Even if you live in an area where power interruptions are rare, owning a backup generator can never go awry. For the occasional Pandemic (yes, the pun is intentional) and natural disaster, a generator ensures you always have electricity. As you examine the generators for sale, you probably wonder how you’ll figure out which one will work for you. The most important features you should consider are price, fuel tank, noise level, type, and efficiency.
1. DuroMax XP12000EH
It uses a four-stroke engine and can run for over eight hours uninterrupted on a full tank and maximum output. The generator isn’t heavy either, which isn’t surprising given how much dough you’ll need to shell out for it. XP12000EH is also a dual-fuel setup, which means you don’t have to worry about abandoning that propane tank for gas.
Features
- 12,000W output
- Electric start
- 457-cm3 engine displacement
- 120V or 240V output
- 18HP 457cc OHV engine
- EPA and CARB certified
- 224lbs
Pros
- Approved for 50 states
- Surprising lightweight
- Super-high wattage
- Can use gas or LPG fuel
- Three-year warranty
Cons
- Expensive
Price: View on Amazon
2. WEN 56203i
It’s one of the most lightweight and uber-silent inverter generators you can lay hands on this 2021. The power solution comes with a one-gallon tank and fuel shutoff system that maximizes the carburetor’s lifecycle. You also won’t have to worry about durability because WEN provides a two-year warranty for the engine.
Features
- 2000w surge wattage
- Four-stroke 79cc OHV engine
- CARB compliant
- Quarter load 10.8Hr runtime
- 51dB max noise level
- 79cm3 engine displacement
- 39lbs
Pros
- Ultra-lightweight
- Affordable and high-performing
- Runs quietly
- Smart fuel solution
- Super-efficient
Cons
- Doesn’t come with a grounding wire
Price: View on Amazon
3. Briggs & Stratton P4500 Power Smart
While this inverter generator is expensive, its 4,500w wattage seems to be worth the cost. With its 3.5-gallon tank, 30Ah/120V output, and 16.25hr runtime, P4500 is enough for most of your household needs. Power Smart can also automatically adjust its output, fuel consumption, and noise level based on your requirements.
Features
- Four-stroke engine
- Electronic ignition
- RV ready
- CO guard
- SAE-30 oil
- 61dB max noise
- Lead-acid battery
Pros
- Smooth output with True sine wave technology
- Eco-friendly CO protection
- Two USB ports for direct charging
- Portable with easy handling
- High-quality everyday performance
Cons
- Noisy and expensive
- Not parallel ready
Price: View on Amazon
4. Generac GP3500iO
One feature that you’ll love about this generator is the open-frame design that makes it exceptionally easy to repair. You can quickly open up the engine with a simple screwdriver and wrench in the event of any issue. It’s also RV-ready, which means that it can directly connect to an RV without any form of professional aid.
Features
- 3500w wattage
- Inverter engine
- PowerRush technology
- Parallel ready
- Two USB connections
- 74lbs
Pros
- Can directly connect to an RV
- Affordable
- Low noise level
- Smooth output
- Hassle-free installation
Cons
- Difficult to operate
- 3500w is too low for such a price
Price: View on Amazon
5. Westinghouse iGen4500
While iGen4500 shares a similar price-tag with Generac GP3500iO, it offers much more wattage. The engine can reach a peak of 4500w and maintain 3700w on-the-ready. It includes a rotating digital display to record output, fuel level, lifetime hours, and more.
Features
- Key fob
- Four-gallon tank
- 93lbs in weight
- Electric/recoil ignition
- RV ready
- 18hrs runtime
- 52dB noise level
- CARB-certified
Pros
- Offers two USB ports
- Includes an eco-mode for better efficiency
- Lightweight and ultra-quiet
- Excellent design
- Strong enough for a bungalow
Cons
- Not parallel capable or dual fuel
- Difficult to maintain
Price: View on Amazon
