We Use CookiesWe use cookies to enhance the security, performance, functionality and for analytical and promotional activities. By continuing to browse this site you are agreeing to our privacy policy

10 Best Quietest Generators 2026 in the United States

How do we rank products for you?

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.

headphones-stars

Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Generac 22,500 Starting Watt Portable Gas Generator - Electric Start - Home Backup or RV Ready - Heavy Duty Frame - Quiet, Long Runtime, Emergency Power - 49-State Compliant

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,333
Size and Portability
Inverter Technology
Runtime

Most important from
313 reviews

Size and Portability
Large wheels make it relatively easy to move despite its heavy weight.
Inverter Technology
Safely powers electronics without causing damage.
Runtime
Runs well and has proven reliable with almost 500 hours of use.

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.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,333
Size and Portability
Inverter Technology
Runtime

Most important from
313 reviews

Size and Portability
Large wheels make it relatively easy to move despite its heavy weight.
Inverter Technology
Safely powers electronics without causing damage.
Runtime
Runs well and has proven reliable with almost 500 hours of use.
#2

Jackery Solar Generator 1000 v2 with 100W Solar Panel,1070Wh Portable Power Station LiFePO4 Battery,1500W AC/100W USB-C Output,1Hr Fast Charge for Outdoor,Off-Grid Living,RV,Emergency

Rating
7.9
Noise Level (Decibels/DB)
Power Output (Wattage)
Size and Portability

Most important from
4537 reviews

Noise Level (Decibels/DB)
The generator operates at an impressively quiet 30 dB, making it nearly silent and perfect for sleeping or outdoor activities.
Power Output (Wattage)
Multiple output ports support running a variety of devices simultaneously, including 1500-watt heaters and small compressors, with smooth power delivery.
Size and Portability
Portability is enhanced by a sturdy handle and a thoughtfully designed carrying bag, making it easy to transport despite its weight.

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.

Rating
7.9
Noise Level (Decibels/DB)
Power Output (Wattage)
Size and Portability

Most important from
4537 reviews

Noise Level (Decibels/DB)
The generator operates at an impressively quiet 30 dB, making it nearly silent and perfect for sleeping or outdoor activities.
Power Output (Wattage)
Multiple output ports support running a variety of devices simultaneously, including 1500-watt heaters and small compressors, with smooth power delivery.
Size and Portability
Portability is enhanced by a sturdy handle and a thoughtfully designed carrying bag, making it easy to transport despite its weight.
#3

Jackery Solar Generator 300, 293Wh Power Station with 40W Solar Panel, 300W Pure Sine Wave AC Outlet for RV Outdoors Camping Travel Blackout

Rating
7.9
Noise Level (Decibels/DB)
Size and Portability
Power Output (Wattage)

Most important from
11077 reviews

Noise Level (Decibels/DB)
This generator is a must-have for emergencies, offering reliable, silent power that keeps essential devices running without any noise or hassle.
Size and Portability
Its compact and lightweight design makes it incredibly portable—easy to carry and perfect for camping, RV trips, or just having on hand during outages.
Power Output (Wattage)
With a powerful 300W output and multiple versatile ports including USB-C and AC outlets, it efficiently powers phones, lights, and small electronics.
Eco/Quiet Mode and Load Sensing Features
The included solar panel supports off-grid charging, allowing sustainable power generation during extended outdoor use, though recharge speed is moderate.

The Jackery Solar Generator 300 is a lightweight, quiet inverter generator ideal for camping, RV trips, or emergency backup situations where noise is a concern. It weighs just under 13 pounds and features a sleek handle, making it easy to carry. Powered by a 293Wh LiFePO4 battery with a 300W rated output (600W surge), it efficiently runs small devices like laptops, cameras, and CPAP machines, though it won't support heavy appliances.

Being battery-powered and solar-charged, it produces almost no noise, distinguishing it from conventional gas generators. The included 40W solar panel enables off-grid charging, reaching 80% capacity in about 7.5 hours, which suits longer trips but might be slow for urgent power needs. Its battery is durable with over 4,000 charge cycles, promising a long service life. Multiple ports (AC, USB-C, USB-A, and car) allow versatile device charging.

