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 Small Generators 2025 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

ERAYAK 2400W Portable Inverter Generator for Home Use, Super Quiet Small Generator for Camping Outdoor Emergency Power Backup, Gas Powered Engine, EPA, ECO Mode

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,328
Power Output (Wattage)
Fuel Type
Run Time

Most important from
700 reviews

Power Output (Wattage)
Delivers steady, reliable power that supports essentials like freezers, lights, and small heaters without hassle.
Fuel Type
The ECO mode significantly reduces fuel consumption and noise, extending run time while maintaining smooth operation.
Run Time
The ECO mode significantly reduces fuel consumption and noise, extending run time while maintaining smooth operation.
Noise Level
Operates quietly at around 52.5 decibels, comparable to a normal conversation, making it ideal for residential and outdoor use.
Portability
Compact and lightweight design makes it easy to carry and transport for camping, events, or moving between job sites.
Starting Mechanism
Starts quickly and effortlessly with an electronic ignition, eliminating the frustration of pull cords.

The ERAYAK 2400W Portable Inverter Generator is a solid choice for anyone needing reliable power on the go, whether for camping, RV use, or emergency home backup. It delivers 1800 running watts and 2400 peak watts, which is enough to run small appliances, electronics, and medical devices safely thanks to its clean inverter technology with low total harmonic distortion (THD). This means your sensitive gear like laptops and CPAP machines won’t be damaged by unstable power.

Fuel-wise, it uses gas and has a 0.95-gallon tank that supports a long run time—up to 16 hours at light load with eco mode activated. This eco mode also helps reduce noise, and it’s impressively quiet for a gas generator, operating at just 52.5 decibels, which won’t disturb neighbors or nature. Portability is another plus. Weighing about 50 pounds and having compact dimensions, it’s manageable to transport, especially with optional wheel kits and handles. The electronic ignition makes starting it simple, avoiding the hassle of pull cords.

For connectivity, it offers two AC outlets, two USB ports, and one DC output, covering a variety of devices and charging needs, which is handy for outdoor setups. While 50 pounds is light for a generator, it may still be a bit heavy for some users to carry frequently without assistance. Also, the fuel tank size means refueling will be needed for extended use at higher loads. Some users might find the power output limiting if they need to run larger appliances simultaneously. This generator balances quiet, clean power and fuel efficiency in a compact design, making it a great fit for campers, RV owners, and homeowners needing backup power for smaller devices.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,328
Power Output (Wattage)
Fuel Type
Run Time

Most important from
700 reviews

Power Output (Wattage)
Delivers steady, reliable power that supports essentials like freezers, lights, and small heaters without hassle.
Fuel Type
The ECO mode significantly reduces fuel consumption and noise, extending run time while maintaining smooth operation.
Run Time
The ECO mode significantly reduces fuel consumption and noise, extending run time while maintaining smooth operation.
Noise Level
Operates quietly at around 52.5 decibels, comparable to a normal conversation, making it ideal for residential and outdoor use.
Portability
Compact and lightweight design makes it easy to carry and transport for camping, events, or moving between job sites.
Starting Mechanism
Starts quickly and effortlessly with an electronic ignition, eliminating the frustration of pull cords.
#2

Honda 664240 EU2200i 2200 Watt Portable Inverter Generator with Co-Minder

Rating
9.8
Run Time
Portability
Noise Level

Most important from
2050 reviews

Run Time
Fuel efficiency is impressive, offering up to 8 hours of runtime on a single gallon of gas.
Portability
Its compact and lightweight design ensures easy transport and setup, making it ideal for various applications.
Noise Level
Quiet operation makes it perfect for campsites and other noise-sensitive environments.
Starting Mechanism
Easy to start and extremely portable, it's a reliable power source during emergencies.

The Honda 664240 EU2200i 2200 Watt Portable Inverter Generator with Co-Minder is an excellent choice for those needing reliable power on the go. With a power output of 2200 watts and a running wattage of 1800 watts, it can handle various appliances, making it suitable for home use, camping, or job sites. The generator runs on gasoline and features Honda's Eco-Throttle System, which ensures great fuel efficiency, offering a runtime of 4 to 9.6 hours on a single tank depending on the load, making it ideal for overnight or extended use.

At 46.5 pounds, it is relatively portable, and its compact dimensions (19"L x 12"W x 21"H) make it easy to transport and store. The noise level is impressively low, operating at 48 to 57 dBA, which is quieter than a normal conversation, benefiting users who need a quiet power source. The starting mechanism is a reliable recoil starter, and the generator includes Honda's inverter technology, which guarantees stable and clean power. Additionally, the ability to parallel two units for double the power increases its versatility.

However, it has a relatively small tank volume of 0.95 gallons, which means refueling might be frequent during high usage. It is also gasoline-powered, which might not be as convenient or environmentally friendly as other fuel types like propane or solar. Nevertheless, it remains a popular and dependable option for various needs.

