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10 Best Generators 2026 in the United States
#1
Winner
DuroMax XP16000iHT 16,000-Watt Tri Fuel Portable Digital Inverter Generator - Gas, Propane & Natural Gas, Remote Electric Start, Whole Home Power Backup, Transfer Switch Ready, RV & Emergency Ready
The DuroMax XP16000iHT is a powerful tri-fuel generator offering up to 16,000 watts of starting power and 13,000 watts running power, making it suitable for whole home backup, RVs, or job sites. Its ability to run on gasoline, propane, or natural gas provides great fuel flexibility, which is useful if you want options during emergencies or changing fuel availability. The generator includes two 50-amp outlets, allowing easy connection to a home transfer switch or generator interlock, perfect for powering multiple appliances or an entire house.
Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,411
Power Output (Wattage)
Fuel Type
Run Time
Most important from
191 reviews
#2
DuroMax XP15000HX 15,000-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator - Gas & Propane, Remote Electric Start, Whole Home Power Backup, Transfer Switch Ready, RV & Emergency Ready
The DuroMax XP15000HX is a powerful dual fuel generator delivering up to 15,000 starting watts and 12,000 running watts, making it well-suited for whole-home backup during outages or heavy-duty commercial use. Its ability to run on both gasoline and propane offers flexibility—propane is cleaner, lasts longer in storage, and is easy on maintenance. The generator features a large 670cc engine with all-copper windings, which means it’s built for durability and long-term use. Starting it is simple with a push-button remote electric start, and switching between fuels is quick thanks to a front-facing fuel selector. The control panel is user-friendly, showing important information like voltage and maintenance hours on a digital meter.
Rating
10.0
Power Output (Wattage)
Most important from
2371 reviews
#3
WEN 14,500-Watt 120V/240V Tri-Fuel Generator for Gas, Propane, and Natural Gas, Transfer-Switch Ready with Electric Start, Wheel Kit, and CO Watchdog (TF1450X)
The WEN 14,500-Watt Tri-Fuel Generator is a strong choice for anyone needing versatile and powerful backup power. It offers a high power output with 14,500 surge watts and 11,500 running watts on gasoline, making it capable of running multiple heavy-duty appliances or tools at once. The tri-fuel capability is a standout feature—it can run on gasoline, propane, or natural gas, allowing flexibility depending on fuel availability or preference, which is useful during emergencies or extended outages.
Rating
9.1
Power Output (Wattage)
Fuel Type
Run Time
Most important from
2008 reviews
Top 10 Best Generators 2026 in the United States
#1
Winner
DuroMax XP16000iHT 16,000-Watt Tri Fuel Portable Digital Inverter Generator - Gas, Propane & Natural Gas, Remote Electric Start, Whole Home Power Backup, Transfer Switch Ready, RV & Emergency Ready
DuroMax XP16000iHT 16,000-Watt Tri Fuel Portable Digital Inverter Generator - Gas, Propane & Natural Gas, Remote Electric Start, Whole Home Power Backup, Transfer Switch Ready, RV & Emergency Ready
Power Output (Wattage): 16000W start, 13000W running
Fuel Type: Gasoline, Propane, Natural Gas
Run Time: 10.5 Gallons tank volume
Portability: Portable, 505 pounds
Outlets and Connectivity: Two 50-amp outlets
Chosen by 1411 this week
DuroMax XP15000HX 15,000-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator - Gas & Propane, Remote Electric Start, Whole Home Power Backup, Transfer Switch Ready, RV & Emergency Ready
DuroMax XP15000HX 15,000-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator - Gas & Propane, Remote Electric Start, Whole Home Power Backup, Transfer Switch Ready, RV & Emergency Ready
Power Output (Wattage): 15000 starting, 12000 running watts
Fuel Type: Gasoline, Liquefied Petroleum Gas
Portability: Wheels, handle, 345 pounds
Start Type: Push-button remote electric start
