Shopping for a portable generator is not as difficult as one might imagine. What you need to do is determine how you will be using your portable generator, as this will help determine what kind of generator you should buy.

Basic Types of Portable Generators For Home and Recreational Use

• Emergency Portable Generator: This type of generator is meant to temporarily connect the household electrical system so you can have enough power to run essential appliances or devices such as the oven or the refrigerator. An emergency portable generator is also known as a home generator. Most of the emergency or home portable generators are able to move power from the generator to the house by extension cords, although some have a power transfer system. These generators average 3kW to 10kW of power.
• Recreational Portable Generator: This type of portable generator is a great option for camping, use in a recreational vehicle, or even when you’re tailgating. The generator has enough power output to power up small appliances for longer periods of time or larger appliances for shorter periods of time. These generators usually average 3kW to 5kW in power.

Beneficial Features To Look For When You Buy

There are many different portable generators on the market today with a lot of different bells and whistles. Some models are very basic and will provide you with the power you need and that is about it. Other models have all of the bells and whistles on them and you’ll not need to do much to get the power you need. Some models fall somewhere between these two ends of the spectrum. While all of the models will do their job, there are some features that will make using the generator much easier.

• Electric Start. This is a great feature because it makes starting your generator so much easier. When an electric start there is no need to struggle with a starter rope, just turn a key or push a button and the generator will start up.
• Low Oil Shutdown. This is an important feature to have. This feature will shut down the engine when the oil level drops too low.
• Idle Control. This is a fuel saving feature that is nice to have. Basically it will turn the throttle down on the engine when no power is being drawn from the alternator. This will also allow for your portable generator to last longer because it cuts down on engine wear and tear.
• Hour Meter. This is a nice feature because it allows for you to keep track of how long the engine has been running. This helps to schedule maintenance and also lets you know how long you have left with the fuel that is in the generator before you need to fill up again.
• Portability Kit. A portability kit is important if you will be moving the generator around. Most generators are not all that heavy, but they are bulky, which makes them hard to move. A portability kit is basically wheels and handles that are for use with the generator so you can easily move it from location to location as needed.
• Large Fuel Tank. If you are going to be using your portable generator for lengthy periods of time a nice feature is a larger gas tank. Large is considered five gallons or more. When you have five gallons or more you can expect your generator to run for five to seven hours, or in some cases more. This is very convenient as it will do away with needed to refuel.

Portable Generator Fuel Considerations

There are a few considerations when consider a gas generator. All of them have pros and cons, so it is important to choose the one that best fits your needs.

Gas Generators: Gas generators are chosen by many people because they are simply more accessible than a lot of other generators currently available on the market today. In addition, the gas can be stored in any number of containers and can be used from place to place. Gas generators are also reliable in the amount of power that they can produce and are considered very dependable. Of course, the biggest issue with gas generators is that they are not all that environmentally friendly as they emit greenhouse gases. Gasoline is often difficult to come by in emergency situations, as well.

Propane: Propane portable generators are preferable over gasoline generators to many consumers who take the time to learn about both. One of the best things about propane generators is that the gas burns much more cleanly and will not produce the toxic fumes and gases. The propane is also prefilled into tanks, so there are no messy refueling issues associated with these generators. The only possible deterrent associated with propane generators is finding propane, especially in times of emergency.

Diesel: Diesel generators are some of the most powerful on the market in that they have a strong electrical output that is very dependable. Diesel can be stored for longer periods of time than gasoline as well. The issue with diesel generators is that they tend to be hazardous to your health because of the sulfur levels and gases and toxins that it releases when the fuel burns.

Natural Gas Generators: Natural gas generators are gaining in popularity. Natural gas is the gas that your home uses to provide power to gas powered appliances such as ovens, dryers, heaters, and even water heaters. Natural gas generators are nice because they use the gas that is already in the installed pipelines coming to your home. The benefits of this type of generator is that the fuel is cleaner, cheaper, and more efficient. Unfortunately, most natural gas generators are not portable.

