Our lives run on power, but sometimes the power runs out. Fortunately, there are many kinds of electric generators that will back up your life with the power you need to live, work, and play.
We've compiled the Best Electric Generators of 2024 based on our best-selling, highest-rated models with expert recommendations to ensure you get the perfect type for your needs.
If you're not sure what kind of generator you need, check out our Generator Buyer’s Guide to get started and come back to the list for an expert recommendation.
| Best Portable Generator | Best Home Standby Generator | Best Inverter Generator | Best RV Generator | Best Solar Generator |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| | | | | |
If you need a workhorse of a generator, this is it. The GP8000E gives you 10,000 starting watts of power, simple setup and operation, and the Generac reputation all in one portable unit. You can back up all critical appliances—fridge, furnace, sump pump, and more—during a power outage, especially if you connect it to a manual transfer switch.
A foldable handlebar and never-flat wheels make it very manageable for anyone to get the GP8000E into position or storage. Plus, with its electric start button, everyone, from your 15-year-old to grandma, can easily start and use this machine—no pesky pull cord to wrestle with.
Once it’s running, you can count on it to stay running for up to 10 hours on a 50% load. It comes with two NEMA 5-20R – GFCI plugs for most of your basic appliances and one NEPA L14-30R plug for use with a manual transfer switch or convenience cord.
Overall, the Generac GP8000E gets my vote for the best all-around portable generator for its long-lasting performance, robust yet user-friendly design, and applicability to a range of situations, including emergency home backup. All at a great value.
| Power |
| -Gasoline: 8,000 running/10,000 starting watts |
| Usability |
| -Push-button electric start -Runs up to 10 hours at 50% load -Fold-down handle/Never-flat wheels -CO sensor |
| Noise |
| -73-75 decibels, or the sound of road traffic |
| Versatility |
| -Two 5-20R-GFCI outlets -One L14-30R outlet |
| Overall Value |
| Relatively inexpensive for the power and versatility. |
There's a portable generator for everyone out there, whether you need to back up essentials during a storm or are seeking some extra power in the great outdoors. We've cut through the clutter to help you get the right amount of power for whatever you are doing.
Built in the United States, the Generac Guardian 7209 is the gold standard for home standby generators. Boasting up to 24kW of power, the Guardian can be set up to run on either natural gas or liquid propane as a fuel source (but you must decide this at installation time).
Once installed, this unit is more than capable of quickly and automatically powering all your home's essentials plus extras during a power grid failure. Pair it with a service disconnect automatic transfer switch to get AC shedding for up to four HVAC systems. That means you'll be able to prioritize which circuits get power. The transfer switch can automatically cut power to an HVAC system if there's too much load on the generator from your priority appliances.
The Guardian works with Generac's Mobile Link™ Wi-Fi remote monitoring application, which monitors the generator's status on a smartphone, tablet, or PC. This is extremely useful if you're at work or out of town during a power outage and want to make sure everything is working properly. Simple on-unit digital controls, including a programmable exerciser, let you set how often and at what time the generator will self-test.
You can count on the Guardian to last with Generac's G-Force engine and a full-pressure lubrication system that keeps the parts moving smoothly. Its durable, all-aluminum sound-reducing enclosure shields internal components from the elements and significantly reduces noise. Finally, a 5-year Generac limited manufacturer's warranty protects your investment from defects. All-in-all, virtually no one can go wrong by choosing this home generator.
| Power |
| Natural Gas: 21 kW Propane: 24 kW |
| Application Readiness |
| -Great for whole-home backup -Runs on propane or natural gas -Durable, sound attenuated enclosure |
| Usability |
| -Works w/ WiFi remote monitoring -Can be installed 18-in from a structure -Quiet self-test mode -Automatic digital voltage regulation |
| Warranty |
| -5-year limited warranty -Built in the USA |
| Overall Value |
| The best home standby generator for the price. |
Depending on where you live, you might face power outages from hurricanes, rolling blackouts, blizzards, and more. Enough is enough! A home standby generator can automatically keep everything you need powered, making outages a thing of the past.
Inverter generators are portable generators designed for cleaner power, quiet performance, and higher efficiency. Of these, the Honda EU7000is is the most versatile. Providing 7,000 starting watts, you can use it for anything from camping to RVs, to even basic home backup during an emergency. No matter what you use it for, you’ll barely hear its 52-60 decibels of volume. Plus, its Eco Throttle system provides outstanding fuel efficiency—up to 18 hours of runtime at 25% load.
What’s special about the EU7000is versus other inverter generators is its multiple plug types. It has two NEMA 5-20R – GFCI receptacles for common appliances and a NEMA L5-30R and NEMA L14-30R for larger items, including connection to a manual transfer switch or convenience cord. These receptacles let you utilize this generator’s full potential.
Worth emphasizing is this generator’s compatibility with the "My Generator" app from Honda. Using this wireless app, you can remotely start the generator and monitor power output, oil life, engine hours, and more. The app will also send you reminders for mandatory generator maintenance like oil changes.
