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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 by1,432
Power Output (Wattage)
Noise Level
Start Type

Most important from
12123 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 by1,432
Power Output (Wattage)
Noise Level
Start Type

Most important from
12123 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 28000 Peak Watt Home Backup Portable Generator, Remote Electric Start with Auto Choke, Transfer Switch Ready 30A & 50A Outlets, Gas Powered, CO Sensor,Blue

Rating
8.5
Power Output (Wattage
Fuel Type
Run Time

Most important from
225 reviews

Power Output (Wattage
The generator worked right away, cranking out 18,000 watts for the house, and the electric start was a major convenience.
Fuel Type
Fantastic value for whole-house power, reliably handling dual fuel for less than $4,000.
Run Time
The remote electric start allows for easy operation from inside the house, and the 17-gallon tank minimizes trips to the gas station.
Portability
Despite its weight, the generator is manageable on level ground and offers great flexibility with its dual fuel option.
Start Type
The generator worked right away, cranking out 18,000 watts for the house, and the electric start was a major convenience.

The Westinghouse 28000 Peak Watt Home Backup Portable Generator offers impressive power output, making it an excellent choice for homeowners looking for reliable backup power during outages. With a peak wattage of 28,000 watts and running watts of 20,000, it can easily handle multiple appliances and heavy loads. The generator features a powerful 999cc V-Twin engine, ensuring efficiency and performance when you need it the most.

One of the standout features is the remote electric start, which adds convenience, allowing you to start the generator from a distance. Its extensive outlet options, including multiple standard household plugs and higher amperage outlets, cater to various needs, giving you flexibility for different appliances. In terms of portability, the generator has reinforced steel handles, though it might be cumbersome to move due to its size and weight. With a 17-gallon fuel tank, it provides up to 11 hours of run time at 50% load, which is quite good for extended use without frequent refueling. The inclusion of a CO sensor and automatic shut off is a significant safety advantage, protecting users from hazardous emissions.

It does come with some drawbacks. The noise level can be on the higher side, which might be bothersome in quiet neighborhoods. Also, being gas-powered, it requires regular maintenance and fuel management, which could be inconvenient for some users. Additionally, while the generator is designed to be user-friendly with plug-and-play features, it may still be a bit overwhelming for those unfamiliar with using generators. This generator is ideal for homeowners who want a dependable power source for residential use, especially during emergencies. It's also suitable for outdoor events, but you'll need to consider the noise and size aspects before committing. With a solid warranty and support network, Westinghouse provides reassurance in case of any issues.

Rating
8.5
Power Output (Wattage
Fuel Type
Run Time

Most important from
225 reviews

Power Output (Wattage
The generator worked right away, cranking out 18,000 watts for the house, and the electric start was a major convenience.
Fuel Type
Fantastic value for whole-house power, reliably handling dual fuel for less than $4,000.
Run Time
The remote electric start allows for easy operation from inside the house, and the 17-gallon tank minimizes trips to the gas station.
Portability
Despite its weight, the generator is manageable on level ground and offers great flexibility with its dual fuel option.
Start Type
The generator worked right away, cranking out 18,000 watts for the house, and the electric start was a major convenience.
#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
7.9
Power Output (Wattage)
Fuel Type
Portability

Most important from
1062 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
7.9
Power Output (Wattage)
Fuel Type
Portability

Most important from
1062 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.

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