In the modern world, we are completely dependent upon power. We need electricity from the moment we wake up till the next day when we wake up. Yes, we need it during the time we sleep too! Most of us are fully dependent upon the electric grid to supply the required energy literally to run our lives. We don’t realize our dependency until there is an emergency and the power goes out.
There are many options available to reduce our dependency on the electric grid. We can become energy efficient and independent and still use all our modern appliances. In this article, I will discuss several options which are there to make modern life less stressful when there is a power outage.
Table of Contents
Types of Generators
There are two types of generators; one kind are the permanent standby generators, and the other is the portable generators. Both have their pros and cons. Before you go out and buy a generator, there are a few questions that you need to ask. The first thing you will need to do is to determine the usage.
What do you want the generator for?
Depending on the purpose of the generator itself, you may make a different purchase choice. If you need a solid generator as a back-up in the case of emergency power outages such as storm, which can power your entire home on a basic level, then you may wish to choose a larger, more powerful option which may not be as easily portable.
On the other hand, if you plan to use the generator frequently in different locations to power items such as mobile lights, amplifier speakers or anything you may choose to use on the go, you would greatly benefit from a more portable generators which you can easily carry from place to place, but still provides more than adequate power output for the task.
What are your power needs?
Again, this will largely depend on the type of equipment you plan to run using the generator and also the environment where it will be run. Portable generators can provide a surprisingly high amount of power in terms of output. Especially at a higher price range, they can rival many of the permanent standby counterparts. This is something you will have to consider carefully before making your purchase.
Often, it is better to slightly overestimate your power needs rather than fall short. Underestimating your required output can lead to dreaded power outages at the most inconvenient of times. At home or in casual surroundings, this may be acceptable and easy to overcome. However, if you are running a commercial event or providing a service, it can have dire consequences for your business. Always overestimate your need if you are dealing with paying customers.
A final point on power is also safety related. The last thing you want is to overload your generator. This excess power can pose both a safety hazard and prove financially very costly for you if the worst should happen and an overload occurs.
Choosing your level of power output is much like buying clothes. A little larger will always be better than a little too small.
How Much Have you got to spend?
The next question, on which the answers to the first list will depend is, what your budget is. Generators can cost from a few hundred dollars to thousands of dollars. What do you want to spend? How much can you spend? You will need to determine this.
The reason I am putting the budget after the need is that, determining the requirement first will give you a better judgment on how much you want to spend. E.g., if there is a question of life-saving devices running in your home, you will have to determine the amount of power you will need and for how long before you can decide how much to spend.
Choosing the Right Portable Generators for Your Needs
Once you have determined your wattage needs and established how much you want to spend, the next step is to select a generator. As I have mentioned earlier, there are two basic kinds of generators to choose from. The permanent standby kind or the portable kind. The selection of portable generators models is large. The one you decide on should provide you with your electricity needs. It should power your devices, your appliances, your tools, etc.
The best kind of portable generators is light in weight, quiet, and fuel efficient. Practical generators will have multiple outlets of different kinds for your various needs. You should be able to hook up what you need when you need it.
There is a vast gamut of portable generators available in the market today, depending on your need. If you are looking for one just as a backup when the grid fails, carry one to a job site, or for your camping needs, we will help you find one that is suitable for you.
Solar Powered Portable Generators
The development of solar-powered portable generators is a real game changer when it comes to deciding which portable generator to buy. Even with portable generators, the major inconvenience for the user was that to produce electricity, regular generators require some other form of fuel input, such as gasoline or diesel. Solar power changes that for the better and makes portable generators a whole lot simpler. Here we can take a look at some of the best available solar portable generators on the market which best suit your needs.
1. Goal Zero Yeti 400
The Yeti 400 comes from one of the industry leaders in the development of portable solar power. It is the definition of portable. It is not too heavy and relatively easy to carry around, place in any location discreetly and excellent for traveling with. The Yeti 400 is perfect for those outdoor camping and fishing trips.
