We recommend these products based on an intensive research process that's designed to cut through the noise and find the top products in this space. Guided by experts, we spend hours looking into the factors that matter, to bring you these selections.
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A portable generator is a smart investment anytime you need extra power or during an emergency. Capable of running small appliances, lights, and other devices, power generators make it easy to stay connected in places where you might need some extra juice.
The choice of the right portable generator mostly comes down to your power needs. How do you want to use the generator? Is it for emergencies or camping? What devices will you power? Generators come in different wattage ratings; the higher the rating, the more power it produces. Many devices, like small home appliances, require higher ratings for adequate power or consistent use.
We checked out more than two dozen models and found the compact EF Ecoflow Portable Power Station Delta 3 Plus to be the best, whether you need backup power at home or are hitting the road on a camping trip.
Wattage: 1,024 W | Power Source: Solar or AC | Weight: 27 lb | Special Features: Portable, fast multisource charging, durable LiFePO4 battery
We’re genuinely impressed with how much the EF Ecoflow Portable Power Station Delta 3 Plus manages to fit into a compact 27-pound package. With a 1,500-watt AC input, you can get to around 80% in roughly 40 minutes, and solid solar conditions can push you close to 80% in about an hour.
The LiFePO4 chemistry paired with an IP65-rated battery pack inspires confidence for long-term ownership, and the smart app controls are a nice touch, letting you view your usage in a convenient dashboard.
Overall, if you want a versatile, feature-rich power station for car camping or an emergency home backup, the Delta 3 Plus is our top pick.
Wattage: 1800 W | Power Source: Solar-powered LiFePO4 battery | Item Weight: 27 Ib | Special Features: 7x faster AC charging (0–80% in 50 mins), Expandable capacity with add-on batteries, 1,800 W AC output
The EF Ecoflow Portable Power Station Delta 2 shines for its solid, practical power when you need it. You get 1,024 watt-hours of capacity, 1,800 watts of output and a 100-watt USB-C port. That covers phones, small appliances and even a fridge for a while.
Charging is fast. It can hit about 80% in 50 minutes on AC. That helps when time is limited. The battery is built to last, too, with over 3,000 cycles.
You also get plenty of flexibility. There are 15 outlets, plus room to expand up to around 3 kilowatt-hours. Solar input is an option if you want it.
The main downside is capacity under heavy use. High-watt appliances will drain it quicker than expected. You may need extra batteries, which add cost and weight.
Overall, it’s a quiet, reliable alternative to gas that's great for camping and powering tools during DIY jobs.
Wattage: 3,600 W (surge) / 2900 W (rated) | Power Source: Gasoline (fuel-powered) | Item Weight: 46.3 lb | Special Features: Super-quiet operation (~65 dB), fuel-shutoff to clear carburetor, clean inverter power (low THD, safe for electronics)
The WEN 3,600-Watt Portable Inverter Generator packs a lot into a 46-pound generator. It delivers a 3,600-watt surge and 2,900-watt rated output, with a clean inverter sine wave. THD is listed under 1.2% at full load, so it’s a good match for sensitive electronics.
You get a full spread of outlets for camping or backup use. There are two 120-volt NEMA receptacles, plus a TT-30R RV plug. It also includes a 12-volt DC and two USB ports, which makes it easy to keep basics like a laptop, fridge and small appliances going.
The noise level is about 65 decibels at quarter load, which isn’t bad for a unit this size. Eco-mode helps you stretch the 1.6-gallon tank to roughly five hours at half load, and the fuel-shutoff feature is a nice touch for maintenance.
The main downside is runtime. With a 1.6-gallon tank and about five hours at half load, you’ll be refueling more than you’d like. Still, if you’re expecting a power outage, or just want to be prepared, this is a reliable choice.
Wattage: 1,500 W | Power Source: Solar powered or battery| Weight: 23.8 lb | Special Features: Fast 1-hour charging, lightweight and portable (foldable handle), long-life LiFePO4 battery
The Jackery Explorer 1000 V2 Portable Power Station is packed with 1,500 watts of continuous power and a 1,070 watt-hour LiFePO4 battery. It’s a strong fit for most weekend camping setups or for keeping essential household items running during short outages.
