The Best Portable Home Generator Review of 2024 - Review and Top Picks
Appliances Radar Team, Camilla J. Nov 26, 2024 8:31 PM
We all know that generators are a must-have when it comes to natural disasters and power outages, but which one should you buy? Portable home generators can be a huge investment, so it's important to make sure you're choosing the right one.
In this article, we'll be reviewing the best portable generators for your home and giving you our top picks. Stay safe and power up!
Our top picks
Best powerful: PowerSmart portable home generator
The PowerSmart Generator is perfect for camping trips, construction sites, or even power outages. It features a 71cc, 2HP, 2-stroke gas engine that provides 1200 surge watts and 900 rated watts of power. The generator also has a full fuel tank that can run for up to 5 hours at half load.
Plus, with its clean energy output, you can safely charge sensitive devices like phones and laptops. And for added safety, the PowerSmart Generator has a completed safety design to prevent damage. So get your power on the go with the PowerSmart Generator.
Best versatile: Westinghouse Outdoor Power Equipment WGen9500DF
The Westinghouse WGen9500DF Dual Fuel Portable Generator is powered by either gas or propane, making it a great choice for those who want flexibility and convenience. It's also remote start-ready, so you can easily start it up from inside your house.
With 12500 peak watts and 9500 running watts, this generator is perfect for powering appliances and electronics during a power outage. It features two GFCI 120V 5-20R standard household outlets, one transfer switch ready 120V L14-30R outlet, and one RV ready 120/240V 14-50R outlet. All outlets have rubber covers for added safety. The generator also has a digital hour meter and low oil shutdown for added peace of mind.
Best durable: DuroMax XP13000EH
The DuroMax XP13000EH Dual Fuel Portable Generator with 13,000 starting watts and 10,500 watts of continuous power can handle heavy loads from lights, refrigerators, home conditioners, and high amperage power tools.
The DuroMax engine is equipped with Dual Fuel Technology, meaning it can run on either propane or gasoline – giving you the freedom and flexibility to choose the fuel that best suits your needs.
And with a wide selection of outlets, the XP13000EH is compatible with a variety of applications. So whether you need a reliable source of power for work or play, the DuroMax XP13000EH is up to the task.
Best easy to use: WEN DF1100T
The WEN DF1100T 11,000-Watt 120V/240V Dual Fuel Portable Generator is perfect for transfer switches and emergency backup power, it can easily go from 120V to 240V with the turn of a dial. It also features an electric start for easy starting, as well as a 6.6-gallon tank that provides up to 8.5 hours of run time at half load.
Plus, it comes with four 120V GFCI outlets, a 120V 30A twist lock outlet, a 120V/240V 50A outlet, and a 12V DC cigarette-lighter-style plug. For added convenience, it also includes a bottle of oil, a 47-inch LPG connection hose, and a two-year warranty.
Best quality: Jackery Explorer 300
The Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 300 is perfect for camping, hunting, travel, and even power outages. With an a293Wh lithium-ion battery pack, it provides two Pure Sine Wave AC outlets that deliver stable and safe 300W of power. It's also very lightweight at only 7.1 pounds, making it easy to take with you wherever you go.
Recharging is quick and easy, too - just 2 hours to 80% battery life with the wall outlet or car charger, or use the included SolarSaga 100 solar panel for even faster recharge times. Whether you're looking for an emergency power source or just a way to enjoy the great outdoors without worry, the Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 300 is a good choice!
More recommendations:
Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 300, 293Wh Backup Lithium Battery, 110V/300W Pure Sine Wave AC Outlet, Solar Generator (Solar Panel Not Included) for Outdoors Camping Travel Hunting Blackout
View on Amazon- SCORE9.6AR Score
AR Score is a scoring system developed by our experts. The score is from 0 to 10 based on the data collected by the Appliances Radar tool. This score doesn't impact from any manufacturer or sales agent websites. Learn more
- BrandJackery
- Prime
WEN DF1100T 11,000-Watt 120V/240V Dual Fuel Portable Generator with Wheel Kit and Electric Start - CARB Compliant, Black
View on Amazon- SCORE9.4AR Score
AR Score is a scoring system developed by our experts. The score is from 0 to 10 based on the data collected by the Appliances Radar tool. This score doesn't impact from any manufacturer or sales agent websites. Learn more
- BrandWEN
- Prime
WEN 56203i Super Quiet 2000-Watt Portable Inverter Generator w/Fuel Shut Off, CARB Compliant, Ultra Lightweight
View on Amazon- SCORE9.2AR Score
AR Score is a scoring system developed by our experts. The score is from 0 to 10 based on the data collected by the Appliances Radar tool. This score doesn't impact from any manufacturer or sales agent websites. Learn more
- BrandWEN
- Prime
DuroMax XP13000EH Dual Fuel Portable Generator 13000 Watt Gas or Propane Powered Electric Start-Home Back Up, Blue/Gray
View on Amazon- SCORE9.2AR Score
AR Score is a scoring system developed by our experts. The score is from 0 to 10 based on the data collected by the Appliances Radar tool. This score doesn't impact from any manufacturer or sales agent websites. Learn more
- BrandDuroMax
- Prime
Westinghouse WGen9500DF Dual Fuel Home Backup Portable Generator, 12500 Peak Watts & 9500 Rated Watts, Remote Electric Start, Transfer Switch Ready, Gas and Propane Powered, CARB Compliant
View on Amazon- SCORE9.2AR Score
AR Score is a scoring system developed by our experts. The score is from 0 to 10 based on the data collected by the Appliances Radar tool. This score doesn't impact from any manufacturer or sales agent websites. Learn more
- BrandWestinghouse Outdoor Power Equipment
- Prime
