Best generator

Generators are the ultimate power backup in the event of an electrical outage. Besides powering homes, generators are often used to keep construction sites, tailgates, barbecues, and a whole host of other projects running in the absence of a conventional energy source. You can purchase them in a variety of sizes, from smaller models that will fit on the back of a pickup truck to large, stationary ones. Here is our rundown of some dependable units.  

An automatic low oil shutdown cuts back at the first sign of dwindling oil levels, while a voltmeter and hour meter let you know how much longer you can operate the generator at full capacity. It can be started with the push of a button or a remote start key fob from 260-feet away.  The Westinghouse Outdoor Power Equipment generator is heavy at 220 pounds before it is filled with fuel. However, it has two large wheels and a convenient handle that make it easier to move from one place to another without too much strain.

While this generator has a lot of power to run refrigerators, stoves, and home lights at the same time, it will draw more power to run a furnace or air conditioning unit. This may cause lights to dim or prevent enough power for other appliances to run. Also, this generator will rust quickly if left outside, especially in wetter climates. We recommend purchasing a propane tent to help protect the DuraMax XP13000EH and extend how long it will last.

The generator is quieter than average, thanks to a patented muffler that features an aluminum-coated inner wall. There are several outlets to handle powering up large appliances and even some household items. It doesn't have any USB ports for charging electronics, but this generator is too powerful for that. Instead, you could use a wall adaptor or a power strip to more safely charge your cell phone. Because this Champion generator is a power machine, it is pretty heavy weighing 108 pounds before adding fuel.

There isn't a fuel gauge on this generator for you to see when it is full. There is an indicator light that will turn on to let you know when the fuel is getting low. Also, this generator only have 120 volt power outlets. It doesn't have USB ports. However, it is powerful and safe enough to charge electronics through a portable charger with a wall adapter.

How to choose the right generator

When it comes to choosing the best portable generator, it’s worth deciding on a few factors first. The fuel source is one important consideration, gas and battery-powered generators are both common, and each has its own advantages. Gasoline models allow you to keep topping up the engine, but they can also be messy, noisy, and smelly. Battery-powered options are quieter than their gasoline counterparts.

The next thing to consider is the generator's actual portability. A heavy generator with a 9000-watt output isn’t actually going to be that portable, and you may need to sacrifice some power for convenience. Or, you could balance the two by choosing a model with wheels. That way you can have great power output with mobility. Generators that use a cord pull to start are often lighter but are also more difficult to start.

Wattage is the next factor to consider. When electronics startup they will use more power than they will while running, which is known as the surge or starting wattage before they settle into their running wattage. If the surge wattage is higher than the generator can handle, it will cut out. So, take a look at the rating for surge/starting and running wattage. Usually the higher the rating, the better. To calculate, determine the running wattage of all the devices you want to use simultaneously, then add on the single highest starting wattage of all the devices. This will give you a wattage number to look for in a generator.

What we recommend

So now that you know the best generators, it’s time to pick one that checks off your needs. If we could recommend one, it's the Westinghouse Outdoor Power Equipment WGen9500 portable generator. This top-of-the-line portable generator offers 9,500 running watts, which is sufficient to run all your household appliances, including the air conditioner, refrigerator, and sump pump.

If you need more power, the DuroMax XP13000EH portable generator won't let you down. It runs on both gasoline and propane and has enough outlets compatible with just about anything on 120V. You also get a 120V/240V plug if you need that too. 

Great for camping and tailgating, the Honda EU1000i 1000-watt generator is a small portable inverter unit that packs some serious power. It operates at a super quiet noise level which makes life more livable.

Can I use a portable generator in the rain?

If your portable generator gets wet, you risk destroying it or worse – hurting someone through electric shock or electrocution. Some portable generators have a GFCI outlet, which automatically shuts the device off if it gets wet. If you think you’ll be working in wet locations, we recommend purchasing a generator that has a GFCI outlet.

While it’s best to avoid using your machine during bad weather, sometimes it can't be helped. If you must use it on a rainy or snowy day, try to keep your generator dry by placing it on a dry, flat surface and covering it. Some companies even sell generator tents. Just make sure you get one that fits your generator. Many of these tent covers connect to your generator in such a way that they can resist strong winds up to 70 miles per hour, so they're good for all types of weather.

Why trust us?

At GardeningEtc, we recommend the best products to enhance your life. As experts, we handpick products based on quality and usefulness to positively impact your life. We take our responsibility seriously — testing products, reading reviews, and sourcing knowledgeable outlets to ensure our selections are worthy of your time and money. 

We deliver detailed product overviews, balancing objective information with subjective opinions, so making the best choice for your home and lifestyle is as easy as possible.