Losing power in your home can be a major problem during a storm, but that’s where a portable generator can be your best tool. The smaller size and ease of a portable generator make it simple to transport your power wherever you need it. Choosing the right generator for those needs can be a bit of a tall task though, so we have you covered with the best portable generators at Acme Tools.
1. Westinghouse 12,000-Watt Dual Fuel Generator (WGEN12000DF)
Topping our list of best portable generators is the Westinghouse 12,000-Watt Dual Fuel Generator with Remote Start (WGEN12000DF), which is perfect for any home or RV owner. This Westinghouse generator is built like a tank to provide unmatched run time and maximum output. 15,000 peak watts and 12,500 running watts combined with a 713CC V-Twin OHV Westinghouse Engine that offers up to 16 hours of run time make the WGEN12000DF one of the most powerful portable generators available. A fuel tank that runs off either gasoline or propane and Push-Button Electric Start create added convenience.
| Surge Watts: | 15,000 |
| Running Watts: | 12,500 |
| Run Time @ 1/2 Load: | 11 hrs |
| Noise Level: | 74 dB |
| Voltage Rating: | 240 |
| Weight: | 352 lbs |
2. Honda EU2200i Portable Generator
The Honda EU2200i’s GXR120 motor delivers a quiet, smooth, and fuel-efficient performance. This Honda generator operates at 48 to 57 dB(A), which is less than a usual conversation. The EU2200i features a fuel-efficient Eco-Throttle system, which automatically adjusts the engine speed to an optimum level, given the usage load. This generator can also be paired with a like model via parallel connection for double the power. Honda recently updated the EU2200i to the EU2200IG. The EU2200IG has all the features of the previous model but features the addition of CO-MINDER, which continuously monitors carbon monoxide levels and automatically shuts the generator down before levels get too high.
| Surge Watts: | 2,200 |
| Running Watts: | 2,200 |
| Run Time @ 1/2 Load: | 4.05 hrs |
| Noise Level: | 62 dB |
| Voltage Rating: | 120 |
| Weight: | 46.5 lbs |
3. Champion Power Equipment 4,500-Watt Inverter Generator w/ Quiet Technology (200991)
The Champion Inverter Generator (200991) features cutting-edge quiet technology that won’t wake your neighbors on the campground or drown out the fun during tailgating. It operates at an ultra-quiet 61 dBA from 23 feet away, which is about as loud as normal human speech. This generator is full of features that make it one of the most convenient options available. The 200991 features cold-start technology, so you don’t have to worry about having trouble starting it in adverse weather conditions. An EZ Start dial makes it simple to switch between gasoline or propane power with just a turn. With a run time of up to 14 hours at 25% load, you can get hours of backup power without having to worry about refueling.
| Surge Watts: | 4,500 |
| Running Watts: | 3,500 |
| Run Time @ 1/4 Load: | 14 hrs |
| Noise Level: | 61 dB |
| Voltage Rating: | 120 |
| Weight: | 103 lbs |
4. Ford FG11050PBE Portable Generator
The Ford FG11050PBE is one of the most powerful generators not only on this list but in its class as well. Its 457cc engine with 20 ft./lbs. of torque make this generator a good fit for everyday use and during emergency power outages. The FG11050PBE features the ability to transfer easily between gas and propane power with its Switch-N-Go technology, even while the generator is in operation. This generator features two duplex 120V 20A GFCI outlets, one 120V 30A twist-lock outlet, and one 120/240V AC 50A twist-lock outlet.
| Surge Watts: | 11,050 |
| Running Watts: | 9,000 |
| Run Time @ 1/2 Load: | 9.5 hrs |
| Noise Level: | 78 dB |
| Voltage Rating: | 120/240 |
| Weight: | 218 lbs |
5. Westinghouse Outdoor Power Equipment WGEN9500 Portable Generator
The Westinghouse WGen9500 offers comfortable portability and the power of a traditional generator. With 12,500 peak watts and 9,500 running watts, the portable generator ensures any home is ready to be up and running during an outage. Never-flat wheels, foam grip handle, and lift bracket make the WGen9500 easy to transport around the jobsite, home, or lift into the back of a travel trailer. The generator’s 457cc 4-stroke OHV engine runs for up to 12 hours on a 6.6-gallon tank, ensuring you stay running through the day.
