Best Portable Generator Reviews For Backup Power Supply

Last Updated on January 2, 2025

Are you hunting for the best portable generator to provide you with sustainable, reliable power anywhere?

Have you scoured the internet to find the best products available, but aren’t quite sure which ones are really worth the hype and which fail to live up to expectations?

The search is over.

We’ve put together the following comprehensive guide to the top portable generators on the market currently. From key product specs to our unbiased review to pros and cons you need to consider, we’ve got you covered.

Quick Comparison

If you don’t have time to read the complete article, check out our favorite products below.

Best Portable Generator Reviews For 2022

1. Honda EU2200i – Excellent Portable Generator 

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If you’re searching for a quiet generator option with an engine that won’t keep you awake on long camping trips, this Genset by Honda EU2200i might be the pick for you. Also, these guys are known for making the best portable generators.

Featuring the mighty Honda GXR120 engine, the Honda EU2200i can keep even the most power-sucking appliances going for hours. This perfectly fits the box of a backup power supply.

Specs :

• 121cc displacement
• GXR120 engine
• 4000 rpm to 4500 rpm engine speed
• Compression ratio of 8:5:1
• 12V and 100W (83.A) DC output
• 20A 120V duplex receptacles
• Forced air cooling system
• Recoil start
• 95 gallon/3.7 liter fuel capacity
• 14 ounce/0.44 liter engine oil capacity
• 20 x 11.4 x 16.7 inch dimensions
• 3-year residential warranty
• 3-year commercial warranty

The Honda EU2200i is easy to start, with an automated mechanical de-compressor for simple user operation and maintenance. The product has 10% more power than its predecessor version, with 2200 running watts of ongoing capacity to help you keep a range of devices running all at the same time. This ia the best generator if you are looking for heavy-duty needs.

The GXR120 engine was originally designed for heavy duty construction power needs, making the generator version reliable with plenty of longevity of use.

Noise is often a frustration with portable generators, with some engines being far louder than others. The Honda EU2200i is far quieter than other products on the market currently, making it a perfect choice for power at home, when camping, or on the road in your RV.

While we wish the runtime was longer at a rated load, you can still run the generator at ¼ load as long as 8.1 hours with under a gallon of total fuel capacity. We feel this is one of the best portable generators out there.

PROS

• Very quiet when in use
• Lightweight and easy to carry
• Easy to start
• Low fuel shutdown mechanism
• Powers both high power and more sensitive devices

CONS

• 3.2 hour run time at rated load is a bit low
• Might be difficult to start if you let gas sit too long in the tank

2. Jackery Explorer 500 – Great Solar Choice

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No matter where you live, you may find yourself at the mercy of impending power outages, whether from bad storms, issues with the power lines, or other causes. Or maybe you enjoy taking weekend camping trips but still need ways to charge your appliances. No matter the reason, going without power is no joke.

An easy solution is a solar power portable power station, like the Jackery Explorer 500. This solar power station includes the Pure Sine Wave AC outlet that will charge a wide range of devices, including laptops, phones, speakers, radios, lamps, air pumps, and other small appliances. We feel this is one of the best portable generators out there.

This portable power bank features an AC power output with a 518Wh/144,400mAh battery capacity and a reasonable price tag (at least $100 less than its competitors) This all-in-one power solution weighs 13 pounds and features three different charging ports: AC, a car port, and a solar panel.

The biggest model in its line, the massive battery is 518Wh (144,400 mAh), which will keep your devices powered for a long time. Jackery says that it will recharge an iPhone 8 around 50 times, a 12-inch MacBook around seven times, and a GoPro camera around 92 times. The Pure Sine Wave Inverter ensures safety features while charging your appliances while reducing noise level. The LCD screen shows the charge and battery life status. Safety features likePure Sine Wave Technology is used for safely powering devices.

Portable power on a budget, you can’t go wrong with the Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 500; in fact, you will probably use it more than you think! If you are looking for portable power on a budget then this is the best option.