Recommended Portable Generator Models

Kipor IG1000 1000 Watt Inverter Gas Powered Generator
This is the perfect gasoline generator to take with you when you go camping, tailgating, or if you will be spending time in an RV and would like a backup power source. There are many benefits associated with this generator including:

• Light weight of just 30 pounds making transporting very simple.
• The inverter technology allows for 1,000W max load and a 900W continuous load
• Smart throttle matches engine speed to load for greater fuel efficiency.
• Overload alarm
• Low oil alarm
• Surge protector
• Recoil start

DuroMax XP4400E 4,400 Watt 6.5 HP Cycle Gas Powered Portable Generator
This is a very highly rated portable gas generator that is perfect for home and emergency use. This can be just what is needed during a power outage and has many beneficial features such as:

• 4400 Watt Surge Capacity and 3500 Watt Continuous Capacity
• 4 gallon gas tank
• Eight hour run time
• Electric key start
• EPA and CARB approved
• Automatic low oil shut off feature

Champion Power Equipment 71108 4,200 Watt 4-Cycle Propane Powered Generator
This is a very dependable and highly rates propane powered generator that is very affordable. There are many great features associated with this model including:

• 4,200 watt surge capability and 3,500 watt continuous capability
• Propane powered
• Three function display includes volts, frequency, and operating hours
• Ability to connect to standard propane tank with included hose
• 10 inch wheels and fold away handle to make moving simple

All Power America APG3560 6,000 Watt Propane Powered Generator
If you have been looking for a propane powered generator with all of the features that you need to make running a generator a cinch, this is the generator for you. Features include but are not limited to:

• 6,000 watt surge and 5,000 continuous capability
• Electric start and electric pull
• Two AC 120V outlets
• One AC 120V twist-lock outlet
• One AC 120V/240V twist lock outlet
• One DC 12V outlet
• Hour meter
• Included Propane fuel hose

ETQ DG4LE 4,900 Watt Diesel Powered Portable Generator
If you are looking for a diesel powered portable generator that is both powerful and easy to move around this is a generator worth considering. Some of the features include:

• 4900 watt power capacity
• Ability to run most appliances
• Operates at 82DB
• Ability to run for 11 hours at half load
• 1 year warranty

All Power America APG3201 6,500 Watt Diesel Powered Generator
This portable diesel powered generator is one of the top rated diesel generators on the market. Some of the features that allow for this to be a consumer favorite include:

• 6,500 watt surge and 5,000 watt continuous
• 10 Horsepower 4 stroke engine
• Eight hour run time at half load
• Voltage and hour meters
• 2 120 volt AC outlets
• 1 120 volt twist lock outlet
• 1 120/240 volt twist lock outlet
• 1 12 volt DC outlet
• EPA approved
• 1 year warranty

Similar portable generator models:

1. Subaru Robin Portable Generators

The DeWalt DG4400B is a 4400 watt commercial generator that features an 18 volt battery start for reliability. The 9 horsepower, 270cc engine provides great reliability at the worksite and it offers 20% more starting watts than other generators in its class.

The DeWalt DG6300B generator features an 18 volt battery start and the battery and charger both come with this generator, as they do with all of DeWalt's generators. The 389cc, 13 horsepower engine is highly reliable and you get 20% more starting watts with the DG6300B than you would get with other comparable generators.

The DG7000B offers the same 18 volt battery start and has a powerful 389 cc, 13 horsepower, OHV engine.

DeWalt's DG4400BC features the 18 volt battery start and boasts a 270 cc, 9 horsepower OHV engine for reliability.

Both the DeWalt DG6300BC and the DG7000BC generators holds a 389 cc, 13 horsepower OHV engine and the DG6300BC generator has both evaporative and emission compliance for California standards.

Dewalt DG6300B Portable Generator Sale Price: $2,899.00

DeWalt D6300B Generator For a limited time, order a DeWalt D6300B Generator, and get a FREE DW304PK Reciprocating saw kit. DeWalt 389cc (13hp) OHV 4 stroke engine. 20 percent more starting watts than generators in its class Max Watts 6300 Rated Watts 5950 Surge Watts 18,300 Starting System 18V XRP Battery Pull Start Wheel kit Standard 100 starts on full charge at normal temps Comes with 18 volt battery for starting unit only Proper 120v and 240v outlets for jobsite applications Worksite tested frame with panel protection bars for increased durability Super quiet muffler reduces engine noise Idle control saves fuel and reduces noise Low oil shut-off protects engine Brushless alternator DeWalt Generator DG6300B Dry weight 250 lbs Generator Length x width x height 28" x 22" x 22" Continuous Watts 5...

