10 Best Generators 2026 in the United States

The DuroMax XP16000iHT is a powerful tri-fuel generator offering up to 16,000 watts of starting power and 13,000 watts running power, making it suitable for whole home backup, RVs, or job sites. Its ability to run on gasoline, propane, or natural gas provides great fuel flexibility, which is useful if you want options during emergencies or changing fuel availability. The generator includes two 50-amp outlets, allowing easy connection to a home transfer switch or generator interlock, perfect for powering multiple appliances or an entire house.

One of its standout features is the remote electric start, letting you turn the generator on or off from inside your home—convenient during bad weather or power outages. Safety is also a priority, with built-in carbon monoxide detection that automatically shuts the unit off if dangerous levels are detected. Despite its large size and 505-pound weight, it’s considered portable for a generator this powerful, though moving it will require some effort or a cart. Thanks to digital inverter technology, the generator produces clean, stable power, protecting sensitive electronics like computers and TVs. It also operates relatively quietly compared to traditional generators. The smart digital display lets you easily monitor voltage, frequency, fuel level, and runtime.

The generator is quite heavy and bulky, making it less ideal if you need something highly mobile for frequent transport. Its 10.5-gallon fuel tank offers decent run time but will still require refueling during extended outages. Some users may find the price and setup more suited for serious power needs rather than casual or light use. This generator is a strong choice if you want reliable, flexible, and safe whole-home or commercial backup power, especially when running sensitive electronics. However, it’s less convenient if you need something lightweight or primarily for small, occasional tasks.

The Generac Guardian 26kW Home Standby Generator is a solid choice for homeowners needing reliable backup power during outages, storms, or emergencies. It offers a powerful 26,000-watt output, enough to support an entire home, which means you can keep most or all of your essential appliances running simultaneously. This model runs on natural gas or liquid propane, giving flexibility depending on your available fuel sources. It features Generac's G-Force 1000 Series engine known for durability and efficient fuel use, which helps keep operational costs lower over time.

This generator is designed for stationary home installation and weighs 518 pounds, so it's not portable but meant as a permanent backup solution. Noise levels are kept relatively low with a 'Super Quiet' feature and a Quiet-Test mode that reduces engine speed during self-tests, making it less disruptive to your household and neighbors. Four power outlets provide ample connectivity options for your home's needs. One standout feature is the built-in Wi-Fi monitoring that lets you track the unit's status and maintenance alerts remotely, adding convenience and peace of mind.

Installation requires a certified electrician, which may add to upfront costs but ensures the unit operates safely and efficiently. The size and weight make it unsuitable if you need a portable generator or have space constraints. Also, because it’s designed for whole-house use, it may be more generator than some users need if they only require backup for a few essential devices. The 5-year warranty provides added reassurance typical for this level of investment. This generator is well-suited for homeowners looking for reliable, quiet, and relatively low-maintenance whole-house backup power but less suited for those needing portability or a lightweight option.

The Generac Guardian 22kW Home Standby Generator is a strong choice for homeowners looking for reliable whole-house backup power during storms or outages. It delivers a powerful 22,000 watts, enough to keep most home appliances running smoothly. You can run it on natural gas or liquid propane, giving flexibility depending on your fuel availability. Thanks to its automatic features like idle control and voltage regulation, it works efficiently and safely with minimal fuss. It’s designed to be durable and quiet compared to many generators, which is helpful if you want to avoid loud noise during emergencies.

One standout feature is the built-in Wi-Fi connectivity that lets you monitor the generator remotely, so you’ll always know its status and get maintenance alerts even if you’re away from home. The included 200 Amp automatic transfer switch ensures your home's electrical system transitions seamlessly to generator power when needed. With 30 power outlets, it can support a wide range of devices and appliances.

This generator is quite heavy (466 pounds) and fairly large, so it’s not something you’d move around frequently. Installation requires a licensed electrician, which adds to the setup cost and complexity. This unit is built for permanent outdoor installation and isn’t portable like smaller generators. If you want a robust, low-maintenance standby generator that covers your entire home and offers modern remote monitoring, this Generac model fits well. It’s not ideal for those needing a lightweight or portable solution but excels in providing dependable power when you need it most.