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10 Best Power 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

DuroMax XP13000E 13,000-Watt Gas Powered Portable Generator - Electric Start, Whole Home Backup Power, Transfer Switch Ready, RV & Emergency Ready

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,291
Power Output (Wattage)
Noise Level
Start Type

Most important from
12118 reviews

Power Output (Wattage)
The voltage held well under a good electrical load, making it a reliable choice for whole house power.
Noise Level
It was much quieter than expected, even when connected to the whole house.
Start Type
This generator started up right out of the box and worked flawlessly during a 3-day power outage.

The DuroMax XP13000E is a robust 13,000-watt portable generator designed to handle heavy loads, making it ideal for both residential and commercial use. It boasts a powerful 500cc OHV engine and can run on gasoline, ensuring long-lasting power. This generator is equipped with a variety of outlets, including 120/240V 50A and 30A twist lock outlets, which offer great versatility for different applications.

The electric start feature simplifies operation while the foldable handle and wheels enhance portability despite its heavy weight of 236 pounds. Additionally, it includes useful features like a CO sensor, hour meter, and low oil shutdown for safety and maintenance.

Potential drawbacks include its significant weight, which may affect mobility, and the noise level, which could be higher due to its powerful engine. Moreover, it has a relatively small fuel tank capacity of 0.5 gallons. This generator provides ample power and numerous features, making it best suited for users who need substantial power supply and have the capability to manage its weight and noise levels.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,291
Power Output (Wattage)
Noise Level
Start Type

Most important from
12118 reviews

Power Output (Wattage)
The voltage held well under a good electrical load, making it a reliable choice for whole house power.
Noise Level
It was much quieter than expected, even when connected to the whole house.
Start Type
This generator started up right out of the box and worked flawlessly during a 3-day power outage.
#2

Westinghouse 12500 Peak Watt Tri-Fuel Home Backup Portable Generator, Remote Electric Start, Transfer Switch Ready, Gas, Propane, and Natural Gas Powered

Rating
9.7
Power Output (Wattage)
Fuel Type
Portability

Most important from
2857 reviews

Power Output (Wattage)
The generator delivers reliable, uninterrupted power for days, easily handling a whole house including heating during extended outages.
Fuel Type
Fuel flexibility is a standout feature, with seamless switching between gasoline, propane, and natural gas providing great convenience in emergencies.
Portability
Despite its weight, sturdy wheels and a handlebar allow for manageable mobility on level ground, though it’s best positioned near its intended use to avoid heavy lifting.
Noise Level
Noise level is moderate and comparable to a smooth-running lawn mower—noticeable but not overly disruptive for a generator of this power class.
Start Type
Remote electric start combined with a manual recoil option makes starting the unit easy and user-friendly for any situation.
Outlets and Connectivity
Included accessories like propane and natural gas hoses, a remote key fob, and basic tools add excellent value and readiness out of the box.

The Westinghouse 12500 Peak Watt Tri-Fuel Generator is a strong choice for home backup power, especially if you want flexibility in fuel options. It can run on gasoline, propane, or natural gas, which makes it convenient if your fuel supply varies. It offers a high power output—up to 12,500 peak watts and 9,500 running watts on gasoline—enough to run most essential home appliances during an outage. The run time can reach about 12 hours on a full 6.6-gallon gas tank, so it can keep you powered through a good part of the day or night.

Starting the generator is simple with its electric remote start feature, plus a traditional recoil start if needed, making it user-friendly. The unit includes several outlets: standard household plugs, a transfer switch-ready outlet, and an RV-ready outlet, so it can handle different types of connections safely, with rubber covers adding extra protection. It’s built with a robust 457cc 4-stroke engine, featuring safety measures like automatic low oil shutdown and a carbon monoxide sensor, which are great for peace of mind. The generator comes with useful extras like a remote key fob, battery charger, and even some basic tools to help you get started quickly.

This generator is quite heavy at over 217 pounds, which may limit portability if you need to move it frequently. Considering its size and power, it is likely to be somewhat noisy. The Westinghouse generator suits those looking for a reliable, powerful backup with fuel flexibility and safety features, though it may be less ideal if a lightweight or very quiet unit is preferred.

