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10 Best Quiet Portable Generators 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Westinghouse 5000 Peak Watt Super Quiet Dual Fuel Portable Inverter Generator, Remote Electric Start, Gas & Propane Powered, RV Ready, CO Sensor, Parallel Capable

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,356
Noise Level
Power Output
Portability

Most important from
1155 reviews

Noise Level
This generator is impressively quiet and starts effortlessly with multiple options including remote, push, and pull start.
Power Output
It's powerful enough to run essential appliances like room air conditioners and refrigerators during outages.
Portability
Portability is well thought out with wheels and a telescoping handle, making it easy to move despite its weight.
Fuel Type and Efficiency
The dual fuel capability with both propane and gas adds significant convenience, allowing seamless switching on the fly.

The Westinghouse 5000 Peak Watt Super Quiet Dual Fuel Portable Inverter Generator is a versatile, powerful, and quiet option for those needing reliable portable power. With a peak output of 5000 watts and a continuous 3900 watts, it can handle a variety of devices and appliances, making it suitable for both home use and travel trailers. The dual fuel capability allows it to run on either gas or propane, adding flexibility and efficiency. The noise level is impressively low at just 52 dBA, ensuring minimal disturbance, which is ideal for camping or residential use.

The generator also features inverter technology, providing clean and stable power that is safe for sensitive electronics. With a runtime of up to 18 hours on a 3.4-gallon gas tank, it offers extended operation without frequent refueling. Portability is enhanced with a telescoping handle, although its weight of 124.7 pounds might make it slightly cumbersome for some users to move around frequently.

The remote electric start with a key fob adds convenience, and the included CO sensor and automatic low oil shutdown enhance safety. The digital display provides useful information like fuel level and remaining run time. However, the generator's weight might be a drawback for those looking for something lighter, and its size might require more storage space. Altogether, it is a robust and efficient generator perfect for those who need a reliable power source on the go.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,356
Noise Level
Power Output
Portability

Most important from
1155 reviews

Noise Level
This generator is impressively quiet and starts effortlessly with multiple options including remote, push, and pull start.
Power Output
It's powerful enough to run essential appliances like room air conditioners and refrigerators during outages.
Portability
Portability is well thought out with wheels and a telescoping handle, making it easy to move despite its weight.
Fuel Type and Efficiency
The dual fuel capability with both propane and gas adds significant convenience, allowing seamless switching on the fly.
#2

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

Rating
10.0
Power Output
Fuel Type and Efficiency
Runtime

Most important from
1458 reviews

Power Output
It's a well-built powerhouse that provides peace of mind during hurricanes with its solid performance and smooth operation.
Fuel Type and Efficiency
The generator started in 2 minutes on natural gas and settled down nicely, demonstrating its reliability and ease of use.
Runtime
The tri-fuel capabilities, long runtime, and easy start mechanism make it a versatile and dependable choice for various power needs.

The Westinghouse Outdoor Power Equipment 14500 Peak Watt Tri-Fuel Generator is a robust option for those in need of a powerful backup power source, capable of running larger homes. With peak outputs of 14,500 watts on gasoline, 13,500 watts on propane, and 12,000 watts on natural gas, it demonstrates significant power versatility. The runtime is commendable, with up to 19 hours on a 9.5-gallon gasoline tank, although it drops to about 7 hours on a 20 lb propane tank, which might require more frequent refueling for sustained use. At 230 pounds, portability might be a concern despite the 'portable' tag; it's more suited for stationary use or minor relocations rather than frequent movement.

The electric start feature, along with a remote start option, adds convenience. The inclusion of inverter technology helps in providing stable and clean power, suitable for sensitive electronics. The generator is equipped with a heavy-duty 550cc 4-Stroke OHV engine, ensuring durability and reliability. Fuel efficiency is enhanced by the tri-fuel capability, allowing flexibility in fuel usage between gasoline, propane, and natural gas.

The built-in fuel gauge, CO sensor, and overload protection features enhance its safety and ease of use. Despite its impressive power and features, it may not be the best fit for those prioritizing easy maneuverability.

Rating
10.0
Power Output
Fuel Type and Efficiency
Runtime

Most important from
1458 reviews

Power Output
It's a well-built powerhouse that provides peace of mind during hurricanes with its solid performance and smooth operation.
Fuel Type and Efficiency
The generator started in 2 minutes on natural gas and settled down nicely, demonstrating its reliability and ease of use.
Runtime
The tri-fuel capabilities, long runtime, and easy start mechanism make it a versatile and dependable choice for various power needs.
#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
10.0
Noise Level
Power Output
Portability

Most important from
598 reviews

Noise Level
Though it isn't the quietest option available, the price point and performance make it a great value.
Power Output
This generator ran flawlessly for three straight days during a power outage, providing uninterrupted power for an entire house including heating units.
Portability
The built-in handle and wheels make moving the heavy unit easier, despite its weight.
Fuel Type and Efficiency
The ability to run on propane, natural gas, and gasoline offers incredible flexibility and peace of mind during emergencies.

