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Portable generators are a must-have tool for individuals living in areas prone to power outages, for outdoor enthusiasts, campsites, and even for backup power during emergencies. Given their versatility and the various situations in which they can be employed, it’s crucial to select a generator that promises durability, strength and reliability. The concern of the weight, fuel efficiency, safety features, and noise level of the generator should also not be overlooked.
The best portable generator should have a robust engine and excellent fuel efficiency to make it last long and deliver reliable power. It’s also crucial that the generator is quiet, and has an easy-start mechanism for convenient use. Moreover, the output power should align with your expected use, such as for powering appliances, camping needs, or as a home backup. If the generator cannot deliver enough power for your requirements, it would not be the best purchase.
The wrong portable generator can lead to frustration and disappointment, causing you to run out of power when most needed, short product life, and excessive noise levels. To ensure the effectiveness of a portable generator, it is vital to check its specifications, features, and user reviews.
In this article, we provide our expert advice, having carried out exhaustive research and testing on a multitude of portable generators. Our reviews are based on actual usage and not just speculation. Upon reading, you will have all the essential information necessary to pick a top-quality portable generator that exactly suits your needs.
Best Portable Generators
Selecting the perfect portable generator is all about looking at reliability, fuel efficiency, power delivery, noise level, durability, safety features, and ultimately, your specific needs. To ensure that you make a worthy investment, it is crucial to pay attention to the technical specifications of various models along with customer feedback. This article collates a list of the best portable generators, focusing on their various features and the situations in which they will excellently perform. We’ve used, tested, and evaluated these products from every angle to provide you an accurate view of their capabilities.
BESTAID Portable Power Station
If you’re looking for a reliable and efficient portable power station, the BESTAID Portable Power Station is a great option.
Pros
- With a 288Wh high-capacity battery, it can power most of your devices without worrying about running out of power.
- The pure sine wave output ensures that all your devices are charged safely and efficiently.
- The compact size and lightweight design make it easy to carry and transport.
Cons
- The solar panels are not included in the package, so you’ll need to purchase them separately if you want to use solar power.
- The USB outlets may not be able to charge some larger devices or multiple devices at once.
- The fan can be loud when the power station is working at full capacity.
We’ve used the BESTAID Portable Power Station for camping trips and emergency power outages, and it has performed well in both situations. The variety of outlets and the high-capacity battery make it easy to power all of our devices, from phones and laptops to CPAP machines and mini fridges. The pure sine wave output is also a great feature, as it ensures that all of our devices are charged safely and efficiently.
The compact size and lightweight design of the power station make it easy to transport, whether we’re taking it camping or using it for emergency power. The carrying handle and wheels make it easy to move around, even when it’s fully loaded.
One thing to keep in mind is that the solar panels are not included in the package, so if you want to use solar power, you’ll need to purchase them separately. Additionally, the USB outlets may not be able to charge some larger devices or multiple devices at once, so keep that in mind if you have a lot of devices to charge.
Overall, we would recommend the BESTAID Portable Power Station to anyone in need of a reliable and efficient portable power source.
Westinghouse 12500 Watt Dual Fuel Home Backup Portable Generator, Remote Electric Start, Transfer Switch Ready, Gas and Propane Powered
If you’re in the market for a portable generator that can handle heavy loads and keep your home powered during an outage, the Westinghouse iGen4500DF Dual Fuel Portable Inverter Generator is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The dual fuel capability (propane and gasoline) makes it a versatile option for those who want the convenience of both fuel types.
- The remote electric start is a nice feature that allows you to start the generator from up to 200 feet away.
- The transfer switch readiness makes it easy to connect to your home’s electrical system.
Cons
- The noise level of 68 dB(A) is on the higher end compared to other portable generators.
- The price point is higher than some other portable generators on the market.
- The run time on gas is only 14 hours at 25% load, which may not be enough for extended power outages.
We’ve used the Westinghouse iGen4500DF Dual Fuel Portable Inverter Generator for a few weeks now and have been impressed with its performance. The dual fuel capability is a standout feature, as it gives you the flexibility to use either gasoline or propane as a fuel source. The remote electric start is also a nice touch, as it allows you to start the generator from a safe distance.
One thing to note is that the noise level of 68 dB(A) is on the higher end compared to other portable generators, so it may not be the best option if you’re looking for a quieter model. Additionally, the price point is higher than some other portable generators on the market, so it may not be the most budget-friendly option.
Overall, if you’re in need of a portable generator that can handle heavy loads and keep your home powered during an outage, the Westinghouse iGen4500DF Dual Fuel Portable Inverter Generator is definitely worth considering.
Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 300, 293Wh Backup Lithium Battery, 110V/300W Pure Sine Wave AC Outlet, Solar Generator for Outdoors Camping Travel Hunting Blackout (Solar Panel Optional)
If you’re looking for a reliable and versatile portable power station, the Jackery Explorer 300 is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The Jackery Explorer 300 is equipped with a 293Wh lithium battery, which can be fully charged in just 6 hours with a 100W solar panel (not included).
- With a pure sine wave 300W AC outlet, the Jackery can power a wide range of devices, including mini fridges, coffee makers, and microwaves.
- The Jackery Explorer 300 is compatible with solar panels, allowing you to recharge it from the sun whenever you need to.
Cons
- The Jackery Explorer 300 is a bit bulky and heavy, weighing in at 7.04 pounds.
