A power outage is the last thing we all need when we are doing something important. Most of us experience power outages a few times in a year. That number can rise significantly if you are living in and around the state of Florida, courtesy of storms, and hurricanes. Your daily workflow can grind to a halt in the face of such adversities.
Now, the best 10000 watt generator can get you back up and running in no time at all. But the question is, what are the best ones?
You will not be starved for choice in the market, there are so many to choose from. So today, we have rounded up the best 10000-watt portable generators along with their reviews and filtered them further to help you decide which is the best one for you.
What Will a 10000 Watt Generator Run?
Freezing in the middle of the night, you wake up, and you realize your heating is not working. The power is out. Not to worry if you have a 10000-watt generator to back you up. It will also keep your lights on, your heater, power your refrigerator and keep your computer running. It will also power your whole house without breaking a sweat. If portability is not your concern then you can go for standby generators.
On the other hand, It will be your source of power if you choose to work in remote places in the great outdoors. If you plan on going camping, they make a great addition to tackle any unforeseen situations. Or you could switch it up and power your RV.
| Pos | Brand | Image | Features | More Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Top RatedWEN |  |
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| 2 | Champion |  |
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| 3 | Fuel EfficientFirman |  |
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| 4 | Durostar |  |
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| 5 | Best BudgetPulsar |  |
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| 6 | PopularDuroMax |  |
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| 7 | LightweightGreen-Power America |  |
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| 8 | Generac |  |
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| 9 | SIMPSON |  |
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| 10 | Briggs & Stratton |  |
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| 11 | All Power America |  |
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| 12 | Most DurableHONDA |  |
| |
| 13 | Gentron |  |
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Best 10000 Watt Generator Reviews – Overview
However, the question of which 10000 watt generator you should choose is not that easy to answer. There are many different models and variants of generators available in the market today. Choosing one can, therefore, be a daunting task. There are several models that stand out from the others. But even those are numerous.
That is where we come in. We have sifted through and compiled the finest 10000 watt generator reviews to help you make that purchase decision.
WEN DF1100T 10000 Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator
| Features | Value |
|---|---|
| Gasoline Output Propane Output | Starting: 11000 Watt / Running: 8300 Watt Starting: 9500 Watt / Running: 7500 Watt |
| Noise Level | Not Tested |
| Operating Time | 8.5 hours / 50% Load Gasoline 3 hours / 50% Load Propane |
| Fuel Tank Size | 6.6 Gallon |
| Starting Method | Electric Start, Recoil Pull Start |
| Weight | 213.8lbs |
The best wattage to price offering at our time of writing, the WEN DF1100T, is capable of delivering a whopping 11000 watt surge output. An absolute behemoth of a generator, this thing weighs well over 200lbs. This wen generator has a very impressive build quality and is quite manageable, courtesy of fold-out handles.
Attach a transfer switch, and you can pretty much power your whole house. It does not include a wattage output display. Some people can face difficulties trying to figure out the digital LED hour counter. There is a simple timer but is not a cumulative one.
Very easy to set up and operate, it includes an electric starter key rather than a start button, which is a slight bummer. But it more than makes up for it with its impressive surge output. It is worth noting that you should consider investing in a straight plug rather than a right-angled one as the right-angled plugs may catch on the wheels.
Also, the inclusion of a switch makes it easy to switch between fuel types. With a turn of a dial, you can switch from propane to gasoline or vice versa. It is that simple. To be noted, the unit achieves its 11000 watt surge output on gasoline only. Use propane, and we are restricted to about 9500 watts for a surge.
It has a slightly better than average run time of 8.5 hours, courtesy of its 6.6-gallon fuel tank, on half load. Out of the box, this model comes with four 120V 20A GFCI outlets. You’ll also get a 120V 30A twist-lock outlet inside the box.
