You Can Save Up to 43% on Portable Generators and Power Stations Right Now

jackery solar power generator explorer 300 plus
The Best Generator Deals for Reliable Backup PowerBridget Clegg


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Now that spring has sprung, it’s the perfect time to pick up those outdoor power tools you’ve been eyeing. Whether you’re outfitting your toolshed with an electric lawn mower, chainsaw, or leaf blower, one essential you shouldn’t overlook is a portable generator. These devices provide year-round backup power and, good news, are now more affordable than ever thanks to discounts at retailers like Amazon, Lowe’s, and Walmart.

You can save up to 43 percent on portable generators and power stations, allowing you to power camping trips, tailgate parties, and weekend barbecues without breaking the bank. Generators are typically workhorses for construction sites or home backup, but they’re equally handy for outdoor adventures. These versatile devices can power neighborhood viewing parties, charge small electronics during remote getaways, or even provide an outlet when setting up fairy lights in your backyard.

Before you hit “buy,” consider what you’ll be powering. During a camping trip, you might not need a ton of wattage to run small appliances and electronic devices, like a laptop or tablet. For truly portable and eco-friendly options, portable power stations are rechargeable and safely used indoors, making them ideal for powering devices while tent camping or for backup power during short outages. This list highlights the best sales on portable generators and power stations across various retailers, with options for all budgets and scenarios.

Generator Sales by Retailer

Amazon: Save up to 43 percent on best-selling portable generators and portable power stations from Champion Power Equipment and Goal Zero.

Lowe’s: Lowe’s offers up to 30 percent off on portable power stations from Jackery and EcoFlow.

Walmart: You can save up to 24 percent on portable generators from Champion Power Equipment.

Home Depot: Home Depot offers up to 28 percent portable generators from DuroMax and Westinghouse.

Solar-Powered Generator Deals

While traditional gas and propane generators are workhorses, they can be bulky and inconvenient for camping trips. For a quieter and emission-free alternative, we recommend a solar-powered generator: These devices harness the power of the sun to keep your devices juiced while off the grid. They’re perfect for remote locations where outlets and fuel sources are scarce—and they’re safe for use inside tents and other enclosed areas since they don’t emit carbon monoxide. As a bonus, they require minimal maintenance, meaning you can ditch the oil changes.

Explorer 300 Plus Portable Power Station with Solar Panel

The Jackery Explorer 300 Plus is an excellent portable power station, featuring 288Wh of capacity and a power output of 300 watts. What elevates it as a camping companion is its support for solar charging.

This combo kit includes a 40-watt mini solar panel that can charge the power station in less than eight hours. The solar panel features an IP68 rating, meaning it’s dust-tight and can be submerged in water for a short period.

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.lowes.com%2Fpd%2F--%2F5014723607&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.popularmechanics.com%2Fhome%2Ftools%2Fa60481732%2Fgenerator-sales-april-2024%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link rapid-noclick-resp">Shop Now</a></p><p>Explorer 300 Plus Portable Power Station with Solar Panel</p><p>lowes.com</p><p>$319.00</p>

Explorer 1500 Portable Power Station with Two Solar Panels

If you need something more robust to take you through an extended outdoor adventure (or power outage), Jackery’s Explorer 1500 fits the bill. It boasts a powerful 3,600-watt peak output, capable of surging power for appliances that require a quick burst of energy. It weighs 35 pounds, but the sturdy handle makes it relatively easy to carry.

For versatility, it offers three AC outlets providing 1800 watts of continuous power for running various devices. This kit comes with two 100-watt solar panels, giving you the perfect setup to take advantage of the sunshine this spring and summer.

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.lowes.com%2Fpd%2F--%2F5002067545&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.popularmechanics.com%2Fhome%2Ftools%2Fa60481732%2Fgenerator-sales-april-2024%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link rapid-noclick-resp">Shop Now</a></p><p>Explorer 1500 Portable Power Station with Two Solar Panels</p><p>lowes.com</p><p>$1539.00</p>

Delta 2 Max Portable Power Station with Solar Panel

The EcoFlow Delta 2 Max is a powerful portable power station well-suited for camping and home backup. It packs a hefty 2,048Wh capacity and can deliver up to 3,400 watts of output, enough to power the most demanding appliances.

The power station comes bundled with a 220-watt solar panel for convenient recharging, making it a great option for off-grid use. Versatility is another strong point with 15 outlets, including six AC outlets on the back for powering larger devices.