PROS

• Provides plenty of power for most of your power needs
• Long battery life and three ways to charge
• Comes with sine wave technology
• Portable, lightweight, and easy to use
• Perfect for car travel, RV, camping, or hunting
• Two-year warranty

CONS

• No USB-C output
• No audible or visible notifications when the battery is low
• Cannot power items too powerful for the 500W inverter

3. DuroMax XP4400E Gas Powered Portable Generator : 

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The DuroMax 4,400-watt portable generator is a powerhouse of gas energy.

The 4,400-watt portable generator power levels make it an ideal choice to fuel both recreational and household needs, as it can support everything from high power appliances to recreational vehicles and is of high quality.

Specs :

• 4400 running starting wattage
• 3500 running wattage
• Made for heavy-duty purposes
• Gas powered portable generator
• 4-gallon tank
• 120 lb weight
• EPA and CSA approved
• 36 x 24 x 24 dimensions
• 0 hp air-cooled engine with 4-stroke OHV
• Electric and manual recoil start
• One-year manufacturer warranty

The DuroMax XP4400E generator features an impressive 3500 watts of continuous power with a 4400 beginning wattage. The gas tank has a 4-gallon capacity with eight hours of run time, plus an electric key start with battery included. It runs on 10/30 SAE motor oil.

The DuroMax high quality generator is also incredibly user-friendly, with helpful control meters and buttons on the side of the product for easy access. You’ll have a range of outlet options, since the DuroMax XP4400 lets you change between 120 and 240 voltage as you require.

It also features multiple outlets with 20 amp, two 120-volt, and 120/240-volt 30-amp capabilities. Its power makes it effective for a wide range of uses.

Bear in mind, the generator’s engine is a bit louder than other products available currently, but if power is more your concern, this shouldn’t be an issue. It’s 120 lb. weight makes it somewhat difficult to maneuver, but it’s handle and wheels help take the load off.

All in all, the DuroMax XP4400E is an impressive source of gas generated power to fuel your household or recreational endeavors all day long.

PROS

• Good for recreational and household power
• Fuel efficient and has large fuel capacity
• Multiple outlet options
• Impressive running wattage and horsepower

CONS

• 69 noise decibel could be loud for some preferences
• Only a one-year warranty
• Not CARB compliant so not a choice for California residents

4. Champion Power Equipment 3800-Watt Dual Fuel RV Ready :

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The 3800-Watt Dual Fuel generator by Champion power equipment is a force to be reckoned with, with a 224cc engine that can run on either propane or gas. Check out the specs and our review below.

Specs :

• 4750 gas starting wattage
• 3800 gas running wattage
• 4275 propane starting wattage
• 3420 propane running wattage
• 6A gas starting amps at 120V
• 7A gas running amps at 120V
• 6A propane starting amps at 120V
• 5A propane running amps at 120V
• Good fuel efficiency
• 60Hz frequency and 120 volts
• 9-hour gas run time at ½ load
• 5-hour propane run time at ½ load
• 0 dBA noise level
• Intelligauge voltmeter
• Electric and recoil start
• 224cc and 4-stroke engine
• 4-gallon capacity
• Runs on 10W-30 engine oil
• EPA certified and CARB compliant
• 3-year limited warranty

The Champion 3800-Watt Dual Fuel RV Ready Portable Generator is perfect to give you extra power at home or on the road. You can run the generator on either propane or gas as you prefer, making it easy to alternate between both sources of fuel without risking hazard. There are many hazards associated with running anything that emits fumes, including the silent killer; carbon monoxide poisoning.

When run on gasoline, the portable generator’s 224cc engine has a 4750 starting wattage and 3800 running wattage.

