The 10 Best Small Generators Of 2024, Tested By Our Experts
By, Hailey AbbottUpdated
Our Top Picks
1. Best Overall: Westinghouse 194Wh Generator
The Westinghouse 194Wh Generator is a versatile and eco-friendly power solution that delivers hours of reliable power for your devices. Its compact size and lightweight design make it the perfect companion for camping and outdoor activities. Read Review
2. Best For The Price: BLUETTI EB3A Generator
The BLUETTI EB3A Generator is a compact and reliable power station that provides essential power on the go. With its fast charging capabilities and solar compatibility, it's an ideal choice for outdoor enthusiasts and those needing backup power. Read Review
3. Best Versatile: WEN 2350W Generator
Experience clean and quiet portable power with the WEN 2,350-Watt Inverter Generator. It's a reliable and efficient power source that produces clean energy without the noise of a regular generator. Read Review
4. Best Design: Generac GP2500i Generator
The Generac GP2500i Generator is a reliable, portable power solution for outdoor enthusiasts. Its lightweight design and TruePower™ Technology make it perfect for various open-air activities, providing clean power without disturbing neighbors or wildlife. Read Review
5. Best Reliable: PowerSmart 1200 Watts Generator
The PowerSmart 1200 Watts Generator is a reliable and compact power solution that is perfect for camping trips and other outdoor activities. With its easy assembly, clean power output, and lightweight design, this generator offers convenience and functionality. Read Review
Are you looking for a reliable and powerful generator to power your home, RV, or job site? If so, you are not alone. Many people are turning to generators as a way to provide power in emergencies and during times of extreme weather. With so many options on the market, knowing which one is right for you can be difficult.
We have put together this guide to the best small generators available. Whether you are looking for a portable generator for camping or a whole-house generator for emergency backup power, we can help you find the right one for your needs. Let's look at some of the best small generators today.
Our team had to focus on researching for hours to get such results for readers. This type of study uses customer star ratings and customer interviews on their product experiences. As a result, we think the best small generators is Westinghouse 194Wh Generator. This generator is a powerhouse with versatile outlets that can charge up to six devices simultaneously, including household appliances and electronics. We also show the other fantastic alternatives with a complete guide below.
RELATED: Review the 10 best electric generators for home use of 2024, researched by us. Read More.
Our Top Picks
Versatile outlets 194 Watt-Hours Li-Ion battery power Can fit into your backpack effortlessly Built-in tri-mode flashlight
The panel is not included
Regarding portable power, the Westinghouse 194Wh Generator stands out with its impressive features. This generator is a powerhouse with versatile outlets that can charge up to six devices simultaneously, including household appliances and electronics. It can also charge cellphones up to 21 times and DSLR cameras up to 20 times with its 194 Watt-Hours Li-Ion battery power. You can even power a Nintendo Switch, drones, and food warmers for extended periods.
Moreover, weighing just 4.03 lbs, it's lighter than a Bluetooth speaker and can fit into your backpack effortlessly. The built-in tri-mode flashlight adds to its convenience and makes it a reliable charging station for all your outdoor adventures. Plus, it takes less than 4 hours to charge up to 80% using a household outlet or less than 5 hours in the car or with a solar panel. Unfortunately, the panel is not included, so you need to buy it separately.
600W AC inverter Has ultra-fast charging capability Supports up to 200W of solar input Offers reliable, uninterrupted power supply (UPS) functionality
The fan can be a bit noisy when it starts running
With a 600W AC inverter, a 268Wh LiFePO4 battery pack, and nine outlets, it can keep your essential devices powered during a home power outage or on your outdoor adventures. This product has ultra-fast charging capability, so you can charge it at a maximum of 350W using a single cable, and when combined with PV+AC charging, you can reach an 80% state of charge in just 30 minutes. It also supports up to 200W of solar input, allowing you to harness the sun's power and create an efficient solar generator.
The BLUETTI EB3A Generator offers reliable, uninterrupted power supply (UPS) functionality. It instantly provides backup power when the grid fails, ensuring the safety of sensitive devices, such as desktop PCs and file servers. Nevertheless, the fan can be a bit noisy when it starts running. However, after a short period, it quiets down, and the noise becomes negligible.
Clean and quiet power Fuel shutoff feature Safe for sensitive electronics Lightweight and portable
The Parallel Connection Kit is not included
The WEN 2,350-Watt Inverter Generator offers an exceptional power solution that is clean, quiet, and efficient. Its 79cc 4-stroke OHV engine operates at a remarkably quiet 51 decibels, making it quieter than a window air conditioner or an average conversation. Additionally, it automatically shuts down after using up the remaining fuel from the carburetor, minimizing maintenance and extending the unit's lifespan.
