Last Updated on December 3, 2024
The name Predator has been a familiar one in the power generation industry since 1988 and has quickly become largely trusted and widely used. While predator generators, in general, are excellent and useful tools to have, Predator generators take the cake on quality and reliability.
Because of their reputation, we’re going to spend some time focusing on Predator generators as great options for alternative energy products, starting with our number one choice.
Predator Generator Reviews & Comparison – Top 3 Models
1. Predator 3500 Super Quiet Inverter Generator
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Lightweight, power-efficient, and extra quiet inverter, this model is our top choice for best Predator generator products because of its ability to generate a great amount of power and its use of top-notch technology.
Specifications :
- Run time: 11 hours at 25% load
- 2 120VAC ground outlets
- 1 DC-12V 2-pin outlet
- Recoil start
- 7cc air-cooled OHV gas engine
- 3500 watts
Bolstering 3500 watts of starting power, the Predator 3500 gives you everything you need to power electronics, tools, and small appliances. Not only is it completely portable at 47 pounds, but you can attach a second model to double your power capacity.
Its compact size makes it the perfect portable generator to bring camping, on your RV, on a boating trip, or even just in your home or garage. The low-oil indicator lets you keep track of your levels easily, while the high-impact outer design ensures a drop or a bump won’t destroy your product.
We also love that this model is extra quiet. Rating at just about 65 dB, this machine is quite unobtrusive and won’t disturb your neighbors – or the great outdoors.
Efficiency is key when it comes to predator generators, and this model has that down. For less fuel than other products, the Predator 3500 gives you more power. In fact, using built-in inverter technology, this portable generator delivers a clear power curve, making it great for electronics that tend to be a little more sensitive.
EPA III and CARB certified and using unleaded gas, this Predator product does its best to follow regulations and maintain environmental standards. Additionally, the electronic overload protection will keep your machine from taking on damage when you hook it up to too much.
PROS
- Great value
- Very easy to start
- Quiet running
- Compatible with second generator hookup
- Versatile and works great with tools, small appliances, and other electronics
- RV ready
CONS
- No fuel gauge to track gas levels
2. Predator 2000
Specifications :
- 2,000 watts starting power, 1,600 running watts
- 8 HP (79.cc OHV gas engine)
- 5 hours run time at 50% load
- Low noise level
- 47 pounds
- Small fuel tank
- 120V
- 61 dB
The Predator 2000 inverter generator comes with loads of impressive features that make it the perfect inverter generator for anyone on the go. This small machine packs a punch with 2,000 watts of peak wattage.
However, its power doesn’t mitigate its ability to come along with you. The lightweight design makes this generator great for travel. You can also take a look at our Predator 4000 review here.
We feel this 3200 running watts generator is the best predator generator as the generator has got a standard set of power outlets.
These include 2 x 120V Duplex outlets, a 240V twist-lock outlet, and a 12V DC outlet and is perfect when there is a power outage.
On top of that, you can count on an efficient fuel tank system. Though it may have a small fuel tank, this machine does a great job of keeping up with its larger competitors by delivering 6.5 hours of power.
And it does all of this while keeping things impressively quiet. Also, it comes with a small fuel tank.
The inverter generator technology ensures that you have a good and strong electricity flow throughout your use. This system also minimizes the risks of suffering a short circuit.
PROS
- Easy to operate
- Durable outer casing for long-lasting use
- Optional double power feature
- Lightweight for transportation
CONS
- Small fuel tank
- Starts up slowly
- Only good for smaller appliances
Note: This model has been officially discontinued by Predator.
3. Predator Portable Generator 6500
If you’re looking for a generator that can pack a little more of a punch than the Predator 6500 is your best option.
This machine delivers 6,500 watts of maximum starting power with 5,500 watts of continuous, 12 hours of run time and steady energy. The core of the generator comes with a 420 CC, 13 HP Air Cooled OHV engine. These can run 12 hours at 50% load.
Specifications :
- 6,500 starting watts or peak wattage, 5,500 running watts
- 13 HP (420cc)
- 120/240 AC, 12 DC
- Run time: 12 hours @ 50% load
With an easy recoil start, you can get your hands on 5,500 watts of continuous power to use for emergencies, job sites, heating and cooling, camping, or traveling. This powerful generator is EPA III certified, aligning it with environmental standards.
While the product is heavier than many other portable predator generators at 165 pounds, the included wheel kit lets you roll this machine around anywhere. You can also use this as a home backup power supply and this is perfect when there is a power outage.
The Low oil indicator allows you to easily tell when you need to add more, while the low oil shutdown feature saves your machine for you should you miss the mark. With four different outlets, you have the option to hook up several electronics devices simultaneously.
For its size, we think you will find this generator surprisingly quiet. It produces clean, steady power for a fair price and uses an air-cooled OHV gas engine.
PROS
- High running power
- Long-running time
- Fuel Efficient
- Included wheel kit makes transportation easy
- Delivers multifaceted use
- Starts easily
CONS
- Heavyweight
- No fuel gauge
Note: This model has been officially discontinued by Predator.
