The 10 Best Portable Backup Generator Of 2024, Researched By Us
By, Hailey AbbottUpdated
Our Top Picks
1. Best Overall: Westinghouse Dual Fuel Home Backup Portable Generator
This generator comes with a remote start key fob and 12V battery charger, plus it includes oil, an oil funnel, a tool kit, and a user’s manual to get you started right out of the box. Read Review
2. Runner Up: DuroMax XP12000EH Generator
The DuroMax XP12000EH Generator is the perfect source of power for any environment. With dual fuel technology, you can choose between gasoline or propane to power your generator. Read Review
3. Best Performance: Champion Power Equipment 200988 Portable Inverter Generator
Enjoy the convenience of portable power with the Champion Power Equipment 200988 Portable Inverter Generator. This dual fuel generator features electric start, quiet operation and clean power. Read Review
4. Best Reliable: Westinghouse Super Quiet Portable Inverter Generator
Get the power you need with Westinghouse's Super Quiet Portable Inverter Generator. This efficient generator is perfect for camping, tailgating and other outdoor activities. Read Review
5. Best Quality: WEN 56380i Super Quiet Portable Inverter Generator
Stay powered without being heard with the WEN 56380i Super Quiet Portable Inverter Generator. This powerful and portable generator is designed to minimize noise while providing reliable power. Read Review
Backup generators can be a lifesaver during a power outage or natural disaster. They provide the peace of mind that your home and family are safe and secure, no matter what happens. If you're looking for a reliable, portable generator, you've come to the right place.
We've rounded up the best portable backup generators on the market so that you can find the perfect fit for your home and budget. With various features and prices, you'll find the generator that fits your needs. From quiet inverter generators to heavy-duty gasoline models, you'll be able to power your home in no time. So, read on to discover the best portable backup generator for you.
You can count on our team of experts who have spent over 18 hours conducting results through 5,015 genuine customer reviews. Because of this, we concluded that the best portable backup generator is Westinghouse Dual Fuel Home Backup Portable Generator. This product provides the best power when you need power, but the power goes out. And DuroMax XP12000EH Generator is another choice for you while keeping the product's quality and functionality.
RELATED: The most efficient generators for every need and budget, based on over 5,564 reviews from former users.
Our Top Picks
Powered by a Heavy Duty 457cc Westinghouse 4-Stroke OHV Engine Featuring a Long-Lasting Cast Iron Sleeve With Automatic Low Oil Shutdown and Digital Hour Meter. VFT display gives you real time updates with the voltage output, frequency, and lifetime hours
Plug-and-Play: Comes With a Remote Start Key Fob, 12V Battery Charger, Oil, an Oil Funnel, a Tool Kit, and a User’s Manual to Get You Started Right Out of the Box (Minimal Assembly Required)
All Westinghouse Portable Generators are Functionally Tested in the Factory and May Contain Minimum Residual Oil and/or Fuel Odor; EPA and CARB Compliant; Backed by 3-Year Limited Service, Labor, and Parts Coverage with Nationwide Customer Service Network
Features Two GFCI 120V 5–20R Standard Household Receptacle, One Transfer Switch Ready 120V L14-30R, and One RV Ready 120/240V 14–50R; All Outlets Have Rubber Covers for Added Safety
9500 Running Watts and 12500 Peak Watts (Gasoline); 8500 Running Watts, 11200 Peak Watts (Propane); Remote Start With Included Key Fob, Electric and Recoil Start; Up to 12 Hours of Run Time on a 6. 6 Gallon Fuel Tank With Fuel Gauge
Please read the detailed safety instructions in the manual before operating.
With Gasoline : Peak Wattage - 12,000., Running Wattage - 9,500., Running Amperage at 120V - 79.17., Running Amperage at 240V - 39.58., Runtime at 25% Load - 19., Runtime at 50% Load - 8
Plenty of power: with 12,000 starting watts and 9, 500 running watts, This unit can handle heavy loads from lights and a refrigerator to a home air conditioner and high amperage power tools.
