September 2023
Portable Generators: MetaRanking
This page highlights the aggregate summary of portable generators rankings posted by key online experts, as of September 2023.
Summary
On 6 Sep 2023, ReviewFinder team examined a total of 84 portable generator endorsements from 10 reputable publishers.
60 portable generators were endorsed in total, only 11 made it into this month's ranking. (ReviewFinder requires a minimum of 2 endorsements to be included)
As of 6 Sep 2023, Honda EU2200i takes the cake as the most critically-acclaimed portable generator with 8 expert endorsements. 1 expert out of 8 recommended it as the '#1 portable generator' this month.
Brand breakdown
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Champion Power Equipment: 14 portable generators
(#1 is Champion Power Equipment 100891)
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DuroMax: 7 portable generators
(#1 is DuroMax XP12000EH)
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WEN: 6 portable generators
(#1 is Wen 56380i)
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Westinghouse: 5 portable generators
(#1 is Westinghouse WGen7500)
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Honda: 3 portable generators
(#1 is Honda EU2200i)
Price breakdown
At a glance - September Ranking
| Rank | Change | Price | Portable Generator |
The Strategist
|
Best of Machinery
|
This Old House
|
Forbes
|
Power Up
|
CNET
|
Wirecutter
|
Bob Vila
|
The Spruce
|
Best Generator
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
1
|
- | $1199 |
Honda EU2200i
The Honda EU2200i portable generator is praised for its power output, fuel efficiency, low noise level, portability, and ease of use, making it a versatile and reliable choice for various power needs.
|
3
|
8
|
4
|
8
|
2
|
-
|
1
|
9
|
7
|
-
|
|
2
|
- | $849 |
Westinghouse WGen7500
The Westinghouse WGen7500 Portable Generator is a highly recommended and versatile generator that offers a range of features to meet various power needs, including exceptional fuel efficiency, a wide range of power outlets, and ease of use.
|
-
|
4
|
1
|
-
|
6
|
-
|
-
|
2
|
-
|
-
|
|
3
|
- | $999 |
DuroMax XP12000EH
The DuroMax XP12000EH portable generator is highly regarded for its powerful output, dual fuel technology, multiple power outlets, fuel efficiency, portability, and user-friendly features, making it a reliable and versatile choice for various applications.
|
-
|
2
|
-
|
-
|
4
|
-
|
-
|
10
|
8
|
7
|
|
4
|
- | Check price |
Sportsman GEN4000DF
The Sportsman GEN4000DF Portable Generator is a versatile and reliable dual-fuel generator that offers a range of power options and outlets, making it suitable for various use cases such as backup power, outdoor events, and camping trips.
|
-
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3
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
1
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
5
|
- | $329 |
DuroStar DS4000S
The DuroStar DS4000S Portable Generator is a reliable and versatile generator that offers a maximum power output of 4,000 watts and is suitable for powering a wide range of appliances and devices in various settings.
|
-
|
12
|
2
|
2
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
6
|
- | $640 |
Wen 56380i
The Wen 56380i Portable Generator is a versatile and reliable option for powering a variety of devices and appliances, with features such as inverter technology, multiple power outlets, fuel efficiency, low noise level, and user-friendly controls.
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-
|
-
|
-
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-
|
1
|
-
|
-
|
6
|
-
|
-
|
|
7
|
- | $899 |
Westinghouse WGen9500
The Westinghouse WGen9500 is a powerful and versatile portable generator that can handle heavy-duty power needs, with dual fuel capability, long runtimes, and user-friendly features.
|
6
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
1
|
-
|
|
8
|
- | $399 |
Duromax XP4850EH
The Duromax XP4850EH is a powerful and versatile portable generator that is well-suited for residential use, RVs, camping trips, and job sites, offering a maximum wattage output of 4850 watts, dual fuel capability, and a range of features for ease of use and convenience.
|
5
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
10
|
3
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
9
|
- | $899 |
Generac GP6500 COsense
|
-
|
-
|
3
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
5
|
-
|
-
|
|
15
|
- | $1649 |
Jackery Explorer 1000
The Jackery Explorer 1000 is a portable power station that offers 1000 watts of continuous power, has multiple outlets for simultaneous device connection, and is suitable for a wide range of electronics and appliances.
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-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
7
|
2
|
-
|
|
16
|
- | $340 |
WEN 56200i
The WEN 56200i portable generator is a highly praised and versatile option for powering smaller appliances and electronic devices, with its power output, fuel efficiency, noise level, portability, and ease of use making it ideal for recreational use and emergency backup power.
|
-
|
11
|
-
|
-
|
3
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
We ranked Honda EU2200i #1 in September 2023 because:
- 8 independent experts mentioned it in their “best portable generators” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Honda EU2200i as #1.