WEN 56235i Super Quiet 2350-Watt Portable Inverter Generator with Fuel Shut Off, CARB Compliant, Ultra Lightweight, Black
View on Amazon- SCORE9.2AR Score
AR Score is a scoring system developed by our experts. The score is from 0 to 10 based on the data collected by the Appliances Radar tool. This score doesn't impact from any manufacturer or sales agent websites. Learn more
- BrandWEN
- Prime
Champion Power Equipment 200961 2500-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Inverter Generator, Ultralight
View on Amazon- SCORE9.2AR Score
AR Score is a scoring system developed by our experts. The score is from 0 to 10 based on the data collected by the Appliances Radar tool. This score doesn't impact from any manufacturer or sales agent websites. Learn more
- BrandChampion Power Equipment
- Prime
Westinghouse iGen2200 Super Quiet & Lightweight Portable Inverter Generator, 2200 Peak Watts & 1800 Rated Watts, Gas Powered, Parallel Capable, Long Run Time
View on Amazon- SCORE9.0AR Score
AR Score is a scoring system developed by our experts. The score is from 0 to 10 based on the data collected by the Appliances Radar tool. This score doesn't impact from any manufacturer or sales agent websites. Learn more
- BrandWestinghouse Outdoor Power Equipment
- Prime
DuroMax XP5500EH Electric Start-Camping & RV Ready, 50 State Approved Dual Fuel Portable Generator-5500 Watt Gas or Propane Powered, Blue/Black
View on Amazon- SCORE9.0AR Score
AR Score is a scoring system developed by our experts. The score is from 0 to 10 based on the data collected by the Appliances Radar tool. This score doesn't impact from any manufacturer or sales agent websites. Learn more
- BrandDuroMax
- Prime
PowerSmart Generator, 1200 Watts Portable Generator, Outdoor generator Low Noise, Gas Powered Generator, Inverter Generators for Home Use, PS50A
View on Amazon- SCORE8.6AR Score
AR Score is a scoring system developed by our experts. The score is from 0 to 10 based on the data collected by the Appliances Radar tool. This score doesn't impact from any manufacturer or sales agent websites. Learn more
- BrandPowerSmart
Last update on 2024-11-26 / Affiliate links / Images, Product Titles, and Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API
How to choose a portable home generator
1. Determine the purpose for which it will be used
When choosing a portable home generator, it is important to first determine the purpose for which it will be used. If the generator is only going to be used for emergency power, then a smaller unit may suffice. However, if the generator is going to be used for extended periods of time, or for powering large appliances, then a larger unit will be necessary.
2. The type of fuel the generator uses
The type of fuel the generator uses is also an important consideration. Gasoline generators are typically more expensive than diesel generators, but they are also more likely to produce more noise. If the generator is going to be used in an area where noise is a concern, then a diesel generator may be a better option.
3. The noise level of the portable home generator
The noise level of the portable home generator is also an important consideration. Some generators are designed to be very quiet, while others can be quite loud. If the generator is going to be used in an area where noise is a concern, then a quieter unit may be a better option.
4. The price of the portable home generator
Finally, the price of the portable home generator is also an important consideration. Generator prices can vary widely, so it is important to compare prices before making a purchase. By doing some research, it should be possible to find a generator that meets all of the above criteria without breaking the bank.
Types of the portable home generator
There are many types of portable home generators on the market, so finding the right one for your needs can be a challenge. Here is a quick guide to the most common types of portable generators:
1. Inverter generators:
These generators are designed to produce clean power that is safe for sensitive electronics. They are typically smaller and lighter than other types of generators, making them easy to transport.
2. Standby generators:
These generators are permanently installed outside your home and kick on automatically in the event of a power outage. They are typically more expensive than portable generators, but they offer the peace of mind of knowing that you will always have power when you need it.
3. Portable generators:
These generators are designed to be portable, so they can be easily moved from one location to another. They are typically less expensive than standby generators, but they may not offer the same level of power or reliability.
4. Solar generators:
These generators use solar panels to convert sunlight into electricity, making them a great option for those who want to be more environmentally friendly. They are typically more expensive than other types of generators, but they offer the benefit of being completely renewable.
5. Wind turbines:
These generators use wind power to generate electricity, making them a great option for those who live in windy areas. They can be more expensive than other types of generators, but they offer the benefit of being completely renewable.
6. Hydroelectric generators:
These generators use water power to generate electricity, making them a great option for those who live near rivers or streams. They can be more expensive than other types of generators, but they offer the benefit of being completely renewable.
Portable generators are an important part of any home emergency kit. They can provide power for critical appliances and systems when the grid is down or during a natural disaster. A good portable generator can be a lifesaver, but with so many on the market, it can be hard to know which one is right for you.
That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive review of the best portable generators. We hope it will help you choose the perfect generator for your needs. Have questions? Contact us – we’re happy to help!