The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Portable Generator

Why is this Important?

In today’s world, having a reliable power source is crucial, whether you’re camping in the great outdoors, preparing for an unexpected power outage, or working on a remote job site. A portable generator provides you with the flexibility to have power wherever and whenever you need it, ensuring that your essential devices and appliances keep running.

Things to Consider

When selecting a portable generator, you need to consider several key factors:

• Power Output: Ensure the generator can handle the wattage requirements of your devices.
• Run Time: Look for a generator with a long run time to avoid frequent refueling.
• Fuel Type: Decide between gasoline, propane, or dual-fuel options based on availability and convenience.
• Noise Level: If noise is a concern, opt for quieter inverter generators.
• Portability: Consider the weight and design for ease of transport.

Variations

Portable generators come in various types, including conventional generators and inverter generators. Conventional generators are typically more powerful but louder, while inverter generators are quieter, more fuel-efficient, and provide cleaner power, making them suitable for sensitive electronics.

Best Options

After extensive research, here are the top 5 portable generators.

1. Westinghouse WGen7500 Portable Generator

Pros

• High power output (7500 running watts)
• Long run time (up to 16 hours)
• Electric and remote start
• Transfer switch ready

Cons

• Heavy and bulky
• Can be loud under heavy load
• Requires regular maintenance

The Westinghouse WGen7500 stands out for its impressive power output and extended run time, making it ideal for home backup and heavy-duty use. The convenience of electric and remote start features adds to its user-friendliness.

However, its weight and size can make it less portable compared to smaller models, and the noise level may be higher during heavy operation. Regular maintenance is essential to keep it running smoothly.

The Westinghouse WGen7500 is a top choice if you need a robust and reliable power source for home or job site use.

2. Champion 3400-Watt Dual Fuel RV Ready Portable Inverter Generator

Pros

• Dual fuel capability
• Quiet operation
• RV ready
• Long run time on propane

Cons

• Higher price point
• Moderate power output
• Heavier than some inverters

The Champion 3400-Watt Dual Fuel generator offers flexibility with its ability to run on both gasoline and propane. Its quiet operation and RV readiness make it perfect for camping and recreational use.

On the downside, it comes at a higher price and provides moderate power output, which might not be sufficient for all needs. It is also relatively heavy for an inverter generator.

This generator is an excellent choice for RV enthusiasts and those needing a versatile and quiet power source.

3. Honda EU2200i 2200-Watt Portable Inverter Generator

Pros

• Super quiet operation
• Lightweight and portable
• Reliable Honda engine
• CO-Minder for safety

Cons

• Expensive
• Limited power output
• Small fuel tank

The Honda EU2200i is renowned for its super quiet operation and lightweight design, making it perfect for camping and tailgating. The reliable Honda engine and CO-Minder feature enhance its safety and reliability.

Its higher price and limited power output might be restrictive for some users, and the small fuel tank means more frequent refueling.

Conclusion: If you need a quiet, portable, and reliable generator, the Honda EU2200i is a fantastic option despite its higher price.

4. DuroStar DS4000S Portable Generator

Pros

• Affordable price
• Decent power output
• Long run time
• Sturdy build

Cons

• Manual start only
• Louder operation
• Lacks advanced features

The DuroStar DS4000S offers a great balance of affordability and power, making it a solid choice for budget-conscious users. Its long run time and sturdy build add to its appeal.

However, it lacks an electric start and advanced features, and its operation can be louder than inverter models.

For those seeking a budget-friendly generator with reliable performance, the DuroStar DS4000S is an excellent option.

5. WEN 56200i 2000-Watt Gas Powered Portable Inverter Generator

Pros

• Extremely quiet
• Lightweight and compact
• Clean power for electronics
• Affordable

Cons

• Lower power output
• Shorter run time
• Small fuel tank

The WEN 56200i is prized for its quiet operation and lightweight design, making it perfect for portable use. It provides clean power, which is essential for sensitive electronics, and comes at an affordable price.

However, its lower power output and shorter run time might limit its use for larger applications, and it has a small fuel tank.

Conclusion: Ideal for those needing a quiet, portable, and affordable generator, the WEN 56200i is a great choice for camping and small electronics.

Final Conclusion

When it comes to choosing a portable generator, it’s essential to consider your specific needs and use cases. Whether you prioritize power output, noise level, portability, or budget, there is a generator on this list to meet your requirements. From the robust Westinghouse WGen7500 to the ultra-quiet Honda EU2200i, each of these generators offers unique benefits to ensure you have reliable power wherever you go.