When you need power on the go, a portable generator is a great tool to have on hand. Whether you need to fire up a high-drain device like a circular saw or just power a small heater, portable generators get the job done. But not all are created equal. The number of outlets, the run time, and total output are all things you need to think about before making a purchase. Weight and overall packaging are also important. A steady output for sensitive electronics using A/C power is a must-have feature on a generator. We know you want to get a great value, too. We looked at everything from high output worksite generators all the way to extremely quiet generators that wouldn’t upset the serenity of a campsite. If you’re looking for a generator that will suit your needs, check out our list below.
Best Overall
WEN 56225i Super Quiet 2250-Watt Portable Inverter Generator
Best Value
Jackery Portable Power Station 240
Honorable Mention
Champion 3800-Watt Dual Fuel RV Ready Portable Generator
Best Portable Generators Reviews & Recommendations 2021
Best Overall
WEN 56225i Super Quiet 2250-Watt Portable Inverter Generator
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Best Value
Jackery Portable Power Station 240
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Honorable Mention
Champion 3800-Watt Dual Fuel RV Ready Portable Generator
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Best Quiet
A-iPower SUA2000iV Ultra-Quiet 2000-Watt Portable Inverter Generator
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Best Home High-Output
DuroStar DS4000S Gas Powered Portable Generator
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Best Heavy-Duty
Westinghouse WGen7500DF Dual Fuel Portable Generator
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Honorable Mention
Generac 7117 GP2200i 2200 Watt Portable Inverter Generator
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Honorable Mention
Mech Marvels 1500 Watt Portable Power Dual Fuel Generator
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Honorable Mention
Ford FG2200iS 2200W Silent Series Inverter Generator
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Honorable Mention
Baja 900-Watt Propane Powered Inverter Generator
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Honorable Mention
TogoPower Portable Generator
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Honorable Mention
BALDR Portable Power Station
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Honorable Mention
Rainier R2200i Super Quiet Portable Power Station
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Honorable Mention
Honda EU2200i 2200-Watt 120-Volt Super Quiet Portable Inverter Generator
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Best Portable Generators Buying Guide
A portable generator is a must-have item if you are looking for a safe way to charge your portable electronics when you’re off the grid, or if you live in an area that experiences frequent power outages. Also, in the event of a natural disaster or emergency, it’s great to have a power backup so that you can keep the essential items like your smartphone or a rechargeable flashlight running.
However, not just any portable generator on the market will work for you. As we mentioned earlier, there are a few factors you have to consider so that you can get the best bang for your buck. To help you make the right buying choice, we have come up with a comprehensive buying guide for choosing the best portable generator. Read on to find out more.
Do You Need a Portable Generator?
There are many benefits to owning a portable generator. For one, you don’t need to suspend your social life when you are in the great outdoors. You can use it to recharge your smartphone, tablet, or laptop so that you can use them for entertainment or communication whenever needed.
Also, you can use it to charge other electronics that can be used to make your life easier when you are experiencing a power outage. For instance, it can recharge a flashlight, and if you have a powerful generator, you can use it to power your portable food warmer or instant coffee maker.
Furthermore, a portable generator helps to take the pressure from your vehicle’s battery when you’re off the grid. Charging electronics directly from the vehicle’s battery or from your vehicle’s 12-volt power supply can take a toll on the battery capacity.
- You can extend your camping trips since you will have a reliable charging unit.
- It’s easy to use, and you can use it almost anywhere.
- Enjoy camping with the comfort of your electronics.
- If you want to go green, you can find eco-friendly generators that run on solar power.
Types of Portable Generators
Portable generators are typically classified according to the mode of operation or the type of fuel they use. To find the best portable generator, you need to understand the benefits offered by each type. Check them out.
Gas
Gas generators use gas as the main source of fuel to power the motor. It’s the most common type of portable generator since gas is inexpensive and readily available. It’s also quite reliable, and can be used to power many electronics at the same time.
However, it has a few drawbacks. For one, gas is highly flammable, so you need to be extra careful when handling it. Also, gas burns faster than other fuels, and breaks down when it’s in storage since it absorbs moisture from the atmosphere.
Diesel
Liquid diesel is a safe fuel to handle and store, and is not as flammable as gas. It also has a longer shelf life. Diesel can last for about 24 months in storage without breaking down. Diesel generators are fuel-efficient, and can last long under heavy-duty use. They generate a lot of power and are the best for running power-intensive appliances. However, they are slightly more expensive than the other options.
While diesel engines do produce fewer emissions than gas engines, the emissions can still have an adverse effect on the environment.
Propane
Propane is an eco-friendly and non-toxic type of fuel that produces cleaner emissions than other types of fuel. Propane engines run quietly and are quite affordable. They are the best for powering small electronics that don’t draw a lot of power.
