The Best Portable Generators for every Budget of 2023

• Best For Overall: Briggs & Stratton 30545 Generator
• Best For Capacity: Honda EU1000i Inverter Generator
• Best Small Generator: Champion 100263 Dual Fuel
• Best For Performance: DuroMax XP12000EH
• Best For Value: DuroMax XP4400EH
• Best For Budget: Durostar DS4850EH
• Best For Fuel Efficiency: WEN GN400i RV-Ready
• Best For Silent: WEN 56200i Generator
• Best For Outdoor Use: Champion Power Equipment 100692
• Best For Extended Run Time: Champion Power 76533

When looking for a new generator, you'll certainly come across two types: conventional and inverted.

Conventional Generators

A conventional generator generates electricity by spinning an alternator comparable to the one in your car using a fossil fuel-powered motor. The alternator produces an electrical flow as it rotates.

We utilize this electricity to power the vehicle and replenish the battery while running in your vehicle. The DuroMax XP12000EH provides the electricity that powers our electronics and appliances in our generator.

This generator, on the other hand, produces energy at a frequency of precisely 60 hertz. The motor's speed determines the speed of the energy generated by this alternator.

Inverted Generators

The inverting generator is becoming more popular as the need for clean power grows. An inverting generator adds an extra component to the generator that transforms alternating electricity to direct current rather than supplying dirty energy directly to your equipment.

The inverting generator may convert the current source to a clean 60-hertz alternating electric current. The Champion 100692 is an excellent option for this type of generator.

Allowing rain, wind, or snow to keep you in the dark is a terrible thing. So, take these factors into account to ensure you purchase the most excellent generator for your needs.

Size And Weight

A generator usually includes a large battery, several outlets, and a maximum output wattage that allows you to run a variety of household gadgets. If you are buying an alternator for camping, all that is important is to think about how big, and hefty you want your generator to be.

Consider acquiring parallel generators instead of a single large generator if you need additional power. Portable generators can weigh anywhere from 50 to 100 pounds. This portable alternator (weighing 50–70 pounds) is ideal for camping and outdoor activities.

Automatic Start

When the electricity goes off, the generator kicks in—all without you having to do anything. It is useful if you travel frequently or work far away from home and need to get somewhere fast in an emergency.

Removable Console

This console connects to the generator and allows you to plug in devices without having to run (perhaps dangerous) extension cables outside.

Outlets

Three or more allow you to make the most of the watts by distributing the load. However, we suggest only using them in an emergency at home or when you are away or camping.

How to test 

We load each alternator with a range of things you would wish to power during an outage to verify generator performance, such as a refrigerator, space heater, or air conditioner.

We ensure the generator can manage the load it claims, as well as what happens if there is a sudden increase in voltage, such as if your refrigerator's compressor kicks on while the portable alternator is near capacity.

We also consider how simple it is to transport and operate a generator. Moreover, how fuel-efficient it is and how long it can run on a full tank matter.

Here are the ten best portable generators which are available on the market.

1. Briggs & Stratton 30545 - Best For Overall

Important Specifications

• Brand: Brigg & Stratton
• Fuel Type: Gasoline
• Dimensions: 26 x 14 x 21 inches
• Item Weight: 84 pounds

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Reasons to buy

• Bright LCD screen
• Quiet function
• Come with parallel technology
• Reasonable price tag

Reasons to avoid

• Shaky back tires

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Product's highlights

We recommend the Briggs & Stratton P3000 generator for the most outstanding overall performance. It is also the best portable generator for camping and is packed with features while remaining affordable.

It has a 171cc motor that can run for up to five hours on average thanks to the 1.5-gallon petrol tank. It is an inverter alternator, so it gives you clean electricity for your phones and computers.

It also has a USB connector so that you can plug straight into it. You can see how much fuel is left, how long runs, and other information on a bright LCD screen.

During our testing, we noted that it is one of the quietest versions on the list. It also has parallel technology, which allows you to connect several generators for additional power.

The back tires are also a little shaky, but this alternator isn't that heavy, so it is not a significant deal.

