The 10 Longest Lasting Portable Generator Of 2024, Tested By Our Experts

Sara Ryan By, Sara Ryan
Updated
Longest Lasting Portable Generator
Longest Lasting Portable Generator

Our Top Picks

1. Best Of The Best: Westinghouse 12500 Watt Generator

This generator features a powerful 457cc OHV engine providing up to 12 hours of run time and all outlets are equipped with rubber caps for added safety. The durable cast iron bushings ensure longevity, while the auto shut-off feature prevents almost out of oil situations. Read Review

2. Best Bang For The Buck: DuroMax XP5500EH Generator

The DuroMax XP5500EH Generator is the perfect solution for power outages and emergencies. This powerful generator has Dual Fuel Technology for freedom and flexibility in fuel selection, as well as a Powerful DuroMax 224cc OHV Engine to handle heavy-duty vehicles and intense power tools. Read Review

3. Best Quality: Champion 200951 Generator

This super-lightweight generator is perfect for transportation, with a built-in carry handle that makes it easy to take anywhere. It also has a hassle-free setup and Smart Eco Mode which can reduce power load, make operation quieter, prolong motor life and save fuel. Read Review

4. Best Easy To Use: WEN 56475 Generator

This reliable generator features electric start, low oil shutdown, automatic voltage regulator and overload protection for maximum safety and extended equipment life. With a powerful 223cc engine delivering 4,750 surge watts and rated 3,750 watts, it's ideal for home or industrial use. Read Review

5. Best Reliable: Pulsar G12KBN Generator

It features a dual fuel supply, giving you the flexibility to choose between gasoline and LPG fuels. Plus, its durable powder-coated frame ensures long-lasting durability. With up to 12 hours of continuous operation and 10-inch wheels for easy transport and storage, this generator is ideal for any job. Read Review

A reliable portable generator is an essential tool for any home or business. It can provide the power you need during an emergency, or it can give you the freedom to be able to take your work or leisure activities with you on the road. But with so many portable generators on the market, it can be difficult to know which one will last the longest.

The longest-lasting portable generator is the one that meets your specific needs and is made from high-quality components that are designed to stand the test of time. With the right research, you can make sure that you are investing your money in a generator that will give you years of reliable service.

With the right model and maintenance, you can find a generator that will provide you with a reliable and long-lasting source of energy for your home or business. Here, we'll discuss the features and benefits of the longest-lasting portable generator on the market and the steps you can take to make sure it lasts for years to come.

After doing extensive study and analysis over a 16 hours, We think the longest lasting portable generator is Westinghouse 12500 Watt Generator. This heavy-duty generator is designed to deliver up to 12 hours of run time, with a fuel gauge included for easy monitoring. The auto shut-off feature kicks in when almost out of oil, making this powerful generator reliable in any conditions. You can consider DuroMax XP5500EH Generator as an alternative if you're still undecided. Other suggestions on this list are definitely worth considering, and we've put up a useful shopping guide to help you decide!

Our Top Picks

TOP Choice #1 Westinghouse 12500 Watt Generator
Our Score:
9.7
Westinghouse Outdoor Power Equipment

Powered by a Heavy Duty 457cc Westinghouse 4-Stroke OHV Engine Featuring a Long-Lasting Cast Iron Sleeve With Automatic Low Oil Shutdown and Digital Hour Meter. VFT display gives you real time updates with the voltage output, frequency, and lifetime hours

Plug-and-Play: Comes With a Remote Start Key Fob, 12V Battery Charger, Oil, an Oil Funnel, a Tool Kit, and a User’s Manual to Get You Started Right Out of the Box (Minimal Assembly Required)

Features Two GFCI 120V 5–20R Standard Household Receptacle, One Transfer Switch Ready 120V L14-30R, and One RV Ready 120/240V 14–50R; All Outlets Have Rubber Covers for Added Safety

9500 Running Watts and 12500 Peak Watts (Gasoline); 8500 Running Watts, 11200 Peak Watts (Propane); Remote Start With Included Key Fob, Electric and Recoil Start; Up to 12 Hours of Run Time on a 6. 6 Gallon Fuel Tank With Fuel Gauge

All Westinghouse Portable Generators are Functionally Tested in the Factory and May Contain Minimum Residual Oil and/or Fuel Odor; EPA and CARB Compliant; Backed by 3-Year Limited Service, Labor, and Parts Coverage with Nationwide Customer Service Network

TOP Choice #2 DuroMax XP5500EH Generator
Our Score:
9.5
DuroMax

Dual Fuel Technology – This generator runs on gasoline or propane, giving you the freedom and flexibility of fuel choice. Low Oil Shutoff

