10 Best Gen Generators 2026 in the United States

The WEN 3600-Watt Portable Inverter Generator is a solid choice if you need a lightweight and quiet generator, especially suited for camping, RV trips, or home backup. It delivers up to 3600 surge watts and 2900 running watts, enough to power most small appliances and electronics safely thanks to its clean power output that protects sensitive devices like smartphones and laptops. Weighing just 46 pounds, it’s easy to carry and store compared to heavier models. The gasoline-fueled 149cc 4-stroke engine runs on a 1.6-gallon tank, which provides a reasonable runtime but may require refueling during extended use. It uses a recoil start, which means you’ll need to manually pull a cord to start it—this is straightforward but less convenient than electric start options.

You’ll find multiple outlets, including two standard 120V sockets, an RV-ready outlet, a 12V DC port, and USB ports, giving you flexible ways to connect devices. The generator is designed with a fuel shutoff feature that helps extend its life by draining leftover fuel. It’s also praised for operating quietly compared to many portable generators, making it less disruptive in campsites or neighborhoods. However, if you need longer runtime without refueling or prefer push-button start, this model might fall short. Its power output is good for light to medium loads but may not be enough for larger or multiple heavy appliances running simultaneously.

In summary, the WEN 3600-Watt offers a good balance of portability, quietness, and clean power for users who want a dependable, easy-to-transport generator suitable for recreational and light residential use.

The Generac Guardian 14kW Home Standby Generator is a robust and reliable solution for whole-house power backup. It delivers 14,000 watts of power, making it capable of handling substantial household energy needs. This generator runs on natural gas or LP gas, which offers flexibility depending on what is available to you. Its durable aluminum enclosure ensures it can withstand outdoor conditions, and it comes with a 5-year limited warranty, giving you long-term peace of mind about your investment. Additionally, the G-Force Engine is designed for reliability and reduced maintenance, which can be a huge plus for homeowners who want a set-it-and-forget-it solution.

The inclusion of a 100 Amp transfer switch simplifies the integration with your home’s electrical system, providing seamless backup during outages. One notable feature is the Mobile Link Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing you to monitor the generator's performance remotely, which can be very convenient when you’re away from home. The generator is quite large and heavy, weighing 385 pounds, which might pose challenges during installation, so professional installation by a certified electrician is recommended. It operates relatively quietly compared to some other standby generators, thanks to the low-maintenance engines.

This generator is primarily suited for residential use and might be overkill for smaller homes or less demanding power needs. If you’re looking for a reliable, powerful, and easy-to-use standby generator for whole-house protection, the Generac Guardian 14kW stands out with its impressive features and robust construction.

The GENMAX Portable Generator GM9000iED is a strong choice if you need a reliable power source for home backup, job sites, or outdoor activities like camping. Its 9000 peak watts and 7600 running watts provide ample power for most household or work needs. A key strength is its dual fuel capability, running on either gas or propane, which offers flexibility depending on your fuel availability and preferences.

Portability is fairly well addressed with sturdy wheels and a steel handle, though at 280 pounds, it's on the heavier side, so it’s more portable than lightweight but still manageable with some effort. The electric start and remote key fob add convenience, making it easier to operate than pull-start models. One of the standout features is the quiet operation—at 62 decibels under moderate load, it’s quieter than many generators, which is great for neighborhood or camping use. The low idle mode helps extend run time and save fuel, and the 6.9-gallon tank supports long usage periods.

Safety-wise, the built-in carbon monoxide detector is a valuable addition that automatically shuts off the generator if unsafe gas levels are detected. The unit also supports parallel connection, allowing you to link two generators for double power, though the parallel kit is sold separately. The generator’s weight can be a challenge if you need to move it around frequently. Also, while it has 5 outlets and supports both 120V and 240V outputs, users looking for more extensive connectivity options might find it somewhat limited.