The power output is limited to 300W, so it is not suitable for running large or multiple high-wattage devices simultaneously. Additionally, the smaller 40W solar panel means slower solar recharge unless paired with higher wattage panels sold separately. For users seeking a truly silent and portable generator for small electronics with eco-friendly solar charging, the Jackery 300 is a solid choice. Those requiring more power or faster solar recharge should consider larger models or additional panels.

Rating
7.9
Noise Level (Decibels/DB)
Size and Portability
Power Output (Wattage)

Most important from
11077 reviews

Noise Level (Decibels/DB)
This generator is a must-have for emergencies, offering reliable, silent power that keeps essential devices running without any noise or hassle.
Size and Portability
Its compact and lightweight design makes it incredibly portable—easy to carry and perfect for camping, RV trips, or just having on hand during outages.
Power Output (Wattage)
With a powerful 300W output and multiple versatile ports including USB-C and AC outlets, it efficiently powers phones, lights, and small electronics.
Eco/Quiet Mode and Load Sensing Features
The included solar panel supports off-grid charging, allowing sustainable power generation during extended outdoor use, though recharge speed is moderate.

Buying Guide for the Best Quietest Generators

When looking for the quietest generators, your main goal is to find a model that delivers reliable power with minimal noise. There are various generators available, each varying in noise level, size, power output, and intended use. Assessing your needs—whether for camping, RV use, backup power at home, or job sites—will help guide you toward the best fit. Understanding and prioritizing key specifications will make your search easier and ensure you choose a generator that’s both functional and pleasingly quiet.
Noise Level (Decibels/DB)The noise level of a generator is measured in decibels (dB), which tells you how loud the unit will be when running. This is especially important if you plan to use your generator in places where loud noise would be disruptive, like campsites, residential areas, or outdoor events. Typically, quieter generators will be in the range of 50-60 dB from a set distance (often 23 feet away), which is comparable to normal conversation. Louder models—often over 70 dB—are better suited for job sites or situations where noise is less of a concern. If peace and quiet is most important to you, look for models specifically labeled as “quiet” or “ultra-quiet,” and check the quoted dB rating. Your environment and personal sensitivity to sound will determine how low you want this number to be.
Type of Generator (Inverter vs. Conventional)There are two main types of generators relevant to noise: inverter generators and conventional (standard) generators. Inverter generators are generally much quieter due to their technology and insulation. They’re best for situations where sound really matters, like camping or powering electronics at home. Conventional generators are typically louder and are used for heavier-duty applications, where quiet operation is not the top priority. If your main concern is keeping things quiet, an inverter generator is usually the right choice.
Power Output (Wattage)Power output tells you how much electricity the generator can produce, usually measured in watts. Smaller, quieter models may have outputs from 1,000 to 3,000 watts, making them suitable for running essentials like lights, small appliances, or sensitive electronics. Larger generators (over 3,000 watts) can support multiple heavy loads but are often bigger and noisier. Think about what you need to power—just a few essentials or a whole RV or home? The more power you need, the harder it is to keep things quiet, so choose the smallest output that meets your needs for the best combination of quietness and functionality.
Size and PortabilityThe size and portability of a generator can affect its noise level and where you can use it. Compact, lightweight generators are often designed for portability and tend to be engineered for quieter operation. Larger units might come with wheels, but they are noisier and less convenient to move. If you need something easy to carry or transport, smaller models will usually be quieter and better suited for personal or outdoor use. If the generator will stay in one place and be further away from where you spend time, a larger model may be acceptable even if it’s a bit noisier.
Eco/Quiet Mode and Load Sensing FeaturesMany quiet generators come with an 'eco' or 'quiet' mode, which automatically adjusts the engine speed based on the load. This significantly reduces noise when you’re using less power. If you need a generator that only sometimes needs to run at maximum output, choosing one with a smart throttle or eco mode will help keep it as quiet as possible most of the time. This spec is helpful for users who want a balance between noise and fuel efficiency and aren’t always running the generator at full capacity.

FAQ

Most Popular Categories Right Now