Related Products

• pecron S1500F
• Briggs & Stratton P2400
• Powermate PM3000i 

2. Honda EU1000i Generator - Best For Capacity

Important Specifications

• Brand: Honda
• Dimensions: 20 x 16 x 12 inches
• Item Weight: 32.8 pounds
• Fuel Type: Gasoline

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Reasons to buy

• 12-gallon gas tank
• Fuel-efficient
• Parallel connectivity options

Reasons to avoid

• Not dual-fuel
• Incompatible with air conditioners and refrigerators

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Product's highlights

Honda is synonymous with excellence. They have a great deal of expertise in designing high-quality generators. The Honda Eco-Throttle system is a proprietary feature on the EU1000is.

Based on the current output, this novel method automatically controls the generator's fuel consumption. This solution is cost-effective and will save your budget over time.

It is worth noting that this small generator can run for eight hours on a 12-gallon gas tank. As a result, it is a tiny, fuel-efficient portable generator.

This model also has parallel connectivity options, which is a great feature. This functionality allows you to connect many generators. It implies you are not restricted to the 1000W power output.

You may boost your electricity generation by using Honda 1000i. This type is excellent for charging your computers, televisions, sound systems, and other compact gadgets.

When camping, the EU1000i is the smallest Honda alternator, capable of powering only the most basic home conveniences. As a result, it is incompatible with refrigeration and air conditioners systems.

Related Products

• Powermate PM3000i P0080601
• Pecron S1500F Portable Power
• PowerSmart Generator

3. Champion 100263 Dual Fuel - Best Small Generator

Important Specifications

• Brand: Champion
• Fuel Type: Gasoline, Propane
• Dimensions: 25.1 x 17.3 x 18.3 inches
• Item Weight: 95.7 pounds

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Reasons to buy

• Clean energy
• Dual fuel
• Lightweight

Reasons to avoid

• Not operate with gasoline

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Product's highlights

The Champion 100263 is the best small portable generator with dual-fuel capabilities similar to more significant generators. You can use propane and gasoline to power this alternator.

It comes with a sufficient battery and has an electric starter. This Champion model is an inverter generator, which means it can provide clean power for your digital equipment.

It has a steady power rating of 3100 watts and can sustain surges of up to 3400 watts. Moreover, this portable alternator is not too difficult to move around because it weighs just under 100 pounds.

The wheels have a slightly low profile. In addition, if the battery dies, the recoil will not start this alternator if fuel is used. Moreover, the recoil starts only operates with propane, so that it cannot beat other best portable solar generators.

Related Products

• Champion Power 200951
• Champion Power 200953
• Champion Power 200987

4. DuroMax XP12000EH - Best For Performance

Important Specifications

• Brand: DuroMax
• Dimensions: 30 x 29 x 26 inches
• Fuel Type: Gasoline, Propane
• Item Weight: 224 pounds

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Reasons to buy

• Support dual-fuel
• Powerful engine
• Flexible
• Handle large loads

Reasons to avoid

• Hefty price tag

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Product's highlights

In terms of portability, Duromax is one of the most popular generator manufacturers since it offers a wide range of alternatives.

The XP12000EH is driven by an OHV 457cc engine that produces 18 horsepower. Because it operates on propane and gasoline, the gadget supports dual-fuel innovation.

Consequently, you have the flexibility and freedom to choose the energy of your choice with this gadget. With a capacity of 12000 beginning watts and 9500 operating watts, the gadget provides lots of power.

The Duromax XP12000EH is among the most potent options available, making it the best 12,000 watt portable generator on this list. You also have the option of doing 120 and 240 V tasks at the same time.

It can handle large loads, including lights, refrigerators, residential air conditioners, and high-amperage power tools. The DuroMax MX2 technology's 120-volt socket provides maximum power.

Related Products

• Jackery Portable Power 
• A-iPower SUA12000E
• EF ECOFLOW Portable Power

5. DuroMax XP4400EH - Best For Value

Important Specifications

• Brand: DuroMax
• Dimensions: 23.8 x 20 x 18 inches
• Fuel Type: Gasoline, Propane
• Item Weight: 128 pounds

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Reasons to buy

• Quiet function
• Easy-to-read control panel
• Low-oil shutoff
• Powerful motor

Reasons to avoid

• Only two outlets
• Not CARB compliant

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Product's highlights

For the most outstanding value, we recommend this DuroMax generator. It includes all of the necessary functionality while maintaining a modest cost.

