Best Small Portable Gas Generators

The potential and help provided by portable gas generators are undeniable, and that’s the main reason why they are popular among many people and attract new buyers every year. These devices are transferable, flexible, help during power outages, and can also provide power supply in any place.

Whether you reside in a region that experiences power outages more often or you are expecting a certain weather event to happen, a portable generator may be an important part of your emergency toolkit.

However, the challenging part is locating the right one that will suit your power needs. Since the market is saturated with countless brands and models that promise ultimate performance after purchase, here are our top recommendations of some of the best portable gas generator on the market right now.

Durostar DS4000S Generator

The DuroStar DS4000S is one of the classic generators you will find on the market. It is rigid and tough, and it comes with a reliable motor that cranks out consistent power.

This generator includes a pull start type that requires little effort to pull. Besides, this unit is quiet, efficient, and versatile. It is an amazing tool to invest in in the event of emergencies. Furthermore, it is an ideal tool for camping or outdoor trips. Generally, it is a portable gas generator that does it all.

Main Features

On the other hand, this generator measures 20 inches *27 inches *22 inches, and that is smaller than what most average generators measure. The unit weighs approximately 90 pounds, which makes it easier to carry it around.

Engine power: The DuroStar DS4000S runs on a 7HP motor that’s always air-cooled to help it make the most out of its four gallons of gas. Also, the generator normally pumps out around 4000 watts in every use, making it strong enough to provide light to your household, power your air conditioners, refrigerators, and other small electric appliances for a maximum of 8 hours.

 It runs longer than when you charge it with electricity and generates clean power. As stated earlier, the tank of this machine holds four gallons of gas, and the unit can power a few of your electric appliances for between five and ten hours based on the load you have. Furthermore, due to its easy-to-read fuel gauge, you will always know when you should refill the tank.

Noise level: The DS4000S model is incredibly efficient, but it produces some notable levels of noise. On average, the unit produces around 69 decibels, which is quite higher than normal conversations, and also higher than what most generators of its category produce. Nonetheless, for the average household, this level of noise is still low.

Champion 3100-Watt Generator

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It has a standard setup that easily matches the actual settings for RVs. You can carry this generator anywhere with you since it is both CARB and EPA compliant. The unit comes with a lot of features for convenience and runs quietly and efficiently.

Main Features

Design and size: This generator measures 18.3 inches high, by 24.4 inches long, by 14.3 inches wide. It weighs approximately 84.5 pounds, which makes it a bit too bulky to carry around with one hand. However, that’s understandable considering it has a more powerful and larger engine when compared to many inverter generators. Luckily, the wheels make it pretty easy to move it around.

Engine: This unit has a robust 171 cc Champion overhead engine that’s located at the heart of this portable generator. The unit produces a computer-optimized waveform that generates a stable and reliable current that is suitable for much sensitive electronic gadgets like computers as well as audio and video devices.

Push button start: The Champion 3100-watt portable power station features a three-position ignition switch that allows you to start the machine with only a flick. However, you don’t need to tug on this unit’s recoil start, especially if you’re not so inclined. The push-button includes a battery and a built-in battery charger.

Powerful output: The 171 cc Champion overhead engine of this portable generator produces a total power of 2800 running watts and 3100 surge watts. This power output is enough to run several large appliances when recreating, on an offsite job, or at home.

Outlets and power panel: The Champion 3100-watt portable power station features all standard outlets that include, 30 Amp Receptacle, 12V DC outlet, 120 Volt AC, and 20 Amp Duplex outlets. Furthermore, the panel comes fitted with an overload indicator light, an oil warning light, and a handy push-button circuit breaker.

Noise level: The Champion 3100 portable generator runs at 58 decibels, which is fairly quiet even by the standards of inverter generators. Nevertheless, the noise may increase with load increase.

WEN 56125i Portable Inverter Generator

If you are on a tight budget and are looking for a portable generator that will satisfy your tailgating or hiking needs without putting a dent in your wallet, the WEN 56125i model is a great option.