It features three AC outlets, a 100-watt USB-C port and a compact 23.8-pound body with a foldable handle. On top of that, the included carrying bag makes it easy to toss into a road-trip bin or an emergency kit. ChargeShield 2.0 and the app-based charging modes are also big pluses. You can enable an emergency one-hour charge when you need power fast, or stick with the default 1.7-hour mode.
The biggest downside is the fact the one-hour “super charge” isn’t a set-it-and-forget-it feature; you have to enable emergency charging in the app each time, which adds a small but sometimes annoying extra step. Still, if you want a midsize, fast-charging power station for camping, road trips or backup power for essential items, this is an excellent bang for your buck.
Wattage: 12,500 W | Power Source: Gasoline or Propane (Dual Fuel) | Item Weight: 210 lb | Special Features: Remote key‑fob electric start (up to 260 ft), Dual‑fuel with on‑the‑fly switching, Transfer‑switch ready with L14‑30R (30A) & 14‑50R (50A) outlets
The Westinghouse 12,500-Watt Dual-Fuel Home Backup Portable Generator is a strong option for home backup. You get 9,500 running watts on gas and 8,500 on propane. That’s enough to keep key circuits, your fridge and a few appliances going.
The push-button start works well, and the remote is convenient. The display shows clear, real-time information, and it’s simple to track load and maintenance.
You also get useful extras. There’s a charger, propane hose, oil and basic tools. You can switch fuels without hassle. Runtime can reach about 12 hours on a full tank.
The main downside is the weight. At around 210 pounds, it’s going to be tough to move without some help.
Still, overall, it’s a solid, flexible backup generator that you'll be glad to have when the lights go out.
Wattage: 2,000 W | Power Source: Battery powered | Item Weight: 24.9 Ib | Special Features: 49-min HyperFlash fast recharge, 10 ms UPS + 1.8 hr solar recharging (up to 600 W)
The Anker Solix C1000 Gen 2 Portable Power Station delivers strong output with features you’ll actually use. You get 1,024 watt-hours of capacity and 2,000 watts of continuous power, which is enough for laptops, lights and even a small microwave.
We love that it also switches over quickly. The 10-millisecond UPS support helps protect sensitive gear, like CPAP machines, without interruption. Charging is a big plus, too. It can fully recharge in about 49 minutes on AC, and solar is an option with up to 600 watts of input if you have the setup.
Some features also depend on extra gear. Solar panels aren’t included, and the fastest charging needs the right setup.
Overall though, it’s a reliable, fast-charging option for backup or off-grid use.
Wattage: 2200 W | Power Source: Gasoline | Item Weight: 46.5 Ib | Special Features: Portable, Super-quiet operation, Eco-Throttle fuel-efficient runtime
The Honda EU2200i delivers clean, reliable power without much noise. The inverter output is stable enough for sensitive electronics, and the Eco-Throttle helps stretch fuel depending on load.
On top of that, runtime is solid for its size; you can expect about 4 to 9.6 hours on a full tank. At about 46.5 pounds, it’s manageable to carry and store, but probably not one you'd want to have to lug around too much. Many users like how well it fits with RV setups, especially Class B campers. You can also pair two units together for more power if needed.
Startup is manual. There’s no electric start on this version, which can be a drawback for some.
Overall, it’s a quiet, fuel-efficient option for camping, RV use or light work, but you pay more for that Honda reliability.
Wattage: 14,500 W | Power Source: Fuel powered (Gasoline / Propane / Natural Gas - Tri‑Fuel) | Item Weight: 230 Ib | Special Features: Tri‑Fuel capability, Automatic Voltage Regulation, Electric start
The Westinghouse 14,500 Peak-Watt Tri-Fuel Home Backup Portable Generator features a solid build, 550cc engine, cast-iron sleeve and copper windings that all feel like they're made for long-term use. Runtime is a strong point as well, with up to about 19 hours on a full tank.
Electric start, a fuel gauge and an hour meter keep things simple, and safety features like a CO sensor and overload protection add peace of mind.
Like other generators on our list, the main downside is the size. At around 230 pounds, it usually needs help or a dolly to move it.
It's an excellent high-capacity option for home backup or jobsite use, as long as you can handle the size and setup.
