank and up to 7 hours on a 20 lb. propane tank, making it highly efficient for extended use during power outages or outdoor activities. Being equipped with an electric start and remote start feature, it offers easy and convenient operation.

Additionally, it includes important safety features like overload protection, automatic voltage regulation, and a CO sensor. The generator is quite heavy at 230 pounds, which may affect its portability despite being marketed as portable. It also includes just two power outlets, which might be limiting for some users. However, the generator is transfer switch ready, which can simplify connectivity for home backup use. This generator is a solid choice for those needing a powerful, flexible, and reliable backup power solution.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,450
Fuel Type
Run Time
Portability

Most important from
1433 reviews

Fuel Type
Hooked up to natural gas, it started within 2 minutes and sounded loud initially but settled down quickly.
Run Time
The tri-fuel capabilities, long runtime, and easy start mechanism make it a convenient choice for dependable power.
Portability
Easy to assemble with two people, and the remote start feature makes it convenient to operate.
Noise Level
Hooked up to natural gas, it started within 2 minutes and sounded loud initially but settled down quickly.
Start Type
Easy to assemble with two people, and the remote start feature makes it convenient to operate.
#2

WEN Quiet 6800-Watt Dual Fuel RV-Ready Electric Start Portable Inverter Generator with Fuel Shut Off and CO Watchdog for Electric Vehicle Backup (DF680iX)

Rating
9.8
Power Output (Wattage)
Fuel Type
Run Time

Most important from
2714 reviews

Power Output (Wattage)
Delivers strong, reliable power with the flexibility of dual-fuel operation and convenient push-button start.
Fuel Type
Delivers strong, reliable power with the flexibility of dual-fuel operation and convenient push-button start.
Run Time
Equipped with a helpful data display showing output volts, frequency, and run time for easy monitoring.
Portability
Robust build quality and design balance portability with the ability to handle large loads, including whole-home backup minus heavy AC units.
Noise Level
Quiet operation features a low, agreeable rumble, making it the most pleasant sounding among multiple generators tested.
Start Type
Delivers strong, reliable power with the flexibility of dual-fuel operation and convenient push-button start.
Outlets and Connectivity
Supports both 120V and 240V outputs, enabling use with powerful commercial-grade appliances and specialized equipment.

The WEN Quiet 6800-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator is a strong choice for RV owners and anyone needing reliable backup power. It delivers a solid power output with 6800 surge watts and 5100 running watts on gasoline, and slightly less on propane, giving you flexibility depending on your fuel preference. Its dual-fuel capability means you can switch between gasoline and propane, which is handy if one fuel is harder to find or you want a cleaner-burning option. The electric start makes it easy to get going without the hassle of pulling a cord, a nice bonus if you value convenience.

Portability is decent for its power, weighing about 108 pounds, but onboard wheels and a telescoping handle help make moving it manageable. The generator includes a good mix of outlets, including 120V, 240V, RV-specific, 12V DC, and USB ports, so you can power or charge a variety of devices, including low-power electric vehicle charging. Run time is around 6 hours at half load, which is reasonable, though not the longest in its class. The fuel shutoff feature helps protect the engine, extending its lifespan by clearing fuel from the carburetor. Safety is boosted by a carbon monoxide shutdown sensor, which automatically turns the generator off if dangerous CO levels build up, an important feature for use around people.

The noise level might be higher compared to quieter inverter-only models, given its size and power. While the generator is advertised as quiet, it is not the lightest or most compact option, making it best suited for those needing substantial power rather than ultra-portability. This WEN generator is well-suited for camping, RV travel, and emergency home backup, especially for users who want fuel flexibility, decent runtime, and multiple outlet options with safety in mind. It balances power and convenience without being overly complicated or fragile.

Rating
9.8
Power Output (Wattage)
Fuel Type
Run Time

Most important from
2714 reviews

Power Output (Wattage)
Delivers strong, reliable power with the flexibility of dual-fuel operation and convenient push-button start.
Fuel Type
Delivers strong, reliable power with the flexibility of dual-fuel operation and convenient push-button start.
Run Time
Equipped with a helpful data display showing output volts, frequency, and run time for easy monitoring.
Portability
Robust build quality and design balance portability with the ability to handle large loads, including whole-home backup minus heavy AC units.
Noise Level
Quiet operation features a low, agreeable rumble, making it the most pleasant sounding among multiple generators tested.
Start Type
Delivers strong, reliable power with the flexibility of dual-fuel operation and convenient push-button start.
Outlets and Connectivity
Supports both 120V and 240V outputs, enabling use with powerful commercial-grade appliances and specialized equipment.
#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
9.7
Power Output (Wattage)
Fuel Type
Portability

Most important from
586 reviews

Power Output (Wattage)
This generator ran flawlessly for three straight days during a power outage, powering everything in a 4,000 sq ft home including home heating units.
Fuel Type
The dual fuel capability provides great flexibility, allowing it to run on gasoline, propane, or even natural gas with ease.
Portability
The generator is heavy, but the built-in handle and wheels make it easier to move around.
Noise Level
While it is noisier than some other brands like Honda, the generator is solidly built and seems like it is made to last.
Start Type
Despite its weight, the generator is easy to start and use, even for those without extensive technical knowledge.
Outlets and Connectivity
The unit includes an auto-on plug for connecting to your home to sense outages, adding to its convenience and usability.