- Best wattage to price offering
- 11000 watt surge output
- Sturdy build quality
- An impressive selection of outlets
- Quite heavy
Champion 100297 8000 Watt Portable Generator
| Features | Value |
|---|---|
| Gasoline Output Propane Output | Starting: 10000 Watt / Running: 8000 Watt Starting: 9025 Watt / Running: 7250 Watt |
| Noise Level | 74db (From 23 Feet) |
| Operating Time | 8 hours / 50% Load |
| Fuel Tank Size | 6 Gallon |
| Starting Method | Recoil Pull Start, Electric |
| Weight | 209.4lbs |
This generator is a machine ready to use from the moment you get it out of the box. It works on both gasoline and propane. While running on gasoline, the unit delivers 8000 running Watts with 9025 starting watts; on propane, it’ll deliver 9025 starting Watts, and 7250 running Watts instead.
The machine is an electric-start unit, which powers up an outstanding 459CC engine that you can operate through the toggle switch. Also, the battery comes included in the purchase. With a capacity to hold 1.2-Quarts of oil and low oil shut-off sensor, this generator works efficiently for hours.
Users will also be able to keep track of the generator’s performance. Information like the voltage, hertz, and the run-time is easy to read thanks to the Intelligauge feature, which tracks all of that data for you. This technology is pretty useful when it comes to maintenance too.
Sadly, the generator isn’t perfect. While it won’t be unbearable, the sound produced could be a little frustrating. We could argue that the noise makes sense considering the amount of power and the engine’s performance, but it’s still noticeable, and not many people would like that.
Another disappointment could be the running time. When used at 50% of its capacity, the generator is capable of delivering 8 hours of run-time, approximately. While using propane, the time goes down significantly, reaching only 3.5 hours at 50% of the unit’s capacity.
For some applications, that time could be more than enough. However, if you have big purposes in mind for the generator, the running time delivered may not be what you need.
- Powerful generator with proper security measures
- Electric start works flawlessly
- Intelligauge tech to keep track of the generator’s performance
- Wheels & handles included
- This unit makes a lot of noise
- Running time could be better
Firman H08051 Electric Start Dual Fuel Portable Generator
| Features | Value |
|---|---|
| Gasoline Output Propane Output | Starting: 10000 Watt / Running: 8000 Watt Starting: 9050 Watt / Running: 7250 Watt |
| Noise Level | 74db (From 23 Feet) |
| Operating Time | 12 hours / 50% Load |
| Fuel Tank Size | 8 Gallon |
| Starting Method | Recoil Pull Start, Electric |
| Weight | 235lbs |
Alright, so you didn’t like the other generators because, perhaps, they weren’t powerful enough. Don’t worry, though; the next machine is the very definition of a powerhouse. The Firman H08051 is a 10000/8000 Watt portable generator that works on gas and propane.
There are five outlets included, and all of them have proper cover to keep them secure during tough weather conditions. The motor is a 439CC, dual-fuel engine, which has low oil shut off and sleeve made of cast iron.
Both the motor and the outlets provide constant power and coverage for plenty of activities.
Besides the covered outlets, the unit offers a multi-feature control panel. This panel is intuitive, requiring barely any effort to get a grasp of how it works.
The manufacturer is well aware that a large, 235 lbs machine could mean a lot of trouble, that’s why there are different features added to help you. For instance, the generator comes with heavy-duty wheels measuring 10”, and a folding handle. These two elements altogether let you move easily.
Other helpful features included in the purchase are the following: engine oil, funnel, and a tool kit to help you assemble the machine. Additionally, the package includes a 5.5 ft LPG regulator hose, which comes in handy while using the generator at outside locations.
Are there any disadvantages to owning this unit? There are a few, actually. Don’t expect the generator to be quiet, because it’s loud. Also, the wheels may not roll properly over surfaces like grass. In those cases, using the handle would be better.
