10 Best Standby Generators 2026 in the United States

The Westinghouse 28000 Peak Watt Home Backup Portable Generator is a robust solution for residential power backup needs. With 28,000 peak watts and 20,000 running watts, it provides substantial power for various household appliances and devices. It is gas-powered, which is readily available but might require consistent refueling during extended outages. The generator features an electric start and auto choke for user-friendly operation, including a remote start option for added convenience.

The automatic transfer switch readiness with multiple 30A and 50A outlets ensures compatibility with most homes' power systems. Safety is enhanced with CO sensing technology and automatic low oil shutdown, which can prevent potential hazards during operation. With a 17-gallon fuel tank, it can run up to 11 hours at 50% load, making it suitable for prolonged use. However, the size and weight of the generator might make it challenging to move and install without assistance.

This generator is a solid choice for those needing a reliable and powerful standby generator, but users should be prepared for the potential challenges in noise and mobility.

The Honda 664240 EU2200i is a portable inverter generator designed for a range of uses including home, camping, and job sites. It offers a maximum power output of 2200 watts and a running wattage of 1800 watts, which makes it versatile enough to power various appliances. One of its standout features is its quiet operation, ranging from 48 to 57 dBA, making it suitable for environments where noise is a concern, such as campsites or residential areas.

The generator is fuel-powered, running on gasoline, and is equipped with Honda's Eco-Throttle System, ensuring fuel efficiency with a run time of 4 to 9.6 hours on a single tank, depending on the load. This makes it ideal for overnight use or long-duration applications. At 46.5 pounds, the generator is relatively lightweight and portable, though it may still require some effort to move around.

It does not include an Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS), a consideration for those looking for seamless power transitions during outages. Another feature is its parallel capability, allowing users to connect two identical units for double the power output. One drawback is its smaller tank volume of 0.95 gallons, which might require more frequent refueling during extended use. Additionally, the generator is powered by a 4-stroke engine with an engine displacement of 121 cubic centimeters. While it does not boast the highest power output in the category, its reliability and clean, stable power make it a strong contender for those needing a portable and quiet generator.

The Westinghouse 12500 Peak Watt Dual Fuel Generator is a strong choice for home backup power. It delivers 9500 running watts on gasoline and 8500 on propane, enough to keep most essential appliances running during outages. Having dual fuel capability (gasoline and propane) adds flexibility and can be handy when fuel supplies vary. The generator includes an electric start with remote key fob, making it easy to turn on without manual effort. It’s also Transfer Switch Ready, which means it can connect directly to your home electrical system for automatic power switching during outages, a key feature for standby use.

It runs up to 12 hours on a full 6.6-gallon tank, providing solid runtime for extended outages. The generator is equipped with a CO sensor for safety, shutting down automatically if carbon monoxide builds up—a valuable feature for home use. The sound level is about 74 dB, which is moderately loud but typical for a portable generator of this size, so it’s worth keeping it placed away from main living areas. Weighing around 226 pounds, it’s not the easiest to move frequently, but it comes with handles to help. The size is fairly compact for its power. It offers multiple outlets including standard household plugs, a transfer switch outlet, and an RV-ready outlet, covering various power needs.

Some downsides include the noise level, which might be intrusive in quiet neighborhoods, and the weight which may require a second person for moving or installation. Also, while it’s transfer switch ready, the transfer switch itself is not included, so that’s an extra purchase. This generator is well-suited for homeowners looking for a reliable, powerful, and safe backup generator with dual fuel options and convenient features like remote start. It may be less ideal if you need a quieter or more portable unit.