Wattage: 4250 W | Power Source: Dual fuel (Gasoline and Propane) | Item Weight: 79 Ib | Special Features: Dual Fuel (gas/propane), Quiet Technology (64 dBA), Clean Power
The Champion Power Equipment 4,250-Watt Portable Inverter Generator gives you dual-fuel flexibility, with 3,500 running watts on gas and slightly less on propane. That’s enough for appliances, tools and basic home backup.
It can run up to about 22 hours on gasoline at lighter loads, which helps during longer outages or trips. It also runs quieter than traditional generators. At around 64 dBA with Economy Mode, it’s easier to live with in an RV or campsite.
The low THD output is safe for electronics, and the outlet mix covers most needs.
The main downside is the manual startup. There’s no electric start, which can be inconvenient.
Overall, it’s a quiet, flexible option for RV use or backup power, as long as you’re OK with the manual start and weight.
Wattage: 1800 W | Power Source: Solar / AC / Car | Item Weight: 25 Ib | Special Features: 1024Wh LiFePO4 battery, 1800W AC output, Fast charging
The Bluetti Elite 100 gives you a solid mix of capacity and portability. You get 1,024 watt-hours and 1,800 watts of continuous power, which is enough for laptops, routers, small appliances and multiple devices at once.
It stays quiet during use, at around 30 decibels. On top of that, the fast UPS switch helps keep things, like Wi-Fi and PCs, running during outages.
It can reach about 80% in 45 minutes, and full charging is quick with either AC or solar if you have the setup.
The main downside is limited expansion. Battery options are more restricted, and adding capacity isn’t as smooth as other systems.
Aside from that, it’s a reliable, fast-charging option for portable backup when you need it.
Are you looking for a “rescue” generator because you suffer power outages at home? Are you looking for a portable generator for camping or RV trips? Do you need something to run power tools at a site with no electrical supply?
It's the big question, but finding the answer isn't always straight-forward – and often we expect a portable generator to fill more than one role.Let's look at power consumption first, to get a better idea of what the portable generator must do.
If you go around your house and make a quick inventory of electrical consumption, you'll soon realize that the even biggest portable generator can’t run everything at once.
An average home has power demands of 10,000 to 20,000 watts. If you want to run everything you need a permanent stand-by generator, hard-wired by a professional. It's the kind of thing that will cost you anywhere from $2,000 upwards.
A portable generator gives you back-up power until the normal supply is restored. Depending on the size it can run much more than just basic necessities. If it's intended for work or recreational use there are other calculations to be made, but the same principle applies. Here are a few common items that will give you some idea. You can do your own math easily enough: every electrical gadget you own should have the wattage demand marked on it somewhere.
Lamps need 60 to 120 watts.
A sump pump needs 750 to 1,500 watts.
A refrigerator needs 500 to 750 watts.
Computers need 60 to 300 watts.
Heaters need 500 to 1,500 watts.
A coffee machine needs 750 to 1,000 watts.
Halogen work lights need 300 to 600 watts.
An electric drill needs 500 to 900 watts.
There's another important consideration when looking at power consumption. Most electric devices have greater demand when they're initially turned on – it's called “surge.” It can be anywhere from 2 to 5 times the normal operating demand. That's why you see portable generators rated at, for example, 3,300 running watts and 4,000 starting watts. The latter is the surge it's capable of handling.
The important thing to note here is that surge lasts a few seconds at most, and you don't have to start all your electrical gadgets at once.
To manage surge, turn on your lights, wait a moment, turn on your refrigerator, and so forth. That way you don't get them all surging at once and causing an overload.
Most portable generators are broadly similar and use either a gasoline motor or a propane motor to change mechanical energy into electricity.
Portable inverters use the same basic principle but, thanks to special mufflers, fuel injection and other clever tricks, they are smaller, lighter and a lot quieter. This makes them ideal for recreational use: outside parties, camping, tailgating, and RVing. They often feature automatic power fluctuation controls, making them especially good with sensitive electronic devices.
There are two drawbacks to inverters. First, power output is lower – generally between 1,000 and 3,000 watts. Second, they are relatively expensive.
OK, you know how much power you need, but how long will your portable generator run? Can you leave it all day, or will you have to refill the gas tank every few hours?
Portable generator manufacturers are happy to quote run times, but you have to be careful. Seldom, if ever, will the advertised figures align with the generator running at full capacity. You'll see things like “12 hours at 1/4 load” or “8 hours at 50% capacity.”