- Outstanding 10,000 Watts capacity
- 8-gallon tank provides 12 hours of run-time
- Convenient control panel featuring covered outlets
- Folding handle & wheels
- Includes regulator hose, engine oil, assembly tool kit, and more
- This generator is quite loud
- The wheels may not roll over some surfaces
Durostar DS10000E Gas Powered Portable Generator
| Features | Value |
|---|---|
| Output Power | Starting: 10000 Watt / Running: 8000 Watt |
| Noise Level | 72db (From 23 Feet) |
| Operating Time | 10.4 hours / 50% Load |
| Fuel Tank Size | 8.3 Gallon |
| Starting Method | Recoil Pull Start, Electric |
| Weight | 260lbs |
It is the quietest generator in our recommendations list. This unit idles at about 45dB and hits 72dB when hit with a load. It is absolutely perfect for those nighttime power runs without waking up your neighbors. Check Here for top Durostar generator.
This is quite impressive considering its size. It includes a low fuel shut-off, so you can sleep easy knowing it will power down when it nears an empty tank. On the heavy side, a little over 260lbs, but includes wheels so you can tug it along easily.
Moreover, it has excellent build quality. It should see you through a few years before it needs to be sent in for maintenance. The unit includes an 8-gallon fuel tank, so it lasts ages (about 10 hours) at half capacity. And includes all other usual features such as oil warning lights, a voltmeter, and circuit breakers.
One major downside to this generator is that it runs on gasoline only, compared to other generators on our recommended list. But it makes up for it with the inclusion of a built-in spark arrestor. Our only complaint is that the fuel level gauge needs more calibration. The readings can be off at times.
- Quiet at load considering its size
- Portable
- Low fuel automatic shut-off
- Sizeable fuel tank
- Quiet exhaust
- 8000 retaed watts only
- Heavy when compared to other models
Pulsar Non-CARB 10,000W Portable Generator
| Features | Value |
|---|---|
| Gasoline Output Propane Output | Starting: 10000 Watt / Running: 9000 Watt Starting: 8000 Watt / Running: 7000 Watt |
| Noise Level | Not Tasted |
| Operating Time | 8 hours / 50% Load Gasoline |
| Fuel Tank Size | 6.5 Gallon |
| Starting Method | Recoil Pull Start, Electric |
| Weight | 209lbs |
This generator from Pulsar holds the second-highest average ratings from our recommendations list. It is a very reliable unit, this generator is rated to keep your household running in case of power failures.
Quick and simple, this generator comes with an electric push start feature, backed up by a recoil pull start. The unit runs on both propane and gasoline. We have the option to switch between the two even whilst the generator is fully operational by the flick of a switch, courtesy of Pulsars’ Switch & Go technology.
The 6.5-gallon tank will last us a while, pulling in a class-leading runtime of 8 hours at half load without breaking a sweat.
- Inclusion of 120V and 240V outlets
- Features electric push start
- Class-leading run time
- Can switch between fuel types during operation
- Includes a propane hose
- Can be loud under load
DuroMax XP10000E Gas Powered Portable Generator
| Features | Value |
|---|---|
| Output Power | Starting: 10000 Watt / Running: 8000 Watt |
| Noise Level | 72db (From 23 Feet) |
| Operating Time | 10.4 hours / 50% Load |
| Fuel Tank Size | 8.3 Gallon |
| Starting Method | Recoil Pull Start, Electric |
| Weight | 260lbs |
One of the highest-rated generators from amongst our recommendations, the Duromax XP10000E, is our recommendation for the best 10000 watt generator for the money. All these top ratings are very indicative of its overall reliability.
The Duromax, too, offers you the flexibility to switch between gasoline or propane for operation. A staggering 10000 watts surge power, this absolute behemoth of a generator is enough to power all the appliances at your home, quietly and with ease.
Turning on the generator is as simple as it gets. We pull open the fuel valve, tug on the choke and then proceed to turn the key. It is that easy. If you are having battery issues, not to worry. There is a starter kit in the event that you run into such a problem. The inclusion of a circuit breaker helps control whether the outlets go live.
Our advice is to connect the generator to your home first, then proceed to turn on the circuit breaker in the generator. We then make use of a transfer switch. The Reliance Controls Corporation 31406CRK is our recommendation for the best transfer switch for a 10000-watt generator. The transfer switch slowly dials up the load.