It is excellent at keeping your basic devices such as smartphones and laptops functioning in the great outdoors with its 120W 12V ports. It also features a continuous 300W & 600Wsurge inverter and several USB ports. This makes it ideal for keeping you connected by the lakeside or in the case of temporary power outage.
The accompanying Nomad 20 solar panel offers a good charge to the main battery under the correct conditions too. The panel itself can be easily folded for transportation along with the generator or for storage purpose. Another very functional and logical feature is the ability of the Yeti 400 to be connected to other Yeti 400s in order to produce a higher runtime. This is very convenient and especially beneficial on group trips when a number of friends decide to bring theirs along and pool power.
The Yeti 400 is lightweight, quiet, easily portable, versatile and of course environmentally friendly with its solar power. On top of these things, it also looks the part. Its sleek design is not something which power generators are usually renowned for, but this one will turn some heads.
If you need an easy to use, connective portable power generator which you can pick up and bring anywhere in an instant, then the Yeti 400 is perfect for you.
Pros
- Cheap
- Efficient
- Has a great and stylish design
- Has multiple power outlets to serve many appliances simultaneously
- Highly compatible to various solar panels
- Has an LCD screen to enable you monitor its input, output and power capacity
- Low maintenance costs
Cons
- Has a short runtime
- Not very powerful
- 396Wh lead acid battery portable power station can power up to 7 devices at once (33Ah @ 12V)
- Continuous 300W, 600W surge pure-sine wave inverter, 2.1A USB ports, 120W 12V ports
- Charge phones, tablets, laptops, cameras, and most small devices. Backup power for small appliances, lights, and more
- Recharges from AC, 12V or solar panels (sold separately). Gas-free generator alternative with no noise, no fumes, no maintenance
- Chainable with other 33Ah lead acid batteries for longer runtimes
2. Goal Zero Yeti 1250
Sticking with Goal Zero for our next look at a solar-powered generator. The 1250 however really increases the size and output of the device in comparison with the previous device. With the naturally bigger size, portability is quite reduced with the 1250. However, what is lost in terms of portability, is regained in droves with power output.
Of course, the larger Yeti model has the capability to easily charge all of your standard mobile devices and laptops. Because of its larger output, it can also easily power fridges, fans and other bigger scale home appliances.
It is silent, safe and clean for both indoor and outdoor use, coming with Boulder 30 Solar panels which provide fast and efficient charging in the most environmentally protective manner. Devices can be charged and items powered with the exact same speed and efficiency as wall charging.
24 hours heat from the sun will provide enough energy to fully charge the 1250 from the accompanying solar panels. This is impressive for a large-sized generator. There are also more traditional ways to charge the device.
A regular wall outlet will give you a full charge of the Yeti 1250 in around 18hours and finally, whilst not the ideal method for everyone, you can also charge the generator in your car. A 44hour charging duration will give full power to the Yeti. This is not the most efficient method, sometimes though, the situation dictates what action is necessary. It is therefore nice to have the additional charging options.
The Goal Zero Yeti 1250 is an excellent portable generator choice for those going on a longer, more isolated excursion who want to maintain connectivity with all of their daily luxuries. It is also perfect to have around home, certain of fast charging for a number of larger items if the need arises.
Pros
- Does not produce fumes
- Suitable for powering sensitive gadgets as well as gadgets with high voltage requirements
- Has multiple power outlets
- Powerful and reliable
- Has an LCD screen to help you monitor its power input, output and capacity
Cons
- Heavy and bulky to transport
- Comes with only six months warranty
- 1250Wh lead acid battery portable power station can power up to 10 devices at once (100Ah @ 12V)
- Continuous 1200W, 1500W surge pure-sine wave inverter, 2.1A USB ports, 120W 12V ports
- Charge phones, tablets, laptops, cameras, drones, and more. Provides backup emergency power for appliances, lights, and most household devices.
