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Best Portable Generator for 2023

Portable generators are a valuable tool for emergency preparedness. This Old House Reviews Team researched the five best portable generators and found them to be reliable and easy to use. They come with a range of features, from high-power output to fuel efficiency.


Our Top Picks

Best Overall: DuroMax XP12000EH Generator-12000 Watt Gas or Propane Powered Home Back Up & RV Ready

The DuroMax XP12000EH Generator is the perfect choice for anyone looking for a powerful, portable generator that is approved by all 50 states. This generator is powered by either gas or propane, and can start quickly and easily with a simple electric start. The black and blue finish is stylish and will look great in any backyard or RV property.

Best Budget: Champion Power Equipment 200951 2500-Watt Portable Inverter Generator, Ultralight

The Champion Power Equipment 200951 2500-Watt Portable Inverter Generator is perfect for when you need a little extra juice to get through the day. This generator runs off of either gasoline or diesel, so you can use it anywhere there's a ready supply. It also comes with a carrying bag and an AC charger, in case you need to plug it in when you get there. Finally, this generator can be a nice backup power source in case the main power goes out.

Best Value: Westinghouse 12500 Watt Dual Fuel Home Backup Portable Generator

This generator is CARB compliant and ready for use in California. It has a transfer switch that allows you to easily connect to an outdoor outlet. Remote electric start makes it easy to get started.

Editor's Choice: DuroMax XP12000HX Dual Fuel Portable Generator-12000 Watt Gas or Propane Powered Electric Start w/CO Alert, 50 State Approved, Blue

Portable generator for emergency backup power in case of an outage- Dual fuel operation with gas or propane- 50 state approved- Blue LED lights indicate generator is running- CO alert warns of possible carbon monoxide poisoning- Includes automatic shutoff switch.


Compare Products

Showing  1 - 8  in  8 results
1
  • SCORE
    9.6
    AI Score

    AI Score is a ranking system developed by our team of experts. It from 0 to 10 are automatically scored by our Craftx based upon the data collected. This score has no relationship or impact from any manufacturer or sales agent websites. Learn more

  • Brand
    Jackery
2
  • SCORE
    9.4
    AI Score

    AI Score is a ranking system developed by our team of experts. It from 0 to 10 are automatically scored by our Craftx based upon the data collected. This score has no relationship or impact from any manufacturer or sales agent websites. Learn more

  • Brand
    Westinghouse Outdoor Power Equipment
3
  • SCORE
    9.4
    AI Score

    AI Score is a ranking system developed by our team of experts. It from 0 to 10 are automatically scored by our Craftx based upon the data collected. This score has no relationship or impact from any manufacturer or sales agent websites. Learn more

  • Brand
    DuroMax
4
  • SCORE
    9.2
    AI Score

    AI Score is a ranking system developed by our team of experts. It from 0 to 10 are automatically scored by our Craftx based upon the data collected. This score has no relationship or impact from any manufacturer or sales agent websites. Learn more

  • Brand
    DuroStar
5
  • SCORE
    9.2
    AI Score

    AI Score is a ranking system developed by our team of experts. It from 0 to 10 are automatically scored by our Craftx based upon the data collected. This score has no relationship or impact from any manufacturer or sales agent websites. Learn more

  • Brand
    DuroMax
6
  • SCORE
    9.2
    AI Score

    AI Score is a ranking system developed by our team of experts. It from 0 to 10 are automatically scored by our Craftx based upon the data collected. This score has no relationship or impact from any manufacturer or sales agent websites. Learn more

  • Brand
    WEN
7
  • SCORE
    9.0
    AI Score

    AI Score is a ranking system developed by our team of experts. It from 0 to 10 are automatically scored by our Craftx based upon the data collected. This score has no relationship or impact from any manufacturer or sales agent websites. Learn more

  • Brand
    Westinghouse Outdoor Power Equipment
8
  • SCORE
    9.0
    AI Score

    AI Score is a ranking system developed by our team of experts. It from 0 to 10 are automatically scored by our Craftx based upon the data collected. This score has no relationship or impact from any manufacturer or sales agent websites. Learn more

  • Brand
    Champion Power Equipment

Last update on 2023-05-31 / Affiliate links / Images, Product Titles, and Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API

4.5
2 ratings

FAQs

What is a good size portable generator for a house?

A good portable generator for a house between 5,000 and 7,500 watts is the Honda EU2000I. It has an estimated runtime of up to eight hours and is rated at 5,000 watts.

How many decibels is considered quiet for a generator?

Generators are typically designed to operate at a noise level of less than 60 dB. This means that most generators will not produce any noticeable noise at levels lower than 60 dB.

What is the most efficient small generator?

Honda's EU2200i is a small generator that is extremely efficient. It is able to produce 2,200 watts of power and has an automatic restart feature.

How many watts do you need to power a house?

Depending on the size and type of home, you will need between 5000 and 7500 watts to power it.


Conclusion

The This Old House Reviews Team recommends the Honda EU7000IS generator as the best portable generator for the money. It has many features, is reliable, and comes with a five-year warranty. If you need a portable generator that can power a small home or office, the Honda EU7000IS is a great choice.


Anete Craftx
Anete Craftx

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