We then proceed to turn on the circuit breakers inside our home. This generator also includes an idle control switch. What it does is it causes the generator to sit idle at a much lower and quieter speed after turning it on. And as usual, there is a wide selection of outlets to choose from.
Usually, we use the 50A, but you can get plenty of power out of the 20A outlet as well with a transfer switch and a few extension cables. There is an auto-shutoff feature included, so you do not have to worry about the generator operating on fumes.
- 10000 watts surge power
- Quieter than most other models at 72dB
- On the lightweight side
- Allows you to switch between gasoline and propane
- Heat problems in the fuel system
Green-Power America GPG10000EW Generator
| Features | Value |
|---|---|
| Output Power | Starting: 10000 Watt / Running: 7500 Watt |
| Noise Level | 76db (From 23 Feet) |
| Operating Time | 9 hours / 50% Load |
| Fuel Tank Size | 6.6 Gallon |
| Starting Method | Recoil Pull Start, Electric |
| Weight | 181.72lbs |
A very impressive generator, considering its size and output, the GPG10000EW from Green-Power America does not disappoint in any front. Professional and on-time, they ship all the way from the factory. Although equipped with a smaller fuel tank, it more than impressed us with its runtime and optimal operation.
This is one of the lightest 10000 watt generators available in the market. However, we do not recommend that you go about picking it up by yourself. It still weighs over 150lbs. The easy turn-key start-up means that you would not have trouble picking it up and using it from the get-go.
And the inclusion of an alternator means that we get a stable, constant power output. You do not have to worry about running out of fuel, as this unit features an auto-shutoff system. It will turn off before running out of fuel completely.
The instructions for setting this up were easy enough. And the process was simple. Took us maybe an hour or so to set it up and get it running. The fuel line control was dead easy to access, as was the throttle choke. We would go as far as to say that voltage regulation is one of the best in class.
- Very lightweight
- Use of an alternator
- Easy access to throttle choke and fuel line control
- Class-leading voltage regulation
- Easy to setup
- Adequate power
- Smaller fuel tank
Generac 7676 GP8000E Portable Generator
| Features | Value |
|---|---|
| Output Power | Starting: 10000 Watt / Running: 8000 Watt |
| Noise Level | Not Tested |
| Operating Time | 11 hours / 50% Load |
| Fuel Tank Size | 7.9 Gallon |
| Starting Method | Recoil Pull Start, Electric |
| Weight | 200lbs |
A heavy-duty offering from Generac capable of dicing out 10000 watts as surge, more than enough to meet the demands of most household appliances. The single button start makes for an easy start-up. And the unit arrives heavily packed from the manufacturer.
Getting through all those layers of wraps was a bit of a chore, but all worth it in the name of safe shipping. The battery is a small, motorcycle-style battery located between the wheels and the generator, right below the plug-ins.
The unit has quite a sturdy build. And the generator itself is encased in a hardened steel-tubed cradle. The handle can be stowed away and locked in a position to increase its compactness. And the generator comes with a set of those never-flat tires, so you can basically tug it along regardless of the terrain you are in.
Our testing saw that the generator lasted a staggering 11 hours at half load, very impressive when you remember that all of this runtime is out of a 7.9-gallon fuel tank.
Near the end, the low-oil sensor shuts down the generator as it uses up all the fuel. It is a nifty feature. The outlets are all individually protected by circuit breakers, built to stand the harshest weather and rugged working conditions. Our only complaint about this unit is that it runs on gasoline only.
Most of its competitors ship with dual fuel usability as standard, so we are docking a point for that. It makes up for it though by the inclusion of an hour meter. The hour meter tracks the runtime and tells us how long it can go before the next maintenance cycle.
Moreover, the manufacturer ships the unit with a low tone muffler, which takes a significant chunk off the noise it would otherwise produce. A fuel gauge lets us know when the generator is running low on fuel.