The Westinghouse 11000 Peak Watt Dual Fuel Portable Inverter Generator is a robust option for those in need of a powerful and versatile generator. It delivers 9000 running watts and 11000 peak watts on gasoline, and slightly lower on propane, making it suitable for high-demand power needs. The dual fuel capability is a standout feature, offering flexibility and efficiency depending on fuel availability and cost.

Additionally, the 17-hour runtime on a full tank is impressive, reducing the need for frequent refueling during extended use. The generator’s remote electric start and push-button options provide convenience, while the included key fob adds to ease of use. The less than 3% THD makes it safe for sensitive electronics, supported by the inverter technology which ensures clean power output. The transfer switch readiness is a great feature for seamless integration into home power systems during outages. The inclusion of a CO sensor enhances safety by detecting harmful carbon monoxide levels.

However, at 187.4 pounds, it is quite heavy, which can impact portability despite its wheels and handles. The LED data center is a helpful addition, giving real-time data on fuel and power status. This generator is well-suited for residential use, particularly for those who require a reliable power source during outages or for heavy-duty outdoor activities. Its weight and potential noise levels could be drawbacks for some users. This generator is best for those prioritizing power output and fuel flexibility over portability and noise concerns.

Rating
10.0
Noise Level
Power Output
Portability

Most important from
598 reviews

Noise Level
Though it isn't the quietest option available, the price point and performance make it a great value.
Power Output
This generator ran flawlessly for three straight days during a power outage, providing uninterrupted power for an entire house including heating units.
Portability
The built-in handle and wheels make moving the heavy unit easier, despite its weight.
Fuel Type and Efficiency
The ability to run on propane, natural gas, and gasoline offers incredible flexibility and peace of mind during emergencies.

Buying Guide for the Best Quiet Portable Generators

When choosing a quiet portable generator, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you select the best fit for your needs. A quiet portable generator can be a great asset for camping, tailgating, or as a backup power source during emergencies. The right generator should be easy to transport, provide sufficient power, and operate quietly to avoid disturbing your surroundings. Here are the key specifications to consider and how to navigate them.
Noise LevelThe noise level of a generator is measured in decibels (dB) and indicates how loud the generator will be when in use. This spec is crucial if you plan to use the generator in a quiet environment, such as a campsite or residential area. Generators with noise levels below 60 dB are considered quiet and are ideal for such settings. If you need a generator for more remote or industrial use, a higher noise level might be acceptable. Always consider where and how you will use the generator to determine the appropriate noise level.
Power OutputPower output is measured in watts and indicates how much electrical power the generator can produce. This is important because it determines what and how many devices you can run simultaneously. Generators typically range from 1,000 to 10,000 watts. For light use, such as charging small electronics or running a few lights, a generator with 1,000 to 2,000 watts may suffice. For more demanding needs, like running multiple appliances or power tools, you might need 3,000 to 5,000 watts or more. Assess your power needs by listing the devices you plan to use and their wattage requirements.
PortabilityPortability refers to how easy it is to move the generator around. This is determined by the generator's weight, size, and design features like handles or wheels. If you need to transport the generator frequently, look for models that are lightweight and compact, ideally under 50 pounds. For heavier models, ensure they have wheels and a handle for easier maneuverability. Consider your physical ability and how often you will need to move the generator to choose the right level of portability.
Fuel Type and EfficiencyGenerators can run on various fuel types, including gasoline, propane, and diesel. Fuel type affects the generator's efficiency, cost of operation, and availability of fuel. Gasoline is widely available but can be less efficient and has a shorter shelf life. Propane is cleaner and has a longer shelf life but may be less readily available. Diesel is efficient and has a long shelf life but can be more expensive and noisier. Consider the availability and cost of fuel in your area, as well as how long you need the generator to run on a single tank, to choose the best fuel type for your needs.
Inverter TechnologyInverter technology allows the generator to produce cleaner and more stable power, which is important for sensitive electronics like laptops and smartphones. Inverter generators are typically quieter and more fuel-efficient than conventional generators. If you plan to power sensitive devices or need a generator that operates quietly and efficiently, look for models with inverter technology. For less sensitive applications, a conventional generator may be sufficient.
RuntimeRuntime refers to how long the generator can operate on a full tank of fuel. This is important for planning how often you will need to refuel, especially during extended use. Generators with longer runtimes are more convenient and require less frequent refueling. Look for generators that offer a runtime of at least 8-10 hours at 50% load for overnight use or extended power outages. Consider your typical usage duration and choose a generator with a runtime that meets your needs.

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