consumer reports best portable generators

Relatively low price for an inverter generator of this size.

The Westinghouse carries a three-year warranty.Īvailable from Home Depot, Amazon, and Walmart. It can also be joined to a second portable generator for additional output. Like other inverter generators in this price range, the Westinghouse doesn't have an overabundance of features and it's designed primarily for recreational use, but, with its 1,800 running watts and 2,200 peak watts, it can power the essentials in an emergency. Several claim it stands up to models that cost more than twice as much, notably the Honda EU2200i. There are very few reports of problems, and most users say this generator is quiet, efficient, and easy to start. Takeaway: Looking for a portable generator that's quiet enough for social gatherings or camping? This Westinghouse iGen2200 portable inverter generator earns very solid marks from owners and industry enthusiasts.

May not have enough power to run every home appliance.

Features include 2 USB ports, as well as dual 120-volt household outlets.

Easy to use and easy on fuel needs only 1.2 gallons of gas to fill the tank, and efficiency mode stretches standard run times to as many as 12 hours.

Small and lightweight, at just 46 pounds.

Very quiet, with noise level of 53 dB ideal for tailgating.

Prices fluctuate frequently, sometimes by $50 or more, so buy right away if you find a bargain.Īvailable from Home Depot, Amazon, Walmart, and Sam's Club. Also, while a majority of our picks are CARB compliant, for consumers living in California, you'll need to look for the very latest models if you want a unit equipped with the most up-to-date carbon-monoxide-sensing technology.Įditors' note: Generators regularly sell out, regardless of season, and top-rated models can be on back order for weeks.

A more robust generator to power your RV or run all essential home appliances can cost up to $600 or more. Expect to pay about $300 for a small, gas-powered portable generator that can run two or three items for camping or tailgating, or provide a backup power source during storm season.

They often review models that cost more than $1,000, so we also relied on specialty retailers and enthusiast sites that compare cheaper portable generators, as well as hundreds of customer reviews on retail sites including Home Depot, Lowe's, Amazon, and Walmart. To identify the best cheap portable generators, we consulted trustworthy sources that conduct product testing, such as Consumer Reports, Top Ten Reviews, Popular Mechanics, and Wirecutter.

Consumer reports best portable generators