The Westinghouse 11000 Peak Watt Dual Fuel Portable Inverter Generator is a powerful and versatile option for residential use. It’s capable of running on both gasoline and propane, offering 9000 running watts and 11000 peak watts on gasoline, and slightly less on propane. This dual fuel capability provides flexibility, especially during fuel shortages. The generator has a substantial run time of up to 17 hours on a full 9.8-gallon tank, which is ideal for extended power outages. Additionally, the low Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) makes it safe for sensitive electronics like laptops and smartphones.

Portability is somewhat limited due to its hefty weight of 187.4 pounds, though it does have wheels for easier transport. The remote electric start is a convenient feature, allowing you to start it from a distance, and the LED data center is useful for monitoring various metrics, such as fuel level and runtime. Safety features include a carbon monoxide sensor and automatic low oil shutdown. The generator also comes with multiple outlets, including transfer switch-ready options, making it highly adaptable for different uses.

The generator's size and weight mean it may be less suitable for those requiring a highly portable solution. Setup is user-friendly with the included instructions and kits, but minimal assembly is required. This generator is well-suited for those needing a reliable, powerful backup power solution with the added benefit of dual fuel capabilities and advanced safety features.

Rating
9.7
Power Output (Wattage)
Fuel Type
Portability

Most important from
586 reviews

Power Output (Wattage)
This generator ran flawlessly for three straight days during a power outage, powering everything in a 4,000 sq ft home including home heating units.
Fuel Type
The dual fuel capability provides great flexibility, allowing it to run on gasoline, propane, or even natural gas with ease.
Portability
The generator is heavy, but the built-in handle and wheels make it easier to move around.
Noise Level
While it is noisier than some other brands like Honda, the generator is solidly built and seems like it is made to last.
Start Type
Despite its weight, the generator is easy to start and use, even for those without extensive technical knowledge.
Outlets and Connectivity
The unit includes an auto-on plug for connecting to your home to sense outages, adding to its convenience and usability.

Buying Guide for the Best Power Generators

Choosing the right power generator can be a crucial decision, whether you need it for home backup, camping, or work sites. The right generator will ensure you have a reliable power source when you need it most. To make an informed decision, you need to understand the key specifications and how they align with your specific needs. Here are the main specs to consider when selecting a power generator.
Power Output (Wattage)Power output, measured in watts (W), indicates how much electricity the generator can produce. This is crucial because it determines what and how many devices you can power simultaneously. Generators come in various wattage ranges: small generators (up to 2000W) are suitable for light use like camping or powering small appliances; medium generators (2000W-7000W) can handle more substantial loads like home appliances and power tools; large generators (7000W and above) are ideal for whole-house backup or heavy-duty work sites. To pick the right one, list the devices you need to power and their wattage requirements, then choose a generator that can handle the total load.
Fuel TypeGenerators can run on different types of fuel, including gasoline, diesel, propane, and natural gas. The fuel type affects the generator's efficiency, cost of operation, and convenience. Gasoline generators are common and easy to refuel but may not be as efficient for long-term use. Diesel generators are more fuel-efficient and durable but can be noisier and more expensive. Propane generators offer cleaner burning and longer shelf life for the fuel but may require more storage space. Natural gas generators are convenient for home use if you have a natural gas line but are less portable. Choose the fuel type based on availability, cost, and your specific use case.
Run TimeRun time refers to how long a generator can operate on a full tank of fuel. This is important for planning how often you will need to refuel, especially during extended power outages or long workdays. Generators with longer run times (8-12 hours or more) are ideal for overnight use or continuous operation, while those with shorter run times (4-8 hours) may be sufficient for intermittent use. Consider your typical usage patterns and how often you can refuel when choosing a generator with the appropriate run time.
PortabilityPortability is a key factor if you need to move the generator frequently or use it in different locations. Portable generators are designed with wheels and handles for easy transport, making them suitable for camping, outdoor events, or job sites. Stationary generators, on the other hand, are larger and meant to be installed in a fixed location, providing a permanent power solution for homes or businesses. Assess your mobility needs and choose a generator that offers the right balance of power and portability.
Noise LevelThe noise level of a generator, measured in decibels (dB), can impact your comfort and compliance with local noise regulations. Quieter generators (50-65 dB) are ideal for residential areas, camping, or events where noise can be a disturbance. Louder generators (65-80 dB or more) may be acceptable for construction sites or remote locations where noise is less of a concern. Consider where and how you will use the generator and choose one with an appropriate noise level to ensure it meets your needs without causing disruptions.
Start TypeGenerators can have different start types, including manual recoil start, electric start, and remote start. Manual recoil start requires pulling a cord to start the engine, which can be physically demanding. Electric start uses a push-button or key to start the generator, offering more convenience. Remote start allows you to start the generator from a distance using a remote control, adding an extra layer of convenience. Choose the start type based on your preference for ease of use and physical capability.
Outlets and ConnectivityThe number and type of outlets on a generator determine how many devices you can connect and what kind of plugs you can use. Common outlet types include standard household outlets, 30-amp or 50-amp RV outlets, and USB ports. Some generators also offer connectivity features like Bluetooth or Wi-Fi for remote monitoring and control. Consider the devices you need to power and ensure the generator has the appropriate outlets and connectivity options to meet your needs.

FAQ

Most Popular Categories Right Now