Rating
9.7
Power Output (Wattage)
Fuel Type
Portability

Most important from
2857 reviews

Power Output (Wattage)
The generator delivers reliable, uninterrupted power for days, easily handling a whole house including heating during extended outages.
Fuel Type
Fuel flexibility is a standout feature, with seamless switching between gasoline, propane, and natural gas providing great convenience in emergencies.
Portability
Despite its weight, sturdy wheels and a handlebar allow for manageable mobility on level ground, though it’s best positioned near its intended use to avoid heavy lifting.
Noise Level
Noise level is moderate and comparable to a smooth-running lawn mower—noticeable but not overly disruptive for a generator of this power class.
Start Type
Remote electric start combined with a manual recoil option makes starting the unit easy and user-friendly for any situation.
Outlets and Connectivity
Included accessories like propane and natural gas hoses, a remote key fob, and basic tools add excellent value and readiness out of the box.
#3

DuroMax XP15000HX 15,000-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator - Gas & Propane, Remote Electric Start, Whole Home Power Backup, Transfer Switch Ready, RV & Emergency Ready

Rating
9.1
Power Output (Wattage)
Fuel Type
Run Time

Most important from
2306 reviews

Power Output (Wattage)
Delivers strong, reliable power on propane, effortlessly handling whole-house AC, water heater, and electric stove with smooth running and a solid start every time.
Fuel Type
Dual fuel capability offers excellent flexibility, allowing seamless switching between gasoline and natural gas without performance issues.
Run Time
Runs continuously for extended periods (e.g., 15 hours) without issues, demonstrating durability and reliability under heavy load.
Portability
Heavy at 345 pounds but equipped with handles and wheels, making it manageable to move despite its substantial size.
Noise Level
Noise level is noticeable but expected for a powerful open-frame generator; it’s a trade-off for the high wattage and durability.
Start Type
The electric start with remote control is convenient, though occasional backfires or multiple attempts to start may occur after idle periods, which is normal for a generator of this size.
Outlets and Connectivity
The generator’s 50-amp outlet supports larger appliances and HVAC units, making it a practical choice for whole-home backup compared to smaller units with limited amperage.

The DuroMax XP15000HX is a powerful portable generator delivering up to 15,000 watts of starting power and 12,000 watts running power, making it a strong choice for whole-home backup during outages or heavy-duty use at job sites. One of its standout features is dual fuel capability—it runs on gasoline or propane, giving you flexibility to choose based on cost, availability, and fuel shelf life. Propane also burns cleaner and is easier to store long-term. The generator includes a 670cc engine with durable copper windings designed to extend the unit’s lifespan. Starting the generator is easy with a push-button electric start and a remote control, which is handy if you need to power it on from a distance.

It has a comprehensive set of outlets including 120V household sockets and heavy-duty 240V outlets, plus it is transfer switch ready, allowing safe connection to home electrical systems. Its digital display keeps you informed about voltage, frequency, run time, and maintenance needs, while a built-in carbon monoxide sensor enhances safety by shutting the unit off if dangerous fumes are detected. Though portable, at 345 pounds it’s relatively heavy, so moving it may require some effort despite the included wheels and handle. The 5-year warranty adds peace of mind for long-term use.

This generator is well-suited for homeowners looking to power essential appliances during blackouts, RV owners needing reliable power on the road, and professionals requiring a robust generator for work sites. It is a large and heavy unit, so portability has limits, but its power, fuel options, and safety features make it a solid choice for heavy-duty and whole-home power needs.

Rating
9.1
Power Output (Wattage)
Fuel Type
Run Time

Most important from
2306 reviews

Power Output (Wattage)
Delivers strong, reliable power on propane, effortlessly handling whole-house AC, water heater, and electric stove with smooth running and a solid start every time.
Fuel Type
Dual fuel capability offers excellent flexibility, allowing seamless switching between gasoline and natural gas without performance issues.
Run Time
Runs continuously for extended periods (e.g., 15 hours) without issues, demonstrating durability and reliability under heavy load.
Portability
Heavy at 345 pounds but equipped with handles and wheels, making it manageable to move despite its substantial size.
Noise Level
Noise level is noticeable but expected for a powerful open-frame generator; it’s a trade-off for the high wattage and durability.
Start Type
The electric start with remote control is convenient, though occasional backfires or multiple attempts to start may occur after idle periods, which is normal for a generator of this size.
Outlets and Connectivity
The generator’s 50-amp outlet supports larger appliances and HVAC units, making it a practical choice for whole-home backup compared to smaller units with limited amperage.

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.

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