The generator will automatically shut down if it detects too much CO buildup. Finally, a wheel kit and folding handle make it easy to transport. Overall, this time-tested generator will live up to and exceed your expectations for years to come.
| Power |
| -Gasoline: 5,500 running/ 7,000 starting watts |
| Usability |
| -Backs up basic home appliances, RVs, outdoor events -Runs up to 18 hours at 25% load with Eco Throttle -CO detection/shutdown technology -WiFi & Bluetooth capability -Low oil alert -Push-button electric start -Wheel kit & folding handle |
| Versatility |
| -2 NEMA 5-20R outlets -1 L5-30R -1 L14-30R twist-lock outlet |
| Overall Value |
| Worth the premium price due to its high wattage that doesn't compromise on noise or clean power |
Compact, clean, and quiet, inverter generators will power your needs while keeping a low profile. Whether you’re camping, tailgating, or looking for basic home backup power, inverters are a great option, and we’ll walk you through the best on the market.
If you need a workhorse of a generator that also gives you great value while on the move, this is it. The Cummins Onan 5.5kw packs serious power in a compact package, offering superior noise reduction and fuel efficiency.
This generator will run two 13,500 BTU AC units with 1,100 additional watts available to power other items simultaneously. It's also one of the quietest RV generators in its class and has excellent fuel efficiency. Not to mention it's CARB and EPA-compliant in every state. Plus, it is certified for use in USDA Forest Service locations due to its spark-arrestor muffler for sound and emissions restrictions.
Great for Class A and C motorhomes with single or dual air conditioning, the Cummins Onan 5.5kW is perfectly suited for fifth wheels, travel trailers, sport utility trailers, horse trailers, and industrial vehicles. Featuring a universal mounting tray with vibration isolators and a sound-attenuating enclosure, it'll fit right into locations with noise ordinances.
Overall, the Cummins Onan RV QG5500 gets my vote for the best all-around RV generator for its long-lasting performance and ability to adapt to a wide range of needs. All at a great value.
| Power |
| -Gasoline: 5.5kW -Can power two 13,500 BTU AC units simultaneously |
| Usability |
| -Digital voltage regulator with self-diagnostic capability -Sound-attenuating enclosure -One-touch stop switch -Automotive-type starter |
| Noise |
| -67 decibels at 3 meters, or the sound of normal conversation -Has vibration isolators and sound-attenuating enclosure mount. |
| Versatility |
| -Universal mounting tray -EVAP compliant |
| Overall Value |
| Relatively inexpensive for its power and features, and the overall value makes it difficult to pass up. |
Getting a recreational vehicle is exciting, but without adequate power for things like lights, appliances, and precious AC, you might as well camp in the backyard. If you own an RV, you're serious about staying comfortable on the road. The right RV generator can help get you there.
The EcoFlow DELTA Max 2000 is a perfect example of how solar generators are becoming a viable alternative to gas-powered units. With a 2,016-watt-hour lithium battery pack that can provide 2,400 running watts and 5,000 starting watts, the DELTA Max 2000 can handle everything from camping to basic home backup. You can even parallel multiple units for extra power. Plus, DELTA Max has a unique technology called “X-Boost,” which can provide a 3,400-watt surge of power if you need it (although this will quickly drain the battery).
Charging is a cinch with the ability to use solar panels, a wall outlet, or a car charger. Using a wall outlet, the DELTA will fully charge in under two hours, which is among the fastest charging times I’ve seen. For solar charging, you can connect up to two 400-watt EcoFlow solar panels or use the MC4 connector if you have other panel brands. Charging speed will vary depending on the solar panels you use.
Once charged, its battery has a one-year shelf-life, so it’ll be ready to go when the next power outage hits. Thirteen outlet receptacles let you plug in standard wall plugs and USB cables. At only 48 pounds, this generator is easy to take where you need it, and you can even control and monitor everything remotely using the wireless EcoFlow app. Overall, the DELTA Max 2000 is a powerhouse without the noise, fumes, or maintenance that comes with gas-powered generators. The relatively low price makes this an even better catch.
| Power |
| -2,400 running/5,000 starting watts -X-Boost allows continuous surge of 3,400 watts -2,016-Wh lithium battery pack w/ expandable capacity to 6,000Wh |
| Usability |
| -Fully charges in under 2-hrs via wall outlet -1-year shelf life at full charge -Compact design & weighs 48 pounds for easy storage & transport -Works with EcoFlow app for control/monitoring -Safe for electronics |
| Versatility |
| -Charges on AC, DC, or solar power -Compatible with EV charging stations -Multiple output receptacles including NEMA 5-15R, USB-A, USB-C & car power output |
| Overall Value |
| Hassle-free power source with a relatively inexpensive price tag. |
Solar and battery technology has come a long way, and you can now power your essentials using a portable power station, commonly called a solar generator. No combustion means you can run these units indoors or outdoors, and they are almost silent. Step into the future today!