The 3800-Watt Dual Fuel Generator has the capacity to run for a full 9 hours with a 50% output if the 3.4 gallon tank is sufficiently fueled.The portable generator has a rather loud 68 dBA noise level, similar to the hum of a vacuum. The generator also features an Intelligauge system, letting you keep an eye on run-time hours, hertz, and voltage.

The generator comes with a wheel kit, engine oil, oil funnel, propane hose, and battery.

Overall, the Champion 3800-Watt Dual Fuel generator certainly lives up to its name, with a long battery life, flexible fueling options, and extensive outlet options.

PROS

• CARB and EPA compliant
• Runs on dual fuel
• Good fuel efficiency
• Impressive running time

CONS

• Heavy to maneuver
• Can be very loud when in use

5. Westinghouse WGen 7500  Portable Generator :

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The Westinghouse WGen 7500 portable generator is easy to use and highly durable, with an astounding 9000 watts of starting power and 7500 watts of continuous power.

With a remote start, recoil and electric start options, and as long as 16 hours of running time with a full fuel tank, the WGen 7500 stands in a class of its own.

Check out the specs and our review below.

Specs :

• Runs on gasoline fuel
• 9000 starting wattage
• 7500 running wattage
• Weighs 200 lbs
• Fuel capacity 6.6 gallons of gasoline
• 16-hour total running time
• CARB, EPA, and CSA approved
• 420cc engine displacement
• 27 x 26 x 26 dimensions
• Electric button, remote, and recoil start
• 3600 RPM OHV engine with 4-stroke capacity
• 3-year limited warranty

The WGEN 7500 generator is a wonder of gas-powered energy with 9000 starting watts and 7500 watts of ongoing power. The generator itself is encased in a sturdy steel frame featuring roll bars resistant to wear and tear.

It also sports a cast iron sleeve to protect the generator and make it easier to transport from one location to the next.

Because the fuel tank is so large, you can run the generator for 10 hours or more if you keep it at a 50% load, which is especially helpful if you’re trying to power large appliances. The portable generator is also very fuel-efficient, so you can switch it on at low temperatures.

We also appreciated that the product has an automatic low oil shutdown feature which will turn the generator off in case of overheating or low fuel levels.

One downside is its bulky 200-pound weight, making the generator difficult to move from one place to the next.

PROS

• High starting and running wattage
• Runs for long
• Fuel efficient
• Good for large appliances like air conditioner and power tools

CONS

• At 200 lbs, can be difficult to move around
• Can be tough to start up at first

6. DuroMax Hybrid Dual Fuel XP12000EH Portable Generator :

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The DuroMax Hybrid Dual Fuel XP12000EH is truly a beast of a generator, with 12,000 watts of starting power and 9,500 watts of ongoing capacity.

No matter what your electrical power needs are, this portable generator will do the trick. This is a heavy-duty portable generator made for industries and to power homes during extreme weather conditions like hurricanes

Specs :

• Sturdy frame with 4 point isolated motor mounts
• Low noise with quiet vibration
• Runs on either propane or gas
• Runs 9 hours on gas at 50% output
• Runs for eight hours on propane at 50% output
• Features control panel with volt meter, warning light, circuit breaker, and outlets
• EPA compliant
• 12,000 watt maximum AC output
• 9,500 rated AC output
• Automatic shutoff for low oil
• Recoil and electric start
• Spark arrestor
• Holds 8.3 gallons of fuel
• 18Hp OHV engine
• Offers extended warranty for 2 or 3 years

Whether you need to power your house in the case of an outage or keep large tools running at full battery on a worksite, the 457 cc, 18 horse power engine of the DuroMax XP12000EH could be your new best friend. It sports steel frame bearings and cast iron cylinder sleeves, with 4-point rubber mountings to keep the generator running like a dream.

We really liked how the DuroMax XP12000EH has a primary overload circuit breaker as well as separate circuit breakers to protect the generator from heating up or becoming damaged from circuit overload.

