The Best Quiet Generators of 2023

Generators have two ratings: one for startup watts (most electrical devices produce an initial surge) and one for running watts. The latter is usually significantly lower—a drop of as much as 25 percent in real-world performance—but the efficiency of the Honda quiet generator is underlined by a mere 10 percent difference. That makes the EU3000iS with its 2,800 running wattage equally useful at home or on the go.

Regarding noise, it runs between 50 and 57 decibels. At low power, it’s as close to a noiseless generator as we found, and certainly quiet enough for campsite use. Owners can expect 19.6 hours of runtime on one 3.4-gallon tank of gas. Though this model doesn’t score well with fuel consumption, starting it is easy, and the motor has both overload protection and a low-oil alert. There’s no dedicated USB port, but owners can always run the required charger off one of the 120-volt (v) household outlets.

Product Specs

• Noise level: 50 to 57 decibels
• Wattage: 3,000 watts (starting); 2,800 watts (running)
• Outlets: Two 120V household outlets, 1 RV outlet

Pros

• Will run for up to 19.6 hours on a single tank of fuel
• This inverter’s built-in overload protection cuts the circuit to prevent damage
• The motor has a low-oil alert and automatic shutoff to prevent damage
• Sturdy handles on either side of the generator make it easier to carry

Cons

• Fuel efficiency is good, but tank capacity is just 3.4 gallons
• There are no USB ports included, which some will find frustrating

Get the Honda quiet generator at Northern Tool + Equipment.

Those looking for quiet power on the go (and don’t care to spend a fortune) may want to consider this portable inverter generator from A-iPower. For a low-cost quiet generator, it’s certainly not under specified. With two 120V outlets and two 5V USB ports, this generator produces clean, safe, quiet power for computers, tablets, and other personal electronics. A low-idle mode increases fuel efficiency, and there are the usual overload and low-oil alerts.

With a start-up rating of 2,000 watts, the A-iPower’s true running figure is 1,600 watts. That’s perhaps less than many will want for home backup, but it’s more than acceptable for powering personal devices on a camping trip. At 48 pounds, it’s not particularly heavy, and at 52 decibels it won’t drown out those campfire conversations.

Product Specs

• Noise level: 52 decibels
• Wattage: 2,000 watts (starting); 1,600 watts (running)
• Outlets: Two 120V outlets, two 5V USB ports

Pros

• A good choice for small devices and modest power requirements
• Specification includes a low-idle mode that helps increase fuel efficiency
• An automatic shutoff for low fuel prevents dirt from getting dragged through the system
• Relatively lightweight, with a useful built-in handle that helps portability

Cons

• Modest tank size limits runtime, which is typical for many small models
• 1,600-watt running power means output is lower than some alternatives

Get the A-iPower quiet generator at Amazon.

Westinghouse has long been considered among the best generator brands in independent reviews, typically offering high performance at a reasonable cost. The Westinghouse iGen4500c is a fine example, combining excellent output with good fuel efficiency and low noise.

Starting output is 4,500 watts, with 3,700 watts for normal running. It will deliver up to 18 hours of runtime from a single 3.4-gallon tank of gas. There is a push-button ignition and a convenient remote key fob.

The Westinghouse iGen4500c has a TT-30R connector for direct attachment to RV systems, plus two household and two USB outlets. It can run in parallel with another similar model, potentially upping the power to 9,000 watts and 7,400 watts, respectively. There is a low-oil shutoff to prevent engine damage and a CO shut-off to protect users from noxious carbon monoxide gas. It is also EPA and CARB compliant for low emissions.

Product Specs

• Noise level: 52 decibels
• Wattage: 4,500 watts (starting); 3,700 watts (running)
• Outlets: Two 120V household outlets, 1 RV outlet, and two 5V USB ports

Pros

• High performance without excess noise; can be run in parallel for double the output
• 3.4-gallon fuel tank provides up to 18 hours of runtime
• LED data center provides comprehensive feedback for remaining runtime, voltage, and fuel level
• Low-oil and carbon monoxide shutoffs protect the engine and health of users

Cons

• While faults are uncommon, starting has been an issue for some owners

Get the Westinghouse iGen4500c quiet generator at Amazon, Lowe’s, The Home Depot, or Acme Tools.

This dual-fuel inverter from Champion Power Equipment is a feature-packed solution for those who need power for work or leisure. This generator’s compact dimensions, light weight, and low 53-decibel noise level make it the best quiet generator for camping, especially given that it can run off propane that is often used for camp cooking or lighting. Performance is such that it could also run tools on the jobsite.

It is rated for 2,000 watts starting and either 1,700 watts running on gasoline or 1,530 watts on propane. A clear and simple dial switches between the two. Parallel capability means these figures can be doubled if two devices are run in tandem. Its economy is excellent, with up to 11.5 hours of power from a tank of gasoline or a remarkable 34 hours from a standard 20-pound propane tank. Hose and regulator are included.

