Best portable generators for camping, power outages, and more

If you’re shopping for a portable generator to kick in and support long-term outages or important equipment, you're not going to want to look to discounted or deadstock generators to save some cash in the short term. Instead, the Briggs & Stratton 30740 7000 Watt Portable Generator is going to be your best bet if you’re looking for a powerhouse that’s not going to cut any corners. The impressive portable generator boasts an impressive fuel efficiency, nine-hour consistent run time, and a very moveable body with a convenient handle and all-terrain wheels that allow for quick and easy positioning adjustments.

The Westinghouse iGen160s 155Wh Portable Power Station might not generate enough juice to power your larger appliances or power tools—but it’s just right for keeping smaller appliances and tech running throughout a power outage, like your mini-fridge, radio, and your smartphone, for example. The compact device is charged by both battery and solar power so it can easily be brought inside the house or used in a vehicle. It’s also very compact and easy to transport which makes it an excellent choice if you’re looking for something you can throw in the car and bring out at the campground.

The Goal Zero Yeti 150 Portable Power Station is going to be an excellent option for anyone looking for an easy-to-use power station that can be juiced up without the use of gas or oil. The eco-friendly device uses solar panels (or AC adapters in a pinch) and can easily charge any and all devices up to 150 watts (think smart devices and smaller appliances). The 12-pound device is super portable and can easily be popped into the car for emergency smart device charging on the go or stored in the garage for unexpected power outages. The power station also includes a variety of outlets—including USB ports—which makes sharing or charging multiple devices at once less of a headache.

The DeWALT DXGN4500 takes the stress out of stormy evenings and power outages in more ways than one and will be your best option if you experience regular power outages or particularly long runs of time without power. The super powerful portable generator can support up to 4,500 watts at one time (which is enough to cover most appliances) and can also charge smaller devices and tools. The 160-pound tool is easy to move around as needed and, on top of a generous 15 hour run time, comes with a built-in idle control setting which will help save fuel and run more efficiently.

Looking for a decent wattage without the need for a large, clunky-sized generator? Portable generators have come a long way in the past few years and the Champion Power Equipment 2500-Watt Ultralight Portable Generator is no exception. The compact generator is going to be your best bet if you want something that’s both light and very powerful. The lightweight device weighs in at under 40 pounds—but can still manage to run up to 2500 watts for up to 11.5 hours of consistent use. It also comes equipped with built-in USB ports that will allow you to charge up your smartphone and other gear without needing to share power outlets with larger devices.

The Sportsman Sandstorm Gasoline 2000-Watt Portable Generator was built for regular campers who enjoy their overnight creature comforts (like smart devices, Bluetooth speakers, and even small appliances) and is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a generator strictly for leisure purposes. The compact device weighs in at just 53 pounds which makes it excellent for schlepping from the car to the campsite but the exceptional 11-hour run time and weatherproof design is what makes it a great option for outdoor adventurers who like to stay plugged in. The long-lasting run time is particularly noteworthy—especially if you tend to bring items like Bluetooth speakers or mini-fridges to your campsite.

Worried about your portable generator making a ton of noise and waking up the neighborhood? Look no further than the Honda EU2200i “Super Quiet” Portable Generator. This popular model runs up to nine hours on a single tank, can support up to 2200 watts at a given time, and operates at 48 to 57 dBA which is actually quieter than a regular conversation. The incognito device also weighs in at under sixty pounds which is a huge plus if you plan to move it around or throw it in the car when you go camping. Note that the Honda EU2200i is also able to be combined with more than one generator in order to support higher wattage appliances and tools as needed.