While the generator is pretty bulky to maneuver, it does come equipped with a transportation kit, including handles and rubber wheels for steering. It is one of our top picks in the DuroMax generator review guide, you can read it here.

PROS

• User friendly
• Very low engine noise due to its powerful muffler
• Overload circuit breakers and switch-off oil sensor to prevent overheating

CONS

• Large to maneuver
• Is not CARB compliant
• Could wear out quickly if run too often at full output

7. WEN 56475 4750-Watt Gasoline Powered Generator :

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The Wen 56475 4750-Watt best portable generator is a CARB and EPA compliant product that features a handy digital readout to monitor oil changes and maintenance, plus a 223cc engine for an excellent surge wattage of 4750. The only disadvantage that it is quite a large size for the amount of power you get. 

Specs :

• 223cc OHV engine
• 3750 rated wattage
• 4750 surge wattage
• Comes with wheel kit and foldable handles
• Electric start
• Low-oil shutdown mechanism
• Overload circuit protection
• Automatic voltage regulator
• CARB & EPA compliant
• 4-gallon tank capacity
• Clean power with less than 1.2% THD
• Two 120V receptacles
• One 120V RV receptacle
• One 30-AMP 3-Prong receptacle
• 2-year warranty

The WEN 56475 4750-Watt Gas Powered Portable Generator is perfect for both large power and more sensitive devices, whether you need to power up your home in the event of an outage, your family’s laptops, or keep your RV running during your next camping trip.

The portable generator is also an ideal fit for powering large tools at worksites. We liked that it is EPA and CARB compliant, making it a viable choice for users across all 50 states and the amount of power it posses is great.

The tank capacity is lower than other products on the market at 4 gallons, but you will be able to keep the generator running for up to 10 hours at half output.

If you go for a camping trip, the WEN 4750 is an excellent choice to ensure all your appliances are fueled without hazard, as the generator sports a spark arrestor and automatic voltage regulator.

While we would have preferred a longer warranty, the 2-year warranty WEN offers is certainly a step up from the standard 1-year offering.

PROS

• Features helpful electric start
• Hazard-resistant automatic voltage regulator and spark arrestor
• Multiple receptacles to use for different appliances and devices

CONS

• Lower gallon capacity than some other products
• Not for heavy-duty purposes

8. PowerPro 56101, 900 Running Watts/1000 Starting Watts :

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Another exceptional portable generator option by Wen, the PowerPro 56101 has a 2 stroke, 2hp engine with 900 watts of ongoing energy output, and 1000 surge wattage. It is also a CARB-compliant product.

Let’s delve into the product’s specs and our ultimate verdict.

Specs :

• Weighs under 36 lbs
• Features carrying handle and 4 rubber pads
• Requires mix of oil and gas fuel
• 1-gallon tank capacity
• Can run for 5 hours at 50% output
• Quiet muffler system
• 60dB noise levels at 22 feet
• Certified for use in forests or national parks
• 1000 surge wattage
• 900 ongoing watt power
• 2-stroke engine
• 2 HP single cylinder
• EPA and CARB compliant
• 1-year limited warranty

The PowerPro 56101 delivers sufficient wattage with 900 output during continuous use and 1000 start-up wattage. The generator’s wattage capabilities are lower than other products currently on the market, but if you don’t really need to run large appliances like air conditioners or high-power tools, that probably won’t be an issue for you.

It features two kinds of outlets, including one 5-20R 120V receptacle for an ongoing 7.5 amp output and 8.3 amp surge. You can use this outlet for a wide range of power tools and devices. The second type of outlet is a 12V that lets you charge at 8.3 amps with a 100-watt charge.

You’ll need to use a 32:1 gasoline/oil ratio to fuel the PowerPro 56101. The 1-gallon fuel tank will run for 5 hours at a half-load. Again, this might pose an issue if you need to charge really powerful tools for long periods.

Additionally, the portable generator does not include a fuel gauge so you will need to physically monitor the amount of time you run it to ensure the gas/oil levels don’t drop too low. If you are looking for a powerful generator, then this is the best option.

