The Best Portable Generators in 2026

It is just never a waste to have an alternative source of power, whether you’re going camping, day trip or preparing for an unexpected weather event. After examining numerous models in terms of features, specifications, and user feedback, we’ve compiled a list of the best portable generators. If you need some ideas before getting a portable generator, keep reading to learn more.

Have a look at our review for quick information on the best portable generators based on our research and tests.

Our Top Picks

Here are the top 5 best portable generators in 2024:

• Best Overall: Westinghouse 9500 Watt Portable Generator
• Best Value: Honda EU2200i Portable Inverter Generator
• Best Backups: Generac 5735 GP17500E Portable Generator
• Best Dual Fuel: Champion Power Equipment 201183 Generator
• Best Solar: Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 1000

Check our reviews for the 5 best portable generators of 2024 if you want to learn more before making the final decision.

Best Overall: Westinghouse 9500 Peak Watt Generator

The Westinghouse 9500 Peak Watt Generator is a highly capable and reliable portable generator that offers impressive performance and a range of features. With its 7500 watts of peak power and 9500 watts of starting power, this generator is suitable for a wide range of applications, it can even maintain power for your entire home when needed.

• Output Wattage: 7500
• Fuel Type: Gasoline
• Voltage: 120 Volts
• Special Features: Electric Start, Overload Protection, Automatic Voltage Regulation, Low Oil Shutdown, etc.
• Included Components: Oil Tool Kit, 12v Battery Charger
• Dimensions: 27.2 x 26.1 x 26 inches
• Weight: 196 pounds

Pros

• Operate for 11 hours
• Can be used remotely (109 yards away)
• The muffler helps damper noise

Cons

• Heavy

The Westinghouse Gen7500 ranks top in this list since it is an excellent choice which is both powerful and simple to operate. It’s compact enough to be a portable generator yet powerful enough to run at 7,500 watts and even get peaked at 9,500 watts.

At the heart of this generator is its powerful 420cc Westinghouse OHV engine. This engine delivers 7500 watts of continuous power and can handle surges of up to 9500 watts, making it suitable for powering a wide range of appliances and equipment. The OHV design ensures efficient fuel combustion, maximizing the generator’s runtime while minimizing fuel consumption.

Whether you’re running essential household appliances during a power outage or operating power tools on a job site, this generator provides the necessary power to get the job done.

This home generator also has a remote starter for quick and easy start-up. The remote start key fob adds convenience to starting the generator. With a simple push of a button, you can quickly and effortlessly ignite the engine without the hassle of pulling a recoil cord.

This feature is especially beneficial for those who may have difficulty with manual starting methods or for situations where quick and easy starting is a priority. Additionally, the generator includes a recoil start option as a backup, ensuring you can start it even if the remote is unavailable or the battery is depleted.

How It Works For Long-Term

This is a generator with high capacity, so some light-duty tasks can be handled well. We tried running the generator continuously for 6 hours (no load) and did not see any problems with capacity. The only minus point is that the machine is quite noisy when operating so it can be uncomfortable when kept close. During our test, it took about 5 minutes to set it up and run. It could operate for up to 11 hours on 6.6 gallons of fuel.

We had experience for a 2-day fishing trip and they worked very stably. With a few basic connections to keep the lights and mini-fridge running, it didn’t even need a second refueling during the trip.

In addition, the Westinghouse 9500 Peak Watt Generator is powerful enough to maintain the most essential electrical appliances in your home during a power outage. In our test, Westinghouse was tasked with keeping the refrigerator, washing machine, microwave, and television running. This process takes place continuously for 3 days to test its stability when operating at full capacity.

Editor’s Verdict: For reliable, economical portable generator performance that won’t let you down in emergencies, the Westinghouse 9500 receives our highest Editor’s Choice distinction. Its consistent quality and value make it a no-brainer choice

Best Value: Honda EU2200i Inverter Generator

A quite famous brand with durability confirmed over decades is Honda EU2200i Inverter Generator. If you are looking for a compact generator that can be easily carried around but has a large capacity, this is definitely a great choice for you.

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• Output Wattage: 2200 watts
• Fuel Type: Gasoline
• Voltage: 120 Volts
• Special Feature: CO Sensor
• Dimensions: 21 x 12.24 x 19.72 inches
• Item Weight: 54 Pounds

Pros

• More powerful than the older version
• Quiet operation
• Fuel-efficiency
• Lightweight and compact

Cons

• Don’t have an electric start
• Pricey

After testing the two generators at 2,200 watts, we concluded that the Honda EU2200i is the best. The Honda is the quietest yet most powerful generator we’ve tested, and it even outperforms its advertised specs.

