Last updated on January 29th, 2024
20 Best Generator Brands of 2021
A generator is a considerable investment and a product that performs an essential job, sometimes in emergency situations. For this reason, many people choose a well-established brand because they are more likely to be reliable and have a decent warranty.
So, what are the most trustworthy manufacturers? Which generator brands are the best?
There is plenty of choice out there so you can imagine that some companies score better on certain aspects while other companies have the winning design for a different purpose. This only makes it harder to compare the generator manufacturers as a whole – often you will have to look at specific models to provide a fair comparison.
On the other hand, having a general idea of the most popular choices and the most experienced manufacturers is a good starting point for buying a new generator. For that reason, we have created a simple overview of the top rated generator brands that you can buy today.
Note that this is listed in no particular order. This list offers an overall description and does not go into the details as a direct comparison between specific models would.
1. Generac
About the Brand
This American brand, established in 1969, is best known for their home standby generators and industrial backup generators. Their portable generators are less popular but still dependable.
Generac prides itself as producing affordable whole house backup generators with their current models starting at just above $2000. The Guardian Series is very popular among homeowners.
In their portable generator division you will find many different models with the complete GP Series being the most prominent on the market. Most inverter generators and portable generators up to 8000 watts fall in the $500 – $1000 price range.
Brand Bestsellers
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1. Generac 7117 GP2200i – Editor’s Choice
Features
- Running Wattage: 2,200 watts
- Surge Wattage: 1,700 watts
- Runtime: 10.75 hrs @ 1/4 load
- Tank Capacity: 1.2 gal
- Noise Level: N/A
- Weight: 46 lbs
More Features: True Power technology delivers clean, stable power that can be increased with parallel capability.
2. Generac GP3000i Super Quiet Inverter – Runner Up
Features
- Running Wattage: 2,300 watts
- Surge Wattage: 3,000 watts
- Runtime: 5.8 hrs @ 1/4 load
- Tank Capacity: 1.6 gal
- Noise Level: N/A
- Weight: 59.5 lbs
More Features: Increased power potential with parallel capabilities.
3. Generac 5734 GP15000E – Big Power Output
Features
- Running Wattage: 15,000 watts
- Surge Wattage: 22,500 watts
- Runtime: 10 hrs @ 1/2 load
- Tank Capacity: 16 gal
- Noise Level: N/A
- Weight: 363 lbs
More Features: Great for heavy-duty projects that require massive power output from a relatively portable package. Comes with electric start and is circuit-breaker protected.
2. Briggs & Stratton
About the Brand
This brand already exists over 100 years and produces a range of different residential equipment, like water pumps and lawnmower parts, besides generators. The company has an international presence and is one of the world’s biggest producers of gasoline engines.
In the inverter generator category, their PowerSmart Series is well-known for being energy-efficient in a compact design. The Elite Series features higher capacity portable generators from 7000 – 9000 watts with a price tag starting at around $890.
Overall, this is a reliable choice that ensures good quality products but they do come at a slightly higher cost.
Brand Bestsellers
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1. Briggs & Stratton 30545 P3000 PowerSmart Series – Editor’s Choice
Features
- Running Wattage: 2,600 watts
- Surge Wattage: 3,000 watts
- Runtime: 10 hrs @ 1/4 load
- Tank Capacity: 1.5 gal
- Noise Level: 58 dB @ 1/4 load
- Weight: 85 lbs
More Features: LCD screen for important performance stats and maintenance reminders. Parallel capability and 24 month limited warranty.
2. Briggs & Stratton 30675 Q6500 – Runner Up
Features
- Running Wattage: 5,000 watts
- Surge Wattage: 6,500 watts
- Runtime: 14 hrs @ 1/4 load
- Tank Capacity: 5 gal
- Noise Level: 66 dBA
- Weight: 128 lbs
More Features: 45% more compact and 30% lighter than a standard portable generator with an efficient 306cc engine/alternator. This is a reliable home backup power source.
