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 3600 Plus is a powerful portable solar generator designed primarily for home backup, emergencies, and RV use. It delivers a strong 3600W continuous output, which is enough to run common household appliances like heaters and pumps. One of its standout qualities is that it operates on battery power rather than gas, making it much quieter than traditional gas generators — great if noise is a big concern. Battery-powered units like this are generally whisper-quiet, especially when compared to conventional generators. The unit is an inverter type, meaning it provides clean, stable electricity suitable for sensitive electronics.

Its battery capacity is large at 3584Wh, and it can be expanded significantly by connecting multiple units, supporting longer power needs. Charging options are flexible, including AC, solar, and gas generator input, with fast recharge times which add to convenience. Portability is good for its size; it weighs about 77 pounds but is designed with wheels and a handle, making it easier to move around despite being heavier than smaller models. The HomePower 3600 Plus also boasts safety features like a heat-resistant battery to prevent overheating and a long lifespan with thousands of charge cycles.

The weight and size might be a drawback if you need something very lightweight or compact. While it has an eco/quiet mode implied by its battery operation, it lacks explicit load-sensing features that some other generators offer to optimize energy use automatically. This model is ideal for those who want a quiet, clean, and reliable power source for home backup or off-grid use, especially if you plan to use solar panels for charging, and don’t mind the heavier weight for the increased power capacity.

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.