<p><a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C5DHGMRW?tag=syn-yahoo-20&ascsubtag=%5Bartid%7C10060.a.60481732%5Bsrc%7Cyahoo-us" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link rapid-noclick-resp">Shop Now</a></p><p>Delta 2 Max Portable Power Station with Solar Panel</p><p>amazon.com</p><p>$1698.00</p>

Explorer 500 Portable Power Station with Solar Panel

The Jackery Explorer 500 sits in the middle of the brand’s Explorer 300 and Explorer 1500 models also included in this guide. It features a 518WH capacity that can deliver 500 watts of continuous power (1000 watts peak) for running various devices.

There are seven output ports and it easily connects to the included solar panel. According to Jackery, the Explorer 500 is toughly the size of a basketball, so it should be easy to carry around your property or campsite.

<p><a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08P42QKWK?tag=syn-yahoo-20&ascsubtag=%5Bartid%7C10060.a.60481732%5Bsrc%7Cyahoo-us" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link rapid-noclick-resp">Shop Now</a></p><p>Explorer 500 Portable Power Station with Solar Panel</p><p>amazon.com</p><p>$599.00</p>

SOLIX F2000 Portable Power Station

The Anker Solix F2000 is a power solar generator that can be used for home backup power, camping, or powering workshops. With a 2,048Wh battery and 2,400 watts of output power, it can power up to 12 devices, including appliances and power tools.

In addition to four AC ports and 3 USB-C charging ports, it also has an RV port, making the F2000 a great option for glamping. It weighs 67 pounds, so it’s not exactly light, but it features a retractable handle and wheels, allowing you to easily roll it around.

<p><a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09XM7WDZ2?tag=syn-yahoo-20&ascsubtag=%5Bartid%7C10060.a.60481732%5Bsrc%7Cyahoo-us" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link rapid-noclick-resp">Shop Now</a></p><p>SOLIX F2000 Portable Power Station</p><p>amazon.com</p><p>$1399.00</p>

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SOLIX F2000 Portable Power Station

amazon.com

$1399.00

DELTA 2 Portable Power Station with Two Solar Panels

EcoFlow’s Delta 2 is the sibling to the Delta 2 Max (also included on this list). It boasts a 1,204Wh battery and an output of 1,800 watts (2,700 watts max). Similar to the Delta Max, the Delta 2 has 15 outlets, giving you plenty of flexibility to power multiple devices simultaneously.

This kit comes with two 100-watt solar panels, which EcoFlow claims can power the Delta 2 in around five hours. That makes this model a fantastic companion for camping and other outdoor activities.

<p><a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CHMD99Y4?tag=syn-yahoo-20&ascsubtag=%5Bartid%7C10060.a.60481732%5Bsrc%7Cyahoo-us" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link rapid-noclick-resp">Shop Now</a></p><p>DELTA 2 Portable Power Station with Two Solar Panels</p><p>amazon.com</p><p>$818.00</p>

Portable Generator Deals

A giant, heavy generator might be powerful, but lugging it around to campsites or tailgates can be difficult. If you’re planning to travel this spring or summer, the size and weight of the portable power station you choose will be one of the most important factors. That’s why these models are such good picks for hitting the road when you need to pack light: They’re light enough to carry one-handed but still powerful enough to keep your essentials charged and your campsite buzzing over a long weekend.

Explorer 100 Plus Portable Power Station

A perfect option for keeping your electronics powered on the go, the Jackery Explorer 100 Plus is one of the brand’s smallest and most travel-friendly portable power stations. Weighing just over 2 pounds, it packs a 31,000mAh battery with a 128-watt output, enough to charge your smartphone, tablet, or even your laptop. Plus, it’s airline-approved, so you can pack it in your carry-on luggage.

Like other Jackery devices, the Explorer 100 Plus can be recharged with solar panels, making it a great option for off-grid adventures.

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.lowes.com%2Fpd%2F--%2F5014770751&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.popularmechanics.com%2Fhome%2Ftools%2Fa60481732%2Fgenerator-sales-april-2024%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link rapid-noclick-resp">Shop Now</a></p><p>Explorer 100 Plus Portable Power Station</p><p>lowes.com</p><p>$99.00</p>

Explorer 300 Plus Portable Power Station

The Jackery Explorer 300 Plus packs a 288Wh punch, capable of charging your devices and running small appliances. With five output ports, including a powerful 100-watt USB-C port, it offers flexible charging options.

You can recharge the Explorer 300 Plus using various methods: wall outlet, solar panel, USB-C, or even your car. Plus, Jackery’s app lets you monitor the battery level, temperature, and other vital stats from your phone.