It weighs 31lbs, which makes it one of the lightweight and portable products you will find in the market today. This generator by WEN is as quiet as an average-volume conversation or window AC unit.

However, that’s not the only benefit: the portable generator is also rated incredibly safe for cellphones, tablets, laptops, and many other electronic gadgets and appliances that are vulnerable to overloading.

Main Features

Engine: The WEN 56125i generator features a 60cc engine that’s capable of producing 1250 running watts, and the rated wattage usually settles down at around 1000 watts. This model can handle most small electronics and camping appliances with the generated power capacity.

This unit is certainly not for people with considerable energy demand, but it is an excellent option for short camping trips and sudden power outages.

Power output: The WEN 56125i model delivers a reliable power output of approximately 1000 watts, which means you can plug your sensitive gadgets and appliances without any fear of damage. The unit also includes an eco-mode for enhanced fuel efficiency and more run hours. 

This feature enables the unit to detect when devices are unplugged or plugged, enabling it to manage fuel consumption appropriately. In the case of low fuel and low oil, the unit has relevant settings that automatically shut it off for safety. Besides, the generator also comes with indicator lights that keep you updated on everything that is happening.

Parallel connectivity: If you find the capacity of power is too low or you require more power, the WEN 56125 model can easily run parallel with any other generator from the same brand. The two units can increase the total capacity and deliver more electricity in the event of an emergency.

Noise level: The WEN 56125i model has a decibel rating of around 51 dB while it’s on a modest load. That means you will not constitute an issue when in use. It also comes with a total weight of around 48lbs, which makes it incredibly portable. Also, it includes an ergonomic handle which makes transporting the unit simpler.

WEN 56203i Portable Inverter Generator

The 2000-Watt portable generator enables you to power up one large appliance or a maximum of two small appliances, without sacrificing portability.

The unit is also designed to be one of the quietest portable generators you will get on the market. Whether you are into tailgating, camping, or using power tools, this portable generator is worth your consideration.

Main Features

Design and size: The WEN 56203i generator have an encased design that measures L17.3 inches x W11.5 inches x H17.7 inches. Therefore, it’s more aesthetical when compared to traditional, open frame generators.

Weighing only 40.3 lbs, this model can be considered a pretty lightweight and portable generator. You can also carry it without effort using a featured that further improves its convenience.

Parallel connectivity: The WEN 56203i power station also features some parallel connect plugs. Although the WEN Parallel kit is sold separately, you can connect a second 56203i portable generator if you want some more power. This kit includes a 120V twist-lock outlet that assists in powering your larger appliances or RV when two 56203i models become one.

Run time: The WEN 56203i generator will give you a maximum run time of seven hours on a 50% load, which is pretty fair for a one-gallon tank of fuel. Also, the unit includes an ECO-mode switch in its setup that allows the motor of this unit to adjust its usage of fuel accordingly. That extends the life of the engine while allowing the generator to run longer as well.

Control panel: The WEN 56203i generator features some light indicators that tell you when the level of oil is too low, when the unit is on overload and when the portable generator is ready.

The fuel shutoff function usually turns off the fuel flow, allowing for the generator to use all the remaining fuel from its carburetor before shutting down automatically. 

This assists in fighting the blockages and build-up caused by the stagnant fuel in the carburetor, reducing maintenance while extending the lifespan of the unit.

Outlets: The 56203i model comes with a variety of outlets for your comfort and convenience. It has two AC outlets for your home, one DC 12 Volt cigarette lighter outlet that you can use to charge all your batteries, and two 5Volt USB outlets that allow you to charge small electronics like tablets and mobile phones easily.

Westinghouse WGen7500DF Portable Generator

This powerful dual-fuel power station from Westinghouse is a favorite among many people because it offers 7,500 Watts of continuous power supply on gasoline, which is more than enough to keep your house running in the event of an emergency and also have wattage leftover.

