The Best Portable Generator of 2021

Generators are the perfect tool to keep at your home and outdoor events when you need backup power. They are expensive but there are plenty of generators that can be found and used at very affordable prices.

They can be found at local retailers, especially hardware stores or big box home improvement centers but the best place to get a good deal is online. They will often list their features and reviews which will help you choose which one you prefer. Here are some affordable choices if you are looking for the best generator under $500.

Best Portable Generator with Remote Start

1. Champion Power Equipment Inverter Generator

The Champion Power Equipment 100573 Inverter Generator comes with wireless remote control that allows you to turn the generator on and off up to 80 feet away. The cast-iron case is designed to protect the engine, which can run for up to 12 hours on a half load. It has a 4000 watts surge along with a 3500 watts rating. The engine is a 196cc 4 stroke OHV and provides plenty of power.

There are multiple outlets including a 120-volt duplex outlet, a 120-volt twist-lock outlet, and an RV receptacle. The engine is carb compliant so you can purchase this generator in all 50 states. A 2-year limited warranty is included.

Best Portable Generator for the Money

2. Briggs & Stratton 3500W Portable Generator

The best portable generator for the money has to be the Briggs & Stratton S3500 Portable Generator. This machine includes a wheel kit along with eight-inch never-go-flat tires. The handle makes it easy to maneuver and the steel frame is designed to protect the electrical components and engine. This unit can be wheeled just about anywhere.

The 208cc OHV Engine provides all the power you need and can run for up to eight hours at 50% load. It is 3500 watts rated. You can’t get a better generator for the money.

Best Generator under $500

3. DuroMax XP4400E 4400 watt Gas Generator

The Duro Max XP 4400E Gas Powered Generator is designed to be a portable power source. It comes with both a wheel kit and a tool kit. The built-in voltmeter will help alert you to maintenance problems and overloads. It also contains a handle that will flip down for easy storage.

The steel frame roll cage helps protect the engine. The electrical starting system allows you to start the engine with the push of a button. The engine can run for 8 hours on half a load and has a fuel capacity of four gallons. The low oil shut-off function will help protect the engine from damage. It is non-carb compliant and cannot be purchased in California.

Owners of this generator love the convenience of both the portability and the outlets. There are two 120 volts 20 amp outlets, a 12 volt DC and a 120/24 volt 30 amp twist lock.

Best Portable Generator for Home

4. PowerSmart Super Quiet Generator, 2200 Watts Portable Inverter Generator

The PowerSmart PS5025 Portable Inverter Generator is the best portable generator for the home. It contains an ergonomic handle that allows you to move it wherever you want it. The durable enclosure helps protect both the engine and electrical components.

The engine is a 4 stroke 79cc OHV engine with a pulse flow muffler. It has a manual recoil starting system. There are five outlets including four 120 volt outlets and a 120/240-volt twist-lock outlet. The engine can run for 7 hours on half load and can hold up to a gallon of fuel. It is rated at 1700 watts with a 2000 watts surge. Because it is not carb compliant, it is not sold in California.

It with a 3-year limited warranty making it one of the best generators under $1000.

Best Gas Electric Start Portable Generator

5. Durostar DS4400E Gas Powered Portable Generator

The Durostar DS4400E Generator runs on gas and has an electric start. The 7 horsepower air-cooled OHV engine runs on 3500 watts with a 4400 watts surge. It weighs a total of 125 pounds and has circuit breaker power outlets along with two 120 volts 20 amp outlets and a 120/240 twist-lock outlet.

The included voltmeter will prevent overloads and the low oil warning light will alert you to low oil and will shut off the engine to prevent damage. It is the best gas-electric start portable generator on the market.

All 5 of the generators listed here are great options if you are looking for something under $500. They often have free shipping when you purchase them online and they all provide plenty of features and options that are worth considering when purchasing one of the best generators for the money.