After seeing everything it offers, we are confident that it is the best portable generator for RV camping. This generator has a 7-hp engine mounted in a steel structure with four independent motor mounts that limit vibration and noise.

Additionally, low oil shutdown protection is built into the engine, and the control panel is simple to use. These features are upgrades from its previous version. It can deliver 3300 watts of standby power and 4000 watts of peak output.

The one difficulty of this device is that they only include two regular household outlets, necessitating six-in-line outlet adapters; nevertheless, there is enough area on the panel for one more.

This equipment is also in violation of the CARB clean air regulations. We know this item is not beneficial to the environment because it is not CARB compliant.

Related Products

• DuroMax XP13000E
• DuroMax XP2300iH
• Durostar DS12000EH

6. Durostar DS4850EH - Best For Budget

Important Specifications

• Brand: DuroStar
• Dimensions: 24 x 17 x 17 inches
• Fuel Type: Gasoline, Propane
• Item Weight: 122 pounds

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Reasons to buy

• Fuel gauge
• Durable build quality
• Handle heavy-duty power equipment with ease

Reasons to avoid

• No DC power

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Product's highlights

According to DuroStar, this portable generator has an 8-hour run duration at 50% load. However, user evaluations show that customers obtain up to 13 hours for necessities on a single 4-gallon tank.

This alternator provides a smooth operation thanks to its heavy-duty steel chassis and four-point completely isolated engine mounts. For this generating size, the level of noise is around average.

On a worksite, this alternator can handle heavy-duty power equipment with ease. Other good features are a convenient fuel gauge and an automatic shut-off sensor for low oil to safeguard the engine.

Two 120V home outlets and a 120V 30A twist-lock outlet are included in the device. The DuroStar portable generator is a simple, cost-effective unit with no bells or whistles.

DuroStar has built a loyal client base by manufacturing a portable generator that delivers durable dependability at a cheap cost.

Related Products

• Powermate PM3000i P0080601
• Jackery Portable Power Station
• WEN GN400i RV-Ready

7. WEN GN400i RV-Ready - Best For Fuel Efficiency

Important Specifications

• Brand: WEN
• Fuel Type: Gasoline, Propane
• Dimensions: 219.8 x 13.8 x 18.9 inches
• Item Weight: 66.1 pounds

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Reasons to buy

• Parallel connectivity
• Electric start
• Low-fuel and low-oil automatic shutdown for saving energy
• Come with a mobility kit

Reasons to avoid

• Pretty heavy

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Product's highlights

The WEN GN400i Inverter Generator gives you the power you need without drops and voltage spikes, making it safe to use with phones, laptops, and other sensitive gadgets.

The OHV engine has a peak output of 4000 watts and a power of 3500 watts. Its 1.85-gallon tank provides over 7 hours of economic half-load operation time.

Moreover, it has two three-prong 120V 5-20R outlets and one 120V RV-ready receptacle on its settings menu.

Low-fuel and low-oil automatic shutdown, as well as built-in overcurrent protection and indication lights, help to protect your electronic devices and the generator.

This little powerhouse has a small footprint and comes with a mobility kit, making it the best portable generator for home in the event of a future disaster.

Related Products

• WEN 56203i Super Quiet
• WEN 56380i Super Quiet
• WEN 56225i 2250-Watt Gas 

8. WEN 56200i Generator - Best For Silent

Important Specifications

• Brand: WEN
• Fuel Type: Gasoline
• Dimensions: 18 x 11 x 18 inches
• Item Weight: 48 pounds

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Reasons to buy

• Lightweight
• Quiet function
• Flexible
• Eco-mode switch and shut-off mechanism

Reasons to avoid

• Not dual-fuel

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Product's highlights

WEN 56200i is the best quiet portable generator, an inverter model that can power both your electrical household appliances and your electronics.

It may be used as an alternative power source in emergencies and can also power any camping excursions and other enjoyable adventures by providing appropriate lighting.