The DG2900 DeWalt generator features a Honda 5.5 horsepower, OHV GX engine for worksite reliability and a maintenance-free, brushless alternator. It features a high amp surge capacity that is ideal for powering high amp tools.

All of the DeWalt generators have a heavy duty steel tubular frames that are durable and protects the machine, while the super quiet mufflers on the DeWalt generators reduces unnecessary noise. All seven of the generators offered by Dewalt have an automatic low oil shut-off and an idle control to save fuel and reduces noise.

All of the generators, with the exception of the DG2900, have 120v and 240v outlets that come in handy when working remotely with various power tools.

Similar portable generator models:

1. DeWalt DG3000 3000 Watt Generator
2. DeWalt DG4400B 4400 Watt Generator
3. Wacker Portable Generators

The DeWalt DG4400 4400 watt generator has an 18 volt battery start, and the battery and charger come with the generator.

This generator has a 270 cc, 9 horsepower OHV engine to provide you outstanding reliability at any job site. You get a full 20% more starting watts than other generators in this class and are offered 120v and 240v outlets for powering up tools at those remote job sites.

The heavy duty and very durable steel frame with panel protection bars can take a beating. The quiet muffler reduces excessive engine noise.

The DeWalt DG4400 features a handy idle control feature that saves fuel and also reduces noise. The low oil shut-off feature protects this hardworking engine. The DG4400 has both emissions and evaporative compliance.

When you need a generator at the building site that you can depend on 100%, this DeWalt gets the job done, time and time again. It's a tough, hard working and highly reliable generator you will want on each and every job.

Similar portable generator models:

1. DeWalt Generators
2. DeWalt DG3000 3000 Watt Generator
3. PowerMax XP4400 4400 Watt Generator

The maintenance-free brushless alternator in the DG3000 gives you 20% more surge watts, so you can start up air compressors and other power tools easily. For 120 and 240 volt tools, the 120V power switch offers superb performance. The low oil shut off feature on the DeWalt DG3000 watt generator protects the engine, and the idle control conserves fuel. The DG3000 has a super quiet muffler that reduces the noise level.

	HTC 3000 Heavy Duty Universal Mobile Base with 700-Pound Capacity List Price: $99.99 Sale Price: $99.99 Average Rating:
	Move heavy, up to 700lb., machines with ease using HTCs new roller base. Rather than lifting the machine to lock it in place this base uses wheel locks on the fixed wheel end, and leveling locks which lower to the floor on the steering end...

The DeWalt DG3000 features a tough 196 cc engine displacement and the max AC output is 3000 watts while the rated AC output is 2930 watts.

DeWalt is a trusted name among contractors and DeWalt tools are made to the highest standards in the industry. The DeWalt DG 3000 generator proudly follows this tradition, offering you very reliable and consistent power for those tough jobs.

The DG3000 is 20.5 inches high, 19.3 inches wide and weighs 118 pounds.

Similar portable generator models:

1. DeWalt Generators
2. DeWalt DG4400B 4400 Watt Generator

The inverter generator by Subaru Robin come in three models, ranging from 1,650 to 4,300 watts. The Auto Power System adjusts the engine speed and allows for greater fuel economy. The inverter generators by Subaru Robin are extremely durable and run quiet. Wheels on the larger models make transporting easy.

The industrial portable generators by Subaru are designed for the most rigorous jobs and offer a range of power from 1,100 to 13,000 watts. This line has numerous standard features that include GFCI receptacles, high surge capacity and low oil shut off, to name a few. These generators can power construction sites, utility trucks, and can provide power to emergency situations and farm needs.

	Subaru Robin Power Products Industrial-Quality Generator - 6 HP, 2800 Watts, Model# RGV2800 Sale Price: $869.00
	When it comes to tough applications, you need a tough generator. Subaru Robin puts the heavy in heavy duty to give you extreme industrial service. Easy starting, low noise, low fuel consumption and adherence to the strictest environmental regulations makes this generator an excellent value.