- Sturdy build quality
- Included low tone muffler
- Has a compact design
- Gasoline only
SIMPSON Cleaning SPG8310E Portable Gas Generator
| Features | Value |
|---|---|
| Output Power | Starting: 10000 Watt / Running: 8300 Watt |
| Noise Level | Not Tested |
| Operating Time | 8 hours / 50% Load |
| Fuel Tank Size | 6.08 Gallon |
| Starting Method | Recoil Pull Start, Electric |
| Weight | 192lbs |
Another fully-featured generator, this product from Simpson, comes with straightforward instructions. To our surprise, this model ships with additional tools from the factory to aid in assembling the unit out of the box. There is no use of proprietory screws or bolts, however.
The unit delivers about 67A of current at full load, which can sufficiently power most households. And the variety of sockets and plus come with an individual circuit breaker for each. It has the quickest setup for sure. And it only takes 10 minutes to attach the wheels and the stand, add oil and get it running.
Moreover, it includes a batter start-up. So it does not take a lot of time to get this unit up and running. But in case the battery starts acting up or fails entirely, there is an included pull-start option. The battery is, therefore, not a necessity to get the generator up and running. It includes two keys to start.
This model comes with vibration dampers and rubberized feet. Thus, you will not be hearing or seeing the generator rattling about. In addition to a heavy-duty wrap-around frame, the generator comes with a handle for hauling, that can be conveniently folded out of the way.
Moreover, the fuel filler includes a filter to catch any unwanted debris, and what’s more, it can be easily removed for cleaning. The unit includes a run time display. It is very convenient as we do not have to make a guess as to when the unit needs to be put up for maintenance.
However, the main downside of this unit is that it is loud, very loud. Add to that the generator weighs in at 210lbs. Therefore, there is no lifting it.
- Comes with a separate circuit breaker for each plug
- Includes an oil filter in the filler
- Makes use of a run time display
- Comes with vibration dampers
- Includes rubberized feet
- Very heavy
- Quite noisy; you would not want to be using this around your neighbors
Briggs & Stratton 30664 10,000 Surge Watt Generator
| Features | Value |
|---|---|
| Output Power | Starting: 10000 Watt / Running: 8000 Watt |
| Noise Level | Not Tested |
| Operating Time | 9 hours / 50% Load |
| Fuel Tank Size | 7.5 Gallon |
| Starting Method | Recoil Pull Start, Electric |
| Weight | 248lbs |
Briggs and Stratton’s generator is particularly popular due to its power output. Regularly, the standard power delivered by this unit is 8000 Watts, with the power surge that rises up to 10000 Watts. Thanks to that capacity, the 420CC OVH engine lights up home, office, and other locations easily.
The engine offers 21 ft-lbs torque and an alright RPM amount of 3600. Even though it’s an electric start generator, there are other alternatives, such as recoil rope, and a battery to get the system up and running.
Since power wouldn’t mean a thing without any control over it, the unit also features a user-friendly panel to operate the generator. It’s simple and easy to use, providing different receptacles to manage power output.
The power outlets have plenty of protection should you use the generator in tough weather conditions. With an AC output available in both 120V and 240V, this generator offers more options for different applications.
What about running time? Suffice to say, this unit from Briggs & Stratton also meets those expectations.
The machine uses unleaded gasoline, and the tank has capacity for 7.5 gallons of fuel. While operating, the generator is capable of running for eight to nine hours straight on at a 50% load. If we consider the amount of power delivered, that runtime is more than reasonable.
After mentioning all of the good things, it’s only fair to point out the bad too. Although you’d consider the heavy weight and the fast gasoline-consuming performance as the biggest disadvantages, perhaps the noise produced is the most frustrating issue.
