When the grid goes down, life gets real quiet — and real inconvenient — in a hurry. Lights go out, appliances stop, the fridge starts warming up, and you quickly realize how much of daily life depends on electricity. That’s where a backup generator can save the day (and the food in your freezer).
But not all generators are created equal. Some are designed to power an entire home, others are built for portability, and still others aim for whisper-quiet operation over raw muscle. In this review guide, we’ll cover different types of backup generators, their pros and cons, and examples of popular models so you can find the right fit for your needs.
Types of Backup Generators
1. Portable Generators
Portable generators are the most common and versatile type. They typically run on gasoline, have power outputs ranging from 1,000 to 10,000 watts, and can be moved around as needed. Examples include:
- Predator 9000 – Heavy-duty output for home and job sites, but noisy and fuel-hungry.
- WEN 3800 Inverter – Mid-sized, quieter, and safe for electronics.
- Powerhorse 4000 – Reliable backup for essentials, solid build for work or home.
These are great for temporary outages, camping, or running power tools. Downsides include fuel storage needs, noise, and exhaust emissions.
2. Inverter Generators
Inverter generators are a subcategory of portable units, but they produce “clean” electricity with low total harmonic distortion (THD), making them safe for sensitive electronics like laptops and medical devices. They’re also more fuel-efficient and quieter than conventional generators. Examples include:
- Honda EU2200i – Industry benchmark for quiet, portable power.
- WEN 8750 Inverter – Large output with inverter tech for whole-home capable clean power.
- Powerhorse 2300i – Lightweight, quiet, and portable for travel or small home backup.
The trade-off is cost — inverters are typically more expensive per watt than conventional generators.
3. Standby Generators
Standby generators are permanent installations connected directly to your home’s electrical system. They run on natural gas or propane and start automatically during an outage. Popular examples include:
- Generac Guardian Series – Industry leader with models from 10,000 to 26,000 watts.
- Kohler RESA – High-quality build with strong warranty support.
They’re the most convenient but also the most expensive option, with installation costs often matching or exceeding the generator’s price.
Key Features to Look For
- Wattage Capacity – Match the generator’s running watts to your essential load; add extra capacity for startup surges.
- Fuel Type – Gasoline is common, but propane and dual-fuel models offer longer storage life. Natural gas is best for standby units.
- Noise Level – Measured in decibels; lower is better for residential use.
- Outlets – Make sure it has the right mix of 120V, 240V, and DC outlets for your needs.
- Run Time – Longer run times mean fewer refuels, which is crucial in extended outages.
- Start Type – Electric start adds convenience; recoil is more basic but reliable.
Popular Models Reviewed
WEN 3800 Inverter Generator
Balanced size, clean inverter power, quiet operation, and RV-ready outlets. Great for home backup of essentials or travel use. Downsides: shorter run time at heavy loads, higher price than conventional units.
Predator 9000 Generator
Massive wattage for whole-home backup or job sites. Electric start, multiple outlets, and rugged build. Downsides: loud, heavy, and fuel-intensive.
Powerhorse 2300i Inverter Generator
Compact, lightweight, and ultra-quiet. Ideal for camping, tailgating, and small-appliance backup. Downsides: limited wattage for larger appliances.
Generac Guardian Standby Generator
Automatic, hassle-free whole-home power. Runs on natural gas or propane, fully integrated into your electrical system. Downsides: high upfront and installation costs.
Maintenance Considerations
Any generator will fail you if neglected. Follow these basic practices:
- Run your generator monthly for 15–20 minutes to keep parts lubricated and fuel circulating.
- Use fuel stabilizer for gasoline if storing longer than 30 days.
- Change oil and clean air filters on schedule.
- Store in a dry, ventilated location away from living spaces.
Fuel Dependency: The Big Limitation
Gas and propane generators are only as good as your fuel supply. In short outages, this isn’t a big deal, but in long emergencies, finding fuel can become the hardest part. This is why many people are adding a renewable, fuel-free backup to their setup.
The Ultimate OFF-GRID Generator
The Ultimate OFF-GRID Generator is an untapped source of on-demand electricity that runs quietly and indefinitely — no gas station runs required. It’s perfect for keeping lights, electronics, and small appliances going while saving your fuel-powered generator for heavy loads.
By pairing a traditional backup generator with the Ultimate OFF-GRID Generator, you get a layered power plan that works in both short-term and long-term outages.
The Bottom Line
Choosing the right backup generator comes down to your specific needs. If you just need to keep a few essentials running, a small inverter unit might be perfect. If you want whole-home power, go for a high-wattage portable or a standby system. But whatever you choose, consider adding a renewable backup option so you’re not entirely dependent on fuel.
Click here to see how the Ultimate OFF-GRID Generator works and take the next step toward complete power security.