This machine comes along with various items that come in handy during the existence of your generator. It includes a key fob, oil funnel, 12-volt battery charger, user’s manual, and tool kit, which is more than everything that you require to get started.

Main Features

Engine: This portable generator comes with a 420cc 4-Stroke engine that ensures constant power supply on both gas and propane. It also includes an automatic low-oil shutdown feature to protect the engine of the generator.

Power output: Westinghouse WGen7500DF model is an excellent dual fuel machine for home use. With 7500 running watts and 9500 peak watts, you can keep your household powered up during power outages. It will be an ideal fit for a medium-size house or apartment to fulfill their power requirements.

Run time: With the 6.6 gallons tank of this generator, you can rest assured that you will get a longer run time. On average, you can get approximately 16 hours from this unit. Furthermore, the low-oil shut off feature and inbuilt fuel gauge can help you to monitor the fuel consumption of the machine, and the maintenance needs as well.

Remote key fob: Since this generator is a dual fuel power station, you can fire it up using unleaded gas or clean Propane. The ease of use usually becomes much more evident and convenient with the electric push-button start along with the Remote Key Fob that manipulates the engine.

Outlets and control panel: Westinghouse WGen7500DF features an Intuitive Control Panel that has two GFCI. The first one is L14-30 120/240V, and the other one is 5-20R /120V Household Duplex Outlets. The unit also comes with Twist-Lock Outlet that makes the connectivity much easier even when you are using the portable generator for your first time.

WEN 56310i-RV Portable Inverter Generator

The 56310i-RV by WEN is an incredibly quiet machine that is rare to get, especially when it comes to portable gas generators. Providing you with 3,100 surge watts and 2,800 rated watts out of its 212cc 4-stroke engine, you can charge your mobile devices and power your appliances with ease.

While this unit is ideal for tailgating and camping, you can also use it as an emergency tool, but do not expect it to power the entire home.

Main Features

Design: The 56310i-RV model is characterized by an encased design that measures L26.75 inches x W20 inches x H23 inches. This design offers an esthetical advantage when compared to ordinary, open frame generators.

The contemporary design of this generator is convenient for recreationally producing power. You can easily take 56310i-RV anywhere with you, due to its total weight of 81.4 lbs. Moreover, you can easily move it with the assistance of a folding handle and a wheel kit, when it’s on the ground.

Engine: This generator is powered by a WEN OHV 4-stroke 212 cc engine. It runs on gasoline and delivers 120 Volt. It offers 2800W of running wattage and 3100W of peak wattage. Furthermore, it’s parallel capable, which means you can double its power when you link to a second WEN -compatible unit.

Control panel: The 56310i-RV model has a control panel that comprises of an EcoMode Switch, one nut for grounding, a three-in-one power switch, three indication lights, and numerous outlets. The power switch allows you to change the choke before pulling the recoil cable.

The EcoMode Switch enables the engine to run relative to the load being used. When you boost the load, the motor will run quicker, and the loads detached to the motor will be slower as well.

Outlets: The unit’s control panel has the following three AC outlets: 120V 30A receptacle and Duplex 120V 20A. Besides, it also includes 3 DC outlets: two 5V USB ports that you can use to conveniently charge electronics such as tablets and mobile phones and a 12V 8A receptacle that you can use to charge all your batteries easily. Due to its TT-30R receptacle, this portable generator by WEN is RV Ready.

Final Thoughts

Gas generators are currently becoming one of the necessities of the modern home. Traveling and camping in RV have also caught its trend, leading to the increases in demand for such power stations.

When shopping, pick generators that can run on Propane or gasoline since LPG is easily available nowadays. Such portable and compact generators can provide you with the flexibility to go anywhere in your RV without even worrying about power outages.

Even at home, many people keep a good backup generator. Besides, these dual fuel devices can come handy, especially when you cannot get gasoline in your region. With that being said, you can look for the best portable gas generator from the comprehensive list of items we have reviewed in this post.