10 Best Power Generators 2025 in the United States

The Westinghouse Outdoor Power Equipment 12500 Peak Watt Home Backup Portable Generator is a robust option for residential use. It delivers a substantial power output with 9500 running watts and 12500 peak watts, making it suitable for powering essential household appliances during outages. The generator is gas-powered, which is commonly available and reliable for home use. It boasts a 6.6-gallon fuel tank that provides up to 12 hours of run time, which is fairly efficient for prolonged power outages.

Its starting options are user-friendly with remote start via a key fob, electric start, and recoil start, catering to various user preferences. The inclusion of multiple outlets, including standard household receptacles, RV ready outlets, and USB ports, adds versatility and convenience for different power needs. Safety is enhanced with rubber covers on all outlets and features such as automatic low oil shutdown. However, weighing 220 pounds, it may be cumbersome to move despite being labeled as portable.

The package includes useful accessories like a battery charger, oil, and a tool kit, simplifying initial setup. Backed by a 3-year limited warranty and supported by nationwide customer service, it offers a reliable backup power solution for homeowners. Potential buyers should be aware of the generator's weight and potentially check noise levels if that is a concern for their specific environment.

The Generac Guardian 24kW Home Standby Generator is a robust option for whole-house power backup. With a high power output of 24,000 watts, it provides ample electricity to keep your home running smoothly during outages. Its True Power Technology ensures clean and stable power, which is essential for sensitive electronics. The inclusion of a 200 Amp transfer switch means it can handle substantial electrical loads, making it suitable for larger homes.

The generator uses either natural gas or LP gas, offering flexibility in fuel types based on availability and preference. The G-Force engine is designed for reliability and reduced maintenance, which is a significant advantage for long-term use. Another notable feature is the Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing remote monitoring of the generator's performance and maintenance alerts, enhancing user convenience and peace of mind. The all-aluminum construction ensures durability, and the unit comes with a 5-year limited warranty, further supporting its long-term reliability.

At 455 pounds, it is not portable, and installation requires a certified and licensed electrician, which may add to the initial cost and complexity. Additionally, it has only one power outlet, which might limit direct connectivity options for some users. Despite these drawbacks, its quiet operation and efficient fuel usage make it a solid choice for residential use, particularly for those seeking a dependable and high-performing standby generator.

The Generac 7172 10kW Air Cooled Guardian Series Home Standby Generator is an impressive option for homeowners seeking reliable power during outages. One of its key strengths is its 10,000-watt power output, which can effectively cover essential circuits in a typical household. The generator's True Power Technology ensures clean and stable electricity, minimizing the risk of damage to sensitive devices.

Portability may not be the strongest feature, as this unit weighs 338 pounds, making it less suited for mobile use. However, it’s designed to offer whole-house protection with a comprehensive 100-amp transfer switch, which is essential for those who want seamless backup during power failures.

A standout feature is the Mobile Link Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing users to monitor the generator's status remotely. This feature provides peace of mind by sending real-time updates and alerts about maintenance needs. Additionally, the 5-year limited warranty adds extra assurance of its long-term reliability, which is appealing for a significant investment like this. Installation should be carried out by a certified electrician, which could add to the cost and time. The generator runs on natural gas or LP gas, so availability and cost of fuel might be a factor for some users. Furthermore, while it is marketed as a super quiet generator, the noise level can still be a concern for those living in quiet neighborhoods.

This generator is well-suited for residential use, particularly for those who prioritize performance and reliability during outages. Its smart controls and ease of monitoring are excellent for tech-savvy users, while the robust build quality is a bonus for those looking for longevity in their power solutions.