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.lowes.com%2Fpd%2F--%2F5014723621&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.popularmechanics.com%2Fhome%2Ftools%2Fa60481732%2Fgenerator-sales-april-2024%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link rapid-noclick-resp">Shop Now</a></p><p>Explorer 300 Plus Portable Power Station</p><p>lowes.com</p><p>$239.00</p>

River 2 Portable Power Station

The River 2 is similar to Jackery’s Explorer 300 Plus, featuring a capacity of 256Wh and 300 running watts. It comes equipped with two AC outlets, a USB-C port, two USB-A ports, and a car outlet, making it versatile for charging several devices (up to six at once!).

For added convenience, the River 2 supports solar charging and boasts a long lifespan of up to 10 years (or 3,000 charge cycles), making it a dependable companion for outdoor adventures or emergencies.

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.lowes.com%2Fpd%2F--%2F5014875115&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.popularmechanics.com%2Fhome%2Ftools%2Fa60481732%2Fgenerator-sales-april-2024%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link rapid-noclick-resp">Shop Now</a></p><p>River 2 Portable Power Station</p><p>lowes.com</p><p>$199.00</p>

River 2 Max Portable Power Station

If the River 2 feels underpowered for your needs, the River 2 Max may be the answer. It doubles your power with 512Wh of capacity and 500 running watts, allowing you to juice more power-hungry devices.

The River 2 Max has a whopping 11 outlets, including 4 USB ports, and supports solar charging, making it an ideal option for going off the grid. Meanwhile, it weighs just 13 pounds, so it’s not too cumbersome to bring on a longer camping trip.

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.lowes.com%2Fpd%2F--%2F5014875145&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.popularmechanics.com%2Fhome%2Ftools%2Fa60481732%2Fgenerator-sales-april-2024%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link rapid-noclick-resp">Shop Now</a></p><p>River 2 Max Portable Power Station</p><p>lowes.com</p><p>$399.00</p>

EB3A Portable Power Station

The Bluetti EB3A is both powerful and portable, weighing just 10 pounds and packing a 600-watt inverter with a 268Wh battery. It offers nine outlets, including two standard household outlets (120V), a 100-watt USB-C port, and two USB-A ports for charging various devices.

For easy carrying, it has a foldable handle. Additional features include a built-in LED light and an LCD screen that displays battery life and power usage. Clip the $100 coupon before checkout to activate the deal.

<p><a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09WW3CTF4?tag=syn-yahoo-20&ascsubtag=%5Bartid%7C10060.a.60481732%5Bsrc%7Cyahoo-us" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link rapid-noclick-resp">Shop Now</a></p><p>EB3A Portable Power Station</p><p>amazon.com</p><p>$199.00</p>

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EB3A Portable Power Station

amazon.com

$199.00

521 Portable Power Station

With 256Wh capacity, the Anker 521 is another ultra-portable option perfect for outdoor use. It supports a power output of 300 watts (600 watts peak), making it ideal for powering small appliances and electronics. The 521 has six ports, including two ACs, two USB-A, a USB-C, and a car outlet.

Conveniently, the USB-C port can recharge the power station to 80 percent in just 1.5 hours so you can be back up and running in no time. Meanwhile, it can also be charged with a solar panel, making it a versatile option for the outdoors.

<p><a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09FF46FQ9?tag=syn-yahoo-20&ascsubtag=%5Bartid%7C10060.a.60481732%5Bsrc%7Cyahoo-us" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link rapid-noclick-resp">Shop Now</a></p><p>521 Portable Power Station</p><p>amazon.com</p><p>$169.99</p>

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521 Portable Power Station

amazon.com

$169.99

Dual-Fuel Generator Deals

Traditional generators generally support one fuel type, like gasoline or propane. Dual-fuel generators, however, offer more flexibility for unpredictable situations. They can run on gas and propane, letting you choose the most convenient or affordable option during outages or off-the-grid adventures. These dual-fuel models allow you to switch fuel types on the fly, extending your power supply and keeping essentials running longer. If you value adaptability in your backup power solution, a dual-fuel generator is a perfect match, providing peace of mind no matter the situation.

Pulsar 2,200W Portable Dual Fuel Inverter Generator

A lightweight, portable option for powering your essentials around the house, the Pulsar offers dual-fuel capability for versatility. Its 1,800 watts of running power (with a surge of 2,200 watts) and clean sine wave output make it safe for even sensitive electronics.

While it has a limited selection of outlets—two standard household outlets and a single USB-A port—it can run for up to 8 hours on a single tank of gas at half load.