4. Predator 13500 Gas Generator
Anyone looking to power much more than a few tools, small appliances, or even several electronics at once should take a look at the Predator 13500 gas generator.
With 11,000 running watts of continuous running power, you’ll be able to power a whole building. This makes these predator generators stand out.
Specifications :
- 13,500 starting watts, 11,000 running watts
- 375 pounds
- 22 HP (670cc) OHV gas engine
- Running time: 7.5 hours at 50% load
- 78 dB sound rating
- EPA certified
This high-quality Inverter Generators are made for more than just charging small devices and making your refrigerator turn on. Larger ones with more power, like the Predator 13500, can handle much more – even as much as powering your home or an office building.
While these areas typically have their own source of electricity, they’re not always reliable. Storms and power outages can leave you with nothing. Luckily, this predator model is capable of getting you up and running again. This is a high noise level generator.
With 11,000 watts of running power, this engine powers it all. It includes an auto-shutdown feature that kicks in during a power surge to minimize the risk of fires and damage. In addition to that, this Predator has a low oil shutdown feature as well, making it super safe and worry-free.
The long-running time is certainly a pro, but we also love that the whole product is encased in a durable, high-impact outer shell that protects it from drops, weather elements, and other outside factors.
PROS
- Strong enough to power buildings
- Highly durable outer impact covering
- Low oil indicator
- Fuel-Efficient
- Includes several outlets
- Lots of power and long run time
- Features to prevent overheating and electronic overload
CONS
- Loud noise level
- Heavyweight and large, difficult to transport
Note: This model has been officially discontinued by Predator.
Everything You Need to Know
We can show you some of the best products and talk about them all day long, but the best way to ensure you’re getting yourself the perfect inverter generator is to know what you’re looking for.
A little knowledge can go a long way, so we’ve put together a comprehensive guide to buying these alternative energy products.
What is a Generator?
A generator is a functional piece of equipment that serves to convert either mechanical or chemical energy into electricity. They use a series of motors, engines, pistons, turbines, and more to operate and produce a continuous flow of electricity.
There are many outside factors that can power a generator, such as water, wind, magnetism, steam, and gasoline. The mechanical force used within the generator will cause a turbine or a rotary device to move, exiting electrons and bringing forth an electrical current.
Using copper wires, the electrical current is then directed to in turn power other external machinery, i.e., whatever you plug into it.
Inverter Generators come in several forms, but they are most often powered by gas. They also come in many different sizes and power levels, from smaller, 2,000-watt running power to very large, 13,500-watt power.
The size and type you need will depend largely on what you intend to use your generator for. Small models can power phone chargers, tool, lights, speakers, and small appliances, while large models are capable of powering entire buildings.
What Can You Use a Generator to Power?
Because inverter generators come in so many varieties, shapes, sizes, and models, they are used across a wide array of industries and situations. Large models are used a lot in public areas, such as office buildings, hospitals, and supermarkets. If you attended a university and lived in campus housing, you may have noticed that your building had a generator. It’s not uncommon for places like dorm rooms and hotels to have generators.
In the above cases, generators are used to power the buildings when the standard electricity fails. This is typically due to weather but can occur for other technical reasons as well. When the power fails, the generator – also referred to as the backup generator – kicks in and powers the building.
You can also use generators on a smaller scale. Many people like to bring generators camping. In a location where there may be very little to no electricity, it can be very helpful to have a generator to do things like charge devices, power outdoor lighting, and fuel refrigerators.
Mid-sized generators are also often used in RVs to power things like small appliances, heating, and cooling.
Additionally, some folks like to have a generator on hand within their home in case of emergencies. Intense storms and flooding can cause power outages. Rather than living in candlelit rooms for a day or more, you can use a generator to power the essentials: refrigerators, lighting, heat, and more. If you’re lucky enough to have a powerful home generator, you can also try hooking it up to luxury items like a television or a computer.
Finally, another common use of portable generators as alternative energy products is on construction sites. Workers on the job don’t always have access to electricity, so generators let them use their power tools and hook up lights as need be.
Much like the alternator in your car powers the electricity while you drive, predator generators do the same for everything else.
Advantages :
The advantages of using an electrical generator are quite clear. For one, with a generator, you have access to power when there would have been none available before. This is a huge advantage because it allows you to connect valuable and useful devices.
In cases of emergencies, predator generators are a huge advantage. Living without electricity for too long can quickly become deadly, especially if you’re in a period of extreme heat or cold. Not only can you use a generator to operate your heating or cooling systems in your home, but you can use it to keep your refrigerator running and in turn, save your food sources from going bad.
Generators can allow you to stay in contact with the outside world, giving you access to power your phones, computers, and radios. You’ll get to reach emergency personnel, family, and friends whenever you need to.
Of course, predator generators also work in times of convenience – not just necessity. Camping doesn’t have to be completely unplugged, as you can bring along a generator to power music, games, movies, and more.