Inverter Technology: No
WEN 14,500-Watt 120V/240V Tri-Fuel Generator for Gas, Propane, and Natural Gas, Transfer-Switch Ready with Electric Start, Wheel Kit, and CO Watchdog (TF1450X)
WEN 14,500-Watt 120V/240V Tri-Fuel Generator for Gas, Propane, and Natural Gas, Transfer-Switch Ready with Electric Start, Wheel Kit, and CO Watchdog (TF1450X)
Power Output (Wattage): 14500W surge, 11500W running
Fuel Type: Gasoline, Propane, Natural Gas
Run Time: Up to 12 hours at half load
Portability: 252 pounds, includes wheel kit
Outlets and Connectivity: Multiple outlets: household, heavy-duty, 12V
Generac 10,000 Starting Watt Portable Gas Generator - Electric Start - Home Backup or RV Ready - Heavy Duty Frame - Quiet, Long Runtime, Emergency Power - 49-State Compliant
Generac 10,000 Starting Watt Portable Gas Generator - Electric Start - Home Backup or RV Ready - Heavy Duty Frame - Quiet, Long Runtime, Emergency Power - 49-State Compliant
Power Output (Wattage): 8000 watts
Fuel Type: Gasoline
Run Time: 11 hours
Portability: Portable, 214 lbs
Start Type: Electric start
Inverter Technology: No
Generac Guardian 26kW Home Standby Generator - Automatic Whole House Backup Power for Storms, Emergencies, and Outages, WiFi Enabled, Runs on Natural Gas or Liquid Propane, Quiet Operation
Generac Guardian 26kW Home Standby Generator - Automatic Whole House Backup Power for Storms, Emergencies, and Outages, WiFi Enabled, Runs on Natural Gas or Liquid Propane, Quiet Operation
Power Output (Wattage): 26,000 watts
Fuel Type: Natural or LP Gas
Portability: Not portable
Noise Level: Super Quiet
Outlets and Connectivity: 4 outlets, built-in Wi-Fi
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Honda EU7000IS 7,000 Watt Inverter Portable Backup Generator, Super Quiet, Electric Start
Honda EU7000IS 7,000 Watt Inverter Portable Backup Generator, Super Quiet, Electric Start
Power Output (Wattage): 7000 starting, 5500 running
Fuel Type: Fuel Powered
Run Time: 6 hours 30 minutes
Portability: Portable, 270 pounds
Noise Level: Super quiet
Start Type: Electric Start
Inverter Technology: Yes
DuroMax XP13000HXT 13,000-Watt 500cc Tri Fuel Gas Propane Natural Gas Portable Generator with CO Alert, Black/Blue
DuroMax XP13000HXT 13,000-Watt 500cc Tri Fuel Gas Propane Natural Gas Portable Generator with CO Alert, Black/Blue
Power Output (Wattage): 13000 starting, 10500 running watts
Fuel Type: Gasoline, Propane, Natural Gas
Run Time: 8 hours
Portability: Wheel, handle kit, 240 pounds
Noise Level: 74 dB
Outlets and Connectivity: 7 outlets, 50 amp switch-ready
DuroMax XP11000iH 11,000-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Digital Inverter Generator - Gas & Propane, Remote Electric Start, Transfer Switch Ready, RV & Emergency Ready
DuroMax XP11000iH 11,000-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Digital Inverter Generator - Gas & Propane, Remote Electric Start, Transfer Switch Ready, RV & Emergency Ready
Power Output (Wattage): 11000
Fuel Type: Gasoline, Propane
Portability: Portable
Start Type: Electric, Remote Start
Inverter Technology: Yes
WEN Quiet 6800-Watt Dual Fuel RV-Ready Electric Start Portable Inverter Generator with Fuel Shut Off and CO Watchdog for Electric Vehicle Backup (DF680iX)
WEN Quiet 6800-Watt Dual Fuel RV-Ready Electric Start Portable Inverter Generator with Fuel Shut Off and CO Watchdog for Electric Vehicle Backup (DF680iX)
Power Output (Wattage): 6800 surge, 5100 running watts
Fuel Type: Gasoline, Liquefied Petroleum Gas
Portability: 99 lbs, wheels, telescoping handle
Outlets and Connectivity: 120V, 240V, RV, 12V, USB ports
#10
Honda 665740 EU3200i 3200 Watt Bluetooth Portable Inverter Generator 49-State
Honda 665740 EU3200i 3200 Watt Bluetooth Portable Inverter Generator 49-State
Power Output (Wattage): 3200 watts
Fuel Type: Gasoline
Portability: 65 lbs, 12"L x 18"W x 22"H
Outlets and Connectivity: 3 power outlets
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Buying Guide for the Best Generators