MX2 Technology - Get the maximum power from each of the 120-volt receptacles. Choose between operating the generator at both 120V and 240V simultaneously, or at 120V only with full power. Ideal for usage with RVs

Fully Featured Power Panel – The power panel includes a wide selection of outlets for maximum compatibility in your applications including: (2) 120V household GFCI outlets, and (1) 120/240V 30A twist lock outlet. The panel also includes a voltmeter and 12V DC charging posts for charging external batteries

Plenty of Power – With 5,500 starting watts and 4,500 running watts, this unit can handle heavy loads, from lights and a refrigerator to a home air conditioner and high amperage power tools

Powerful Engine – The DuroMax 224cc OHV engine is a workhorse that provides plenty of power to handle multiple jobs, from powering high voltage appliances to heavy duty power tools

TOP Choice #3 Champion  200951 Generator
Our Score:
9.3
Champion Power Equipment

ULTRA-LIGHTWEIGHT: At only 39 pounds, this inverter is one of the lightest 2500-watt inverters in the industry.Fully assembled with hassle-free setup, the built-in carrying handle makes transport a cinch.Champion’s Inverter Technology includes smart Economy Mode, which can reduce the electrical load, providing quieter operation, extended engine life and better fuel economy.When the 1.1-gallon tank of gasoline is full, this inverter will run up to 11.5 hours at 25% load.

Fully assembled with hassle-free setup, the built-in carrying handle makes transport a cinch.

PARALLEL READY: The optional clip-on parallel kit enables this inverter to connect with another 2500-watt Champion inverter to double your output power

When the 1.1-gallon tank of gasoline is full, this inverter will run up to 11.5 hours at 25% load.

CLEAN POWER: Includes two covered 120V 20A household outlets with clean electricity (less than 3% THD)

QUIET OPERATION: 53 dBA from 23 feet is perfect for camping, tailgating or to backup a few home essentials, featuring 2500 starting watts, 1850 running watts and up to 11.5 hours run time

CHAMPION SUPPORT: Includes 3-year limited warranty with FREE lifetime technical support from dedicated experts

Champion’s Inverter Technology includes smart Economy Mode, which can reduce the electrical load, providing quieter operation, extended engine life and better fuel economy.

4 WEN 56475 Generator
Our Score:
9.2
WEN

Digital readout helps manage oil changes and maintenance schedule

223cc engine provides 4,750 surge watt and 3,750 rated watt

Features electric start, low-oil shutdown, an automatic voltage regulator and overload protection to maximize safety

CARB and EPA III meet requirements for sale in all 50 states

Includes wheel kit and foldable handles for easy transport

5 Pulsar G12KBN Generator
Our Score:
9.0
Pulsar

The 457cc, single cylinder, 4-stroke, air cooled, OHV engine with electric start is protected by a durable powder coated frame

A 8 gallon fuel tank gives you up to 12 hours of continuous operation at half load when running on gasoline

(4) 120V 20A AC outlets, (1) 120V/240V 30A twist-lock outlet, (1) 120V/240V 50A outlet, (1) 12V DC output provide ample space for powering appliances, tools, and other devices

Dual fuel capability allows you to choose between gasoline & LPG fuel sources; great for emergency situations or natural disaster as LPG may be more readily available and easy to store

Includes propane hose & backed by a 1 Year limited

12, 000 peak watts/ 9, 500 Rated watts (gasoline) & 10, 800 peak watts/ 8, 550 Rated watts (LPG)

Convenient drop-down handles and 10” never-flat wheels for added mobility and easy storage

Complete with low oil shut-off, 3-in-1 digital meter, and automatic voltage Regulation for less worry and hassle

6 DuroMax XP13000EH Generator
Our Score:
8.8
DuroMax

MAXIMUM POWER: The power panel includes a wide selection of outlets for maximum compatibility in your applications including: 1 120/240V 50A heavy duty outlet, 1 120/240V 30A twist lock outlet, 1 120V 30A twist lock outlet, and 2 120V 20A household outlets.

DUAL FUEL TECHNOLOGY: The ability to run on Propane or Gasoline allows the Freedom and Flexibility of Fuel Choice.

Please read the detailed safety instructions in the manual before operating.

Complies with Emissions Standards – All DuroMax generators are both approved by the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) and CARB (California Air Resources Board) and follow strict guidelines to ensure our generators are as environmentally friendly as possible.