3. Briggs & Stratton P2200 – The Portable Option
Features
- Running Wattage: 1,700 watts
- Surge Wattage: 2,200 watts
- Runtime: 8 hrs @ 1/4 load
- Tank Capacity: 1 gal
- Noise Level: 59 dB
- Weight: 54.6 lbs
More Features: This user-friendly model produces less than 3% THD (Total Harmonic Distortion) and is a great portable option for everything from tailgating to powering sensitive electronics.
3. Energizer
About the Brand
Energizer is another new American brand with a specialty in inverters. They are a smart manufacturer to consider when you are on the market for a highly portable inverter.
Many producers only release lower capacity inverter generator, usually around 1000 watts to 2500 watts, but Energizer has much more powerful models available. The eZV7500 has the biggest output at 7500 starting power and 6500 watts running power.
The company also has conventional portable generators with the most impressive model the eZG3500. This is a very affordable model at just $450 and has an unexpected but very welcome long run time of nearly 20 hours at a quarter load.
Brand Bestsellers
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1. Energizer eZV2000P Portable – Editor’s Choice
Features
- Running Wattage: 1,600 watts
- Surge Wattage: 2,000 watts
- Runtime: 11 hrs @ 1/4 load
- Tank Capacity: 0.9 gal
- Noise Level: 56 dBA @ 3/4 load
- Weight: 44 lbs
More Features: This highly-portable model features an Economy mode that dynamically changes output to only generate the power you need (saving on fuel). Parallel capability for increased power.
4. Winco
About the Brand
Winco is a great choice for responsible shoppers since this company is owned by veterans and their family. They produce great generators with lots of varieties like dual-fuel portable generators and affordable home standby models.
Winco is not a budget brand but you can feel assured that your money is going towards supporting small scale local businesses. There is something to be said for trusting small scale businesses that also have a sense of social responsibility.
Brand Bestsellers
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1. Winco Portable Dual Fuel HPS6000HE – Editor’s Choice
Features
- Running Wattage: 5,500 watts
- Surge Wattage: 6,000 watts
- Runtime: 4/5 hrs @ full load
- Tank Capacity: 4.5 gal
- Noise Level: 72 dB
- Weight: 212 lbs
More Features: With less than 5% THD output, this model is great for powering sensitive electronics as well as things that need more of a bang. Is dual fuel compatible for extra usage flexibility.
5. Westinghouse
About the Brand
Westinghouse is a popular brand name, partially because they have a wide range of options suitable for anything from camping to household use to construction sites. Their inverter generators are appreciated for being lightweight with a long run time.
This manufacturer also has a great selection of higher capacity models which are durable enough for heavy-duty use.
Brand Bestsellers
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1. Westinghouse WGen7500 – Editor’s Choice
Features
- Running Wattage: 7,500 watts
- Surge Wattage: 9,500 watts
- Runtime: 16 hrs @ 1/4 load
- Tank Capacity: 6.6 gal
- Noise Level: 64 dB
- Weight: 192 lbs
More Features: Great runtime given the tank size makes this model perfect for overnight usage. Similarly, quality of life features like the remote start functionality make this a solid all-around pick.
2. Westinghouse iGen4500 Portable Inverter – Runner Up
Features
- Running Wattage: 3,700 watts
- Surge Wattage: 4,500 watts
- Runtime: 18 hrs @ 1/4 load
- Tank Capacity: 3.4 gal
- Noise Level: 52 dBA
- Weight: 98 lbs
More Features: Highly-intuitive LED display and RV-ready outlet are just a few of the. features that make this model a great pick if you need a good balance between power, portability, and functionality.
6. DuroMax
About the Brand
DuroMax Generators are produced by California company DuroMax Power. They are also well known for their dual-fuel engines but what sets them apart even more is the different engine type options.