<p><a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07J5HD8L9?tag=syn-yahoo-20&ascsubtag=%5Bartid%7C10060.a.60481732%5Bsrc%7Cyahoo-us" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link rapid-noclick-resp">Shop Now</a></p><p>Pulsar 2,200W Portable Dual Fuel Inverter Generator</p><p>amazon.com</p><p>$400.00</p>

4375-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator

Champion’s dual-fuel generator delivers 3,500 watts of continuous power and can handle a surge of up to 4,375 watts for high-wattage appliances. The 4.7-gallon tank can keep the generator running for up to 14 hours or it can run up to 10.5 hours on propane.

Like other Champion generators, this model features a small display that shows information like volts, session time, and more. An even more convenient feature is the 120-volt, 30-amp RV-ready outlet, allowing you to directly power your RV without needing an adapter.

<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1596630&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.walmart.com%2Fip%2F2884718518%3Fselected%3Dtrue&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.popularmechanics.com%2Fhome%2Ftools%2Fa60481732%2Fgenerator-sales-april-2024%2F" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link rapid-noclick-resp">Shop Now</a></p><p>4375-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator</p><p>walmart.com</p><p>$485.00</p>

4850-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator

With 4,850 starting watts and 3,850 running watts, the DuroMax can power larger appliances like refrigerators and air conditioners. Its powerful 210cc engine delivers reliable performance, and the 3.9-gallon fuel tank offers impressive runtime—up to 23 hours at 25 percent load.

The generator has an open frame design for better ventilation and easy maintenance. Meanwhile, it features large, durable tires that make it easy to maneuver over rough terrain, and the foldable handles enhance portability for use around your property or job site.

<p><a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00J7V5ENG?tag=syn-yahoo-20&ascsubtag=%5Bartid%7C10060.a.60481732%5Bsrc%7Cyahoo-us" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link rapid-noclick-resp">Shop Now</a></p><p>4850-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator</p><p>amazon.com</p><p>$432.60</p>

Inverter Generator Deals

A conventional generator generates electricity directly from the engine. In contrast, an inverter generator converts that initial AC power into DC using a built-in rectifier, then transforms it back into clean, stable AC power. The result is a quieter, more fuel-efficient generator that produces cleaner power safe for sensitive electronics like laptops and smartphones. The downside is the more advanced technology comes at a higher price versus traditional generators with similar wattage. The good news is these discounts can take the sting out of the higher price.

4500-Watt Dual Fuel Inverter Generator

A great choice for both power and versatility, Champion’s 4,500-watt inverter generator offers clean, stable power that’s safe for sensitive electronics like laptops and TVs. It can run on either gasoline or propane, providing fuel flexibility.

Meanwhile, it packs a 3,500-watt running output (with a 4,500-watt starting surge) and can run for up to 14 hours on a full tank of gas, making it ideal for extended use. An additional perk is its RV-ready design, allowing you to directly power your camper’s appliances while you’re on the road.

<p><a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08L9R5YC5?tag=syn-yahoo-20&ascsubtag=%5Bartid%7C10060.a.60481732%5Bsrc%7Cyahoo-us" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link rapid-noclick-resp">Shop Now</a></p><p>4500-Watt Dual Fuel Inverter Generator</p><p>amazon.com</p><p>$950.83</p>

8750-Watt Inverter Generator

Champion’s 8750-watt generator offers a powerful option for home backup with its clean, inverter-generated power, making it safe to use with sensitive electronics. According to Champion, its inverter technology makes it 30 percent quieter and 25 percent lighter than similar-wattage generators.

Convenience features include an electric start for easy operation, long runtime of up to 10.5 hours on a single gas tank, and an economy mode to save fuel. At the time of writing, you can apply an additional 20 percent off coupon for an extra discount.

<p><a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B083V8VNGL?tag=syn-yahoo-20&ascsubtag=%5Bartid%7C10060.a.60481732%5Bsrc%7Cyahoo-us" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link rapid-noclick-resp">Shop Now</a></p><p>8750-Watt Inverter Generator</p><p>amazon.com</p><p>$968.22</p>

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8750-Watt Inverter Generator

amazon.com

$968.22

Home Backup Generator Deals

A home backup generator can bring back a sense of normalcy during power outages. They help keep your lights on, food fresh, home comfortable (through temperature moderation), and can even power essential medical devices. Many even work with transfer switches, which automatically take over supplying electricity to your critical home circuits when the main grid fails. With a high-output portable generator and transfer switch, you can weather power outages with peace of mind.

Yeti 3000X Portable Power Station

The Goal Zero Yeti 3000X boasts a 3,032Wh capacity and a 2,000-watt inverter (with a 3,500-watt surge capability). This provides ample power to run major appliances and electronics during an outage.

