8 Best Portable Generators to Bring the Power With You

MOST RUGGED

Generac IQ3500

Running watts: 3,000 | Starting watts: 3,500 | Decibels under load: 83.2 | Outlets: Two USB, two 120 V 20 A, one 120 V 30 A twist lock | Ground: Floating neutral | Starting: Electric, manual recoil | Carbon monoxide shutoff : No | Weight: 109.1 lb

Coupled with two sturdy handles, the metal doors and enclosure of the IQ3500 make clear that it’s a durable, well-built machine. We appreciated the convenience of the push-button electric start. During testing we used two 120-volt loads, our 15-amp table saw, and a 10-amp portable air conditioner. While turning the saw on and off, the sine wave of the current had consistent symmetrical waves. We were initially disappointed to see there’s no fuel gauge on the tank, but the LCD screen made it easy for us to monitor performance and keep tabs on remaining fuel and run time. The IQ3500 is a great compact generator for job sites and emergency home backup.

BEST FOR RV CAMPING

Champion 4,650-Watt Dual Fuel

Running watts (gas): 3,650 | Starting watts (gas): 4,650 | Decibels under load: 85.4 | Outlets: one 12 V DC, two 120 V 20 A, one 120 V 30 A RV | Ground: Floating neutral | Starting: Electric, manual recoil | Carbon monoxide shutoff : No | Weight: 103 lb

Champion packed a lot of value in here, starting with the ability to run on either gas or propane. Monitoring the current when turning the saw or planer on, we saw a symmetrical sine wave. THD held at zero percent, though it blipped to 3.7 when we turned the saw on. With a 30-amp, RV-style plug, this generator is suited to powering a medium camper and, though it doesn’t have a 240-volt outlet, it could come in handy during an emergency at home.