Their product catalogue is not that extensive but you will still find every type of portable generator on there – from inverter generators to high capacity heavy-duty portable generators. The DuroMax XP4850EH dual-fuel model sells exceptionally and has earned many rave reviews.
All their larger generator designs are rugged with tires made for rough terrain and a metal frame.
Brand Bestsellers
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1. DuroMax XP4400E Portable – Editor’s Choice
Features
- Running Wattage: 3,500 watts
- Surge Wattage: 4,400 watts
- Runtime: 8 hrs @ 1/2 load
- Tank Capacity: 4 gal
- Noise Level: 69 dB
- Weight: 120 lbs
More Features: Features like Surge-Arrest that protect from power surges, as well as being EPA and CARB compliant make this a great all-around model.
1. DuroMax XP12000EH – Runner Up
Features
- Running Wattage: 9,500 watts (gas) 11,400 watts (propane)
- Surge Wattage: 12,000 watts (gas) 9,025 watts (propane)
- Runtime: 8.83 hrs (gas) 7.2 hrs (propane)
- Tank Capacity: 8.3 gal (gas) 7.2 hrs (propane)
- Noise Level: 58 dB @ 1/4 load
- Weight: 85 lbs
More Features: LCD screen for important performance stats and maintenance reminders. Parallel capability and 24 month limited warranty.
7. DuroStar
About the Brand
DuroStar is actually from the same conglomerate as DuroMax which is why some of their design may look similar. However, the DuroStar catalogue is definitely different and includes a few unexpected products like an enclosed diesel-powered generator.
This is one of the preferred affordable brands and they often come up in product comparisons as a good budget buy. Like DuroMax they have hybrid options but their most popular model is the DS4000S with an air-cooled engine.
This is a good brand for mid-size power requirements within a smaller price range.
Brand Bestsellers
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1. DuroStar DS4000S – Editor’s Choice
Features
- Running Wattage: 3,300 watts
- Surge Wattage: 4,000 watts
- Runtime: 8 hrs @ 1/2 load
- Tank Capacity: 3.96 gal
- Noise Level: 69 dBA
- Weight: 85 lbs
More Features: Features multiple easy-to-access outlets and is EPA and CARB compliant.
2. Durostar DS4400E – Runner Up
Features
- Running Wattage: 3,500 watts
- Surge Wattage: 4,400 watts
- Runtime: 12 hrs @ 1/4 load
- Tank Capacity: 3.9 gal
- Noise Level: 69 dBA
- Weight: 130 lbs
More Features: Includes a a solid amount of outlets, as well as built-in spark arrestor, circuit breaker, oil warning light, and volt meter. EPA compliant.
8. ATIMA
About the Brand
This innovative Shanghai-based brand is one of the new players in the portable power industry. They are best known for the award-winning AY series which are 2000 watt and 3000 watt inverter generators fitted with genuine Yamaha engines.
What is unique about this company is that they source all the materials themselves which shortens the supply chain and thus also cuts down on production costs. The result is more affordable high quality products.
Currently, ATIMA only ships to the United States via Amazon services.
Check Out Our Top Product Picks
1. Atima AY2000i – Editor’s Choice
Features
- Running Wattage: 1,600 watts
- Surge Wattage: 2,000 watts
- Runtime: 10.3 hrs @ 1/4 load
- Tank Capacity: 1 gal
- Noise Level: 51-61 dBA
- Weight: 50 lbs
More Features: Powered by a Yamaha engine, this model also features Atima Smart Technology, which not only makes operation whisper quiet, but also maximizes fuel efficiency. Also is parallel capable.
9. Caterpillar (CAT)
About the Brand
Cat Generators is a subdivision of the massive player in heavy machinery; Caterpillar. Their focus is on commercial and industrial purposes so most models are stationary.
However, the CAT RP Series does consist of portable generators ranging from 1800 watts to 12000 watts. CAT generators are not cheap but this is understandable when you consider that they are designed for heavy-duty purposes on work sites where reliability and durability are essential.
