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 HomePower 3000 is a powerful and quiet solar generator designed primarily for home backup during outages and emergencies. It offers a strong 3600W continuous output with a 7200W surge capacity, enough to keep essentials like refrigerators, fans, and WiFi running smoothly. Its 3072Wh LiFePO4 battery provides long runtime, powering a fridge for 1-2 days or household basics for up to 15 hours. One standout feature is its UL-certified uninterruptible power supply (UPS) with a quick ≤20ms switch, ensuring no interruptions for sensitive devices like medical equipment or security cameras.

As an inverter-type generator, it produces clean, stable electricity quietly, making it suitable for indoor use without disturbing noise. Portability is decent for its size and capacity—it weighs about 60 pounds and has a compact design 47% smaller and 43% lighter than similar models, but it’s still somewhat heavy to carry frequently. Charging options are versatile: fast AC/DC recharge in under 2 hours, solar charging through included 2x 200W panels (up to 80% charge in 9 hours), plus car and gas generator support. The built-in smart ChargeShield 2.0 tech intelligently manages charging to extend battery life, which can last for 4,000 charge cycles maintaining 70% capacity. Its integrated transfer switch and multiple output ports (AC, USB-C, USB-A, DC) add convenience for everyday and emergency use.

Though it is not the lightest option for camping or very frequent transport, this generator offers a good balance of quiet operation, strong power output, and smart energy management, making it an excellent choice for anyone seeking a reliable, quiet backup power source for home essentials.

The Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 300 is an excellent choice if you're looking for a quiet, portable generator primarily for outdoor use like camping, road trips, or emergency backup. Since it's a battery-powered inverter generator, it produces no fumes and zero noise, which is a big plus compared to traditional gas generators. It offers a steady 300 watts of power through two AC outlets and additional USB ports, allowing you to charge up to six devices at once — perfect for small electronics like phones, cameras, or laptops. Weighing just 7.1 pounds and sized compactly, it’s easy to carry around and fits nicely in a backpack. The Explorer 300 also supports solar charging with an optional Jackery SolarSaga 100 panel, making it a green and renewable power source for longer trips.

One limitation is its modest power output, so it won't run large appliances or power tools. Also, while it has no noise rating listed, its design as a battery unit means it operates silently—ideal for noise-sensitive environments. Its quick recharge time (about 2 hours to 80%) is another convenience factor. If you need a quiet, lightweight generator for charging small devices on the go, this model fits well, but it’s not suited for heavy-duty power needs or extended off-grid use without solar panels.