Subaru Robin has two diesel generators. These generators are ideal for marine and mining and well as job sites.

Subaru Robin generators can handle all of your remote jobs, provide you valuable backup power during blackouts and they are built tough and to exacting standards.

Similar portable generator models:

1. Winco Portable Generators
2. Wacker Portable Generators
3. Generac Portable Generators

Wacker produces a series of commercial grade portable generators that are built with the value-conscious contractor or the home handy-man in mind. Wacker portable generators are built for industrial, construction, commercial, domestic and farm usage. The Wacker portable generators feature heavy duty, lightweight and compact frames that provides great worksite protection. A central eye on the frame can accommodate a 3 inch hook for easy lifting.

These generators are ideal for powering drills, electric pumps, breakers, saws, heaters, lights and more. The Wacker generators are also ideal for use at home when the power goes out. The commercial grade generators by Wacker are available in four models that range from 2500 watts maximum power up to 6000 watts.

Wacker produces six Portable Value Generators that vary from 7.1 horsepower to 11 horsepower. This line is ideal for powering high starting amperage tools like grinders, compressors, fusion welders, pressure washers and saws as well as electric pumps, drills, etc.

All of Wacker's portable generators are built to exact standards and are highly trustworthy machines.

Similar portable generator models:

1. Generac Portable Generators
2. Winco Portable Generators
3. Subaru Robin Portable Generators

The EF2000iS is perfect for RV owners. You can run this generator all night long on less than a gallon of gas. Your neighbors parked next to you will appreciate how quiet it is and the handy fuel gauge allows you to monitor the fuel level without having to open the cap. All of the controls are on one panel for no-fuss access and it features a DC outlet that allows you to charge batteries.

	Yamaha EF2000iS 2,000 Watt 79cc OHV 4-Stroke Gas Powered Portable Inverter Generator (Non-CARB Compliant) List Price: $1,099.00 Sale Price: $947.99 Average Rating:
	Powerful, portable, and efficient, the Yamaha EF2000iS Gas-Powered Portable Inverter delivers maximum electrical output without sacrificing portability. Thanks to its innovative inverter system, the generator is able to generate up to 2,000 watts of clean AC power...

With its small size and versatile handling, the EF200iS can be used at home as a standby generator to run your freezer, TV, microwave or lights, or it can keep you powered up at the worksite or can be used for running outdoors sound systems. The electrical overload breaker prevents generator damage in case of an overload.

The OHV, Air Cooled, Four Stroke, Single Cylinder 79cc engine only emits between 51.5 and 61 dBA, so it's one of the quietest inverter generators available. The rubber vibration isolation feet absorb noise and provides smooth operation.

The Yamaha 2000iS is the perfect companion that promises to give you trouble-free operation and all the power you need, no matter when and where you need it.

Similar portable generator models:

1. Yamaha EF2400iS Inverter Generator

The EF2400iS combines its light weight and the latest and best technology to kick out the highest output in its class. The EF2400iS has enough juice to easily power most 13,500 BTU RV air conditioners.

Not only is this generator quiet running, it weighs just 70 pounds and puts out a powerful 2400 watts of power. It is clean, quiet and powerful. The Yamaha EF2400iS inverter generator is the next generation of generators.

With its TwinTech capability, you are able to hook up two EF2400iS's for 4600 watts of maximum power. This generator uses an auto-decompression system that reduces compression for easier starts. It also features a gasoline petcock that prevents carburetor contamination when the unit is stored.

Using the EF2400iS is a breeze-all of the controls are on one panel for quick and easy access, and the comfortable handles allow you to easily carry this generator from place to place. The fuel gauge lets you keep an eye on your fuel level without having to open the fuel cap. For peace of mind, the OilWatch warning system is there to prevent any engine damage, and to let you know when the oil level is low.

