10 Best Quietest Generators 2026 in the United States

The Westinghouse 11000 Peak Watt Dual Fuel Portable Inverter Generator is a powerful and versatile generator suitable for a variety of needs. It produces 9000 running watts and 11000 peak watts on gasoline, and 8100 running watts and 10000 peak watts on propane. This makes it a strong contender for those needing substantial power output. Its dual fuel capability provides flexibility and convenience, allowing users to switch between gasoline and propane based on availability and preference.

The generator features inverter technology, making it safe for sensitive electronics by producing clean power with less than 3% Total Harmonic Distortion (THD). This is a significant advantage for households and businesses that need to power delicate devices. Portability is somewhat compromised by its weight of 187.4 pounds, although it’s designed with wheels and a handle to aid in moving it. The 17-hour runtime on a 9.8-gallon fuel tank is impressive, providing extended use without frequent refueling.

Additional features include a remote electric start, LED data center, GFCI outlets, and a CO sensor for safety. The generator is also transfer switch ready and can be used in parallel with another unit for increased power output. Its built-in safety features and ease of use make it a reliable choice for residential use. This generator balances power, safety, and versatility, making it well-suited for users needing a robust and flexible power source, though it may not be the quietest or most portable option available.

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.

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.