- Chainable with other 100Ah lead acid batteries for longer runtimes
- Recharges from AC or pair with a solar panel (sold separately). No noise, no fumes, no maintenance
3. Renogy Phoenix 20W All-in-One Generator Kit
Going from large back to little with our last of the solar portable generators. The Renogy Phoenix certainly lives up to its name in terms of size, though this is certainly not a criticism. The reduced size of this model actually means that portability is fantastic. This is the major purpose and benefit of the firefly. It can provide a solid amount of on the go power, anyplace, anytime.
It is perfect for mobile application and charging devices on the move or in an emergency situation. Its two 10W solar panels are fully built into its briefcase style design. This makes it compact and perfect to carry around just like a bag, even if you never have to use it. It also houses a 150W inverter, 10A charge controller and a 16Ah lithium battery in a neat and compact set up.
The waterproof case is also highly durable, this means it is completely ready for any intrepid adventure or scenario in which you may find yourself. It has very convenient AC/DC output switching buttons, allowing you to switch type in an instant and its LCD display monitor which is also built in, provides accurate, up to the second data regarding battery status and other important visuals.
Overall, the Phoenix is everything you could want in a portable generator. Easy to use, highly portable and rugged with excellent connectivity options. It is certain to never see you stuck in a difficult situation without power, regardless of circumstance.
Pros
- Light
- Its LCD screen to helps you monitor the power input, output and capacity
- Suitable for use in construction industries
- It’s a great package with a reasonably low price
- Has a cooling fan
- Has a power saving capability by having separate AC and DC options
Cons
- Semi fragile
- Takes time to charge fully
- Needs to be recharged frequently
- Unsuitable for powering appliances that requires high voltage like refrigerators
- Has a short runtime
- The Phoenix is an all-in-one portable solar power system specifically designed for mobile, off-grid applications and is ideal for emergencies
- This compact, lightweight back-up system combines highly efficient Renogy 20W Mono-crystalline Solar panels and can expand up to 100 watts with additional paves
- The Phoenix can be charged by solar, AC power, or car power and comes with a 17. 1Ah li-ion(neck) Battery
- The included 17. 1Ah li-ion(neck) Battery, giving the capability of limitless power. Charging temperature range 045C°
- Minimum inverter efficiency: 80 percentage, max Continuous Output power: 150W, Output AC Frequency: 60 Hz
Gas Powered Portable Generators
Gas-powered portable generators will certainly give you more bang for your buck in terms of power. Also, this means that so long as you have enough fuel, you can provide power at all times. Particularly suitable for sustained power outages and unexpected events. Gas powered portable generators provide a unique combination of convenience together with the reliability and high-level power found in most models.
1. Champion 3800
Beginning with a supreme value choice, the champion 3800 is a model for everything good about gas powered portable generators. With its 3800 watts of running power, it is a strong start from this industry leader in power generators.
The Champion comes with an electric, push-button start. This provided comfort and convenience in starting the motor without having to worry about breaking a sweat or doing yourself an injury. Even more convenient is the fact that the starter battery remains charged from the machine running.
In fact, the Champion is dual fuel, also running off propane. This is an added bonus, although most output power is gained when running from the 3 to 4-gallon gas tank. It has a number of excellent features to boot. These include folding handles for easy transportation and never-flat tires.
This model makes an excellent addition to your RV when traveling or just to keep around the garage for some unexpected events. It is relatively quiet operating from its 224cc engine and will provide for a total running time of 9hrs on a full tank of gas.
The convenience and wealth of features are bolstered to an even higher standing when we consider the fantastic pricing of the Champion 3800. It really does deliver above and beyond the call of duty within this price range.
If you are looking for supreme value for money in combination with a highly efficient and adaptable model, this is certainly the choice for you.
