Generators come in handy when you experience a power outage, but they can be used for other reasons such as powering tools.
Shortcut to Amazon’s best rated portable generators here
Some generators are stationary (standby generators) while others are portable and can be taken to camping trips or used out in your garage or shop. When looking for the best portable generator, analyze reviews written online about the item. See what you can live with and what is a deal breaker.
There are actually quiet a few makes and models of generator worth having, and these are some of the best portable genny’s for the money. Other top selling and rated brands are Westinghouse, Duramax, and Lifan are great larger wattage inverter generators
Best portable generator under $700
This Generac 5939 GP5500 Portable Gas Powered Generator costs just under $700 online and received decent ratings from its Amazon reviewers, making this one of the best portable generator reviews. It has an ergonomic handle that locks and folds down for easy maneuverability and storage. It has a wheel kit and its compact design makes it easy to fit in small places, making it convenient to store. It has 9.5 inch tires that never go flat.
It has an a/c voltage of 120/240 and a frequency of 60Hz. It has 6,875 surge watts and 5,500 continuous watts which is plenty to run the basics of home, at home or while RVing or camping. It can run for 10 hours at half load, giving you plenty of time to be safely away from the unit and it comes with a 7.2 fuel tank that is made of steel and a fuel gauge.
It non carb compliant and is not sold in the state of California. It has a circuit breaker outlet that helps prevent power overloads and a low tone muffler that makes a quiet operation. These Generacs are popular and there is a 5500 watt propane model here.
Best-rated portable generator under $800
This Briggs and Stratton 30469 Portable Generator is gas powered and has a 342cc Briggs and Stratton 1650 Series OHV engine. It received 4.5 stars from Amazon reviewers and costs just under $800 online. The overhead valve engines are fuel efficient and run at a lower temperature and are easily maintained, with less frequent oil changes required.
It is non carb compliant and is not sold in the state of California. It runs on 6,000 continuously watts and 7,500 surge watts. It has 10 inch flat free tires for easy portability and it weighs 195 pounds.
Best-rated portable generator under $300
This Durostar DS4000S Portable gas powered generator has a 4 cycle 7 hp OHV engine. It earned 4.5 stars from nearly 200 Amazon reviewers, and is available to buy for just under $300.
It is EVA approved and has a four gallon tank. It can run eight hours on a half load. It has low noise at 69dba with its super quiet muffler. It comes with a one year warranty at time of purchase.
It comes with one 120 volt 30 amp outlet and one 120 volt 20 amp three prong outlet to generate various types of tools. It has an automatic low oil shut off to help protect the engine for a longer life. A wheel kit comes with this generator for easy portability. It has an EZ pull coil start and runs on 4,000 watts maximum and 3,300 watts continuous.
Best portable generator with a remote start
The Champion Power Equipment 46539 Portable Generator with a Wireless Electric Remote Control is gas powered with a 196cc four stroke engine. It has an overload protection and a low oil sensor that all protects the machine. It can run up to 12 hours on a half load. The engine is protected with a cast iron sleeve and a portability kit is included along with eight inch wheels.
It weighs 140 pounds and is carb compliant which means it is sold in all states across the country. This generator earned 4.5 stars from almost 100 Amazon reviewers and it costs about $500 online. It runs on 3,500 watts rated and 4,000 watts maximum. One RV receptacle, one 120 volt twistlock and engine oil are all included.
Ready to buy a new genset?
These are all among some of the best reviews for portable generators. These all make a good choices and can be found online or in your local hardware store.