In our tests, it kept a full-size fridge, a light, and a radio running for 38 hours straight—essentials when the grid goes offline. Recharging offers flexibility—you can plug it into a wall outlet (fully charged in about 13 hours) or use one of Goal Zero’s solar panels. It even has an optional home integration kit that allows the Yeti 3000X to seamlessly take over as your home’s backup power source.

<p><a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08FX54VS1?tag=syn-yahoo-20&ascsubtag=%5Bartid%7C10060.a.60481732%5Bsrc%7Cyahoo-us" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link rapid-noclick-resp">Shop Now</a></p><p>Yeti 3000X Portable Power Station</p><p>amazon.com</p><p>$1949.00</p>

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Yeti 3000X Portable Power Station

amazon.com

$1949.00

XP13000HXT Tri-Fuel Portable Generator

The DuroMax XP1300HXT generator is a tri-fuel model that can run on gas, propane, or natural gas, providing flexibility during fuel shortages. With a 13,000-watt starting capacity, it can keep your essential home circuits running during an outage.

Meanwhile, RV owners will appreciate the built-in 50-amp and 30-amp twist-lock outlets, along with a dedicated 30-amp RV outlet for simple connection. To top it off, the electric start feature ensures hassle-free operation whenever you need it.

<p><a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B092CJQ51F?tag=syn-yahoo-20&ascsubtag=%5Bartid%7C10060.a.60481732%5Bsrc%7Cyahoo-us" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link rapid-noclick-resp">Shop Now</a></p><p>XP13000HXT Tri-Fuel Portable Generator</p><p>amazon.com</p><p>$1799.00</p>

Explorer 3000 Pro Portable Power Station + Manual Transfer Switch

The Jackery Explorer 3000 Pro is in step with Goal Zero’s Yeti 3000X, offering a 3,024Wh capacity and an output of 3,000 watts. It’s enough power to run major appliances and essential electronics during an power. This bundle comes with a transfer switch, providing power to your entire home when the grid goes offline. You also get two 200-watt solar panels, allowing you to recharge the Explorer 3000 Pro with nothing but the sun. It’s a powerful kit that’s made even better at over $1,000 off (as of this writing).

<p><a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CMDC4S1T?tag=syn-yahoo-20&ascsubtag=%5Bartid%7C10060.a.60481732%5Bsrc%7Cyahoo-us" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Shop Now;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link rapid-noclick-resp">Shop Now</a></p><p>Explorer 3000 Pro Portable Power Station + Manual Transfer Switch</p><p>amazon.com</p><p>$2999.00</p>

FAQs

Is spring a good time to buy a portable generator?

There’s never a wrong time to buy a portable generator; in fact, our editors recommend picking one up as soon as you can comfortably afford it. While there may not be as many weather-related power outages this time of year, a generator can still come in handy for other occasions, like camping trips, tailgating events, or on construction sites.

A portable generator offers versatility and can be a valuable tool in many situations, making it an ideal year-round companion. Spring is also before the peak storm season in many regions, allowing you to plan when the demand for generators is lower. Trust us, you don’t want to wait until an emergency hits before picking one up because surge pricing can kick in, leaving you with fewer options and a higher bill.

Should I buy a portable generator or a solar-powered generator?

Gas-powered generators are a strong choice if you need to power major appliances or live in an area with frequent outages. For extended power needs, a dual-fuel generator that can run on gas or propane might be the best option. However, there are some drawbacks to consider. The ongoing expenses for fuel can add up. Regular maintenance is also required to keep gas-powered generators running smoothly. Finally, gas-powered generators can be quite noisy when operating.

On the other hand, solar-powered generators offer an eco-friendly alternative. They’re quiet, clean, and require minimal maintenance, making them ideal for camping or noise-sensitive areas. Since they don’t produce emissions, you can also use them indoors. However, they have a lower power output, limiting them to powering smaller appliances. Another drawback is that during a power outage, you can’t recharge them unless you have a solar panel. Recharging with a solar panel depends on sufficient sunlight, so they might not be reliable in bad weather.

How much wattage do I need?

Choosing the right size generator depends on the appliances you’ll be powering and how many will run simultaneously. The best way to determine your wattage needs is to find the wattages of the appliances you plan to use and add them together. It’s always better to have a little more wattage than you think you need to prevent your generator from overloading.

Low-wattage generators (up to 500 watts) like most portable power stations are best for small electronics like phones, laptops, and camera batteries. Medium-wattage generators (up to 1,500 watts) are suitable for campers, tailgaters, or backup power to power one or two essential appliances. High-wattage generators (1,500 watts and above) can handle larger appliances or multiple devices running at once.

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