Pros
- Easy to start
- Dependable
- Powerful
- Rv ready
- Propane or gas fuelled
- Considerable amount of power output
Cons
- Vibrates during operation
- Has no fuel gauge
- Noisy
- Dual Fuel: Operate your 3800-watt portable generator right out of the box on either gasoline or propane, plus the unit holds 0.6-quarts of oil (included) and has a low oil shut-off sensor
- Electric Start: Power up the 224cc Champion engine with the handy toggle switch, battery included
- Intelligauge: Keep track of voltage, hertz and run-time hours to easily monitor power output and track maintenance intervals. Dimensions-26.3 x 24.8 x 22.9 inches
- Outlets: One 120V 30A RV outlet (TT-30R), one 120V 30A locking outlet (L5-30R) and two 120V 20A household outlets (5-20R) - trust Volt Guard built-in surge protector to prevent overloads
- Champion Support: Includes 3-year limited warranty with FREE lifetime technical support from dedicated experts
2. Duromax XP10000EH
Cranking it up to another level of power with this outstanding offering from Duromax. The XP10000EH sets a powerful standard when it comes to portable power generation that, in truth, few can match. This model is no different, with a whopping 8000W running power output, it can simply blow away some of its rivals.
With great power, comes great responsibility. It is often said and in this case is also correct. The Duromax prides itself on being able to charge anything, anywhere and at any time. This is a large feat to live up to, but with the power of this dual propane and gas engine bursting at the seams, the XP10000EH makes it look effortless.
This model has a very useful key starting function, meaning you can get the motor running as simply as you would a car. Fear not if the battery ignition is not charged, there is also a recoil starting option in that event or for the traditionalists at heart.
The control panel of the XP10000EH possesses multiple outlets of varying voltage output and socket shape. This means that regardless the plug and voltage type of your device, rest assured it can be easily handled. It also has an engine muffler which helps to greatly reduce the noise. This is an essential component of such a powerful machine.
Given its size, the XP10000EH is remarkably transportable and also comes with a useful mobility kit to help in this regard. Naturally, with the supreme power on board, it comes at a more premium price point than some other, less powerful models, but, it certainly provides value for money.
An excellent choice for someone looking for a durable and hardworking portable generator that can handle pretty much any situation.
Pros
- Strong and reliable to power the entire household appliances
- Safe and easy to start and operate
- Quiet during operations
- Eco friendly
- Has solid- fill wheels enhances easy portability
- Low oil indicator and a voltmeter
- Can use either liquid propane or gasoline
- Easy to repair and maintain
- Comes with one year warranty
- Manufactured by Duromax a trusted manufacturer
Cons
- Difficult to assemble
- Its propane fuel horse is very close to the wheels
- Not found in California since it’s not CARB compliant
- Plenty of Power – With 10,000 starting watts and 8,000 running watts, this unit can handle heavy loads from lights and a refrigerator to a home air conditioner and high amperage power tools
- Dual Fuel Technology – This generator runs on gasoline or propane, giving you the freedom and flexibility of fuel choice
- Powerful Engine – The DuroMax 439cc OHV engine is a workhorse that provides plenty of power to handle multiple jobs, from powering high voltage appliances to heavy duty power tools
- Idle Control – Lowers the RPMs of the generator when not in use, saving fuel and reducing noise. Ideal on job sites where power is used intermittently
- MX2 Technology - Get the maximum power from each of the 120-volt receptacles. Choose between operating the generator at both 120V and 240V simultaneously, or at 120V only with full power. Ideal for usage with RVs
3. Energizer eZV3200P
Finishing off our round-up of some of the best available portable gas-powered generators is a model with an instantly recognizable name. Energizer produces the eZV200P and they have done a magnificent job, bolstering their already fine reputation in the power industry. The company pride themselves on durability and long-lasting quality, two attributes which this model possesses in abundance.
First off, we should note the tidy appearance of the energizer, it looks both modern and compact. These are two advantages that cannot always be noted of power generators, but being easy on the eye is of great importance in today’s market. We want a product that not only does the job well but also looks the part.