PROS

• 2-stroke engine using both gas and oil so less changes needed
• Very light and easy to carry
• CARB and EPA compliant

CONS

• Less wattage output than similar products on the market
• Shorter running time at half-load
• 1-year limited warranty

9. Westinghouse iGen4200

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The next best portable generator is by Westinghouse, this portable inverter generator features an impressive 4200 peak wattage and 3500 continuous wattage for running high power tools and devices.

This portable inverter generator sports an open frame inverter with Hybrid technology to keep things fuel efficient and ensure the durability of the product. This portable inverter generator comes with low oil shutdown feature.

Specs :

• Open-frame inverter for powering campers and RVs
• Features TT-30R adapter outlet for RVs
• 212 cc, 4-cycle OHV engine
• Low oil LED light
• Low oil shutdown capacity
• Efficiency mode option to lower fuel usage
• Circuit breaker protection
• Automatic voltage regulator
• VFT Meter
• Dual USB charging ports
• Comes with tool kit, funnel, oil and Quick Start Guide
• Includes outlet covers for protection
• 3-year residential warranty
• 1-year commercial warranty

The Westinghouse iGen 4200 certainly has a lot going for it, with 3500 rated watt power and 4200 peak watts.

The gas-powered generator uses special Hybrid technology to keep your tools, appliances, and devices running while ensuring fuel efficiency at the same time. It also sports a 5-20R 120V duplex outlet for home use and a TT-30 30-amp outlet for RVs.

What’s more, it features two separate USB outlets, making it an excellent pick for anyone who goes camping a lot or wants a generator in the event of a power outage. Its 212cc 4-stroke engine makes for an astounding 18 hour run time if you keep the generator on a low volume output.

The engine is pretty quiet too, with a 62-dBA noise level and a special efficiency mode to help you make the most out of your fuel.

We really like that the Westinghouse iGen is safe for powerful tools, recreational vehicles, home use, and even sensitive electronics like TVs, computers, and phones. Unfortunately, it only comes with a 1-year commercial warranty, but the 3-year residential warranty is exceptional.

PROS

• Perfect for both high power and sensitive devices
• Good wattage for impressive 18 hours of run time
• Low noise level

CONS

• Short commercial warranty
• Rough idling during setup

10. A-iPower SUA12000E 12,000-Watt

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The next generator on our list certainly lives up to its name, with 12,000 starting watts and 9,000 running watts/running power. The A-iPower SUA12000E runs on a powerful 459cc engine and can go for up to 9 hours at a half load.

Ready to learn more?

Let’s take a closer look at the specs this product has to offer.

Specs :

• 12,000 surge wattage
• 9,000 continuous wattage
• 459cc/16HP OHV, single-cylinder engine
• Air-cooled engine features electric start and 4-stroke capabilities
• Easy to use control panel
• Several panel outlets for multiple connections
• Powerful alternator
• Single phase 60 hz, 120vac/240vac
• Large grip for easy recoil
• Covered with cast iron cylinder sleeves
• 7-gallon capacity
• Offers 9 hours of run time at 50% output
• Stainless steel fuel cap
• Digital hour meter that tracks running time
• Features weatherproof cover to guard circuit breakers
• Comes with DC charging cables and adapter plug
• Automatic low oil shutdown
• 78 dBa muffler tone at 23 feet

One of the lesser-known portable generators on the market, this product by A-iPower is worth taking notice of. You will have tons of flexible outlet usage with this device, as it includes four 120VAC 20A nema outlets, one 120/240VAC 50A nema outlet, one 120/240VAC 30A nema outlet, and one 12VDC 8.3A adapter plug.

It offers 9,000 watts of continuous power, with a substantial 12,000 watts of starting power.