Engine Type: 4-Stroke
With Propane : Peak Wattage - 11,400., Running Wattage - 9,025., Running Amperage at 120V - 75.21., Running Amperage at 240V - 37.6., Runtime at 25% Load - 14., Runtime at 50% Load - 7
Maximum power: with DuroMax MX2 technology, get the maximum power from each of the 120 volt receptacle. Choose between operating the generator at both 120 V and 240 V Simultaneously, or at 120 only with full power.
Powerful DuroMax Engine: the XP12000EH is powered by a DuroMax, 457cc OHV engine.
Dual fuel technology: the ability to run on propane or gasoline allows the freedom and flexibility of fuel choice. Protects your investment by automatically shutting the generator off when it senses that the oil is low
Powering everyone anywhere: like all DuroMax generators, the XP12000EH is EPA and CARB approved For use in all 50 States.
DUAL FUEL: Operate your 4500-watt portable generator right out of the box on either gasoline or propane, plus the unit holds 0.6-quarts of oil (10W-30 oil included) and has a low oil shut-off sensor
CHAMPION SUPPORT: Includes 3-year limited warranty with FREE lifetime technical support from dedicated experts
QUIET OPERATION: 61 dBA is perfect for RVs, tailgating, your next project or backup power for your home, featuring 4500 starting watts and 3500 running watts with up to 14 hours run time on gasoline
ELECTRIC START: Battery included, plus Quick Touch Panel allows you to access all your controls in one spot
CLEAN POWER: RV Ready with a 120V 30A RV, plus two 120V 20A household outlets with clean electricity (less than 3% THD) and 12V DC outlet with dual USB adapter
Led Data Center: Rotating Digital Display Shows Fuel Level, Power Output, Remaining Run Time, Voltage Output, and Lifetime Hours
3700 Rated Watts and 4500 Peak Watts at Less Than 3% THD – Telescoping Handle – Gas Powered – Remote Start With Included Key Fob, Electric and Recoil Start.Safely powers sensitive electronics such as laptop computers, cell phones and moreRemote start (key fob) and push button start make this generator convenient to operateAll Westinghouse Portable Generators are Functionally Tested in the Factory and May Contain Minimum Residual Oil and/or Fuel Odor; EPA and CARB Compliant; Backed By 3-Year Limited Service, Labor, and Parts Coverage and Nationwide Customer Service Network
Remote start (key fob) and push button start make this generator convenient to operate
All Westinghouse Portable Generators are Functionally Tested in the Factory and May Contain Minimum Residual Oil and/or Fuel Odor; EPA and CARB Compliant; Backed By 3-Year Limited Service, Labor, and Parts Coverage and Nationwide Customer Service Network
Features a 5–20R 120V Duplex Household Outlet, an RV-Ready Tt-30R 30 Amp Outlet and Two USB Outlets – Great Choice for Travel Trailers or Home Use – Strong Enough to Run All Your Essentials
Extremely Quiet, Extremely Fuel Efficient: as Low as 52 dBA Noise Output and Up to 18 Hour Run Time on a 3. 4 Gallon Gas Tank – Features “Economy Mode” for Maximum Fuel Efficiency
Safely powers sensitive electronics such as laptop computers, cell phones and more
Produces clean power to prevent damage to sensitive electronics such as smart phones, tablets and laptops
Dimensions: 23.2" L x 18" W x 20.1" H | Weight: 99.2 lb.Dimensions: 23.2" L x 18" W x 20.1" H | Weight: 99.2 lb
Fuel shutoff maximizes the generator’s lifespan by using up the remaining fuel in the carburetor before shutting down
Includes two three-prong 120V receptacles, one AC 120V NEMA TT-30R RV receptacle, one 12V DC receptacle, two 5V USB ports, a digital load and fuel display, and a two-year warranty