The eZV3200P is a 3200W, gas powered generator. Considering this fact, it is quiet as a mouse. This makes it excellent for use around the home or during camping trips without the added worry of disturbing neighbors or people nearby. It is also lightweight in comparison to similar competitors. This makes it rather easy to carry around without adding too much strain.
It has several available outlets for multiple voltage power sources. This is in addition to its parallel connectivity option, meaning that it can connect to any other eZV model for extra power and longer lifespan. This is an excellent option if camping in groups or you are a big admirer of the series. It also sports an innovative and super convenient remote starting facility.
Sporting a 7.4l tank along with its 208cc engine and a three-year warranty, you can be sure that Energizer will live up to their reputation for providing superior longevity on products. This also helps to remove a lot of stress in the unlikely event an issue should arise.
This is an excellent choice for those not requiring the huge power of the Duramax but still wanting a long-term power generation option from a very reputable source.
- High power inverter. A peak output of 3, 200 watts, and 2, 800 watts running safely power all your devices and sensitive electronic equipment.
- Dual wave control. Voltage and Current are digitally controlled, providing a stable output at peak wattage and during rapid load changes. This makes powering circular Saws and angle Grinders a breeze.
- Remote start. Stay indoors by starting and stopping at your convenience, up to 100 feet away with the two included remotes.
- Parallel power. A newly designed single-outlet parallel Port makes connecting two ezv p-series generators easy, combining the power of two units into a single output. Parallel cable Sold Separately.
- RV ready. The eZV3200P can easily power a large 13, 500 BTU air conditioner on its own.
Diesel Powered Portable Generators
The final sector which we will review in helping to find you the best possible portable generators is diesel generators. These, in many cases, can offer a more cost-effective, durable and hardworking generator than other categories. This along with other benefits such as reduced noise levels. Let’s take a look at the best available models.
1. Generac 6864
Starting off with a true beast of the diesel generator market. The 6864 leaves no stone unturned when it comes to both being efficient as well as ultra-powerful. With this generator, you will never find yourself running out of energy. The diesel tank on this model holds a remarkable 12 gallons. This gives it a very sustainable run time of 32.4hrs when operating at 50% capacity. This is a statistic which will turn heads and is much longer than any of the previous models we have reviewed.
The 1¼ inch thick steel frame also helps to protect the Generac from sustaining any damage. This makes it ideal for most construction sites or indeed any kind of rugged environment. It truly is the portable generator for professional tradespeople. Its one-touch start is of ultimate convenience on those dark and cold winter mornings or evenings when you dread the thought of trying to pull-start an engine.
The hour meter equipped on the 6864 also makes it more than ideal for checking service intervals to ensure everything is kept as up to date as possible. Being diesel, the engine is also extremely efficient and long-lasting. This In addition to its being much quieter and requiring of a lot less maintenance than engines of other fuel types.
This model would be an excellent choice in construction on the events industry where generators could be running for full days at a time and rely heavily both on fuel efficiency and durability.
Pros
- Reliable
- Can run upto 24 hours
- Sizeable fuel tank thus you don’t have to keep on fueling every now and then
- Suitable for use in construction sites due to its easy portability
Cons
- Quite bulky
- Loud
- Has a low peak wattage
- Durable, fully welded 1 1/4" steel frame
- Yanmar LW Series 435cc air-cooled direct injection, industrial-grade diesel engine
- Diesel power requires less maintenance, is more efficient, and provides a long life
- True Power Technology provides less than 5% total harmonic distortion for clean, smooth operation of sensitive electronics, tools and appliances
- True Power Technology provides less than 5% total harmonic distortion for clean, smooth operation of sensitive electronics, tools and appliances
2. Champion 75537i
Another model from Champion, this time of the diesel variety and no less impressive than the last. This model provides another fantastic alternative to gas and solar portable power generators. This 3100-watt generator is perfect in the mid-size range to be both productive and easily portable, traveling from job to job and location with you conveniently.