POWERFUL DUROMAX ENGINE: The XP13000EH is powered by a 500cc OHV Duromax Engine. Engine Speed-3600 RPM. Wheel Diameter-10-Inches .With Gasoline : Peak Wattage - 13,000., Running Wattage - 10,500., Running Amperage at 120V - 87.5., Running Amperage at 240V - 43.75., Runtime at 25% Load - 17., Runtime at 50% Load - 8With Propane : Peak Wattage - 12,350., Running Wattage - 9,975., Running Amperage at 120V - 83.13., Running Amperage at 240V - 41.56., Runtime at 25% Load - 13., Runtime at 50% Load - 6Please read the detailed safety instructions in the manual before operating.

POWERING EVERYONE ANYWHERE: Like all DuroMax generators, the XP13000EH is EPA and CARB approved for use in all 50 states.

With Gasoline : Peak Wattage - 13,000., Running Wattage - 10,500., Running Amperage at 120V - 87.5., Running Amperage at 240V - 43.75., Runtime at 25% Load - 17., Runtime at 50% Load - 8

PLENTY OF POWER: With 13,000 starting watts and 10,500 watts, this unit can handle heavy loads from lights, refrigerators, home conditioners and high amperage power tools.

With Propane : Peak Wattage - 12,350., Running Wattage - 9,975., Running Amperage at 120V - 83.13., Running Amperage at 240V - 41.56., Runtime at 25% Load - 13., Runtime at 50% Load - 6

7 Westinghouse 4650 Watt Portable Generator
Our Score:
8.6
Westinghouse Outdoor Power Equipment

All Westinghouse Portable Generators are Functionally Tested in the Factory and May Contain Minimum Residual Oil and/or Fuel Odor; EPA and CARB Compliant; Backed By 3-Year Limited Service, Labor, and Parts Coverage and Nationwide Customer Service Network

Powered by a 212cc Westinghouse 4-Stroke OHV Engine Featuring a Long-Lasting Cast Iron Sleeve With Automatic Low Oil Shutdown

Features One 5–20R 120V Household Duplex Receptacle, One RV-Ready TT-30R 30 Amp Receptacle, and One L5-30R 30 Amp Receptacle; All Outlets Have Rubber Covers for Added Safety

Plug-and-Play: Comes With Oil, an Oil Funnel, a Tool Kit, and a User’s Manual to Get You Started Right Out of the Box (Minimal Assembly Required)

3600 Running Watts and 4650 Peak Watts; Recoil Start; 4 Gallon Fuel Tank With Fuel Gauge; Up to 14 Hours of Run Time Per Tank

Gasoline Peak Amps: 38A

8 WEN DF475T Generator
Our Score:
8.4
WEN

Electric start powers the 224cc 4-stroke OHV engine with the turn of a key

4-gallon tank provides up to 11 hours of half load run time

Voltage easily goes from 120V to 240V, perfect for transfer switches and emergency backup

Switch between gasoline (4750 surge watts, 3800 running watt) and propane (4350 surge, 3500 running) with the simple turn of the selection dial

Includes two 120V GFCI outlets (5-20R), a 120V/240V NEMA 30A twist lock (L14-30R), a 12V DC cigarette-lighter-style plug, a bottle of oil, a wheel and handle kit, a 47-inch LPG connection hose, and a 2-year warranty

9 Powermate P0081100 Generator
Our Score:
8.0
Powermate

Ergonomic Frame for easy portability. Low-oil Level shutdown prevents engine damage.

Powered by Generac 212cc OHV Engine provides consistent power for multiple applications.

Powerdial Recoil Start (Off/Run/Cold Start) offers three operation settings integrated into one simple-to-use dial.

Large Capacity Steel Fuel Tank provides durability and up to a 21 hour run-time at 25% load.

Fuel gauge allows users to keep track of gasoline levels. Covered outlets provide protection and keep out debris.

10 Pulsar PG5250B Generator
Our Score:
7.9
Pulsar

Switch & Go Technology allow for seamless transitioning between LPG and Gasoline fuel sources while still in operation

Includes handy Propane Hose and backed by a 1 Year Limited Warranty

The powerful 224cc, 4-Stroke, OHV, Air Cooled Engine is protected by a durable Powder Coated Steel Frame

(2) 120V AC Outlets, (1) 30Amp RV Port, & (1) 120/240V Twist-Lock Outlet provide you with ample space for powering a variety of appliances, tools, and devices

5,250W peak 4,250W rated (GAS)/ 4,750W peak 3,850W rated (LPG)

Designed with Fold-Down Handle & Never-Flat Wheels for added mobility and easy storage

Features like the 3 in 1 digital meter, Low Oil Indicator, and Low Oil Shutdown mean less worry for you

4 Gallon Fuel Tank gives you up to 12 Hours of Continuous Operation at half load when running on gasoline

What Factors Should You Consider While Choosing longest lasting portable generator?