Being made for commercial and industrial use, their customer service and team of experts is extensive and very involved to make sure businesses continuously run smoothly.
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1. Briggs & Stratton 30545 P3000 PowerSmart Series – Editor’s Choice
Features
- Running Wattage: 1,800 watts
- Surge Wattage: 2,250 watts
- Runtime: 6 hrs @ 1/2 load
- Tank Capacity: 1.5 gal
- Noise Level: 51-61 dBA
- Weight: 85 lbs
More Features: OSHA compliant with easy to use start and stop switch and integrated choke. Parallel capable and great for powering things like power tools or electronics in a pinch.
2. CAT RP5500 – Runner Up
Features
- Running Wattage: 5,500 watts
- Surge Wattage: 6,875 watts
- Runtime: 15 hrs @ 1/2 load
- Tank Capacity: 7.9 gal
- Noise Level: Not Measured
- Weight: 163 lbs
More Features: Easy access single side operation, as well as LED-lit control panel and solid wheels for easy movement make the RP5500 great for more “heavy-duty” jobs.
3. CAT RP12000E – Power Horse
Features
- Running Wattage: 12,000 watts
- Surge Wattage: 15,000 watts
- Runtime: 11.7 hrs @ 1/2 load
- Tank Capacity: 13.2 gal
- Noise Level: Not Measured
- Weight: 353 lbs
More Features: Massive power output, EPA compliance, relatively good portability, and an easy-to-use one sided panel with 9 outlets makes this model an extremely flexible unit for a variety of situations. A very solid all-around pick.
10. Champion Power Equipment
About the Brand
This major player in portable power sources is based in the US and their products are also manufactured in the United States. It is a newer brand, only starting their climb in 2003 but have already sold over 2 million generators in North America alone.
You can call this brand a market leader because they design their own engines and a well-known for their innovative Dual-Fuel Series that can run on both gasoline and propane. Though Champion Power Equipment is best known for their portable models, they also produce a few home standby generators.
Brand Bestsellers
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1. Champion 7500 Dual Fuel – Editor’s Choice
Features
- Running Wattage: 7,500 watts
- Surge Wattage: 9,375 watts
- Runtime: 10 hrs @ 1/4 load
- Tank Capacity: 6 gal (gas)
- Noise Level: 74 dBA
- Weight: 202 lbs
More Features: Includes safety fuel selector switch, propane or gasoline ready out of the box, and GFCI protection on the outlets.
2. Champion 4000 Digital Hybrid – Runner Up
Features
- Running Wattage: 3,500 watts
- Surge Wattage: 4,000 watts
- Runtime: upto 17 hrs
- Tank Capacity: 2.9 gal
- Noise Level: 64 dBA
- Weight: 81 lbs
More Features: Less than 3% THD means this is a great model for powering sensitive electronics. If more power is required, this model is also parallel capable and includes free lifetime support through Champion.
11. Firman Power Equipment
About the Brand
Firman Power Equipment have a special focus on customer satisfaction and the company takes customer feedback as their guidelines for each new model. The result is a large variety of quiet, long running (at least 12 hours), high capacity generators with large fuel tanks.
The Whisper Series consists of compact wheeled portable generators designed to make as little noise as possible. Each version is also CARB compliant with California being one of the focus markets of the Firman company.
If you have been disappointed by customer service before then Firman Power Equipment is definitely worth your consideration.
Brand Bestsellers
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1. Firman W03082 – Editor’s Choice
Features
- Running Wattage: 3,000 watts
- Surge Wattage: 3,300 watts
- Runtime: upto 9 hrs
- Tank Capacity: 1.8 gal
- Noise Level: N/A
- Weight: 109 lbs
More Features: Includes power choke, eco-mode, easy-access ports and switches and more.