| Surge Watts: | 12,500 |
| Running Watts: | 9,500 |
| Run Time @ 1/2 Load: | 12 hrs |
| Noise Level: | 74 dB |
| Voltage Rating: | 120/240 |
| Weight: | 220 lbs |
6. Champion Power Equipment 100110C Portable Generator
The Champion 100110C is built with safety and convenience at the forefront. With 11,500 starting watts and 9,200 running watts, this generator can handle everything from lights to furnace blowers. Your equipment is always safe with the generator’s Volt Guard built-in surge protector, which prevents overloads. For additional safety, all 6 of the 10110C’s outlets have covers. The 7.7-gallon gas tank allows for up to 10 hours of power at 50% load, keeping things running smoothly.
| Surge Watts: | 11,500 |
| Running Watts: | 9,200 |
| Run Time @ 1/2 Load: | 10 hrs |
| Noise Level: | 74 dB |
| Voltage Rating: | 120/240 |
| Weight: | 213 lbs |
7. Westinghouse Power Equipment WGEN7500DF Portable Generator
The Westinghouse WGEN7500DF is a great solution for both homeowners and professionals to keep things running during a power outage. It has two GFCI 120V duplex outlets and an L14-30R 120/240 twist-lock receptacle for a manual transfer switch. The biggest feature of the WGEN7500DF is the run-time, coming in at 16 hours at 25% load, which is ahead of comparable generators. A built-in extendable handle and never-flat wheels make this generator easier to move around the jobsite.
| Surge Watts: | 9,500 |
| Running Watts: | 7,500 |
| Run Time @ 1/4 Load: | 16 hrs |
| Noise Level: | 52 dB |
| Voltage Rating: | 120/240 |
| Weight: | 194 lbs |
8. Honda 7000-Watt Inverter Generator (EU7000ISNAN)
The Honda 7000-Watt Inverter Generator (EU7000ISNAN) is an excellent solution for backup power during emergencies as it’s capable of powering a wide variety of 120-volt and 240-volt appliances and equipment, including well pumps, sump pumps, refrigerators, and more. Operating at a volume level of 58 dBA the EU7000ISNAN is one of the quietest portable generators on the market. This generator also comes equipped with Bluetooth connectivity to the Honda My Generator app so you can monitor the current generator output, run time, and oil life.
| Surge Watts: | 7,000 |
| Running Watts: | 5,000 |
| Run Time @ 1/2 Load: | 6.4 hrs |
| Noise Level: | 58 dB |
| Voltage Rating: | 120/240V |
| Weight: | 263 lbs |
9. Generac 7686G Portable Generator
The Generac GP8000E features a piece of technology that sets it ahead of its competitors. The portable generator’s PowerRush Advanced Technology delivers over 30% more starting capacity, so it allows you to do more work with less power. The GP8000E’s 11-hour run time at 50% load puts it on the higher end of comparable generators in its class. It is also one of the lighter generators based on it generators with similar wattage. Its weight, along with the fold-down locking handle, make it easier to transport this Generac generator around the jobsite.
| Surge Watts: | 10,000 |
| Running Watts: | 8,000 |
| Run Time @ 1/2 Load: | 11 hrs |
| Noise Level: | 70 dB |
| Voltage Rating: | 120/240 |
| Weight: | 198 lbs |
10. EGO PST3042 Portable Generator
The EGO PST3042 is the only generator on this list that is battery powered. It produces zero noise and emissions, making it perfect for keeping your appliances running during a power outage. The PST3042 features three 120V A/C Outlets and four USB ports to run everything from your fridge to your cell phone. It can power a 15-amp circular saw for 520 cuts making it perfect for the jobsite and it’s great for tailgating as it can power an 8o-watt 40-inch LED TV for 8 hours.
| Surge Watts: | 3,000 |
| Running Watts: | 2,000 |
| Run Time: | 5.6 hrs |
| Noise Level: | 0 dB |
| Voltage Rating: | 120 |
| Weight: | 44 lbs |
Shop more generators outside our list of best portable generators of 2020 at Acme Tools.
