The Best Inverter Generators of 2024 Are Quiet, Efficient, and, Yes, a Little Expensive
Top models from Champion, DeWalt, Honda, Yamaha, and others outperform most conventional portable generators
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Inverter generators generally cost more than regular portable generators, but as a group, they perform better in almost every way, as our testing shows.
- They’re quieter.
- They run more efficiently, which means you don’t have to fill up the generator—and your gas cans—as frequently.
- They deliver cleaner power, so there’s less chance of low voltage damaging sensitive medical devices and other electronics.
- Their compact size and low noise level make them versatile enough for camping and tailgating, not just power outages.
- Best Inverter Generators (by Size): Large Midsized Small Mini
- How CR Tests Generators
There are trade-offs, starting with deciding whether the higher price is worth it. But “if money isn’t a big issue, I would choose an inverter over a conventional portable generator,” says Dave Trezza, a Consumer Reports engineer who heads our generator testing program. “They’re way quieter, and that can make a real difference when you’re running it for hours at a time.”
Best Inverter Generators
Each of these inverter generator options has CO safety technology designed to stop the engine if carbon monoxide reaches certain limits in an enclosed space, a feature CR considers very important. All earn very good or excellent ratings in tests of that function.
Best Large Inverter Generators
Inverter generators in this size range, which are 220-volt capable, can produce 5,000 watts or more. This means they can power most home appliances and, when hooked up to your electrical panel via a transfer switch or interlock device, enable you to run hardwired devices like a well pump or a water heater. For more information, see Choosing the Right Size Generator.
Best Midsized Inverter Generators
These models produce 2,500 to 5,000 watts and can power an array of appliances, including a refrigerator. But because they lack a 220-volt connection, they can’t be hooked up to a circuit breaker panel by a transfer switch. That prevents them from powering hardwired equipment.
Best Small Inverter Generators
These models produce 1,500 to 2,500 watts and can power a number of devices during an outage. The most compact models in this category are a good option for camping or tailgating.
Best Mini Inverter Generators
The smallest inverters produce less than 1,500 watts and are designed primarily for camping and tailgating, although they can certainly power a few appliances or electronic devices when there’s a power outage at home.
How CR Tests Generators
To test generators for performance, our engineers load up each model with key appliances you might want to power during an outage, such as a space heater, refrigerator, and window air conditioner.
We make sure the generator can handle the load it’s supposed to and also look at what happens when a sudden electrical spike hits—for example, if your refrigerator compressor kicks on when the generator is already close to its limit. The best models take that in stride, while others bog down or stall. We look at how easy each generator is to move and use, as well as how efficiently it uses gasoline and how long it runs on a single tank.
We also developed a CO safety technology test to evaluate new automatic shutoff features on portable and inverter generators and low-CO engines.
