Generator Ratings
Keep your house fully powered and your family safe during emergencies with a standby generator you can rely on.
View our ratings and reviews and browse our buying guide to find the best generators.
Portable Generators (37)
These units tend to cost less than home standby generators. They typically run on gasoline that you may need to store in large quantities. Stabilizer must be added to your fuel for prolonged storage.
. . .Inverter Generators (44)
Because their engines are more complex, these models generally cost more than portable generators of a comparable output.
. . .Home Standby Generators (6)
These units cost more money and should be installed by a pro (so factor in labor costs). An experienced electrician can help with town or municipal permits, noise restrictions, and proper location.
. . .Portable Power Stations (6)
These are powered by an included solar panel or a battery that you can charge by plugging into an electrical outlet. As with a small inverter generator, these are best for cases in which you know you won’t need power for long.
. . .
Recently Tested Generators
More From Consumer Reports
46 Products on Deep Discount in November
This month is the best time to save on almost everything
How to Apply Wood Stain
Whether you're staining a wood deck, bench, or fence, these expert tips will enhance its look and longevity
Best Composite Decking of 2025
CR tests composite decking for three years under severe conditions, evaluating planks from brands such as Azek, Fiberon, and TimberTech
Best Early Black Friday Smart Home Deals
You can already score deep discounts on top-rated smart thermostats, video doorbells, security cameras, and more
33 Best Gifts for Dads
Great gift ideas for techies, home chefs, avid bath-takers, and more