2. Firman H08051 Dual Fuel – Runner Up
Features
- Running Wattage: 8,000 watts
- Surge Wattage: 10,000 watts
- Runtime: 10 hrs @ 1/4 load
- Tank Capacity: 8 gal
- Noise Level: 74 dB
- Fuel: Gas & Propane
- Weight: 221 lbs
More Features: Never-flat wheels and ergonomic handle make this a very portable model. Dual fuel capabilities give you excellent usage flexibility and Firman Volt Lock provides clean, consistent power.
12. Sportsman
About the Brand
Sportsman is another brand that offers you more variety in fuel options with models that run on LPG, gasoline and natural gas. They even have a product that is able to run on all three fuel types, the GENTRI9K, making this a rare tri-fuel generator.
Army green and black is their signature color which makes each machine look ready for any off-grid needs. The company markets their products as ideal for camping, on work sites and regions with frequent power failures.
Brand Bestsellers
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1. Sportsman GEN4000DF Dual Fuel – Editor’s Choice
Features
- Running Wattage: 3,500 watts
- Surge Wattage: 4,000 watts
- Runtime: 10 hrs
- Tank Capacity: 3.6 gal
- Noise Level: 69 dB
- Weight: 90 lbs
More Features: Dual fuel capability gives extra usage flexibility. EPA approved.
13. Powerhorse
About the Brand
The Powerhorse products stay true to the brand name, they have a great consistent power output. The price range is quite affordable for each category so you can be sure that you are not overpaying.
The most popular model is their 2000 watt CARB compliant inverter generator which is actually also one of the best deals for an inverter in that power category. Another interesting model is their dual-fuel option with 4000 watts surge power which is also a very affordable option for its category.
14. Earthquake
About the Brand
Earthquake produces much more than just generators – they have a big range of electric gardening tools and other power equipment. However, their inverter generator, the IG800W, is a noteworthy model.
The output is only 800 watts but it really is meant as a lightweight power source weighing only 21 pounds. It also has a long run time of 8.2 hours at a quarter load on just a 0.6 gallon fuel tank.
Granted, this is not the brand to choose if you are looking for lots of options.
15. Powermate
About the Brand
Powermate, sometimes also referred to as Coleman Generators, produces both recreational use portable generators and high capacity ones that are best suited for work sites. Their signature design is black and red with 2 u-bar handles.
If you are unsure about what type of generator works best for you or how much power you need, then have a look at their website. It has a handy buying guide and tool that filters out the different options for you.
This American brand is one of the more affordable alternatives available today.
Brand Bestsellers
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1. Powermate CX1400 PC0141400 – Editor’s Choice
Features
- Running Wattage: 1,400 watts
- Surge Wattage: 1,700 watts
- Runtime: 8.5 hrs @ 1/2 load
- Tank Capacity: 1.5 gal
- Noise Level: N/A
- Weight: 60 lbs
More Features: This entry level generator is great for powering smaller items and features like the auto voltage regulator ensure sensitive items do not get damaged by voltage swings.
16. Predator
About the Brand
Predator generators come from the same distributor as Briggs & Stratton and you can expect similar quality from this lesser known brand because it uses Briggs & Stratton engines. Their focus is on CRG Series portable generators and more compact standby generators for industrial use.
However, their most popular model is the 3500 watt inverter generator which is known to be very quiet while running. This design is often compared to the highly rated Honda EU2200i but comes with a much more affordable price tag.
Brand Bestsellers
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1. Predator 3500 Inverter – Editor’s Choice
Features
- Running Wattage: 3,000 watts
- Surge Wattage: 3,500 watts
- Runtime: 11 hrs @ 1/4 load
- Tank Capacity: 2.6 gal
- Noise Level: 57 dB @ 1/4 load
- Weight: 99.2 lbs
More Features: The relatively low noise output of this model makes it perfect for camping, RVing or general use in more public places.
17. Ford Generators
About the Brand
Everyone knows that Ford is an iconic car manufacturer but did you know that they also have a division in power equipment? The Ford generator catalogue is limited but they do cater to both household purposes and commercial or industrial use.