There are two standard household outlets and a 12V DC vehicle-type power socket. While there is no direct USB port, an adapter is provided.

Product Specs

• Noise level: 53 decibels
• Wattage: 2,000 watts (starting); 1,700 watts (running) on gas; 1,530 watts (running) on propane
• Outlets: Two 120V household outlets, one 12V DC outlet

Pros

• With a weight of just 39 pounds, this is one of the lightest generators around
• Using propane can provide up to 34 hours of runtime from a 20-pound tank
• Has parallel capability, allowing compatible models to be linked for increased performance
• A dual USB adapter is provided for charging phones, tablets, and laptops

Cons

• Though many might not consider it a problem, some may find manual starting inconvenient
• Using the propane option results in a small drop in power output

Get the Champion Power Equipment quiet inverter at Amazon.

Although today’s modern quiet portable generators are much less intimidating than older equipment, their operation isn’t always as straightforward as it could be. For those who choose the IQ3500 from Generac, that’s not the case.

Push-button starting means generating power couldn’t be easier, and a multifunction LCD screen shares information on the generator’s fuel level, watts output, and—particularly useful—the runtime remaining before refueling. This generator includes two standard household main outlets, an RV connection, and two USB ports.

At 109 pounds, it’s not lightweight, but the 3,000 watts of running power it offers makes that a small price to pay for the performance and versatility. Generac doesn’t publish decibel levels for its portable generators, but it does promise to run 40 percent more quietly than its Honda competitors.

Product Specs

• Noise level: Unspecified
• Wattage: 3,500 watts (starting); 3,000 watts (running)
• Outlets: 2 household outlets, 1 RV outlet, and 2 USB ports

Pros

• Has an easy electronic push-button start button and pull-cord backup
• A choice of 2 engine speeds for maximum power or better fuel economy
• A built-in LCD screen provides clear and accurate performance feedback
• Parallel capability means that 2 generators can be combined for double the power

Cons

• Generac claims to be 40 percent quieter than Honda, but no decibel figures are provided
• Though well made and versatile, it is expensive compared to similar models

Get the Generac quiet generator at Amazon, Tractor Supply Co., or Menards.

The introduction of clean air legislation started in California in the late 1960s, and the California Air Resources Board (CARB) standards have now been adopted in 15 states and Washington, D.C. Basically, if a manufacturer’s machinery doesn’t comply—and many high-performance generators do not—they cannot be sold in those regions.

The competitively priced Wen 56225i is CARB and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) compliant while providing an impressive 1,800 watts of running output. It’s a very quiet generator at only 53 decibels. There are also two 120V household outlets, one 12V DC outlet, two USB ports, and the usual overload and oil pressure warning lights.

Product Specs

• Noise level: 53 decibels
• Wattage: 2,250 watts (starting); 1,800 watts (running)
• Outlets: Two 120V household outlets, one 12V DC outlet, and 2 USB ports

Pros

• This generator’s highly efficient low-emission motor is both CARB and EPA compliant
• Overload and oil pressure warning lights alert owners to potential problems
• Clever engine shutoff prevents unused fuel sitting in carburetor after shutdown
• Has a compact, lightweight construction with built-in handle for easy portability

Cons

• This Wen quiet generator is very affordable but does contain a lot of plastic parts
• Though generally reliable, a variety of fault reports suggest quality control is inconsistent

Get the Wen quiet generator at Amazon, Target, or Wen.

Those looking for a quiet dual-fuel generator that also offers high performance may want to check out this dual-fuel portable generator from Pulsar. Peak power is 12,000 watts on gas and 10,800 watts on propane, with running watts of 9,500 and 8,550, respectively. Despite that impressive output, noise is as low as 74 decibels, which is something few rivals can match.

Versatility comes by way of four household outlets, an RV outlet, and a 120V/240V 50A outlet ideal for jobsite use. It is also transfer-switch ready, making it possible to link directly to a home’s main fuse board for backup in the event of a power outage. It will run for up to 12 hours on an 8-gallon tank of gasoline. We were unable to find factory figures for propane, though we estimate around 5 hours from a 20-pound tank could be expected. Although relatively heavy at 209 pounds, lift-up handles and 10-inch never-flat wheels help with mobility.