Rating
9.8
Run Time
Portability
Noise Level

Most important from
2050 reviews

Run Time
Fuel efficiency is impressive, offering up to 8 hours of runtime on a single gallon of gas.
Portability
Its compact and lightweight design ensures easy transport and setup, making it ideal for various applications.
Noise Level
Quiet operation makes it perfect for campsites and other noise-sensitive environments.
Starting Mechanism
Easy to start and extremely portable, it's a reliable power source during emergencies.
#3

Honda EU2200ITAN 2200-Watt 120-Volt Super Quiet Portable Inverter Generator with CO-Minder - 49-State

Rating
9.7
Power Output (Wattage
Run Time
Noise Level

Most important from
1016 reviews

Power Output (Wattage
Able to run a commercial grade paint sprayer, an electric sander, and charge lithium batteries without issues.
Run Time
Provides hours more service at a much lower noise level compared to standard generators.
Noise Level
Eco mode is great for saving fuel and the generator runs much quieter if you aren’t pulling a lot of Amps.
Outlets and Connectivity
The generator has a great app with Bluetooth connectivity to monitor performance and maintenance.

The Honda EU2200ITAN is a compact and portable inverter generator designed for users who need reliable power on the go. With a maximum output of 2200 watts, it provides sufficient power for various small to medium devices, making it suitable for camping trips, outdoor events, and as a backup during power outages. Running on gasoline, this generator has a fuel tank capacity of 1 gallon and offers a runtime of up to 8 hours at 25% load, which is fairly efficient for its size.

The 4-stroke engine ensures smooth and consistent operation. Weighing 44 pounds, it is relatively easy to transport, although some users might find it slightly heavy for frequent movement. One of its standout features is its super quiet operation, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments. Additionally, the magneto ignition system simplifies the starting process.

The generator includes CO-Minder, a safety feature that monitors carbon monoxide levels, ensuring user safety. However, the generator does not come with wheels, which might affect its portability for some users. It is equipped with standard 120V outlets but lacks advanced connectivity options like USB ports. The Honda EU2200ITAN is well-regarded for its reliability, build quality, and performance, though it comes at a premium price point.

Rating
9.7
Power Output (Wattage
Run Time
Noise Level

Most important from
1016 reviews

Power Output (Wattage
Able to run a commercial grade paint sprayer, an electric sander, and charge lithium batteries without issues.
Run Time
Provides hours more service at a much lower noise level compared to standard generators.
Noise Level
Eco mode is great for saving fuel and the generator runs much quieter if you aren’t pulling a lot of Amps.
Outlets and Connectivity
The generator has a great app with Bluetooth connectivity to monitor performance and maintenance.

Buying Guide for the Best Small Generators

When choosing a small generator, it's important to consider your specific needs and how you plan to use the generator. Small generators are great for providing power during outages, for outdoor activities like camping, or for use on job sites. Understanding the key specifications will help you select the best generator for your requirements.
Power Output (Wattage)Power output, measured in watts, indicates how much electricity the generator can produce. This is crucial because it determines what and how many devices you can power simultaneously. Small generators typically range from 1,000 to 4,000 watts. For light use, such as charging phones or running small appliances, 1,000-2,000 watts is sufficient. For more demanding tasks, like running power tools or multiple appliances, you might need 3,000-4,000 watts. Assess your power needs by listing the devices you plan to use and their wattage requirements.
Fuel TypeGenerators can run on various fuels, including gasoline, propane, and diesel. Gasoline is the most common and widely available, making it convenient for most users. Propane is cleaner burning and can be stored indefinitely, but it requires a separate tank. Diesel generators are more fuel-efficient and durable but are typically louder and more expensive. Choose a fuel type based on availability, storage, and your preference for convenience or environmental impact.
Run TimeRun time refers to how long the generator can operate on a full tank of fuel. This is important for planning how often you'll need to refuel, especially during extended use. Small generators usually offer run times between 5 to 12 hours. If you need a generator for overnight use or long periods without refueling, look for models with longer run times. Consider your typical usage scenarios to determine the ideal run time for your needs.
PortabilityPortability is a key factor for small generators, especially if you plan to move it frequently or use it in different locations. This includes the generator's weight, size, and whether it has wheels or handles for easy transport. Lightweight models (under 50 pounds) are ideal for camping or occasional use, while heavier models (50-100 pounds) with wheels are better for job sites or home backup. Think about how and where you'll be using the generator to decide on the right level of portability.
Noise LevelNoise level, measured in decibels (dB), indicates how loud the generator will be during operation. This is important for user comfort and compliance with noise regulations, especially in residential areas or campsites. Small generators typically range from 50 to 70 dB. For quiet environments, look for models under 60 dB. If noise is less of a concern, higher noise levels might be acceptable. Consider where you'll be using the generator and how much noise is tolerable.
Starting MechanismThe starting mechanism determines how you start the generator. Common options include recoil (pull-start), electric start, and remote start. Recoil start is manual and requires physical effort, but it's reliable and doesn't depend on a battery. Electric start is more convenient, using a push-button or key, but it requires a charged battery. Remote start allows you to start the generator from a distance, adding convenience. Choose based on your preference for ease of use and physical capability.
Outlets and ConnectivityThe number and type of outlets determine what devices you can connect to the generator. Common outlets include standard 120V household outlets, 240V outlets for larger appliances, and USB ports for charging electronics. Some generators also offer RV-ready outlets or parallel capability to connect two generators for more power. Consider the devices you plan to power and ensure the generator has the appropriate outlets and connectivity options.

FAQ

Most Popular Categories Right Now