To be fair, portable generators hardly ever run at peak performance for very long, so it's not that the manufacturers are being deceptive, though they are showing things in the best possible light!
You also have to consider the wattage you're consuming. Ten hours at 50% from a portable generator delivering 3,500 watts is not the same as 10 hours at 50% when the power you're using is 7,000 watts.
Each of the portable generators we've chosen runs on gasoline. Liquid propane is an alternative, and there are plenty of models that use it. The main reason none of these made our final selection is simply fuel storage.
The biggest tank among the gas-powered units we’ve selected is 7.5 gallons. A similar propane model requires several 20 lb. tanks to run for the same period.
Not only do you have to have the space to store them, you need to change them over more regularly.
Deciding how much power you need will focus your choices, but there are still many portable generators vying for your money. Here are some of the features you will want to look for.
If it has a ripcord, the generator should offer decompression for easy starting. The best portable generators do away with a cord completely – you just turn a key or push a button.
It's nice to be able to check levels without taking the filler cap off.
Running low on oil can seriously damage your equipment.
Units equipped with throttle sensors can adjust performance depending on load, thus increasing fuel efficiency and run time.
Wheels are a separate accessory with some portable generators. Portable inverters aren't designed to have wheels, and it's not a problem when the unit only weighs 45 pounds or so. However, when a model weighs 90 pounds plus, wheels are something of a necessity.
Depending on the model, you'll get one or more 120V AC outlets. You might also get a DC outlet (useful for charging batteries), a specific RV outlet that you can plug directly into your RV's electrical circuit, or a 120/240V 30A (also called twist lock) that may be compatible with transfer switches.
Transfer switches, which should be installed by a suitably qualified professional, allow you to plug your portable generator directly into your household electrical supply, so you only run a single cable, rather than trying to run a number of extension cords through doors or windows.
You’ve probably heard it a thousand times, but in this case it's particularly important: always read the manufacturer's instructions! First, fumes from generators are dangerous. Second, if you fail to look after your portable generator and maintain it properly, it might let you down when you most need it.
The following might be covered within those instructions, but are worth underlining:
Manufacturers recommend a minimum of 5 feet of clear space on all sides of your generator when it's running.
It should always be run outdoors. A garage or shed with the door and windows open is not outdoors. Carbon monoxide can build up in enclosed spaces. It's colorless, odorless, and lethal.
Never fill the gas tank when the portable generator is hot. Spilled gas can ignite on a hot exhaust or casing. It's almost invisible, so it can burn you, or things around you, before you realize.
Never completely fill the gas tank — always allow room for expansion.
After use, never put your generator away until it is completely cool.
Never attempt to wire your generator into a household socket. “Back feed” can cause electrocution or fires not just in your home, but anywhere in the local network. If you want the option of a fixed connection, ask a properly qualified professional to install a transfer switch.
Beware of overloading your portable generator. If in doubt, consult an electrician.
Check that your generator is properly grounded. Follow all applicable federal, state and local regulations related to grounding. If you don't, you risk being electrocuted.
To build this list, we approached portable generators the same way most shoppers actually use them. Some people need a quiet, lightweight unit for car camping and charging devices. Others need a fuel-powered generator that can keep a fridge running during an outage, handle startup surge and plug into common household or RV connections.
We started by sorting products into those real-world use cases, then narrowed contenders by the numbers that matter most in practice: continuous (running) watts versus starting (surge) watts, battery capacity for power stations and runtime claims at a stated load. From there, we evaluated power quality, charging speed and flexibility, and port selection. We also weighed the ownership factors that show up after the first week: noise level, portability, maintenance-friendly features, and battery chemistry and durability signals.
During our research we found cheap portable generators for as little as $100. We don’t recommend generators at that level, but they do exist.
Our five finalists are all highly-rated models that receive lots of positive feedback from owners. They're also representative of what we would consider best in class, in terms of price and performance.
With portable generators, you pretty much get what you pay for.
A robust, reliable entry-level machine can be yours for under $300. That's a great deal, but we recommend spending another hundred bucks or so for a model with similar power output, but a more exhaustive feature set.
Need to go big? Our more expensive selections get you significantly higher power output, along with excellent reliability.
Inverter generators are a slightly different story because they generally cost more than their standard counterparts. The model we recommend is close to a thousand dollars but, in our view, unbeatable in its class.
