Having a backup generator not only gives you peace of mind but also prepares you better for a power outage during a weather-related emergency, natural disaster, and even a pandemic. The most popular generators to buy is a portable generator because it keeps you safe at home and powers your appliances, tools, and electronic devices for RV trips, camping, and job sites.
As you shop, factors such as startup power, fuel type, tank size, runtime, noise level, and the number of outlets ultimately affects the quality, efficiency, and price of a generator.
Ready to shop? Check out our list of top 10 best generators for home and remote use below:
Top 10 Best Backup Generators in 2021
1. Cabela’s Outdoorsman Generator by Champion
Cabela’s Outdoorsman 3800/4750-Watt Generator provides portable and easy-to-start power for home emergencies and travel use (including a wireless start that works from as far as 80 feet!) It has a 3.8-gallon gas tank that runs for up to 10 hours at 50% load.
You’ll love the integrated control panel with a Champion Intelligauge™ display that helps you keep track of the operating hours, voltage, and frequency. Other features include never-flat tires, a folding handle, and electronic push-button ignition (plus a backup recoil starter).
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2. XtremepowerUS Gas Powered Portable Generator
The XtremepowerUS Portable Generator is a durable, robust unit with a heavy-duty, steel frame roll cage that protects the generator’s 7HP air-cooled engine, which has a run time of up to 10 hours on a single tank of fuel.
The power panel features an engine shut-off switch, volt meter, and circuit breaker. The generator has three AC and DC outlets for charging and powering multiple devices at once.
Other features include a user-friendly recoil start and a maximum output of 4,000 watts.
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3. Champion Digital Hybrid Generator
Here’s a generator boasting half the noise, 20 percent lighter weight, and a more compact design than previous Champion models. The engine produces 4,000 starting watts and 3,500 running watts of power. An Economy mode saves fuel and extends engine life, running up to 17 hours at 25% load. It also has several receptacles, including a 30-amp RV and 12-volt DC.
This hybrid generator comes fully assembled and includes the following:
- Quick Touch control panel
- USB adapter with two car ports
- Automotive-style battery cables
- Oil funnel
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4. Generac Home Standby Generator
The Generac Home Standby Generator is one of the largest air-cooled generators on the market. It has an automatic 200-amp transfer switch that ensures zero power interruptions during outages. At 50 percent load, you can get up to 30 hours of continuous run time. This generator operates with liquid propane and natural gas.
Ideal for smart homes, the PWRview home energy management system also makes it easier to monitor and manage home energy usage for lower utility costs.
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5. Powerbuilt Portable Digital Inverter Generator
The Powerbuilt USB Generator has a lightweight, compact design that’s perfect for camping, road trips, and home use during power outages. With 2,000 surge watts and 1,600 running watts, you can power small appliances, laptops, TVs, and other devices—up to 12 hours of runtime at 25 percent load. The generator also has two 120V outlets and dual USB outlets.
Other features include:
- Fuel-saving Economy switch
- 1.2-gallon fuel tank capacity
- Low oil shutdown mechanism
- Spark plug wrench and funnel
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6. Duromax Hybrid Portable Generator
Stay prepared for any power outage with the best-selling Duromax Hybrid Generator, which delivers 12,000 watts of power through flexible, dual-fuel technology. At 50 percent maximum output, this generator runs for up to 20 hours with propane and 10 hours with gas.
The full power panel has an oil warning light, volt meter, circuit breaker, and power outlets.
Other features include:
- Electric start
- Noise-reducing muffler
- Low oil shut-off engine protection
- Propane hose
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7. Westinghouse Gasoline/Propane Portable Generator
The Westinghouse WGen9500DF Generator is a dual-fuel generator with a heavy-duty engine that’s ideal for home backup power (it produces up to 12,500 peak watts and 9,500 running watts!). It has a 6.6 gallon (25 L) gas tank that runs for up to 12 hours.
The generator produces enough juice to operate major appliances—such as refrigerators, air conditioners, sump pumps, and more—with a single cord hookup. It has an intuitive control panel and VFT Data Center that displays real-time details on volt output, frequency, and lifetime hours.
Other highlights:
- Push-button electric start
- Remote start key fob
- Never-flat wheels, handle and lift bracket
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8. Generac Inverter Portable Gas Generator
The Generac iQ3500 is a durable yet lightweight, portable inverter generator with a 2.6-gallon fuel tank capacity and two engine speeds for optimized power or reducing noise and fuel consumption through its Economy Mode. It has multiple startup options: a recoil pull-start, an intuitive PowerDial with a start -, run-, and stop function, plus a battery-operated Electric Start.
Other features include:
- 3,500 surge watts and 3,000 running watts
- PowerRUSH Advanced Technology (for over 50% more starting capacity)
- Digital Smart LCD
- USB ports for charging mobile devices
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9. Mr. Emergency Portable Generator
When you need power in a pinch, the Mr. Emergency Portable Generator is a short-term, 150-watt solution with two 120-volt AC power outlets and a USB port that can charge laptops and mobile devices, plus operate most televisions up to 21 inches.
The 9-amp hour battery recharges via a charger and power outlet or standard solar panel.
Besides having an LCD screen display, this emergency home power unit also has a few unique features, like two rows of six LED lights, a digital alarm system, and a mirror.
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10. Gymax Portable Solar Power Generator
Here’s an eco-friendly generator that uses AC adaptors, car cigarette sockets, and solar panels to recharge! The Gymax Solar Power Generator has a maximum 400Wh capacity for indoor and outdoor use. It operates without the noise and fumes of gas-powered generators.
The generator is powerful enough to operate household appliances, personal electronic devices, and power tools. It can also jumpstart your car and help keep lights on during an emergency.
Other key features:
- Built-in LED flashlight
- Four USB charge ports
- Electric plug-in operation
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