	Yamaha EF2400iS 2,400 Watt 171cc OHV 4-Stroke Gas Powered Portable Inverter Generator (CARB Compliant) List Price: $1,479.00 Sale Price: $1,274.99 Average Rating:
	Powerful, lightweight, portable, and efficient, the Yamaha EF2400iS Gas-Powered Portable Inverter delivers maximum electrical output without sacrificing portability. Thanks to its innovative inverter system, the generator is able to generate up to 2,400 watts of clean AC power...

The super quiet muffler on the Yamaha EF2400iS has a USFS-approved Spark Arrestor and only emits a quiet 53 dBA at 1/4 load and there is no worry about errant sparks. The side panels on this portable generator detach easily, making servicing quick and easy.

This Yamaha portable generator is built tough with a very sturdy die-cast aluminum frame. It comes with rubber vibratation feet that absorb noise and make for very smooth operation. With its Noise Block sound reduction system, the ef2400Is runs quiet.

The Yamaha EF2400iS can run products that have built-in microcomputers, or microcomputer-controlled electric tools, so it's great for a job site.

The OHV engine with its cast iron cylinder liner provides you with an efficient, reliable and powerful long life and outstanding heat dissipation.

Similar portable generator models:

1. Yamaha EF2000iS Inverter Generator

Winco produces an expansive line of hard working generators, both for the private consumer and industrial strength generators.

Consumers can buy light-weight generators made by Winco that are great for small jobs around the house or yard. The D3000H generator falls into this category and it produces 2300 watts of power in a .75 hp motor.

Home owners also can choose from a generator in the Winco line that is anywhere between 3000 watts and 9000 watts. Generators that fall into this category are ideal for having on hand in the case of a power outage. Generators such as these are generally all the average homeowner will need to supply power to their home in the case of a blackout. This particular line of generators made by Winco is very popular, as the Winco name is one that can be depended on to build quality generators.

Winco Inc. also produces generators that carry between 3,000 and 18,000 watts. These generators are great for say, a contractor that works outside and needs power for his power tools that are a part of the trade.

Winco also produces Tri-Fuel portable generators. These generators are unique in the fact that they offer the user the flexibility to run them on either gasoline, LP gas or natural gas.

The Winco company will continue to produce top of the line generators as they have been doing successfully for over eight decades. They pride themselves on building generators that are efficient, dependable and built tough.

Similar portable generator models:

1. Subaru Robin Portable Generators
2. Generac Portable Generators
3. Wacker Portable Generators

Generac portable generators are rugged and reliable and are available in sizes up to 17,500 watts. The XP Series are a line of Generac portable generators that are professional grade generators and have a power range of between 4,000 and 10,000 watts. This line was engineered for high performance. The construction is durable and they all feature over-sized full-wrap frame tubing with impact resistant corners. They were built tough and can handle rough conditions, making them ideal for the tough job site. They featured Generac's OHVI high grade engine.

Generac produced a full line of portable generators that are still going strong and are providing back-up power to thousands of people who depend on these products either for back-ups in case of power outages or use them when doing work in an areas with no access to electricity. The Generac Portable Products generators are no longer being manufactured, however Briggs & Stratton Power Products Group LLC acquired Generac Portable Products in March of 2001.

Generac also has the GP Series that are generators that were made for home and recreational use. This line of generators are powered with from 1800 up to 8000 watts of power. These generators are easy to operate and can be used in a variety of ways ranging from in the camper or as a back-up unit at home in case of a power outage. The GP Series generators are affordable and very reliable.

	Generac 5622 GP Series GP5000 6,250 Watt 389cc OHV Portable Gas Powered Generator (Non-CARB Compliant) List Price: $779.00 Sale Price: $649.99 Average Rating:
	Featuring a compact, wheeled frame for easy transport, the Generac 5,000-Watt Portable Gas-Powered Generator provides a reliable power supply wherever you need it. An OHV (overhead valve) engine delivers performance and power, while a sturdy steel-tube cradle protects the generator's exterior...

Some of the most powerful generators on the market today are Generac generators. They are perfect for the job site, as reliable emergency power providers or can be used for commercial applications. Generac generators were made in a variety of sizes both for home use and for industrial purposes. Generac portable generators provide power when and where you need it.

Similar portable generator models:

1. Subaru Robin Portable Generators
2. Wacker Portable Generators
3. Winco Portable Generators