212cc 4-stroke OHV engine produces 3800 surge watts and 3400 rated watts with a half-load runtime of up to 8.5 hours
Extremely quiet operation minimizes noise;, EPA III and CARB Compliant
All Westinghouse Portable Generators are Functionally Tested in the Factory and May Contain Minimum Residual Oil and/or Fuel Odor; EPA and CARB Compliant; Backed By 3-Year Limited Service, Labor, and Parts Coverage and Nationwide Customer Service Network
Features Two GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) 5–20R 120V Household Duplex Receptacle and One Transfer Switch Ready L14-30R 120/240V Twist-Lock Receptacle; All Outlets Have Rubber Covers for Added Safety
Powered by a 420cc Westinghouse 4-Stroke OHV Engine Featuring a Long-Lasting Cast Iron Sleeve With Automatic Low Oil Shutdown and Digital Hour Meter
6000 Running Watts and 7500 Peak Watts; Electric and Recoil Start; Up to 13 Hours of Run Time on a 6. 6 Gallon Fuel Tank With Fuel Gauge
Plug-and-Play Comes With Oil, an Oil Funnel, a Tool Kit, and a User’s Manual to Get You Started Right Out of the Box (Minimal Assembly Required)
4-gallon fuel tank provides a half-load runtime of up to 13 hours
Packed panel includes four standard 120V 20A household duplex outlets (5-20R), one 120V 30A RV outlet (TT-30R), and one 120V three-prong transfer-switch-ready 30A outlet (L5-30R)
Features an EPAIII and CARB compliant 212cc 4-stroke engine, an automatic voltage regulator, a spark arrestor, low-oil shutdown, and a two-year warranty
Digital data meter displays voltage, frequency, session runtime, and total runtime
Generate up to 4500 starting watts and 3600 running watts
EASY TO CARRY & STORE -- This PA300 power station measures 10 x 4.7 x 9.1 inches and weighs only 7.1lb, making it very easy to use during blackouts, on road trips, in off-the-grid places, and while camping, fishing, and hiking.
BUILT SOLID & WELL DESIGNED -- The bright yellow/blue color of the power station makes it easy to identify and spot from outside. It also has a large and comfortable handle on top, making it easy to hold and carry.
LARGE CAPACITY TO SUPPORT YOUR NEEDS -- Its 296Wh capacity provides approximately 25 recharges for phones, or 8 recharges for tablets, or 5 recharges for laptops, or 2-4 nights for a CPAP machine, or 4 hours for a 32” TV.
SWEET & UNIQUE GIFT CHOICE -- The PA300 portable power station is easy to use across age groups, making it a special gift for kids, partners, grandparents, and anyone you love.
QUICK RECHARGE & SUPPORT SOLAR PANEL -- PA300 can be easily charged in approximately 5 hours using an AC adapter, in 6–9 hours using a car cig’ charge, and in 5–8 hours using the solar panel (sold separately, compatible with 18V 60W/100W panel).
COMPLETE ACCESSARIES -- 1*LIPOWER PA300 Portable Power Station, 1*AC charging adapter, 1*Car charger cable, 1*Cigarette lighter adapter, 1*Accessories storage bag for cables, 1*Detailed user manual.
VERSATILE OUTLETS FOR DIFFERENT DEVICES -- It features 2*Pure Sine Wave AC outlets (110V, Rated 300W/Surge 500W), 2*DC ports (72W), 2*USB ports (10W), 1*QC3.0 USB (18W), and 1*Type-C PD (18W).
BRIGHT LED EMERGENCY LIGHT -- This power station has a practical battery backup for emergencies and a large LED emergency light bright enough for a large room. The light has 4 modes, including an SOS mode, so that you will never be left in the dark during a storm, a hurricane, or other emergency situations. Great camping essentials for your choice.