Getting to the best decision for a product purchase may take a bit of time. In a nutshell, we're available to serve you with your product problems at all hours of the day and night!

You can rest assured if you consider the following points before selecting longest lasting portable generator:

Size

Installing home generators requires space. So make sure that you consider the dimensions of all models. You can find generators in a variety of sizes, from smaller units measuring less than 3ft to more large units measuring 5ft or more. A general rule of thumb is that the generator with the highest power rating will be larger.
Be aware that the clearance between your home and generator may be determined by local codes or model specifications. A small generator may require only 18 inches of clearance.

Wattage

A generator's wattage is the measure of its ability to provide power for whatever it plugs into. This information is crucial to understand about any generator that you are considering.
However, this number does not represent the entire picture. Wattage is made up of three parts: power needed to turn on an appliance and power required to maintain it running. It also includes power necessary to sustain a power surge, which is when regular juice returns to normal and all appliances start to work again. Many appliances use more power for startup than their run energy consumption. You could overload your generator when you turn on appliances and other devices. If the generator can't provide enough power, it could overload. You need to know how many watts your generator can generate, depending on whether it is powering just one item or the whole house.
An increase in generator costs is generally associated with a higher wattage. Most people agree that it's better to have enough power than not to be able to run your fridge or keep cool by a fan.

Type

You need to decide which generator type is best for you: a portable or standby generator. This will help you decide if you just want the lights to stay on or if you need to power other electrical components such as the refrigerator, window, central air conditioner, and the fridge.

Warranties

A warranty is usually included with the purchase of a generator. The warranty covers both labor and parts for most residential inverter and portable generators. For standby generators which can be larger investments, you will usually get a 3- to 52024 warranty period.
Certain warranties may also include travel expenses for technicians to visit the generator and fix it. However, this depends on which manufacturer you are using.

Automatic Start

Whole home generators can automatically start when power goes out. This allows the generator to automatically start supplying power when there is no electricity from the utility. This feature is usually only available on standby generators, and not portables. These systems can provide peace of mind and may be more expensive than the security that your generator will automatically turn on without interrupting vital systems like heating and cooling.

Fuel Source

Generators are generally powered by either gasoline, natural gas or propane.
The majority of portable generators run on gasoline and can generally keep fridges and lights running for several hours. These generators can't be relied upon for long-term power backups, such as when there is no electricity for several days.
Propane and natural gas are used more often for large home-standby generators. These fuels can be used for larger home standby generators as they are cleaner-burning and offer on-demand power.
Solar or battery-powered power sources are an alternative to traditional fuel-powered generators. These machines have different capabilities, and their run time can vary widely. However, they might be the best match for you if your power requirements are less than minimal. They are typically used for camping only, not home.

FAQs

What factors should I consider when buying a long lasting portable generator?

When purchasing a long lasting portable generator, you should consider the type of fuel the generator runs on, the portability of the generator, the size and power output of the generator, and the overall quality of the generator. Additionally, you should consider the cost of maintenance and the warranty terms.

How do I maintain my portable generator for long-term use?

To ensure long-term performance of your portable generator, it is important to properly maintain it. Regularly inspect your generator for signs of wear or damage, clean it regularly, and perform an oil and filter change at least every 50 hours of use. Additionally, store your generator in a dry, well-ventilated area and make sure to keep it away from any sources of heat or moisture. Finally, it is important to regularly check the fuel and the spark plug for any signs of contamination or wear.

How can I prevent my portable generator from overheating?

To prevent your portable generator from overheating, make sure to keep it away from any sources of heat or direct sunlight. Additionally, keep the engine clean and free of dust and debris, and regularly check the air filters for any signs of blockage. Finally, make sure to keep the generator running at a moderate speed and in an open, well-ventilated area.

In general, product information and news are now available to users. In addition, as previously said, the Internet is constantly updated with new technology. Thus, customers will need to be informed so please subscribe to our newsletter or visit our website frequently to check the latest information.

Do you have any product-related questions or concerns you'd like to share? As a result of your efforts, we will attempt to ensure even greater standards of excellence!


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About Sara Ryan

Sara Ryan

Sara Ryan is a freelance writer for CampFireHQ and avid diver. She first discovered her love for diving while on vacation in the Caribbean and has been hooked ever since. Sara loves exploring new dive sites and observing the fascinating creatures that live beneath the waves. As a native of Colorado, Sara enjoys spending her free time hiking and camping in the beautiful Rocky Mountains. She also enjoys writing about her adventures in diving and wildlife conservation.

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