Another significant factor this generator has going for it is that it’s CARB-compliant, so California residents can use it without issue. The muffler does cover some of the noise, but the high 78 dBA level does leave something to be desired. 4

If you don’t mind a noisier generator and are more focused on running high power tools, that shouldn’t be a problem.

The engine’s air-cooling feature does help muffle some of the noise too.

PROS

• Impressive wattage
• Provides 9 hours of run time at half output
• Flexible outlet options
• GFCI protection to guard against electrical hazards

CONS

• The dBa level might be too loud for some preferences
• Heavy and bulky
• Might be better suited to large appliances than very sensitive devices

11. Yamaha EF2000iSv2 Portable Inverter Generator

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No products found.

The choice on our list is this highly portable inverter generator, making it a great option if you’re on the go and need an excellent power source with you. The Yamaha EF2000iSv2 looks similar to a boombox or radio, and is very easy to start and use with highly sensitive electronics.

Specs :

• 1-gallon tank capacity
• OHV engine with air-cooled features and single cylinder
• Engine features 4-stroke capabilities with cylinder liner made from cast iron
• 1600 rated AC power output
• 2000 maximum AC power output
• 120V 13.3 amp rated AC current
• 12V 8-amp DC power output
• 120V 16.7 amp max AC current
• 120V 13.3 amp rated AC current
• Weights 44.1 lbs
• 3 x 11 x 17.9-inch dimensions
• Two 120V AC outlets
• One 8A 12V DC outlet
• Recoil starter
• Fuel Gauge
• Inverter
• Oil Warning Light
• 3-year limited warranty

While the Yamaha EF2000iSv2 is very lightweight, it is also extremely durable with excellent longevity of use. The engine is very quiet as well, so you won’t be annoyed by loud noises distracting you if you’re trying to get some sleep while camping.

When running at a quarter load, the generator maintains 51.5 decibels, which is far lower than many other products on the market today.

The generator offers 2,000 starting watts and 1,600 continuous wattage, which is quite a bit lower than other products available, but not surprising considering how small the product is. If you run the generator at a 500-watt load, you can still get an impressive 8 hours of running time. Not bad!

What’s more, if you decide to run the generator at a quarter load, you’ll have 10 full hours of power for all your devices. Unlike other generators, this particular product does not come with oil, so you will need to purchase your own before using it.

PROS

• Highly portable and durable for extensive use
• Works well with very sensitive devices
• Fair starting and continuous wattage amounts

CONS

• Does not come with oil
• You must keep the device on very low att load to get sufficient running time
• Tends to run out of oil quickly with high levels of use

12. Generac 7117 GP2200i

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The Generac 7117 generator is a good choice for both higher power tools and appliances as well as sensitive electronics, so you’ll get the most out of your pick.

It weighs just 46.6 pounds, so it is easy to maneuver and far less bulky than other products currently on the market.

Specs :

• 2,200 starting wattage
• 1,700 running wattage
• USB Port
• Economy mode for energy savings
• Covered outlets for hazard-free use
• Weights 46.6 pounds
• 80cc engine
• 7 hours of run time at a 50% load
• 75 hours of run time at a 25% load
• Enclosed design to muffle  noise level
• Compact and easy to carry
• LED indicators to notify you of overload, low oil, or ready mode
• Low-Oil Shutdown mechanism
• 2-year limited warranty

The Generac 7117 is not only incredibly lightweight and easy to use, but offers 1700 watts of running power and a surge power of 2200 watts.

While some products on the market may have higher running and surge rates, if you’re looking for a product that is simple to transport while working with sensitive devices, this could be an excellent choice for you.

The 1.2-gallon tank will keep the Generac 7117 powered for up to 7 hours at a 50% load and 10 to 12 hours for daily operation on a single gas tank. So, if you don’t need to power heavy duty tools all day long with your generator, you’ll still get plenty of use and power out of this product.

