Best Portable Generators

Coleman Proforce PM0103000 (Around $350)

Budget midsize portable generator.If you need a portable generator mainly to power a fridge and a few lights in the event of an outage, and you don't care much about noise, the Coleman Proforce gets good ratings from homeowners. The voltage generated by the Coleman isn't especially consistent -- so it's not the best choice for powering a computer or sensitive electronics, but for other appliances and lights, this Coleman model should be fine. The Coleman generator is very loud, but it does have low-oil shutdown, which can save the generator if oil gets too low. A fuel gauge is also included. The control panel includes two 120-volt outlets and a circuit breaker.


Honda EU1000i (Around $790)

Best-quality small portable generator.Although it is expensive, the 900-watt Honda EU1000i has several advantages. Because it uses inverter technology, its voltage is consistent in quality, reducing risk of damage to sensitive electronics. Because it is small, lightweight and quiet, the Honda portable generator is also great for camping trips. The throttle adjusts engine speed to the electrical load for the best fuel economy. Included are two AC outlets and one DC outlet.


McCulloch FDD210 (Around $550)

Best value, small generator.Unlike most budget models, this 1,600-watt portable generator uses inverter technology for quiet, consistent electricity -- making it a better choice for powering computers and sensitive electronics. Like the pricier Honda EU generator, the McCulloch model shuts down automatically if the oil level gets too low. It's also quiet enough to be used at a campground. However, the McCulloch guzzles more gas and has more emissions than others. It has one AC and one DC outlet.


Briggs & Stratton 030244 (Around $1,000)

8,000-watt portable generator.If you need electricity to power an entire house (or most of it), reviews recommend the Briggs & Stratton Elite series for good power quality, and this large model uses a commercial engine with cast-iron sleeves and full-pressure lubrication for longer life. This also means less maintenance, changing oil every 100 hours instead of every 24 hours. A 30-amp cord is included, with four outlets on the end for your appliances. This model doesn't offer inverter technology, but large inverter generators cost more than $4,000.


Generac Guardian 04582(Around $2,000)

15,000-watt portable generator.Like the Briggs & Stratton 030244, this big electric start generator uses a Generac V-twin OHV engine with cast-iron sleeves and full-pressure lubrication for long life. The Guardian 04582 includes a 50-amp AC outlet for running an air conditioner. Reviews say this model can easily provide backup electricity for an entire house -- especially when equipped with a transfer switch. Auto-idle adjusts the engine to four speeds according to the load, but owners say this generator can really guzzle fuel. Wheels are included but, at 450 pounds, it strains the definition of portable.