Best of Machinery
The Best for Lightweight Mobility
|
Provides 2,200 watts of powers
Can run up to 8 hours on a gallon of fuel
Only 47 lbs, which means you can take it with you anywhere
The inverter power is reliable and safe to run laptops and computers on
Has a CO minder sensor that protects you from carbon monoxide poisoning
|
Small generator, will not be able to power an entire home in a blackout
|
This Old House
Most Compact Gas Generator
|
Runs quietly between 48 and 57 decibels
Can connect it to a second generator for double the power
Runs for up to 10 hours despite its small fuel tank
|
Powers a limited number of devices and appliances
Requires special cables to use the parallel operation outlets
|
Power Up
|
Fuel injection technology for better fuel efficiency and cleaner emissions
Low operating noise for comfort and convenience
Lightweight design with ergonomic carrying handles makes it easily portable
Produces true sine wave power for your electronic devices
|
Does not come with an automatic starter and emits a strong gas smell while running
Limited fuel tank capacity
|
Bob Vila
Best Gas
|
Eco-Throttle system provides fuel efficiency and reduces the risk of damage and malfunction
8.1-hour runtime; suitable for providing long-term power per gas tank
Fuel shutoff, circuit protector switch, CO-Minder, and oil alert included with purchase
Bluetooth connectivity integrated for changing power levels or monitoring at any time
Electric start; no pulling or straining required for starting the unit
|
Does not come with USB outlets; may not be suitable for powering small devices
Limited fuel capacity compared to similar options; not suitable for large appliances or devices
For dual-fuel capability, a conversion kit must be purchased separately
|
The Spruce
Best Quiet
|
Operates between 48 and 57 decibels
Lightweight at only 47 pounds
Monitor and operate generator with smartphone app
|
Only one outlet
Small fuel tank
|
We ranked Westinghouse WGen7500 #2 in September 2023 because:
- 4 independent experts mentioned it in their “best portable generators” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Westinghouse WGen7500 as #1.
Best of Machinery
The Largest Gas Tank Generator
|
9,500 starting watts and 7,500 running watts
Easy electric start
Built-in fuel gauge and automatic low oil shut off
Has its own wheels for better portability
Is both EPA and CARB compliant
|
Another heavy piece of kit that can be difficult to move around
|
This Old House
Most Powerful Generator
|
Shuts off automatically when the oil level is low
Has a convenient remote start function to turn it on from inside your home
Comes with several accessories, including an oil funnel and battery charger
|
Weighs nearly 200 pounds
Can arrive with residual oil or fuel odor because it's tested in a lab
|
Power Up
|
High power output is suitable for applications with varying power demands
Rugged steel frame and never-flat wheels for heavy-duty use
The large gas fuel tank allows for a longer operating time
|
Its weight makes it difficult to transport
Alternator cover dents easily
|
Bob Vila
Best Bang for the Buck
|
Ample 7,500 running watts of power; ideal for large and small appliances
Runs for 11 hours on a single tank of gas
Remote can be used 109 yards away; perfect for large campsites
Built-in muffler; helps dampen the 72-decibel noise output
|
Weighs 196 pounds; may not be ideal for maneuvering or transporting
|
Methodology: combine opinions of key experts
Identify Experts
We identify key publishers and experts that consistently review and recommend portable generators.
Capture Rankings
For each publisher we find a currently recommended "top 10" list of portable generators, it must be updated in the last 9 months.
Aggregate Rankings
We put all those lists together and aggregate them. The more frequently a product is recommended, the higher it is in our ranking
Experts chosen for September 2023 ranking
The Strategist
Best of Machinery
This Old House
Forbes
Power Up
CNET
Wirecutter
Bob Vila
The Spruce
Best Generator
We ranked DuroMax XP12000EH #3 in September 2023 because:
- 5 independent experts mentioned it in their “best portable generators” rankings.
Best of Machinery
The Best for Power-Outages at Home
|
Dual fuel so you can use either gasoline or propane gas
Can be operated at both 120v and 240v simultaneously
The control panel includes 5 outlets, 3 for 120v and 2 for both 120v and 240v
It has an 8.3-gallon fuel capacity tank with a running time of 9 hours at 50% load and 5 hours at full load
Provides ample power with 12,000 starting watts (peak watts) and 9,500 running watts
|
Heavy generator, best to keep in one secure location
|
Power Up
|
Like other dual-fuel generators, it can run on both propane and gasoline
It automatically shuts off with low oil
It is highly portable, as it comes with a set of wheels and handles
Includes an electric start feature
|
It might be hard to find a service that can fix any issues that might arise.
|
Bob Vila
Best Dual-Fuel
|
Suitable for use with large appliances; heavy-duty power output
Can provide over 8 hours of power on 1 tank of gas
Automatic shutdown prevents malfunction when the fuel runs out
Sits on a steel frame and dual heavy-duty wheels for ample portability and maneuverability
|
Tires may flatten over time and with frequent usage; cannot be refilled
|
The Spruce
Best Dual Fuel
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Connects to propane tank or draws from an 8.3 gallon gas tank
Voltage switch to maximize power to 120V outlets
Supplies up to 12,000 peak watts
|
No carbon monoxide sensor
Lacks digital display
|
Best Generator
The Biggest Beast
|
Dual fuel capabilities
Very heavy-duty materials and design
Surprisingly quiet given the power
Very powerful with long runtime
|
Heavy even with wheels
Still loud compared to the rest on the list
|
We ranked Sportsman GEN4000DF #4 in September 2023 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best portable generators” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Sportsman GEN4000DF as #1.