The generator features a helpful eco-mode so you can monitor how much fuel you’re using at any given time. The low oil shutoff also makes it easy to avoid overheating. If you are looking for a portable generator in a medium power range, check out the Generac GP5500 portable inverter generator.

Unlike some generators, this product features just a recoil starter, which is not unusual with smaller models. You can switch the generator on easily and operate it with a user-friendly control panel though. The panel features plastic covers to guard the electrical outlets, plus you’ll have plenty of outlet options to pick from.

PROS

• Easy to operate
• Provides as much as 10 to 12 hours of running time on one tank of gas
• Lightweight and highly portable
• Come with an eco-mode monitor.

CONS

• Lower 80cc power due to small engine
• Recoil starter only

13. Briggs & Stratton 30664 8000W Portable Generator

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Our final pick is this exceptional offering by Briggs & Stratton, providing 25% additional wattage to let you power up large tools and appliances like air conditioners all at once. It has an impressive running power of 7000 watts which is enough power to keep for a home backup generator.

The mighty Briggs &stratton comes with 420cc engine and 7.5-gallon fuel tank makes this a great choice for charging high power devices all day long.

Specs :

• 8,000 running watts
• 10,000 starting watts
• Heavy-duty and sturdy design.
• 6 surge amps
• Weighs 251 pounds
• 7 x 26.7 x 23-inch dimensions
• 420cc engine power
• 2100 series OHV engine
• 5-gallon capacity
• Provides 9 hours of run time at a 50% power output on full tank of gas.
• 12-inch wheels
• Four 120-volt outlets
• One 120/240-volt 30-amp outlet
• Circuit breaker protection
• Rubber outlet safety covers
• Not CARB compliant
• 3-year limited warranty

The power output from the Briggs & Stratton 30664 is one of the best in its class, with a normal wattage of 8,000 and surge wattage of 10,000.

High levels like this product has makes it easy to power your home, RV, or tools at a job site if necessary. We really appreciate how user-friendly and comprehensive the cable ports are for the Briggs & Stratton 30664.

The control panel of Briggs & stratton has multiple outlets for flexible use, with outlet protection to guard you from shock in case of damp weather conditions. There is an AC output for 120V and 240V, along with two 3 Prong NEMA duplex outlets.

The Briggs & Stratton 30664 runs on unleaded gasoline, with an impressive 7-gallon fuel tank capacity. As a result of its extensive output, this portable generator is more of a gas guzzler than other products on the market.

The generator engine is also much louder than some of its competitors. However, you can keep your generator running anywhere from 8 to 9 hours at 50% power output if your tank is full.

PROS

• Great outlet options
• Rubber covers to protect outlets
• Heavy output capacity with long running time

CONS

• Can run through gasoline quickly with high levels of use
• Very heavy to move around
• Loud engine

Pre-Purchase Considerations For Electric Portable Generators

To help you make the best choice when purchasing your portable generator, we’ve put together a comprehensive buyer’s guide with the key elements you’ll need to consider before making a selection.

There are several pre-purchase considerations to bear in mind if you are in the market for a portable generator.

First, you need to determine how much power you require. For instance, your fridge may require 700 watts to run but as much as 2100 watts to start up. Identify your purpose for making the purchase, and determine the wattage you need accordingly.

You also need to find out the kind of outlets you require. For example, smaller generators typically have a few 120V AC outlets plus USB ports, while larger devices of 4,000 watts often have 240V plugs too.

If you want to hire an electrician to wire the generator to your panel, you’ll need to purchase a generator with a 240V plug.

You’ll need to consider how often you intend to use the generator. If you only intend to use a generator in the event of an emergency, a shorter warranty time would suffice.

On the other hand, if you intend to use the generator daily for work, a longer warranty is your best pick.

Consider the size of the fuel tank before purchasing the best portable generator to meet your needs. The larger the fuel tank is, the more time you can go without having to add more fuel.

You should also decide whether you’d prefer a recoil cord you can pull or if you like an electric start instead.