It offers the unique feature of a wireless remote start, this is something we do not always see and represents the height of convenience and comfort within a generator. Remarkably, this feature allows you to start and stop the generator from a distance of 80 feet. This is positive both in the sense of comfort, but most importantly from a safety viewpoint. With so much control, you can suddenly avert the danger of any young family members or pets who may become too curious about the inner workings of the equipment.
The fueling of this model is also very socially responsible. It uses less than 3% THD to provide the most environmentally friendly power possible under the circumstances. You can then focus on enjoying your camping trip without being burdened about worries of your eco-neglect. Champion has taken care of everything.
The Champion model offers an 8hr run time when working from a 25% load, which is also quite impressive considering the wealth of power adaptor and USB options as well as the quick touch panel and remote features offered.
This is an awesome choice for those who are enjoying a weekend away with a group of friends and are likely to be charging multiple devices at once. The slick features and sharp design will also create a great talking point among the group. By bringing this model along on your next trip, one more champion will be crowned.
Pros
- User friendly
- Affordable
- Flexibility in terms of fuel usage
- Has a remote control to supplement the electric starter
- Provides a considerable amount of power output for household appliances
Cons
- Bulky and heavy to transport since it only depends on back wheels
3. Pulsar PG7000D
Last but by no means least in our portable generator review is the diesel-powered PG7000D from Pulsar. This one will not be easily missed out. It comes in at a bigger size than most of the others and its presence certainly won’t leave you feeling lonely on a dark and frosty night.
The PG7000D also packs a hefty punch as you would expect. Starting at 7000W and with a constant running speed of 5500W, this is enough to meet basically any need that you would have on a personal outing or indeed in most professional capacities if used on a work site.
It possesses multiple AC outlets at 120V and also at 240V and a 12V DC terminal for battery charging. Fully loaded, it is designed to run for many hours in a variety of rugged conditions. It features an electric start along with a 3.3-gallon fuel tank and circuit protection to avoid any overloading. It really is a highly durable machine.
It is also quiet enough to be operational for long periods of time without causing noise pollution. The PG7000D is ideally best suited to a construction environment and even features a special hook which allows it to be hung from a crane whilst simultaneously operating to provide power. Therefore, if you have a construction project on the go or are a site manager or contractor, this could be the perfect portable generator for you.
Pros
- Safety features such as overload protection, spark arrestors etc.
- User friendly
- Has an extended runtime
- Has a remote and electric starter
- It has noise reduction features
- Sizeable fuel tank
- Manufactured by a trusted manufacturer
Cons
- Bulky and heavy to transport
- Quite expensive
- 4, 500 peak watts/ 3, 700 running watts
- Capable of up to 15 hours of extended operation at half load on 3. 2 gallons of fuel
- Convenient wireless remote start allows you to operate the unit from up to 80 ft away
- Quiet operation (63 db) make it possible to have conversation 10 Feet away
- Compact design with extendable Handle and Never-Flat wheels for easy handling and storage capability
Conclusion
In concluding this mammoth review of the many available options you are presented with when choosing your portable generators, hopefully, we have proved helpful in some respects by providing insightful knowledge on some products you may not otherwise have considered.
As we can see, there are many options available. This can be exciting but also daunting to many, especially upon a first purchase. The key is to ensure that you take your time and consider the initial budget and power requirements carefully at the outset. This will undoubtedly lead you to make a better-informed choice.
From that point, we have reviewed products which cover all pricing and power options, this should provide you with a well-rounded insight into the market and what is currently available. This is key to making sure you are happy with your power purchase.
Don’t forget that most of the portable generators models reviewed, come with some form of warranty, therefore, unexpected technical mishaps should not be a concern when making your portable generators purchase. Remember again that all of the models we have reviewed are available for purchase on Amazon at the click of a button. They will also provide you with all of the most up to date pricing information available. So, if you like one, just click the link to see more information and good luck with your next generator purchase!