Furthermore, you can easily check Honda power output via the Bluetooth-connected app, allowing you to regulate and optimize your generator’s functioning from the comfort of your own home during stormy conditions. This is a relatively new feature that few generators possess. The EU2200i contains an integrated carbon monoxide detector that shuts down the generator if the hazardous gas concentrations get too high.

How It Works For Long-Term

After a year of regular use, we’re impressed by how well it’s held up. The thing looks and runs practically brand new still. Haven’t done any maintenance on it at all. Damien Volkman tested was cold starts. He got down to about 10 degrees one morning and that thing fired right up, no problem.

Our team put it through extended run times, like 10 hours straight while running power tools on job sites. It just kept on chugging along. The fuel efficiency blew us away too. This was only filled up once every couple of weeks.

The Honda EU2200i Inverter is also super lightweight and easy to haul around in the back of the truck. Even after bouncing down some gravel roads, it never got banged up at all. It has been tested with the camping trip for 3 days with my family. The noise can’t even wake the baby up but EU2200i still provides full capacity for all electric equipment on van.

Editor’s Verdict: Between the long-lasting value, fuel savings, and unmatched peace of mind, the Honda EU2200i is undoubtedly worth its slightly higher price compared to lesser generators.

Best Home Backups: Generac GP17500E Portable Generator

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• Output Wattage: 2000 Watts
• Fuel Type: Gasoline
• Item Weight: 48 Pounds
• Included Components: Spark Plug Wrench, Flathead Screwdriver, Instruction Manual
• Product Dimensions: 18 x 11 x 18 inches
• Voltage: 120 Volts

Pros

• Exceptionally powerful
• Battery, oil supply, and maintenance equipment are all included

Cons

• Large and heavy

The Generac 5735 GP17500E is the great generator for those who want a dependable, powerful machine that can operate all kinds of house equipment when stormy weather is happening. This battery generator was created for scenarios where high-power needs are typical, such as a jobsite, home emergency backup, or people who choose to live off the grid.

At 17,500 running watts, this thing has plenty of power to run all of the essentials in my house during an outage like the furnace, well pump, fridge, some lights.

The installation was really straightforward – the electrician hooked it up to the natural gas line and wired it to subpanels in my house. The unit itself is about the size of a large toolbox which was perfect since I have it stored in my garage. It starts up automatically when the power goes out, which gives me peace of mind.

I tested it out by plugging in some heavy appliances and it ran them without any issues. The operation is very quiet too, I could barely hear it running from inside the house. The fuel tank holds enough gas to run for over 8 hours at full load which should be more than enough to get through an outage.

This 16-circuit generator can simultaneously power numerous 120V devices, perfect for whole-house use. It can operate for up to 10 hours straight at 50% load or less if you want to run at about 26200 watts and has a 16-gallon fuel tank.

The control panel makes it easy to check power usage and status. Overall, I feel really comfortable having this Generac unit as a backup power solution for my home. The quality build and power output have lived up to my expectations so far.

How It Works For Long-Term

Our team has to say we are really impressed by the build quality of this Generac – everything still feels so sturdy. As long as we stay on top of routine maintenance like oil changes, it just keeps on trucking like the first day.

The thing I appreciate most is not having to stress over outages. I know my food isn’t going to spoil and I can still run some lights and fans to keep comfortable.
Sure, maintenance costs add up, but it hasn’t been anything major. Just routine stuff to keep it in top shape. I’d say I’ve gotten more than my money’s worth in reliability from this Generac portable generator during that time. It’s going to take a lot more years before I even think about replacing it.

Editor’s Verdict: The Generac 5735GP17500E truly represents best-in-class whole home backup power. Its legendary reputation for smooth, dependable long-term operation cements it as a sound investment for uninterrupted household power needs.

Best Dual Fuel: Champion 201183 Ultralight Generator

If you’re looking for a portable power solution perfect for camping trips, outdoor adventures, and tailgating, look no further than the Champion 201183 generator. As someone who loves taking extended road trips in an RV, having a reliable yet compact generator is key. At only 39 pounds, this Champion is lightweight enough to easily carry to and from your vehicle. The molded handle makes transport simple.