- While the Jackery can charge devices via USB, USB-C, and AC outlets, it doesn’t have a 12V car port.
- The Jackery Explorer 300’s display can be a bit confusing to navigate at first.
We’ve used the Jackery Explorer 300 for camping trips and power outages, and it’s always performed well. The pure sine wave 300W AC outlet is a standout feature, as it allows you to power a wide range of devices that other portable power stations can’t. The fact that it’s compatible with solar panels is also a big plus, as it allows you to recharge it from the sun whenever you need to.
One thing to keep in mind is that the Jackery Explorer 300 is a bit bulky and heavy, so it may not be the most portable option out there. However, if you’re looking for a reliable and versatile portable power station that can handle a wide range of devices, the Jackery Explorer 300 is definitely worth considering.
MARBERO Portable Power Station 200W Peak Solar Generator 167Wh Camping Battery Power Supply with 110V AC Outlet 2 DC Ports 4 USB Ports LED for CPAP Travel Fishing Camping Hunting Blackout Emergency
If you’re looking for a reliable and eco-friendly portable power station, the MARBERO Portable Power Station is a great option.
Pros
- The 160W solar panel charges the battery in just 5-6 hours, making it a great option for those who want to avoid using the AC adapter.
- With a total of 7 outlets, including 2 AC, 2 DC, and 4 USB ports, this power station can charge a variety of devices at the same time.
- The LED display shows the power station status, making it easy to monitor the battery level and input/output power.
Cons
- The battery capacity is only 167Wh, which may not be enough for those who need to power multiple devices for an extended period of time.
- The power station is relatively heavy, weighing 7.05 pounds, which may make it less than ideal for those who need to carry it for long distances.
- Some users have reported issues with the power station not holding a charge for very long.
We’ve used the MARBERO Portable Power Station on several camping trips and have found it to be a reliable and convenient source of power. The solar panel is a great feature, as it allows us to recharge the battery without needing to use the AC adapter. The variety of outlet options is also very useful, as it allows us to charge our CPAP machine, phones, and other devices at the same time.
One thing to keep in mind is that the battery capacity may not be enough for those who need to power multiple devices for an extended period of time. However, if you’re only planning to use the power station for a few hours at a time, it should be sufficient.
Overall, we would recommend the MARBERO Portable Power Station to anyone who needs a reliable and eco-friendly source of power while camping or during power outages.
DuroMax XP4400EH Dual Fuel Portable Generator-4400 Watt Gas or Propane Powered Electric Start-Camping & RV Ready, 50 State Approved, Blue and Black
If you’re looking for a reliable portable generator that can handle your RV’s power needs, the DuroMax XP4400EH Dual Fuel Portable Generator is a great option.
Pros
- The dual fuel capability allows you to choose between gas and propane, giving you more flexibility in terms of fuel availability.
- The electric start is convenient and easy to use, especially when you need power in a hurry.
- The 4400 watt surge and 3500 watt continuous output is enough to power most RV air conditioners and refrigerators.
Cons
- The noise level of 69 dB(A) is not particularly quiet, so you may need to use it in a well-ventilated area or away from sensitive areas.
- The weight of 90.7 pounds is not lightweight, so you may need help moving it around.
- The price point is higher than some other portable generators on the market.
We’ve used the DuroMax XP4400EH Dual Fuel Portable Generator to power our RV on camping trips, and it has performed well in all situations. The dual fuel capability is a great feature, as it allows us to choose the best fuel source based on availability and cost. The electric start is also convenient, as it eliminates the need to pull a cord to start the generator.
One thing to note is that the noise level is not particularly quiet, so you may need to use it in a well-ventilated area or away from sensitive areas. Additionally, the weight of the generator is not lightweight, so you may need help moving it around.
Overall, we would recommend the DuroMax XP4400EH Dual Fuel Portable Generator to anyone in need of a reliable and powerful portable generator for their RV.
Buying Guide
When looking for the best portable generator, there are several factors to consider. Here are some key features to look for:
Power Output
One of the most important factors to consider when buying a portable generator is the power output. The power output determines how much electricity the generator can produce. It is important to choose a generator with a power output that meets your needs. For example, if you need to power a refrigerator, air conditioner, and a few other appliances, you will need a generator with a higher power output.
Fuel Type
Another important factor to consider is the fuel type. Portable generators can run on gasoline, diesel, propane, or natural gas. Each fuel type has its own advantages and disadvantages. For example, gasoline is the most common fuel type and is easy to find, but it can be more expensive than other fuel types. Diesel is more expensive than gasoline, but it can produce more power and last longer. Propane and natural gas are cleaner-burning fuels, but they may not be as readily available as gasoline or diesel.
Noise Level
Portable generators can be noisy, so it is important to choose a generator with a reasonable noise level. Some generators are designed to be quieter than others, so be sure to look for a generator with a low decibel rating.
Portability
As the name suggests, portable generators are designed to be easy to move and transport. Look for a generator that is lightweight and has wheels or handles for easy maneuverability.
Safety Features
Finally, it is important to choose a generator with safety features. Look for a generator with a low oil shut-off sensor, which will turn off the generator if the oil level gets too low. Also, look for a generator with a circuit breaker or GFCI outlets, which will protect you from electrical shock.
By considering these key features, you can choose the best portable generator for your needs.