Generators tend to last for a long time – several years, in fact. Buying a predator generator is not just an advantage, but a solid investment that you are sure to get tons of use out of. To say the least, they are worth the money.
Disadvantages :
With so many positive outcomes of using a generator, it’s hard to imagine that there would be a downside at all. However, there are a few things that could be considered negatives.
For starters, predator generators are not cheap. Although it’s widely believed that they are worth the high price point, some may not find it necessary to buy a backup source of energy, especially given that there’s no guarantee they will actually ever need it. It’s certainly an investment, but it’s not one that everyone can afford to make.
In addition to a high cost, these products tend to be generally very large and bulky. They are big and heavy, and they only get bigger and heavier the more power you need. Storing them can sometimes be a bit of a hassle, and moving them is something many people would like to avoid.
Certain brands and models can prove to be ineffective and are not very efficient. This is why good research is super important on large purchases. A product might look good, but it is vital that you take into consideration its efficiency. A generator with inefficient fuel use will end up costing you even more gas fees in the long run.
Important Features :
As with all products, the features on a predator generator are crucial. It’s a very wise move to take the time to understand a generator’s features, what they do, and whether or not they are necessary.
Identifying which features are important will help you make a smart buying decision, especially when buying a predator generator.
Starter :
Your predator generator will either have an electric start or a recoil start. Of course, an electric start is ideal simply because it’s easier to push a button than it is to pull a ripcord.
Much like starting a lawnmower or a chain saw, a recoil start can be a bit more difficult. The option of either electric start or recoil start really comes down to a matter of opinion and convenience, but it’s something to keep in mind when you’re looking at your options, according to us electric start is much more convenient.
Portability and Wheel kit :
If you intend to use your generator for things like camping, tailgating, and outdoor picnics, then you should definitely look for one that’s light enough for you to carry.
Larger, more powerful predator generators can weigh anywhere from 100 to 300 pounds – which is certainly too much to lug around a campsite or your home.
Small predator generators are more appropriate for situations where you will be moving a lot. You can find these models weighing under 50 pounds – much easier to handle.
When it comes to the larger models, a wheel kit on a predator generator is useful if you intend to transport it a lot. Smaller predator generators may be easier to carry, but the larger ones are practically impossible – especially if you’re dealing with anything high than 5,000 watts. Having a wheel kit on your predator generator will let you roll the bigger models around.
Some larger predator generators will come with wheels, while others require you to purchase the wheel kit and frame separately. Although the extra cost of the wheel kit can be a bummer, you’ll consider the money well spent after you try to move your predator generator without them.
Fuel Source :
Most portable generators run on gasoline. However, others can run on natural gas or propane gas. You can also find specific kits made for converting fuel. Gasoline tends to be the cheapest option, while propane is the highest quality.
Gauges :
It’s important to know when you need to refill your generator with either gas or oil. Some generators don’t have gauges to tell you when this needs to happen, which can be a serious hassle as well as a risk factor for your machine.
Try to find a generator that has gauges for both oil and fuel. You may find several that have one but not the other, but both is your best bet. If you can’t find one that you like with a gauge, you can also look for an indicator light. This light won’t tell you what level your gas or oil is at exactly, but it will turn on when either is reaching a low point, which is just as helpful.
As an added bonus, some generators also boast automatic shutoff technology. You can find this feature for both gas and oil. Your generator will sense when the levels fall below a certain line and automatically turn your generator off. This not only saves your generator from taking on damage, but it acts as a safety feature too.
Outlets :
Outlets on your generator just let you make the most of your power. With multiple outlets, not only can you plug in several things at once, but your wattage is more evenly distributed. Outlets work best in outdoor situations like camping, boating, or fishing. They are also great for emergency situations when there is no access to the power within your home.
Other than these instances, you should refrain from using the outlets on your machine.
Wattage :
As we mentioned earlier, you can find yourself a generator in a wide range of wattages. The amount of energy you need depends on what you intend to use your generator for.
If you want to use your generator as an emergency backup within your home in case of an outage, we suggest getting a generator that’s between 2,500 and 6,500 watts. This amount of energy can power most household appliances, including gas, oil, and electric hot water heaters.
Someone who wants a generator to power a camper or for outdoor events like tailgating and boating should be just fine with the same size. Sometimes a smaller generator will even be fine for smaller activities, like using a coffee machine.
If you’re looking for a generator that will serve as a backup to power an entire house or building, then you should go no lower than 11,000 watts of running power. The same goes for large construction sites.
Final Thoughts
What we have seen here today is that portable generators are excellent alternative energy products. These innovative devices give us power when we have none and serve across a large variety of uses, purposes, and locations. From emergencies to construction sites, you don’t have to be without a source of electricity.
When it comes to generators, we can’t recommend the Predator name enough. Its longstanding reputation for efficiency, durability, and reliability speaks for itself, and its products only serve to improve the positive feedback.
When it comes to a Predator product, you can’t go wrong. Remember the important features to keep an eye out for, and you will be up and running in no time.
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