Best portable generator
A portable generator makes it possible to bring power with you wherever you go. Here are some reliable options.
A portable generator provides you with electrical power wherever it’s needed. Whether you're planning to go on an adventurous trip, experiencing a power outage, or running equipment on a job site, these little machines can easily support all types of power needs in one fell swoop. From solar-powered to gas-run options, these reliable generators will always have your back.
Jackery Explorer 240 portable power station
Harness the sun's energy
A small, rugged power station that can be connected to solar panels for affordable and clean power generation.
Pros:
- Three recharging options
- Light and compact
- Rugged construction
Cons:
- Solar panel not included
- Powers limited gadgets
If you are on a budget and still need a portable generator, this unit is a good option. It's designed to power up phones, tablets, cameras, lights, and other USB devices on the go. For added convenience, the power station can be recharged via a solar panel while still powering your gadgets. It has a chunky handle and weighs slightly under 7 pounds for optimal portability.
Westinghouse Outdoor Power Equipment generator
A dual-fuel workhorse
Reliable power for your entire home and high-amperage tools at a job site.
Pros:
- Heavy-duty never-flat wheels
- Uses gasoline and propane
- Automatic shutdown in case of low oil
- Key fob for easy starting
Cons:
- Quite expensive
- Bulky for some light tasks
With an impressive 9,500 running watts and the ability to operate on both natural gas and propane, this is one reliable portable generator. Designed to run for up to 12 hours on a 6.6-gallon fuel tank, the WGen9500 can handle heavy loads from household appliances and high-amperage tools. This model offers the portability of an easy-to-carry wheeled cart with fold-down handles designed to reduce fatigue. It can be started with the push of a button or a remote-start key fob from 260 feet away.
Champion Power Equipment 200951 portable inverter generator
An all-round workhorse
It's light enough to carry in one hand, but with the power to run several tools, appliances, and other equipment.
Pros:
- Runs quietly
- 1.1-gallon fuel tank
- 11.5 hours runtime
- Compact and lightweight
Cons:
- Not the best build quality
Need a little extra power when you're away from the house? This generator is a perfect in-between solution that can supply power in a pinch. With a peak power of 2500 watts, Champion's inverter generator provides more power in a smaller portable package. This inverter generator delivers 120 volts AC to power your small appliances and tools. It's pretty too.
DuroMax XP12000EH portable generator
Power through even the toughest conditions
This is a portable generator that comes with a power output that rivals most larger backup generators.
Pros:
- Easy to start
- Ample power for larger appliances
- Comes with two wheels
Cons:
- Might be bulky for some uses
- Quite expensive
If you are looking for maximum power out of a portable generator, then you will love this unit. This is a 12,000-watt generator that uses both propane and gasoline. With this kind of power, you do not have to worry about supplying larger appliances such as refrigerators, air conditioning units, or even power tools. It includes two AC receptacles, an upgraded carburetor, and a wheel kit for mobility. With its high output capacity and powerful engine, you can count on this ultra-compact gas generator whenever you need reliable electricity.
WEN GN6000 6000-watt portable generator
Travel-ready model that's ready for outdoor life
This compact machine has a 3.5-gallon gas tank that can deliver up to 7.5 hours of half-load runtime.
Pros:
- Wheel and handle kit
- As functional as it is durable
- Compact
- Can power most RVs
Cons:
- Some parts break easily
Great for camping, tailgating, emergencies, and job sites, the WEN GN6000 generator runs on a four-stroke gasoline engine to provide 6,000 peak watts of power. The rugged frame gives it superior protection against dents and scratches, while two side handles enable easy maneuvering on wheels over rough terrain. The unit comes with a 120-volt RV outlet that makes it easy to hook up the generator to your RV.
Power on the go
Why you can trust Gardeningetc
There are a lot of things to consider when buying a portable generator. How much power you need and what kind of fuel is best for your needs are just a few of the fundamentals. A good one should provide sufficient power and remain easy to move around.
If your primary need is to power small gadgets like camping or road trip essentials, then you can go for the solar-powered Jackery Explorer 240 portable power station. It can power up to four devices simultaneously.
If you are looking for a portable generator that can power most of your household appliances and even outdoor power tools on a job site, then consider the Westinghouse Outdoor Power Equipment generator.
Why trust us?
At GardeningEtc, we recommend the best products to enhance your life. As expert curators, we handpick products based on quality and usefulness to positively impact your day-to-day, from cart to doorstep. 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.
Grace Monene is an avid writer with a keen eye for home and office improvement. She has a knack for finding the best little things that will improve the quality of indoor and outdoor living. When she's not writing, you will typically find her reading or testing out the latest technology.
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