Investing in a portable generator is a wise decision to ensure power supply during emergencies, outdoor activities, or while on the go. In this blog, I’ll be reviewing and ranking the best portable generators based on real user feedback and in-depth reviews to help you find the perfect fit for your needs.
1. Westinghouse 12500 Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator
Helpful Review: As a first-time generator owner, I opted for the Westinghouse WGen9500DF, labeled on Amazon as the “Westinghouse 12500 Watt Dual Fuel Home Backup Portable Generator.” It’s important to note that the 12,500 watts refers to its starting power, which can be a bit confusing.
I’m quite pleased with this purchase. The unit feels well-made, and I hope its durability matches its impressive appearance. However, the delivery process was a bit bumpy—despite confirming the delivery multiple times, the communication felt excessive, and the driver arrived with just a two-minute notice instead of the expected 30 minutes.
Setting up the generator was straightforward, though a couple of minor quirks stood out. The oil provided didn’t completely fill the tank, so I had to add more. Attaching the wheels and feet was easy, but the generator’s weight made lifting it a challenge. Once assembled, it became surprisingly easy to move, thanks to the sturdy wheels and handle.
Starting it was simple with the remote fob, and it fired up immediately on propane. However, it’s quite loud, though not more disruptive than a typical lawnmower. I did face a small issue later on when I added a gauge to the propane tank—likely restricting the fuel flow—but removing the gauge solved the problem.
Although I haven’t tested it on gasoline or with high-power appliances yet, I’m happy with how it handled smaller tools like my circular saw. An electrician is scheduled to install a transfer switch soon, so I’ll get a better sense of its capacity under a real load. So far, this generator seems like a solid investment.
2. DuroMax XP13000EH Dual Fuel Portable Generator:
Helpful Review: I live off the grid and needed a backup generator after my primary one failed. I rely on solar energy, but during Pacific Northwest winters, solar power isn’t enough. After researching, I settled on this DuroMax generator. While it had mostly favorable reviews on Amazon and Home Depot, I noticed some negative comments, mostly related to user errors or minor quality control issues, which seemed to be resolved in most cases.
Here’s my experience: I ordered it on Thursday and received it by Tuesday. Setup took about 30–45 minutes. I used the recoil start and ran it to charge my house batteries for two hours. The next morning, I used the electric start and ran the generator to power my house. It starts easily with LPG, and it’s quiet enough that the sound of rain on my roof was louder than the generator itself. I might need to adjust the engine governor due to an overspeed warning on my inverter, but otherwise, it works like a champ!
Let’s put things into perspective. This generator is a great value for the price:
The engine is a Honda clone, providing 7 hp. While it may not last as long as a Honda, it costs a third of the price, and replacement engines are available on Amazon.
It’s a dual-fuel unit straight from the factory, with no modifications needed. It’s also warranted for two years.
While some reviews complained about noise, I found it fairly quiet. It’s louder than a Honda EU3000iS, but not by much.
This generator is like a reliable, affordable Ford, not a luxury car like a Mercedes or Porsche, and that’s perfectly fine for my needs. Right now, it’s my primary power source, and so far, it’s been great.
Update: After a month of use, this generator has never failed to start. I’ve had three minor issues, two of which were operator error. I switched to gasoline from LPG because gas is currently cheaper. The generator can run my refrigerator, freezer, well pump, washing machine, some lights, and small appliances while charging my batteries. It runs for a long time on a tank of fuel, though the fuel gauge on the tank doesn’t always read correctly.
3. Westinghouse 2550 Portable Inverter Generator:
Helpful Review: I recently purchased the Westinghouse iGen2800c, and I couldn’t be happier with my decision! This portable inverter generator has exceeded my expectations in so many ways.
First off, it’s incredibly quiet. I was pleasantly surprised at how little noise it produces. We recently had Helene pass through, and I legitimately could not hear this generator running outside my back door over the sound of the neighbor’s generators 100 feet away. Very, very quiet.
The power output is more than sufficient for my needs, it was able to easily power a fridge, chest freezer, and router, as well as charge several devices without ever leaving eco mode.
Portability is another strong suit. It’s lightweight and comes with a comfortable handle, making it easy to transport. I appreciate the compact design, which fits neatly in my garage without taking up too much space.
Setup was a breeze—no complicated assembly or extensive instructions. Just add oil, fill it with gas, and it’s good to go. Fired right up first try, ran with no issues for 24 hours straight, only being shut off to refill the fuel.
Maintenance is easy and straightforward, access to the oil drain/fill port is easy, though I’d recommend using the included funnel to drain the oil, otherwise it spills down inside the machine. The spark plug and air filter are likewise easy to access, though the fuel filter looks like it’ll be difficult to change. Maintenance requirements are pretty minimal, and all parts are readily available from the Westinghouse website.
Fuel efficiency is absolutely incredible. This generator holds about 1 gallon of gas, and with a fridge, freezer, router, and fan connected, it’ll run for 10+ hours on that single gallon of gas. Very, very efficient generator. The description says it’ll run for 12 hours at 25% load, but I never had it go quite that long for me. Real world, I’d say expect 8-10 hours of actual run time, which is still very good for a single gallon of gas.
Overall, the Westinghouse iGen2800c is an excellent investment for anyone in need of a reliable, efficient, and portable generator. If you’re looking for something that’ll keep your frozen foods frozen and charge your phone, it’s an absolutely great investment. Very fuel efficient, plenty of power for basic appliances, easy to transport, and relatively inexpensive. Highly recommended.
4. Champion Power Dual Fuel Portable Generator:
Helpful Review: This is a great and convenient generator — not only the dual fuel options, but also the electric start.
And while it certainly isn’t “whisper quiet,” it’s much more muted than my older two generators.