Noise level is another factor to consider. If you’re going to be in an area where a quiet engine is essential (like a campsite), noise level is going to matter. However, if you plan on purchasing your generator to power large tools at a loud construction site, this probably won’t be an issue.

Types of Generators

There are three main types of generators. The type discussed in this guide is a portable generator. Portable generators run on diesel or gas fuel and offer temporary power for users.

The second type of generator is an inverter generator. Inverter generators run on an engine linked to an alternator for AC power. They also feature a rectifier to transition AC power to DC power.

The third type of generator is a standby generator. A standby generator is electrically powered by an automatic transfer switch that turns on the device during power outages. Install a transfer switch to prevent the generator from running while there is still an electricity supply. Usually, people believe that a standby generator is an alternative for larger portable generators.

Benefits of Portable Generators

The first benefit of portable generators is clear—they are very portable! You can bring them with you from one place to the next with ease, whether that be your house, a campsite, RV, worksite, or otherwise.

What’s more, portable generators will help you save big if you live in an area that experiences a lot of storms. The generator will keep your appliances running if an unexpected outage occurs and help you avoid your devices dying or food spoiling. Portable generators are also fantastic power sources for gardens or sheds, so you can really use them for any electrical needs you have.

Another benefit of portable generators is that they are easy to use. Not only are they extremely mobile, but they are designed for simple user operation. Many portable generators feature circuit breaker protection and guards, so they are safe and secure for anyone to maneuver and operate. Also, keep in mind never run a portable generator in an enclosed space or indoors. This traps the fumes and is extremely dangerous.

Portable Generator Questions & Answers

Will a portable generator damage electronics? :

Whether or not a generator will damage your electronics depends on the quality and voltage of the device. Some generators are best used for large power tools and appliances only, while others work with a range of devices, including sensitive ones.

If you want to use your generator to power electronics, choose a product that is compatible with sensitive appliances, with features like inverters and automatic voltage regulators.

Where should you store a portable generator? :

For short term storage, simply put your portable generator in a safe place where you have easy access and it won’t gather dust or debris. For long term storage, first check the maintenance manual to see what the manufacturer instructs. Always remember to fill the fuel tank high before storing for long periods and treat it with a stabilizer.

Will rain damage a portable generator? :

It is not safe nor recommended to use a portable generator in the rain. Not only could you run the risk of electrical shock, but the rain could damage your device. If you have to use it in damp environments, protect it with a canopy or tent.

Can a portable generator run a whole house? :

Yes, a portable generator with sufficient wattage can keep your house running in event of an outage. You can link the generator right to the circuit breaker panel in your home to control appliances directly. However, you’ll need to have an electrician install a transfer switch in your breaker box if that is your main goal for your generator.

How to connect portable generator to house without a transfer switch?

Connecting portable generator to your house is easy and convenient process. Check out our article to learn more about it in brief.

How long will a portable generator last? :

Portable generators can last anywhere from several years to decades with proper maintenance. Most generators have a 10,000 to 25,000-hour shelf life.

How long can a portable generator run non-stop?

There are plenty of key factors responsible that decide how long can a generator run continuously. We have created a comprehensive guide to answer this question, please read it here.

Conclusion :

Choosing the best portable generator to meet your needs is a process requiring time and consideration. Determine what your purpose will be for the generator, how often you intend to use it, and the types of devices you intend to power with your portable generator.

If you want to keep your entire home powered in the event of an outage or run large power tools, choices like the Honda EU2200i , DUROMax XP4400E, Westinghouse WGen 7500, DuroMax Hybrid and Dual Fuel XP12000EH are fantastic options.

For lower power needs, picks like the Yamaha EF2000iSv2 or Generac 7117 are excellent. Each product listed is among the best in its class for quality specs, features, power capabilities, and running time. If you are looking for a lightweight portable generator please check out our review on the Predator 4000 review.

Which one will you choose?

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