Best of Machinery
Short Vacations and Small Power Outages
|
Has EPA approval
Runs quietly at only 69 dBA
Dual fuel, giving you complete flexibility
Small back-up generator for power outages and traveling
Includes an automatic voltage regulator, low oil shut-off, and a spark arrester
|
Not designed to be used constantly for several days in a row
|
We ranked DuroStar DS4000S #5 in September 2023 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best portable generators” rankings.
Best of Machinery
Best Balance of Power and Portability
|
Weighing only 94 pounds, it's portable enough to take on camping trips
The fuel tank has the capacity to hold 3.96 gallons, which will give you 8 hours of run time at a 50% load
Automatic low oil shut-off
Complete with surge arrest technology
Has both EPA and CARB approval
|
Industrial design that can clash with RV interiors
|
This Old House
Best Basic Generator
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Can handle powerful items, including a refrigerator and an air conditioner
Has a built-in voltmeter to measure the voltage output
Approved by the Environmental Protection Agency and California Air Resources Board
|
Requires separate purchase if you want wheels
Doesn't last too long with its small 3.9-gallon fuel tank
|
We ranked Wen 56380i #6 in September 2023 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best portable generators” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Wen 56380i as #1.
Power Up
Our Top Picks
|
Super Quiet
CARB Compliant
Can be run in parallel for even more power
Low oil and low fuel automatic shutdown
Fully RV ready
|
A little heavy
|
Bob Vila
Best for Electronics
|
Smaller than other options; perfect for storing in garages, sheds, and trunks
Includes two 3-prong 120-volt receptacles to suit users’ needs
Weighs under 100 pounds for ample maneuverability as well as portability
Reliable construction; U.S. Environmental Protection Agency III and California Air Resources Board compliant for long-term usage
|
Does not work with propane; not as versatile as some other generator options
Does not connect to an electrical panel; may not be suitable for some users’ preferences
|
We ranked Westinghouse WGen9500 #7 in September 2023 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best portable generators” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Westinghouse WGen9500 as #1.
The Spruce
Best Overall
|
Easy pushbutton or key fob startup
Dual fuel: gasoline or propane
Up to 12-hour run time using gasoline
Includes CO sensor
|
Louder than most
|
We ranked Duromax XP4850EH #8 in September 2023 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best portable generators” rankings.
Power Up
|
It comes with its’ own set of wheels, making it very portable.
Even though it is powerful, the generator is relatively compact and easy to carry.
It runs on both propane and gasoline, which is quite convenient.
|
It can get quite noisy, primarily when used at full capacity.
|
We ranked Generac GP6500 COsense #9 in September 2023 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best portable generators” rankings.
This Old House
Biggest Tank
|
Has a durable steel construction
Has wheels and handles foe transportation
Uses co-sense technology to protect against carbon monoxide
|
Operates at a loud volume because of its gas fuel source
Increases the electrical current when you first start it
|
Bob Vila
Best Heavy-Duty
|
CO-sense technology integrated; prevents carbon monoxide from being emitted into a space
PowerRush advanced technology delivers a 40 percent increase in starting capacity
Large-capacity steel fuel tank comes with a fuel gauge; durable and easy to use
Comes with two 120-volt GFCI duplex outlets, one 120/240-volt twist-lock outlet, and 3 circuit breakers
|
172-pound construction may make it difficult for some users to maneuver or transport
|
We ranked Jackery Explorer 1000 #10 in September 2023 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best portable generators” rankings.
Bob Vila
Best Small
|
Includes 2 foldable 100-watt solar panels for ample eco-friendliness
Built-in carrying handles help users maneuver the generator around a space or campsite
Comes with multiple outlets: USB, USB-C, standard household outlets, and a car outlet
Digital display alerts the user to battery life as well as input and output levels
|
Not made for heavy-duty power supply; suitable for small appliances, tools, and devices
|
The Spruce
Best Solar
|
Lightweight at 22 pounds
Includes two 100W solar panels
Rated for 2,000 peak watts and 1,000 running watts
|
Some fan noise
|
We ranked WEN 56200i #11 in September 2023 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best portable generators” rankings.
Best of Machinery
Best for Power on the Go
|
Powered by a 79.7cc, 4-stroke overhead valve engine
Provides a starting power of 2,000 peak watts and operating watts of 1,600
Includes two 120 volt outlets, one 12 volt outlet, and one 5 volt USB outlet
Is both EPA III and CARB compliant
Handy carry handle so you can take it anywhere
|
Designed for small electronics whilst travelling rather than home power outages
|
Power Up
|
Extremely quiet operation
Lightweight design at only 48 pounds for easy transport
Minimal harmonic distortion making it safe to use with sensitive electronics
|
Low fuel tank capacity
Overloads when connected to large equipment or high-drainage electronic devices
The plastic shell makes it more vulnerable to cracks and damage
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