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• Output Wattage: 2500 watts
• Fuel Type: Gasoline, Liquefied Petroleum Gas
• Voltage: 120 Volts (AC)
• Output Wattage: 2500 Watts
• Included Components: Engine Oil, Propane (LPG) Hose, USB Adapter, Oil Funnel
• Dimensions: 17.3 x 12 x 17.7 inches
• Item Weight: 39 Pounds

Pros

• Quiet operation
• Lightweight
• Option to use propane
• 34 hours of runtime on a 1/4 load

Cons

• Expensive to power output

Champion is one of the greatest portable generator manufacturers, and this 2,500-watt model is an excellent illustration of its high quality. Users may receive anywhere from 10 to 34 hours of runtime by fueling the generator with either gasoline or the more cost-effective propane.

The 2500-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator is not only strong and dependable, but it is also lightweight, making it easy to take camping or pull out of the garage or storage shed as needed. If you need a power source to power your entire RV during a long trip, Champion is a perfect choice. In experience, they can maintain most electrical devices from LED lights, microwaves, food steamers, etc… at less than maximum capacity (ECO mode).

Most people use propane to fuel generators for long trips because they are always kept clean. In addition to not creating loud noises and unpleasant odors, using propane will help you save more money over the long term.

This dual-fuel generator is exceptionally easy to start. During our test, it produced only 53 decibels from 23 feet away. It also features a mechanism that immediately turns off the device if dangerous quantities of carbon monoxide are detected. Champion also provides a three-year warranty and free lifetime technical support.

How It Works For Long-Term

Just last month when a big storm knocked out power, I relied on it to keep essential appliances running for over 3 days straight while crews worked to restore lines. It powered my fridge, some lights, and even my laptop as I worked remotely. I was impressed that it just kept on kicking without issue for well over 12 hours at a time before needing a refuel.

Speaking of fuel efficiency, this thing continues to surprise me. For its size, the 5+ hour runtime it provides per tank is excellent. I’ve found myself filling up far less frequently than expected. Especially compared to other brands I’ve owned previously that drank gasoline. Its eco-friendly design is a plus in my book.

The portability of the Champion is also a lifesaver. Whether I need to haul it upstairs to an outage-affected bedroom, toss it in the trunk to power tools at a worksite, or break it down for weekend camping trips, its lightweight 37-pound design makes transport a total breeze. The fact that it assembles and breaks down so easily frees me up to focus on getting power where I need it fast.

Editor’s Verdict: While affordable compared to larger brands, it never falters in reliability or dependability. The lightweight yet rugged construction proves durable through countless transports. Combined with excellent fuel economy, quick and easy starting, plus an ultra-quiet operation – this Champion 201183 truly shines as a portable backup power solution.

Best Solar: Jackery Explorer 1000 Portable Power Station

The Jackery Explorer 1000 is truly a standout portable power solution.  If you are an avid camper and outdoorsman, reliable battery power is essential for fully enjoying off-grid excursions. After putting the Explorer 1000 through extensive real-world testing, it has proven itself time and time again.

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• Output Wattage: 1000 Watts
• Power Source: AC, CarPort, Solar Panel
• Voltage: 110 Volts
• Dimensions: 13.1 x 9.2 x 11.1 inches
• Item Weight: 22 Pounds

Cons

• Lightweight in relation to capacity
• Competitively priced for the amount of power
• Several charging alternatives

Pros

• Some users complain about the low construction quality

The Jackery Explorer 1000 portable generator has a maximum capacity of 1,002 watt-hours. In spite of its small capacity, we discovered that the Explorer 1000 powered a table fan for 4.25 hours longer than the Ecoflow Delta, despite being less expensive, lighter, and listed at a lower capacity.

However, because this generator has a maximum output of 1,000 watts, it cannot power higher-wattage appliances and equipment. The capacity of this thing continues to impress me. Rated at a full 1000Wh, it easily holds a serious charge. I’ve taken it on some multi-day backcountry trips where we had devices, lights, and small kitchen appliances running continuously and it never died on us.

Even after 150+ charge/discharge cycles, I’m still pulling off 4-5 full charges for my laptop before needing a top-up. And the charge levels have stayed perfectly consistent this whole time – it still shows 1000Wh right until the last sips of power. I’m seriously blown away by how well the lithium battery is holding up.

The Jackery Explorer 1000 can be charged through a solar panel in 6.5 hours. You can also connect it to an AC outlet or 12-volt outlet in your car to recharge. Whether I need AC power for camping essentials or DC for charging drones, trail cams or whatever, it handles it all with ease. The variety of ports makes sure I can charge anything I throw at it. And the outputs have remained rock solid – not once have I had any fluctuations that could damage equipment.