- Powerful engine to operate for hours
- 7.5 fuel tank capacity
- Protection for the outlets in tough environments
- Suitable to power up large appliances
- User-friendly control panel
- Not very fuel efficient
All Power America G10000EGL Heavy Duty Portable Generator
| Features | Value |
|---|---|
| Gasoline Output Propane Output | Starting: 10000 Watt / Running: 8000 Watt Starting: 8500 Watt / Running: 7000 Watt |
| Noise Level | 76db (From 23 Feet) |
| Operating Time | 11 hours / 50% Load |
| Fuel Tank Size | 8 Gallon |
| Starting Method | Recoil Pull Start, Electric |
| Weight | 235lbs |
A nice and compact unit but not a slouch as it can deliver 10000 watts of power from its 15 HP 420cc OHV air-cooled engine, capable of running eleven hours straight at half load capacity. The electric start makes it so that anyone can start up the generator easily, without too much trouble.
It is easy to assemble and does not require a lot of time to do so. Just add oil and gas, and you are good to go. Press the start button, and you have electricity. The lever to switch between fuels is an absolute godsend. Ran out of fuel? Just turn the lever to switch to the propane, and you can keep on running.
Also, it is very solid when it comes to build quality. A strong steel frame makes up the bulk of the structural support, and the inclusion of a tall handle means you can tug it along with ease through all manners of terrain. The frame is dipped into an industrial-grade coating so that you do not have to worry about rust.
This is one of the models from our lineup that make use of flat-free wheels. So you can leave this outside without worrying about the tires going flat. They also include a wheel repair kit from the factory, should you run into a mishap. These puncture-free wheels make this generator great for use in construction sites.
The outlets are quite sturdy and rugged. You are not breaking these off by accident any time soon. The unit Includes 2 AC 20A Duplex 120V outlets. Alongside them, you’ll also get a 120/240V 30A twist-lock outlet. In addition, there will also be a 12V 3A DC outlet for you.
Moreover, the generator delivers 10000 watt peak power from store-bought gas and up to 8500 watt peak power on LPG. This makes this unit one of the more versatile ones from our selection.
- Compact in size
- Sturdy steel frame
- Includes electric start
- Comes with flat-free wheels
- Able to operate for 11 hours at half load
- A little loud
- No idle switch
HONDA EB10000 Industrial Generator
| Features | Value |
|---|---|
| Output Power | Starting: 10000 Watt / Running: 9000 Watt |
| Noise Level | 71db (From 23 Feet) |
| Operating Time | 7.2 hours / 50% Load |
| Fuel Tank Size | 8.1 Gallon |
| Starting Method | Electric |
| Weight | 403lbs |
What is there to say? It is a Honda Power Equipment Generator. And it is unquestionably reliable. Runs about as loud as a vacuum cleaner (no puns intended) and about as loud as a lawnmower on load operation. The unit is one of the heaviest in our recommended lineup, though it makes up for it with handles and wheels.
It has a class-leading build quality and comes directly from the factory. You really notice the quality when you take a close look into the filter configuration, the casing, engine, and the exhaust.
There is a water outlet below the ignition to allow condensed water and any unwanted gas to escape, increasing the longevity of the engine. This is, however, made for commercial use, such as at off-site job sites. If you plan to use this at home, you need to do a minor modification that will allow GFCI to override.
The best part about this is that Honda did go out of their way to publish an instructions booklet, which tells us how to perform this override. The 630cc V-Twin GX630 engine delivers consistent power reliably. High fuel efficiency, coupled with an 8.1-gallon tank, means that you can run this for hours at a time.
This is by far the highest quality generator you would find for this wattage level. A hefty price tag, yes, but totally worth it. In case you are getting cold feet, here is how we see this. If we take care of it well, with proper periodic maintenance, this will see us through 10 years easily without running into hiccups.
Therefore, this is easily worth the high price tag if we want to invest in something very long term.