Champion Support: Includes 3-year limited warranty with FREE lifetime technical support from dedicated experts
Electric start: Trust the reliable 420cc Champion engine with its battery-included electric start featuring a reliable toggle switch, plus built-in Cold Start Technology for easy starts in cold weather
Intelligauge: Keep track of voltage, hertz and run-time hours to easily monitor power output and track maintenance intervals
Covered Outlets: Four 120V 20A GFCI outlets, a120/240V 30A locking outlet and a 120/240V 50A outlet (14-50R), plus Volt Guard built-in surge protector prevents overloads and keeps your equipment safe
Ultra-Powerful: At 9375 starting watts and 7500 running watts, enjoy up to 8 hours of run time on a full tank of gasoline with a noise level of 74 dBA from 23 feet
Full power panel with oil warning Light, volt meter, circuit breaker and power outlets.
Engine type: 4-Stroke
Heavy duty frame with four point fully isolated motor mounts for smooth quiet operation.
Durable DuroStar 18 HP, air cooled with low oil shutoff and electric key start.
Power source type: Gas Powered
Dual fuel technology allows generator to be run on propane or gas.
Full EPA and CARB compliance allows for operation in all 50 States
Which Characteristics To Consider On Selecting best portable backup generator For 2024?
To make a practical purchase, you guys need to be aware of best portable backup generator ultimately. Several key factors must be taken into account and evaluated. Of course, there are some challenges for you during the process of studying products. So we are available here to provide you with comprehensive advice and support.
Thanks to the evaluation supported by high technology, we have come up with some significant features for you to go through. Let’s check it below!
Fuel Source
The majority of portable generators run on gasoline and can generally keep fridges and lights running for several hours. These generators can't be relied upon for long-term power backups, such as when there is no electricity for several days.
Propane and natural gas are used more often for large home-standby generators. These fuels can be used for larger home standby generators as they are cleaner-burning and offer on-demand power.
Solar or battery-powered power sources are an alternative to traditional fuel-powered generators. These machines have different capabilities, and their run time can vary widely. However, they might be the best match for you if your power requirements are less than minimal. They are typically used for camping only, not home.
Automatic Start
Wattage
However, this number does not represent the entire picture. Wattage is made up of three parts: power needed to turn on an appliance and power required to maintain it running. It also includes power necessary to sustain a power surge, which is when regular juice returns to normal and all appliances start to work again. Many appliances use more power for startup than their run energy consumption. You could overload your generator when you turn on appliances and other devices. If the generator can't provide enough power, it could overload. You need to know how many watts your generator can generate, depending on whether it is powering just one item or the whole house.
An increase in generator costs is generally associated with a higher wattage. Most people agree that it's better to have enough power than not to be able to run your fridge or keep cool by a fan.
Warranties
Certain warranties may also include travel expenses for technicians to visit the generator and fix it. However, this depends on which manufacturer you are using.
Size
Be aware that the clearance between your home and generator may be determined by local codes or model specifications. A small generator may require only 18 inches of clearance.
Type
FAQs
What is a portable backup generator?
A portable backup generator is a device that is used to provide emergency power in the event of a power outage. It is typically smaller than a stationary generator and can be moved from one location to another. Portable generators are powered by gasoline, diesel, or propane, and are capable of powering a variety of devices and appliances during a power outage.
What can a portable backup generator be used for?
Portable backup generators can be used to provide emergency power to essential items such as refrigerators, freezers, lights, medical equipment, and other home appliances.
How do I choose the right portable backup generator for my needs?
When selecting a portable backup generator, you should consider the type of fuel it uses, the size of the generator, and its wattage capacity. You should also ensure that the generator is rated for the type of appliances and devices you plan to use with it.
How do I safely operate a portable backup generator?
Portable backup generators should always be operated in a well-ventilated area, away from the home, and never inside. It is important to check the oil and fuel levels regularly and to never overfill the fuel tank. Additionally, you should always read and follow the instructions provided with your generator before using it.
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About Hailey Abbott