How It Works For Long-Term

In the over 18 months that I’ve been putting the Jackery Explorer 1000 through rigorous testing for outdoor use, projects, and emergencies, it has consistently exceeded my expectations for performance and reliability. The lithium battery maintains its full 1000Wh capacity even after hundreds of charge cycles.

It provides steady power output without any fluctuations. Through countless transports, accidental drops, dust, and weather exposures, the Explorer 1000 remains physically intact. Most impressively, all of its charging ports and features function perfectly as if it were new.

Editor’s Verdict: Between its powerful capacity, versatile charging options including solar power, rugged and durable design, and reasonable price point, the Explorer 1000 is hands down the most versatile portable power station I’ve used – it keeps me connected in the backcountry without fail.

Benefits of Using Portable Generators

The portable generator isn’t as strong as a standby generator but most people prefer using it in the household for some reason below.

First of all, emergency preparedness. You never know when a big storm might knock out the power for a few days. With a generator, you can still run essentials like my fridge, fans, devices, and more to stay comfortable. No more sweating it out in the dark!

Camping is another obvious use case. Whether car camping or out in a remote site, a portable generator lets you fully enjoy yourself without stressing over batteries dying. You can cook big meals on my electric griddle, keep drinks cold in a cooler, and entertain the kids at night with lights and movies. Beats relying on candlelight!

For work projects, they’re awesome too. Just the other weekend I used it to power my miter saw and compressor while giving my deck some TLC. No more extension cords running all over or waiting for the right outlet. I could set up anywhere.

I’ve also got tools that are gas-powered but a generator lets me run them electrically indoors or at night which is safer and less messy. Overall they just add so much flexibility when you need power off the grid.

How We Picked And Tested?

At New York Garden, we take our testing process seriously to ensure that we provide you with reliable and trustworthy recommendations. We acquire a wide range of portable generators from different manufacturers and meticulously evaluate each one. Our testing process involves subjecting the generators to real-world scenarios and assessing their performance in various conditions.

We test the power output of each generator to determine its ability to handle different electrical loads. Whether it’s powering essential appliances during a power outage or running tools at a worksite, we ensure that the generators meet their stated power ratings and deliver consistent performance.

Fuel efficiency is another critical aspect we evaluate during our testing. We measure the fuel consumption of each generator under different loads and durations. This information helps us determine how long a generator can run on a full tank and how efficiently it utilizes fuel. We understand that fuel costs can add up, so we strive to recommend generators that are both powerful and efficient.

Noise levels are also a significant consideration for many users. We measure the sound output of each generator at various distances to provide you with accurate information. We understand that having a quiet generator can be crucial, especially in residential areas or when using the generator for recreational purposes.

You can completely trust New York Garden’s experts with a wealth of experience in using many different products. We are confident that we will give you objective and realistic reviews about the products you are interested in.

Why Trust New York Garden?

Whether you need backup power for outdoor events or storm outages, a portable generator is a valuable asset. But with various sizes, fuel types, and brand options on the market, making a decision can feel overwhelming. You can trust the recommendations in this article come from the extensive experience of our experts.

Damien Volkman has been reviewing generators for over a decade. He’s put hundreds of generators to the test in real-world conditions to see how they perform under pressure. Our other author is electrical engineer Jimmie Beahan, who previously designed generators for one of the top brands. He understands the inner workings better than anyone to identify crucial design differences.

By highlighting the most important factors and trusting insights from Damien Volkman and Jimmie Beahan, you can be confident you’re choosing a portable generator that best suits your needs without future headaches.

FAQs

Below are the frequently asked questions about portable generators:

1. Where should a portable generator not be used?

Don’t use a generator inside or in partially enclosed locations like garages. Only place it in outdoor areas, away from windows, doors, vents, crawl areas, and in an area with appropriate ventilation that does not build lethal exhaust fumes.

2. Can a portable generator be used in the rain?

Portable generator instructions tell you not to use it in the rain. The Consumer Product Safety Commission suggests using it on a dry surface beneath an open place to prevent it from being moisturized.

3. What size portable generator do I require?

A 5,000 – 7,000-watt generator would be adequate to operate a refrigerator, microwave, and lights. If you want to operate more equipment like a water heater or air conditioner, you’ll need a 10,000-watt model.