- Outstanding build quality
- Reliable, import quality goodness
- Honda’s Oil-Alert technology
- Quiet for its size
- Expensive, compared to other models available in the market
- Quite heavy
Gentron GG10020C 10000 Watt Gas Portable Generator
| Features | Value |
|---|---|
| Output Power | Starting: 10000 Watt / Running: 8000 Watt |
| Noise Level | 77db (From 23 Feet) |
| Operating Time | 9 hours / 50% Load |
| Fuel Tank Size | 8 Gallon |
| Starting Method | Recoil Pull Start, Electric |
| Weight | 241lbs |
Interested in picking up a generator for cheap? A 10000 watt at that, no less. Then look no further. The GG10020C from Gentron is the cheapest offering in our recommendations list, the best 10000 watt generator for the money.
Cheap, it is. A downgrade, it is not. Kind of obscure, given its brand names, but it makes up for it with several features, which makes it a pretty good buy for your hard-earned money. The unit is quite portable as it comes with those wheels that guaranteed to never go flat. It features a durable frame, coated in a tough paint job.
An electric push start button means that you can get it up and running in no time at all. A manual recoil backs it up in case the battery goes faulty or contains no charge. Did we mention that this generator is CARB compliant? It is, and that is one of its main selling features.
It comes with a very decent selection of IO and outlets. It features one 120V/240V 30A outlet, one 120V 30A outlet, 4 fully protected standard 120V 20A outlets and one 12V 10A DC outlet. The control panel makes operation and monitoring an absolute breeze. And the included oil sensor activates the auto shut off mechanism when the fuel gets too low.
It runs for about 9 hours on half load. On the other hand, its competitors in the market are struggling to put out 8 to 8.5 hours of runtime. It achieves this high run time courtesy of its 8-gallon fuel tank.
Also, it operates at little high noise levels, about 77dB.
- Very long run time on half capacity – about 9 hours on a full tank
- A big 8-gallon fuel tank
- It features an electric start option
- Very portable
- One of the dew CARB compliant models on out list
- Made by an obscure brand, unheard of by many
What to Look for Before Buying
So we have gone through the nitty-gritty of a few 10000 watt generators that made it to our recommendations list. And now, you are probably looking into acquiring one for yourself.
Before you lay down the hammer and put down the payment one of these generators, there are a few crucial things we must look into.
The Power Output
We must consider both the rated and surge power outputs. The rated power is what the generator is capable of handling under a normal load. That is, the generator can handle continuously, the rated amount being the absolute max.
Overloading the generator with a power amount higher than the rated amount may cause it to malfunction and thus may damage it in the long run.
The surge power the amount of additional power that the generator combs through during the start-up of any motorized appliances. This can also occur when it is running at its highest level of consumption. And this surge power is often referred to as starting power or surge power.
Moreover, the difference between rated power and the surge power is that the surge power is used for only a few seconds at a time. The rated power, on the other hand, remains consistent throughout the generator’s operation period and is consistent as well.
Please note that the highest cumulative peak wattage (both rated and surge) of all your appliances should be equal or lower than that of your generators rated and surge wattages. The generator is likely to be overloaded or malfunction should the cumulative peak wattages of your appliances exceed that of the generators.
Both the surge and the rated wattage is indicated in either the specs or on the manufacturer’s listings. So do check the listings and buy according to your needs.
The Engine
The engine provides the power in your generator. More power does not necessarily mean better efficiency. However, more power is ideally better. In the same way, bigger engine size does not necessarily equate to better performance, but in general, a bigger engine has a bigger output and can be thought to be “better performing”.
A very good example is Honda EB10000. It has a bigger engine, compared to its competition, and is the best performing out of all the variants in our recommendations list. One way to check the performance of the engine is by weighing the rated power against its surge power.
The Fuel Capacity
All of these generators come with built-in fuel tanks. The bigger the fuel time, the bigger the period between refilling. Bigger fuel tanks mean that the generator will run for a longer period before you have to stop and refuel it.
Choosing a generator with a smaller fuel tank means that you will have to stop and refuel it every now and then. In the end, it all comes down to what is convenient for you.
If your generator runs for a short period, you can make do with a generator with a smaller fuel tank. On the other hand, if you expect the generator to operate for longer periods, you are better off investing in a generator with a bigger fuel tank, simply because of the convenience.