Choosing the right generator can make it much easier to handle power outages, run equipment at job sites, or even enjoy comforts during camping trips. To find the best fit for your needs, it's important to understand the key specifications that affect how a generator will perform in different situations. Each user's main need—whether it's for emergency home backup, powering tools, or recreational use—should guide their decisions as they compare different options.Power Output (Wattage)Power output, measured in watts, tells you how much electrical equipment your generator can run at once. This spec is crucial because using a generator that's too small for your needs can lead to overloaded circuits, while buying one much larger than required means unnecessary size and maintenance. Power output is usually divided into 'starting watts' (the initial burst needed for appliances like fridges to kick on) and 'running watts' (the steady power required). For light, occasional use like camping, small generators around 1,000-2,000 watts may suffice. Medium duty, such as running a few household essentials or some tools, often needs 3,000-5,000 watts. Heavy duty, like whole house backup or construction jobs, usually begins at 6,500 watts and up. To choose, list out what you want to run and check their wattages to find the right fit.
Fuel TypeGenerators run on fuels like gasoline, diesel, propane, or even dual-fuel combinations. Each has its pros and cons in terms of availability, storage, and long-term maintenance. Gasoline is easy to find and portable but spoils over time and needs more frequent maintenance. Diesel engines are more robust for heavy, prolonged use but generally louder and heavier. Propane stores well for longer periods and burns cleaner, making it popular for occasional or emergency use. Some models can switch between fuels, offering flexibility. When deciding, think about how often you'll use the generator and which fuels are most convenient and safe for you to store and access.
Run TimeRun time measures how long a generator can operate on a single tank of fuel at a specified load (usually half capacity). This spec matters because longer run times mean fewer interruptions to refuel, which can be essential during outages or long events. Short run time (around 4-6 hours) might be enough for camping or intermittent use, while 8-12 hours or more is more comfortable for overnight backup or all-day job sites. Match this to your expected usage pattern; if you need to run things overnight, look for longer run times at your typical load.
PortabilityPortability describes how easy it is to move the generator. Small, lightweight models with handles are great for outdoor recreation or occasional use, while larger, heavier units may have wheels and sturdy frames for mobility on job sites or around the home. If the generator is mostly staying in one place for emergencies, weight might not matter much; but if you plan to move it often, check the weight and ensure it has features like wheels or ergonomic handles.
Noise LevelNoise level, measured in decibels (dB), tells you how loud the generator will be running, which can affect your comfort and local regulations. Quiet generators (below 60 dB) are more suitable for camping, RVs, or residential neighborhoods, while construction site models can be much louder (70 dB and above). If you need peace and quiet or will be using it near other people, focus on lower-noise options; for remote or outdoor work, higher noise may not be as important.
Outlets and ConnectivityDifferent generators offer various combinations of outlets, such as standard household, RV, twist-lock, or USB types. Some models also include features like parallel connections (to link two generators for more power) or transfer switch compatibility for easier home backup. The right choice depends on what you need to plug in: For electronics, look for pure sine wave or inverter generators; for direct home connection, ensure the generator meets relevant safety and transfer switch requirements.