Ford should be on your list of possibilities if you are looking for more power. Their portable generators designed for personal use by consumers start at a whopping 4650 watts of peak power which is much higher compared to many other manufacturers.
Brand Bestsellers
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1. Ford FG2200iS Inverter – Editor’s Choice
Features
- Running Wattage: 2,000 watts
- Surge Wattage: 2,200 watts
- Runtime: 6 hrs @ 1/2 load
- Tank Capacity: 1.18 gal
- Noise Level: 59 dB @ 1/2 load
- Weight: 47 lbs
More Features: Parallel capability allows for flexible power options, while Stable Sine Wave Technology provides safe power for charging sensitive electronic devices.
18. Honda Power Equipment
About the Brand
Like Ford, Honda produces more than motorized vehicles and they even release one of the highest rated inverter generators on the market, the Honda EU2200i. The Honda EU2200i has reached almost legendary status with this model often being the point of reference for a great quality inverter.
Honda generators are known for being quiet, extremely reliable (read: rarely faulty and durable) and producing a consistent output. However, this is not the brand if you are looking for lots of gimmicks because one of the reasons that their products are so dependable is because there are fewer parts that could cause issues.
Brand Bestsellers
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1. Honda EU2200i Inverter – Editor’s Choice
Features
- Running Wattage: 1,800 watts
- Surge Wattage: 2,200 watts
- Runtime: 8.1 hrs @ 1/4 load
- Tank Capacity: .95 gal
- Noise Level: 48 dB @ 1/4 load
- Weight: 46.5 lbs
More Features: One of the most popular models on the market, includes user-friendly features such as a fuel shutoff valve, color coded startup points and more.
2. Honda EU7000is – Runner Up
Features
- Running Wattage: 5,500 watts
- Surge Wattage: 7,000 watts
- Runtime: 6.5 hrs @ 1/2 load
- Tank Capacity: 5.1 gal
- Noise Level: 58 dB
- Weight: 261 lbs
More Features: LCD screen for important performance stats and maintenance reminders. Parallel capability and 24 month limited warranty.
19. Hyundai
About the Brand
Hyundai is a brand to look at if quality is your priority and budget is not a big concern because this is not the most affordable brand. On the other hand, Hyundai is a trustworthy manufacturer.
One of the interesting aspects of this brand is that they offer the biggest variety in fuel types; gasoline, diesel, petrol and LPG. If you live in an area where certain fuels are more limited or expensive, this brand offers you a solution.
The Hyundai inverter generators are popular but take a look at their diesel series if you are looking for a commercial grade machine.
Check Out Our Top Product Picks
1. Hyundai HHD6250 – Editor’s Choice
Features
- Running Wattage: 5,500 watts
- Surge Wattage: 6,250 watts
- Runtime: 9 hrs @ 1/2 load
- Tank Capacity: 7.3 gal
- Noise Level: 84 dB
- Weight: 213 lbs
More Features: Very easy to use control panel, oil indicator, and color coded easy start system make this an intuitive and powerful model for beginners and those who have owned generators alike.
20. Yamaha
About the Brand
Yamaha is yet another well-known car manufacturer that also has a great range of power equipment. This brand is best known for their inverter generators in interesting designs.
Their most popular model is the EF2000iS which has style lines similar to a retro radio but an equally cool design is the EF3000iSE which has two handles for easy carrying. Yamaha generators are reliable and affordable so they are a great choice for recreational use like camping or tailgating.
Brand Bestsellers
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1. Yamaha EF2200iS – Editor’s Choice
Features
- Running Wattage: 2,600 watts
- Surge Wattage: 3,000 watts
- Runtime: 10.5 hrs @ 1/4 load
- Tank Capacity: 1.24 gal
- Noise Level: 57-65 dBA
- Weight: 55.2 lbs
More Features: Built with RV campers in mind, this model comes with an RV outlet as a standard plug.
Last update on 2024-07-24 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API