10 Best Quietest Generators 2025 in the United States

The Generac 18,000-Watt Gas-Powered Portable Generator is a robust option for those needing substantial power output. With an impressive 18,000 watts from its 816cc EFI engine, it is well-suited for emergencies, recreational use, and home backup power.

One of its standout features is the COsense Technology, which offers essential safety by protecting against carbon monoxide. Additionally, TruePower Technology ensures that sensitive electronics and tools can be safely powered, thanks to its low total harmonic distortion (THD) of less than 5%.

This generator also includes a low-oil pressure shutdown feature, which helps prevent engine damage and enhances its longevity. Its large fuel capacity allows for extended runtimes, making it durable for long-term use. However, at 442.8 pounds, it is quite heavy, which could impact its portability despite being labeled as portable. This weight makes it less ideal for frequent transport. The generator runs on gasoline, which is readily available but may not be as convenient as other fuel types like propane.

The Jackery Solar Generator 1000 v2 is a solid choice for a quiet and portable power source suited for camping, road trips, or emergency backup. It utilizes LiFePO4 battery and inverter technology, producing clean, stable power quietly compared to traditional gas generators. Its 30 dB overnight charging mode indicates very quiet operation during use.

Featuring a 1,500-watt continuous output and 3,000-watt surge capacity, it can support common appliances like refrigerators and small AC units, making it versatile for both outdoor and home applications. The 1,070Wh battery capacity provides a decent runtime, and the fast charging option allows the unit to fully recharge in about an hour when emergency mode is enabled, which is convenient but may slightly affect battery health if used frequently.

Weighing approximately 32 pounds and equipped with a foldable handle, the unit offers reasonable portability, though it might be somewhat heavy for long-distance carrying. The built-in app control enhances user experience by allowing easy mode switching to optimize quietness and efficiency. The solar panel is sold separately, adding to setup complexity and cost. While the battery boasts a long lifespan of over 10 years with proper care, the 2-year warranty may be considered short relative to the price. This generator is a dependable, eco-friendly option that is easy to use and charges quickly.

The Westinghouse 28000 Peak Watt Home Backup Portable Generator is a powerful gas-powered unit delivering 28,000 peak watts and 20,000 running watts, making it suitable for heavy-duty home backup needs. It runs up to 11 hours at half load on a large 17-gallon fuel tank, which is good for extended power outages. The generator features convenient electric push-button start and remote start via key fob, plus safety features like a CO sensor and automatic shutoff for low oil or dangerous carbon monoxide levels.

While it delivers strong power, this model is quite large and heavy at over 600 pounds, which impacts portability; it has reinforced steel handles but is not something you'd easily move around frequently. It does not include inverter technology, which means it may not provide the cleaner, quieter power needed for sensitive electronics and might be louder than quieter inverter generators typically used in this category.

In terms of outlets, it offers a wide variety including standard household and high-amperage outlets, making it versatile for different power needs. This generator is best suited for homeowners looking for a reliable and high-capacity backup power source rather than for those prioritizing quietness or portability. If you need a rugged, powerful generator for long runtimes during outages and don’t mind some noise and size, this is a solid choice. However, if quiet operation and easy transport are your top priorities, you might want to explore inverter generators designed specifically with those features.