Runtime
This is mostly dependent on the model you are looking into. The runtime differs from model to model. How long will a full tank of fuel last you? We expect seven to eight hours on average. Your generator’s runtime is also a key indicator of its efficiency.
Let us assume that you have two generators, generator A and generator B. They are made by different manufacturers, yet, they have the same engine capacity and the same volume in the fuel tank. Generator A has a runtime of 8 hours against generator B’s 7 hours. We can, therefore, say generator A is more efficient than generator B.
The PG10000B16 from Pulsar proved to have the best runtime from our selection, at a whopping 12 hours. The DuroMax XP10000E and the GG10020C from Gentron follow closely at a very commendable 11 hours for both. Therefore, we should consider a generator with a longer runtime if we plan to run it for longer.
Noise Level during Operation
One of the major downsides of owning and operating sizeable generators. Overall, we can say that gasoline-operated generators are louder and noisier than your run of the mill propane generators. From our experience, most portable generators operate at noise levels anywhere between 72dB to 80dB.
You should consider investing in a quieter generator if you do not want to be that guy that keeps the neighbors up at night, or simply if you want a quieter operation overall and use it with your RV.
The Dimensions and Portability
A general 10000 watt generator weighs somewhere in the neighborhood of 200lbs, so you should not be expecting to lift one any time soon. Most of these come with built-in wheels and fold-in handles so that you can tug them around with ease. Therefore, it comes down to choosing one with the longer-lasting wheels.
The build quality matters too. You want to invest in a generator that is tough enough to withstand whatever Mother Nature can throw at it. We need the generator to be able to function during emergencies. In addition, we do not operate generators indoors. Therefore, we need it to be tough enough to take a beating.
Warranties and After-Sales Support
It is not the wisest of decisions to invest in a generator that does not come with a warranty. We expect a good seven to eight years of service out of one. Even the lowest priced ones are pretty much mandated to come with some sort of warranty form the factory.
The great thing is, all major manufacturers provide warranties and after-sales support with these generators. These warranties can range anywhere from 1 year, all the way up to 3 years, depending on the manufacturer and the region. Many even provide parts warranty and warranty for workmanship, so always check before buying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here we have some of the most commonly asked queries regarding the best 10000 watt generators:
Q: Can I run the generator inside my house?
A: No. Emphasis on no. A generator burns fuel and produces carbon monoxide, which is colorless, odorless, and poisonous. It will cause serious illnesses and death in the severest cases if inhaled for prolonged periods.
Q: Do I shut the generator down when refueling?
A: Yes. You must shut down your generator when checking for and adding fuel to reduce the risk of fire hazards.
Q: Where do I store my generator?
A: Store your generator in a cool, dry place. Make sure the space is well ventilated. Keep the generator away from potential sources of sparks and flames. If you plan on storing it in a closed space (such as a garage or a basement), make sure to remove all fuel from the generator beforehand. Follow US Govt Generator Safety Guideline to ensure the safety of you and your family.
Note: Never operate your generator in a closed space. CO poisoning can cause death.
Q: Can I use both the 110v and the 220v plugs at the same time?
A: Of course, you can, if there are enough outlets you can plug into. All the outlets are manufactured such that they operate independently of one another. Thus, you can plug in different rated appliances across different outlets with ease.
Q: Is a 10000 watt generator enough to power an RV?
A: Yes. Most definitely. A 10000 watt generator can comfortably power all the electrical appliances, the television, refrigerator, the air-conditioning, everything really, without breaking a sweat. Nevertheless, be sure to check the user manual for both the RV and generator for safe operation. It is better to use RV generators.
Final Words
Our recommended pick is the Pulsar PG10000B16 as the best 10000 watt generator for the money. The unit is a great balance of price, performance, and features. In second place, we have the EB10000 from Honda, which would have taken the cake if not for its high price tag. And for the third place, we have the Gentron GG10020C, the best bang for the buck generator you could buy. We hope this article helped ease your decision process. Happy hunting!