Product Specs

• Noise level: 74 decibels
• Wattage: 12,000 watts (starting) on gas; 10,800 watts (starting) on propane; 9,500 watts (running) on gas; 8,550 watts (running) on propane
• Outlets: One 120V/240V outlet, four 120V household outlets, 1 RV outlet

Pros

• Combines impressive performance with the option of using gas or propane
• Transfer-switch ready giving the possibility of plugging directly into home electrical systems
• Easy push-button electric starting; CARB compliant for low emissions
• Provision of fold-down handles, and wheels with rubber tires improves mobility

Cons

• Although rare, breakdowns are not unknown
• At 209 pounds, this portable generator is considerably heavy to move around

Get the Pulsar quiet generator at Amazon.

While a generator with the flexibility to cope with changing power demands isn’t uncommon, few match the Genmax GM9000iE in terms of versatility, low noise level, and performance. A standard output of 9,000 watts starting and 7,600 running is impressive, but thanks to parallel compatibility, this can potentially be doubled with the addition of another unit. This makes the Genmax GM9000iE a practical option as a home standby generator that’s equally valuable for jobsite use.

The reliable 458-cubic-centimeter motor will run for several hours on a 6.9-gallon tank of gas. While perhaps not the most efficient generator we looked at, this is the quietest generator that delivers this level of power. It is RV ready, can deliver 240V if necessary, and has a carbon monoxide alarm and remote electric starting. A digital LCD provides useful runtime and output data.

Product Specs

• Noise level: 62 decibels
• Wattage: 9,000 watts (starting); 7,600 watts (running)
• Outlets: Two 120V household outlets, 1 RV outlet, one 120V/240V outlet, 2 USB outlets, one 12V DC outlet

Pros

• The ability to run 2 units in parallel gives over 15,000-watt output
• Can provide 120V or 240V for home backup or jobsite use
• Automatically shuts off if unsafe levels of carbon monoxide are detected
• Push-button electric start plus a remote key fob for user convenience

Cons

• At 259 pounds, it is heavier than most competitors that offer similar performance
• Although quiet for such a powerful model, it is a relatively expensive unit

Get the Genmax quiet generator at Amazon, Lowe’s, or Tractor Supply Co.

Generators of 10,000 watts and above are popular because they are capable of powering numerous household appliances in the event of a power outage. While the impressive Westinghouse WGen9500DF was never going to be the quietest generator, it makes up for increased decibels by providing unrivaled performance and value.

This is a dual-fuel model running at 12,500/9,500 watts on gasoline or 11,200/8,500 watts on propane. Efficient fuel consumption allows up to 12 hours of runtime on the former and 7 hours on a 20-pound propane tank.

Starting is simple via an onboard push button or remote key fob. There is also a pull cord in the unlikely event that these fail. At 211 pounds, it is heavy, but a lift-up handle and large rubber-shod wheels help with maneuverability.

Product Specs

• Noise level: 74 decibels
• Wattage: 12,500/9,500 watts on gasoline (starting); 11,200/8,500 watts on propane (running)
• Outlets: Two 120V household outlets, one 120V/240V 30A outlet, one 120V/240V 50A outlet

Pros

• High-performance model that switches quickly and easily from gasoline to propane
• Transfer-switch ready, allowing for direct connection to suitably wired household electrical systems
• Electronic push-button starting plus remote key fob; pull-cord backup
• Tough roll bar and never-flat wheels make it ideal for jobsite use

Cons

• Traditional generators like this Westinghouse are significantly louder than inverter models
• Despite lift-up handle and wheels, it is a large, heavy machine

Get the Westinghouse WGen9500DF quiet generator at Amazon or Acme Tools.

RV owners looking for a powerful, quiet, and easy-to-use generator may want to check out this dual-fuel inverter generator from Champion Power Equipment. Its engine produces 4,500 starting watts and 3,500 running watts and will run for up to 14 hours at 25 percent load. It has sufficient performance to run numerous devices, and thanks to a dedicated outlet, can plug directly into an RV’s electrical system.

The ability to run it off propane also makes it a consideration for camping use, jobsites or anywhere gasoline isn’t readily available. A simple dial selects the fuel type and provides push-button starting. The Champion Power Equipment is also parallel capable for those who require additional output.

It is significantly heavier than many of the other inverter generators featured, though wheels help mobility. At 61 decibels, it is not a very quiet generator either. However, it offers an excellent combination of performance and convenience for RV owners.

Product Specs

• Noise level: 61 decibels
• Wattage: 4,500 watts (starting); 3,500 watts (running)
• Outlets: Two 120V household outlets, one 120V RV outlet, one 12V DC outlet

Pros

• Dedicated outlet for direct power supply to RVs (with the appropriate cable)
• Good fuel economy provides long runtimes on both gasoline and propane
• Digital readout offers output and runtime figures, plus LEDs for fuel level
• Parallel capable, offering the opportunity to double the power output

Cons

• While wheels and handle help, a weight of 103 pounds reduces portability
• Although the vast majority are reliable, some owners have reported starting problems

Get the Champion Power Equipment quiet generator at Amazon.