The fuel shut-off mechanism, which helps use the remaining gasoline in the carb before turning off automatically, can extend the lifespan of the WEN 56200i alternator.

Its eco-mode switch, which adjusts fuel use automatically, aids the fuel control system. This lightweight and portable WEN generator, which is only 48 pounds, appears specifically for you.

Everything is being put in place to achieve the maximum level of productivity possible.

Related Products

• WEN 56203i Super Quiet
• WEN 56380i Super Quiet
• WEN 56225i 2250-Watt 

9. Champion Power 100692 - Best For Outdoor Use

Important Specifications

• Brand: Champion
• Fuel Type: Gasoline
• Dimensions: 17.3 x 11.5 x 17.7 inches
• Item Weight: 39.5 pounds

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Reasons to buy

• Lightweight
• Recoil and cold start
• Fuel efficiency
• Affordable price tag

Reasons to avoid

• Not dual-fuel

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Product's highlights

The Champion 100692 is the best portable generator for outdoor use rather than indoor use. It is one of the lightest 2000W portable inverter generators on the market, weighing only 39 pounds.

Despite the weather, it has a simple recoil start mechanism and cold start innovation, making it suitable for any site. The Champion 100692 also controls fuel consumption, lowers electrical load, and maintains a pleasant noise level.

It is an attractive option if you want something lightweight, has a long runtime, decent fuel efficiency, and is portable. This generator is simple to transport, start, and combine with another Champion model to double the power output.

It will also supply you with clean energy so you can charge your devices without worrying about damaging power spikes. Thanks to an affordable price tag, this portable alternator stands out from others with the same features.

Related Products

• Champion Power 201052
• A-iPower SUA4500
• Westinghouse WGen3600v

10. Champion Power 76533 - Best For Extended Run Time

Important Specifications

• Brand: Champion
• Dimensions: 26.3 x 24.8 x 22.9 inches
• Fuel Type: Gasoline, Propane
• Item Weight: 119 pounds

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Reasons to buy

• Lightweight
• Foldable handle and wheels
• Secure volt guard
• Cold start technology
• Support dual-fuel

Reasons to avoid

• Pretty noisy

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Product's highlights

The Champion Electricity 76533 is ideal for supplying power to both your house and your workplace. This generator is lightweight, portable, and has a foldable handle and sturdy tires for simple handling and transporting.

A volt guard is included in the 76533 model to safeguard your equipment from possible damage and power surges. It also has cold start innovation, ensuring that its operation is unaffected by the cold.

It will readily power up to two refrigerators, two freezers, a TV, heaters, fabs, indoor lighting, and a coffee machine, thanks to a 3.4-gallon fuel tank and nearly 10-hour running time on either gasoline or propane.

Because of electric start technology, anyone can start it up quickly. It is simple to put together, but this alternator might be noisy at roughly 68 dB based on how close it is to you.

Aside from the loudness, there is no reason why you shouldn't give this generator a shot at powering your demands. So, it is without a doubt the best dual fuel portable generator.

Related Products

• Champion 3400
• Champion 100231
• Champion 100165

Here are some frequently asked questions we have collected while researching this field.

Is It Possible To Power The Entire House With A Portable Alternator?

Most portable generators are insufficient to power a typical home. Portable generators are responsible for providing electricity to circuits or critical devices in a home. You can employ a standby alternator for far more dependable backup power.

Are Portable Generators Noisy?

Yes, portable alternators are notorious for being noisy, but several models are available with sound-dampening technologies.

Can Rain Damage Portable Generators Outside?

Using a portable generator in the rain is quite dangerous. It is because you run the danger of receiving an electrical shock and the equipment being damaged by rain. Cover it with a canopy or tent if you want to utilize the alternator in a wet climate.

Conclusion

Hopefully, you can get the best portable generator after reading this article. Among this list, the Briggs & Stratton 30545 Generator got the first rank thanks to its quiet function and other excellent value it brings.

Please share with us your choice. Thank you for reading!

Source: 

• The Best Portable Generators - New York Garden
• Consumer Reports and Wirecutter Reviews