With its pure sine wave design, this generator is safe to run laptops, cellphones, monitors, tablets, and other sensitive electronics. It limits total harmonic distortion to under 0.3 percent at no load and under 1.2 percent at full load, ensuring the protection of your valuable devices. For those who require more power, you can easily link two WEN inverter generators using a WEN Parallel Connection Kit to share wattage between multiple units. However, the Parallel Connection Kit is not included, so you need to buy it if you want to use it.
Lightweight design and built-in handle TruePower™ Technology Has Economy Mode LED indicators keep you informed about the unit's status
Not very powerful to handle high-demand tasks
The Generac GP2500i Generator is a true powerhouse in a compact package. Its lightweight design and built-in handle make it incredibly easy to transport, allowing you to take it wherever your adventures take you. The TruePower™ Technology ensures it produces clean power safe for various sensitive electronics, tools, and appliances.
Additionally, the Economy Mode of this generator automatically adjusts engine speeds to optimize fuel consumption and reduce sound emissions. It also has LED indicators that keep you informed about the unit's status. They alert you when the unit is low on oil, overloaded, or ready to use, ensuring you can monitor its performance effortlessly. Although it is not very powerful to handle high-demand tasks, it still offers ample power for your essential devices and equipment. Overall, it is still an excellent choice for outdoor enthusiasts who value portability and convenience.
Compact design and lightweight construction Setting it up is a breeze 2-stroke engine with a recoil start Provides clean and reliable power
Quite hard to start the generator for the first time
The PowerSmart 1200 Watts Generator is a reliable companion for your outdoor adventures. Its compact design and lightweight construction make it easy to transport, allowing you to take it on camping trips, tailgating events, or any other outdoor activity where power is needed. Setting it up is a breeze, so you can quickly get it up and running without hassle. The 2-stroke engine with a recoil start ensures a reliable and straightforward operation, even for first-time users.
With a 120V household outlet and a 12V DC output, this generator provides clean and reliable power for sensitive equipment, such as phones and laptops. You can rest assured that your devices will be protected from power fluctuations and surges. The minor drawback is that starting the generator for the first time is quite hard, but you can get used to it after some use.
Advanced inverter technology Offers clean and stable power output Advanced power rush technology Digital smart LCD display
The control panel can be pushed out if you are careless
The Generac IQ3500 Generator is an excellent device for portable power. Its advanced inverter technology guarantees a peaceful environment, making it perfect for camping trips and home use. This generator offers clean and stable power output, making it suitable for various activities, including outdoor events and backup power for your home. The advanced power rush technology ensures reliable performance and easy handling of demanding tasks.
Furthermore, the digital smart LCD display provides valuable information at a glance, allowing you to monitor wattage, run time, generator status, and fuel level. The inclusion of USB ports is a thoughtful addition, enabling you to charge your mobile devices on the go. The electric start with a power dial further enhances the convenience of operating the generator. However, it doesn't have wheels. While the generator is not excessively heavy, having wheels would make it even more effortless to move around.
Versatile and reliable Dual-fuel capability Ultra-quiet operation Compact size and lightweight
The instructions could have more detailed information
The Champion Power Equipment 2500-Watt Generator is a versatile and reliable power source. Its dual-fuel capability allows you to use either gasoline or propane, providing flexibility and convenience. With an ultra-quiet operation, this generator ensures a peaceful environment while delivering ample power. The included outlets offer clean electricity, making powering your sensitive devices and appliances safe.
A remarkable feature of this Champion inverter is the ability to connect it in parallel with another Champion inverter of the same wattage, thus doubling your power output. The generator's compact size and light weight make it exceptionally portable, and the 12V automotive-style outlet and the twin USB adaptor contribute to the device's adaptability. Nonetheless, it would be best if the instructions could have more detailed information. But with its user-friendly design and straightforward operation, it doesn't take long to figure things out.
More To Consider
What to Look For in a best small generators?
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.
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.
Type
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.
FAQs
What size generator do I need?
The size of generator you need will depend on the size of your home, the number of appliances you need to power, and the wattage of each appliance. A general rule of thumb is to size the generator to the largest appliance you need to power. For small homes or apartments, a generator with a wattage of up to 3,500 watts should be sufficient.
What safety precautions should I take when using a small generator?
Always read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions before using a generator. Never use a generator indoors or in an enclosed space, as this can increase the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. Make sure the generator is well ventilated and away from any combustible materials. Ensure the generator is firmly secured and properly grounded. Finally, always disconnect any appliances before turning off the generator, and never overload the generator with too many appliances.
What type of fuel does a small generator use?
Most small generators run on gasoline, diesel, or propane. Make sure to check the manufacturer’s specifications to ensure you are using the correct fuel for your generator.
There are numerous points to pick from in general, but doing so well may help you be more convenient and save time! When selecting a best small generators, pay close attention to the elements listed above, and don't forget to verify the safety.
Have you picked a product like that after reading our article on how to choose and top the best small generators? Hopefully, the information provided will assist you in selecting the best option for you.
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About Hailey Abbott