I used this after losing power in a recent hurricane, and I was able to run my fridge along with a power “splitter” so that we could charge all our phones and devices.
I would do that for about 2 hours at a time, every 4-5 hours or so.
Then at night we ran a portable AC unit in the one room where we set up camp — with the generator just outside the window.
I’ve also found that it’s a bit lighter than the older models — making it easier to roll around to different locations. (out to the garage to run that fridge for a few hours, etc.)
Like all generators, of course, you’ll likely need to clean out the carb every year or two.
But all in all this is a great one; we’ve had it since 2019, I believe.
5. DuroMax XP13000HXT 13,000-Watt 500cc Tri Fuel Portable Generator:
Helpful Review: You can tell a LOT about the quality of a product by the customer support from the company. Duromax customer support gets 5 stars from me on this purchase. First, this Duromax XP12000HX Portable Generator is very well designed. But, “I” created a slight problem during initial assembly. The first step out-of-the-box is to roll the generator over and take out 2 shipping braces that are bolted to the frame.
Wouldn’t you know I dropped a bolt and it took one bounce before going right into a port for the motor! After 30 min of trying to get the bolt to move where I could find and retrieve it, I gave up and called Duromax support. I left a message and then tried again to retrieve the bolt. Success!
I went on with the initial setup and had no problems. Vwhalla…Support returned my call ready and willing to help. Thankfully, I had already solved my own problem. I really appreciated the call back and the attitude of the rep. I’m sure that I will be happy with this generator, I’m already pleased with Duromax as a company!
6. Westinghouse 12500 Peak Watt Tri-Fuel Portable Generator:
Helpful Review: I received the generator and was pleased to see the packaging was undamaged. Amazon delivery was excellent and on time. I boxed the unit and everything that was said to be included was in the box. The generator itself was in perfect condition with no visible damage. I verified all the parts needing assembly (Wheels and axles, Feet and bolts and washers) were there and began putting them on the machine.
The assembly was a snap everything lined up and fit perfectly. I’m 73 years old and my wife and I had the generator on boxed, oiled up, and ready to start in ~40 minutes. The machine is heavy but is easily moved around. The wheels are large and solid so no air leaks in the future to worry about. I’m going to use propane as the default fuel source to eliminate the issues with gasoline going stale and clogging the carb after sitting unused for long periods just one less thing to worry about.
I attached the included Propane gas line to the input and propane tank, used the remote fob to start it and walah it started right up and purred like a kitten. I have to admit that this is my second Westinghouse generator and only got this machine because of the upgrades for duel fuel, remote start capability more power headroom. I’m retiring my other unit after 15 years of solid service. You can’t go wrong with Westinghouse generators in my opinion.
Considerations For Choosing Portable Generators:
When choosing a portable generator, consider the following key factors:
Power Requirements: Assess the wattage needed for your devices.
Fuel Options: Opt for dual or tri-fuel options for flexibility.
Runtime: Look for generators with extended runtimes.
Start Options: Choose models with electric or remote start for convenience.
Portability: Consider weight and design, especially for outdoor use.
Noise Level: Prioritize generators with quieter operation.
Safety Features: Check for low oil shutdown for engine protection.
Compliance: Ensure generators meet environmental standards.
Durability: Assess the engine type and overall build quality.
Support and Warranty: Consider customer service and warranty terms.
Specific Use Cases: Tailor your choice to your intended applications.
Budget: Balance features with cost for optimal value.
In conclusion, choosing the best portable generator depends on your specific needs, preferences, and intended use. The top 10 portable generators in 2024 offer a diverse range of features catering to various buyer requirements. Whether you prioritize dual-fuel options for versatility, high power output for demanding applications, or eco-friendly and lightweight solutions for outdoor adventures, this buyer guide has highlighted key features to guide your decision.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. What brand is the best portable generator?
A: Determining the best brand depends on individual preferences and needs. Notable brands include Westinghouse, DuroMax, Generac, Champion, and Jackery, each offering a range of generators with distinct features.
2. What kind of generator is best for home use?
A: For home use, a generator with sufficient wattage, such as the Westinghouse 12500 Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator, is recommended. Dual-fuel options, extended runtime, and safety features make it ideal for backup power during outages.
3. Which is better, inverter, or portable generator?
A: The choice between an inverter and a portable generator depends on your needs. Inverters are more fuel-efficient, produce cleaner power, and are quieter, making them suitable for sensitive electronics. Portable generators, on the other hand, offer higher power output and are often more versatile.
4. How much is a good portable generator?
A: The cost of a portable generator varies based on features, brand, and power output. Entry-level models may start around $300, while high-capacity generators with advanced features can range from $800 to $2,000 or more.
5. What are the top 5 portable generators?
A: The top 5 portable generators in 2024 include the Westinghouse 12500 Watt Dual Fuel, DuroMax XP13000EH, Westinghouse 2550 Portable Inverter, Champion Power Dual Fuel, and Generac GP8000E. These generators offer a mix of power, versatility, and features.
6. What are the disadvantages of a portable generator?
A: Portable generators have limitations, including noise levels, emissions, and the need for fuel storage. They may not be suitable for extended use or continuous power needs. Additionally, they lack the automatic transfer switch found in standby generators, requiring manual setup during power outages.
7. Which generator is best for AC?
A: Generators with higher starting watts, such as the DuroMax XP13000EH or Generac GP8000E, are suitable for powering air conditioners. Consider the AC’s starting wattage and the generator’s surge capacity to ensure compatibility.
8. Which is cheaper, inverter, or generator?
A: Inverters tend to be more expensive upfront due to their advanced technology. However, they offer fuel efficiency and quieter operation, potentially leading to lower operational costs over time. Portable generators may have a lower initial cost but can be less fuel-efficient and louder. The choice depends on your priorities and budget constraints.