While it may not have the same power output as either gas or diesel, it lasts longer than the alternatives. However, propane generators are somewhat bulky since they are designed with a separate fuel tank from the generator itself. This is done to minimize the risk of sparking.
Inverter
An inverter generator uses the latest technology to produce cleaner and more reliable power than the other options. They are designed with a microprocessor that takes raw power from the generator, and converts it into a cleaner and more stable energy source. It’s akin to the power supplied from a direct power outlet, and is best used for powering sensitive electronics.
Inverter generators run quietly and can last for a relatively longer time than gas or diesel generators. They also consume about 40 percent less fuel in comparison and reduce harmful emissions.
What to Consider When Buying a Portable Generator
The market is flooded with a plethora of portable generators, with each having its own unique features. We will highlight the most important features to look out for so that you can make a worthwhile investment, and get to have reliable backup power for emergencies. Here’s a look at a few.
Power Output
It’s important to know the power output of the generator so that you can determine what type of electronics you can power. For instance, if most of your electronics are rated under 200 watts, then you can power multiple electronics from a single 1,000-watt generator. However, if you need to power larger electronics that draw more than 2,000 watts, then you need a more powerful generator that can meet such power demands.
The best thing to do is to make a list of all the essential devices you will need to carry with you, and get a generator that can provide their combined power output. However, if you only need to power basic electronics such as a flashlight, a tablet, and a smartphone, then almost any generator will do.
Design
Look for a compact generator that comes with a carrying handle so that you can easily transfer it from one place to another. It should at least come with wheels if it has a bulky design. Also, it shouldn’t take up much space in your motorhome. Apart from that, ensure that it has a durable build that can withstand being used outdoors without getting damaged easily. A weatherproof construction would be ideal for a generator that’s used outdoors.
Besides that, ensure that the generator is easy to use. Everything from starting the generator to connecting your appliances should be a one-person task.
Run-Time
The run-time or rate of fuel consumption goes hand in hand. You want a dependable generator that can provide a steady supply of power for at least six hours before you have to refill the fuel. This will be enough to charge most of your electronics.
Choose models with a fuel-saving mode; they are designed to reduce the amount of fuel burned by automatically shutting off when the generator is not in use, or by automatically reducing the power output when a low capacity electronic is connected. Alternatively, consider a generator that allows you to adjust the power output so that you don’t burn out some of the appliances or exhaust the engine.
Tips for Using a Portable Generator
Regularly check the fuel level or battery level of the generator so that you can recharge or refuel it in good time. Allow the unit to cool for a few minutes before refueling it. Also, clean out dirt and debris from the generator’s cooling vents since contaminants can significantly reduce its effectiveness.
You will benefit from buying a portable generator that uses the same type of fuel as your recreational vehicle (if you are camping in one) since you only need to carry one type of fuel. Also, carry extra fuel; you never know when you may need it.
If you are using gas, ensure to run the generator at least once every three weeks to prevent the fuel from breaking down. This also helps to prevent the fuel from gumming up in the tank.
- Only use the generator in a well-ventilated area, or more suitably, in the outdoors.
- It’s prudent to ensure that you refuel the generator or have it fully charged before you leave your home.
- Avoid exposing the generator to excessive dirt, dust, or moisture.
- Prioritize generators that run quietly so that it doesn’t become a nuisance in the quiet outdoors.
- Do not overload the generator by connecting too many appliances.
Best Portable Generators FAQs
It’s quite evident that portable generators are essential for every home, jobsite, and any outdoor environment where there’s no power from the main supply. To supplement our buying guide, we have included some answers to a few questions on how to use a portable generator and the benefits of having one.
Q: How do I repair a portable generator?
A: We recommend that you consult the service manual for the specific type of generator you have to see if the problem has been highlighted and can be repaired. If not, it’s best to take it to a professional or fall back on the warranty to avoid damaging it further.
Q: What is the point of a portable generator?
A: A portable generator can be a reliable source of power in instances where there is a power outage or when you are at a campsite that doesn’t provide utility hookups. Depending on the quality, you can use the portable generator to recharge both small and large electronics.
Q: Where do I use the portable generator?
A: Since it’s portable, you can use it almost anywhere that you need a secondary power supply for charging your electronics. It’s mostly used by outdoorsmen who need to use their electronics off the grid or as backup power in case of power outages.
Our Top Pick
Our top pick is the WEN 56225i Super Quiet 2250-Watt Portable Inverter Generator because it is a lightweight generator that uses inverter technology to provide clean and smooth energy. Therefore, it’s a safe option for powering your appliances. It also has a user-friendly construction, and it’s easy to understand everything that’s going on with the machine.
Final Thoughts
While the WEN 56225i Super Quiet 2250-Watt Portable Inverter Generator is a great option for a campsite or a jobsite, the Jackery Portable Power Station 240 is a more affordable and eco-friendly option that runs on a lithium-ion battery. It’s a great option if you intend to go green since it can be charged with solar panels.