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The best home backup generators for outages
The DuroMax XP11000iH wins for strong dual-fuel output, inverter power and quieter operation, while lower-cost picks suit smaller budgets and loads.
| Best overall | Best value | Cheapest that's still good | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Product | DuroMax XP11000iH 11,000-Watt Dual-Fuel Inverter Generator | Generac GP9500E 12,500/9,500-Watt Tri-Fuel Portable Generator | Champion Power Equipment 4,750-Watt Dual-Fuel Portable Generator |
| Price | about $2,499 | about $1,399 | about $699 |
| Why | Popular Mechanics named it best overall among home generators. It combines 9,000 running watts, gasoline or propane operation and inverter output, with a reported 61 dB at 20% load. | Popular Mechanics picked the Generac as its home-generator value choice, with 9,500 running watts and gasoline, propane or natural-gas options. Its cited Amazon price was about $1,399, substantially less than the DuroMax. | Popular Mechanics described this Amazon-listed model as a lower-cost choice for several critical 120-volt circuits, and cited a price of about $699. It runs on gasoline or propane. |
| Good to know | At 216 pounds, it is difficult to move without help. | It is heavy and can get loud under a heavy load. | It has no 240-volt outlet. |
| See on Amazon | See on Amazon | See on Amazon |
picture by AIPopular Mechanics named it best overall among home generators. It combines 9,000 running watts, gasoline or propane operation and inverter output, with a reported 61 dB at 20% load.
Good to know: At 216 pounds, it is difficult to move without help.
See on Amazonpicture by AIPopular Mechanics picked the Generac as its home-generator value choice, with 9,500 running watts and gasoline, propane or natural-gas options. Its cited Amazon price was about $1,399, substantially less than the DuroMax.
Good to know: It is heavy and can get loud under a heavy load.
See on Amazonpicture by AIPopular Mechanics described this Amazon-listed model as a lower-cost choice for several critical 120-volt circuits, and cited a price of about $699. It runs on gasoline or propane.
Good to know: It has no 240-volt outlet.
See on AmazonDanilli may earn a small commission from Amazon when you buy through these buttons. The price is the same for you. Product pictures are made by Danilli's AI to show the product; check the real photos on the store page.
What matters
Choose by the appliances and circuits you need to run, including their startup wattage; these portable models do not automatically power an entire home. Check fuel availability, runtime, outlets and noise, and plan for safe outdoor placement and an electrician-installed transfer switch if connecting to home wiring.
Who this is for
These picks are for U.S. homeowners who want portable, fuel-powered backup for selected appliances or circuits during outages. Match the generator’s output to your home’s needs before buying.
The picks, one by one
Best overall: DuroMax XP11000iH 11,000-Watt Dual-Fuel Inverter Generator
Popular Mechanics named it best overall among home generators. It combines 9,000 running watts, gasoline or propane operation and inverter output, with a reported 61 dB at 20% load. Its 120/240-volt outlets and 9,000 running watts can support several home circuits when correctly connected, but it is not a promise of whole-home coverage. Reviewers praised its operation and comparatively quiet performance for a generator this powerful. It weighs 216 pounds, so plan where it will live and how you will move it. Skip it if you need a lightweight unit or only need to charge small devices.
Good to know: At 216 pounds, it is difficult to move without help.
See on AmazonBest value: Generac GP9500E 12,500/9,500-Watt Tri-Fuel Portable Generator
Popular Mechanics picked the Generac as its home-generator value choice, with 9,500 running watts and gasoline, propane or natural-gas options. Its cited Amazon price was about $1,399, substantially less than the DuroMax. Reviewers highlighted its high output, fuel flexibility and remote start. The listed running capacity is slightly above the DuroMax’s, but it lacks some of that model’s inverter features. It weighs about 219 pounds, so it is best for a planned, mostly stationary setup. Skip it if lower noise or easier carrying matters more than output and price.
Good to know: It is heavy and can get loud under a heavy load.
See on AmazonCheapest that's still good: Champion Power Equipment 4,750-Watt Dual-Fuel Portable Generator
Popular Mechanics described this Amazon-listed model as a lower-cost choice for several critical 120-volt circuits, and cited a price of about $699. It runs on gasoline or propane. It provides 3,800 running watts on gasoline and 3,420 on propane, according to the review, and reviewers noted its dedicated RV outlet and dual-fuel flexibility. Its output can suit a modest set of essentials, but it is not a substitute for a high-output generator where 240-volt circuits are needed. At about 119 pounds, it is still a substantial piece of equipment to move. Skip it if your plan depends on a well pump or other 240-volt appliance.
Good to know: It has no 240-volt outlet.
See on AmazonHow we chose
Popular Mechanics tested selected generators with appliances, tools and power stations, assessing setup, starting, load response, safety and portability; for portable models it also measured sound and electrical output. Bob Vila tested 10 popular generators in homes, at jobsites and on the road, com Danilli read the reviews and tests listed below and compared current prices; it does not take money from brands to pick a product.
Sources
- Popular Mechanics — The 9 Best Home Generators of 2026
- Popular Mechanics — The 6 Best Portable Generators for 2026
- Bob Vila — The Best Portable Generators of 2026, Tested and Reviewed
- Consumer Reports — 11 Best Portable Generators of 2026
- Utah Emergency Management — Generator Safety
- CPSC — Generator, Carbon Monoxide and Fire Hazards
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Written with Danilli's AI from the sources above and refreshed about once a month; prices change, check Amazon for today's price. Danilli may earn a small commission from Amazon when you buy through these buttons. The price is the same for you. Product pictures are made by Danilli's AI to show the product; check the real photos on the store page.