10 Best Tailgate Generators 2026 in the United States

The Honda EU7000IS is a versatile generator ideal for tailgating, home backup power, RVs, and outdoor events. It boasts a substantial power output with a starting wattage of 7,000 watts and a running wattage of 5,500 watts, making it capable of handling various appliances and electronics. The generator is fuel-powered and includes an electric start feature for convenience. Its runtime is approximately 6 hours and 30 minutes, which is decent for smaller events but might require refueling for longer occasions.

Portability might be a concern due to its heavy weight at 270 pounds, making it less convenient to move around without assistance or a dolly. However, the super quiet operation is a significant advantage, ensuring it won't be too disruptive in social settings. The unit includes three power outlets and offers connectivity options via the Honda My Generator app and Bluetooth, which is a modern touch for monitoring and control. Additionally, the CO-MINDER system adds a layer of safety by detecting harmful carbon monoxide levels.

The generator comes with a 3-year residential warranty, providing peace of mind for the users. The high price and weight could be potential drawbacks for some users.

The Westinghouse 11000 Peak Watt Dual Fuel Portable Inverter Generator offers a robust power output, delivering up to 11000 peak watts on gasoline and 10000 peak watts on propane. This makes it a versatile choice for tailgate parties or other outdoor activities where reliable power is essential. It runs up to 17 hours on a full 9.8-gallon gasoline tank, ensuring long-lasting operation without frequent refueling.

The generator is equipped with a remote electric start, a push button, and a recoil start, providing multiple options for ease of use. Additionally, it features several outlets, including standard household outlets and transfer switch-ready outlets, which can support various devices and electronics safely due to its low Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) of less than 3%. The built-in LED data center is a convenient feature, displaying important information like fuel level, power output, and remaining runtime.

Safety is enhanced with the inclusion of a CO sensor and automatic low oil shutdown. However, at 187.4 pounds, it is relatively heavy, which might affect portability despite its 'portable' tag. Users may need to consider transportation options or assistance. It is EPA compliant and comes with useful accessories and minimal assembly required. Backed by a 3-year limited warranty and supported by a nationwide customer service network, this generator is a reliable and well-rounded option for those needing substantial power output for tailgating and other similar uses.

The Honda 665730 EU3200IAN is a 3200-watt portable inverter generator, making it a strong contender for tailgating events. With a power output of 3200 watts, it offers ample power to run various appliances and electronics. The generator runs on gasoline, which is generally easy to find, but it may require careful handling and storage.

Weighing 63 pounds, it is considered lightweight and portable for its category, although it may still be a bit heavy for some to carry over long distances without assistance. The dimensions (19"L x 12"W x 24"H) make it compact enough to fit in most vehicle trunks, which is a plus for tailgating.

As an inverter generator, it is generally quieter than traditional models, which is beneficial in social settings. The runtime will depend on the load, but typical inverter generators offer efficient fuel use, which means it should last through most tailgating events without frequent refueling. The generator features Bluetooth connectivity, allowing for easy monitoring and remote control, and includes CO-MINDER technology for enhanced safety by monitoring carbon monoxide levels. However, it only has one outlet, which might limit the number of devices you can plug in directly.