In this review article, you will see some insightful and unbiased reviews of the 10 best generators for apartments or condos in the market.
First, we’ll take a look at the editors’ picks in order.
Next, we’ll compare the generators on a comparison table to make it easier for you to find the best generator for your apartment.
Finally, we’ll have an actionable Buyers Guide including a relevant FAQ section so you can be as informed as possible before buying one for your apartment or house.
Best for Convenience
Goal Zero Yeti 400 Lithium Power Station with Wi-Fi
Starting off this list is a strong and very unique power station, the Goal Zero Yeti 400.
This portable power station is the best generator for apartments looking for mobility, power, and convenience.
Best for Long-term Outages
Generac 7043 Air-Cooled Standby Generator
The Generac 7043 is a durable and powerful generator that you can trust to power your home in an emergency.
This 22,000W powerhouse is the best generator for apartments looking for reliable, long term power in an emergency.
Most Silent Generator for an Apartment
PREDATOR 3500W
The PREDATOR 3500W is an incredibly powerful generator that can also work quietly in your apartment.
This is the best generator for apartments because it’s so quiet that you won’t disturb your neighbors.
Best for Durability & Whole House Power
Kohler 20,000W Air-Cooled Standby Generator
The Kohler 20000W is an incredibly powerful and durable standby generator that’s also air-cooled.
This is the best generator for apartments looking for a durable generator that can comfortably power the entire home.
Best for Traveling / Escaping
Jackery Explorer 500W Portable Power Station
If you ever need to escape your home in an emergency, the Jackery Explorer 500 is the perfect alternative power source for you.
With 500W of power and several charging outlets, the Jackery 500 is the best generator for apartments that need to bug out.
Best for Power & Portability
PECRON 2,000W
The PECRON 2,000W is an amazing generator that’s powerful and can be transported with its built-in wheels and handle.
This the best generator for apartments looking for power and portability.
Best Budget Generator
DuroStar 4,000W Portable Generator
The DuroStar 4,000W generator is the best bang for your buck.
With such a low price, you’d never expect this generator to be so powerful.
This generator is the best for your budget.
Best for Versatility
DuroMax 12,000W Gas or Propane Powered Generator
The DuroMax 12,000W is an extremely powerful generator with a few great features, such as built-in wheels, dual fuel technology, and several charging ports.
This is the best generator for apartments looking for great power, mobility, and versatility.
Best for Lifespan & Silence
WEN 2250W Super Quiet Inverter Generator
The WEN 2250W is a powerful portable inverter generator that’s guaranteed to last you for a long time.
With many great features such as a fuel shutoff mechanism, portability handle, and great power output, this is the best generator for apartments that want to make the most out of their generator.
Best for Utility
Champion 2000W Stackable Portable Generator
The Champion 2000W is a powerful and economic inverter generator that can be combined with other generators for up to double the power output.
This is the best generator for apartments looking for efficient and reliable power.
Nowadays, you can never be too prepared. You never know when there may be a power outage, natural disaster, or global pandemic.
If you live in an apartment and wonder if there’s a way to prepare for a disaster, I suggest getting a generator for your apartment.
You may think that a generator isn’t necessary for your apartment, and that may be, until the moment that your home loses electricity.
Be prepared and stay connected to the outside world by purchasing a right generator before it’s too late.
If you’ve researched so far and still don’t know what to think, here are a few things you should know about the best generators for apartments.
Generators are either gasoline/propane engines or giant rechargeable batteries that you can use to power anything from your home to small devices.
Some of them are portable and some are standby, meaning that they’re installed into your home’s power system and cannot be moved.
As a rule of thumb, know that the price of a generator is strongly associated with their output in watts. If say, a generator’s output is 500, expect it to cost around $500.
If the generator has special features, such as wheels, air-cooling systems, or extra durability, expect the generator to cost more than the wattage.
You have to ask yourself what you’re looking for going into the market.
Do you want to have a backup power for your whole home?
Do you want to be able to charge your devices during a power outage?
What’s your budget?
Once you’ve answered these questions, you’ll be ready to find the best generator for your apartment.
What You Need to Know:
Now, you may be confused about all of the jargon I’ve used in this article.
If you don’t understand the terms and stats I’ve used in this article, this section is for you.
Here, I’ll define all of the key terms you need to know to be the most informed buyer you can be.
- Watts:
The Watt(W) is the standard unit of power used by the scientific community to measure how much electrical energy is being output. The more watts a device uses, the more power needed to support it. - AC Port:
An AC port is the most common power plug. They’re used throughout the world as wall outlets, and a vast majority of electronic devices are powered through them. - Runtime:
The amount of time that a generator can supply power. In the table below, one of the factors is runtime at 100% capacity; meaning that this is how long a generator can supply power while outputting its maximum number of watts. - Decibels:
Decibels (dB) is a scientific unit used to measure sound levels. For scale, a gunshot is about 160 decibels, while a leaves rustling is about 10 decibels.
Read also: Best Portable Battery Generators in 2020
Read also: Best Inverter Generators for Home Backup
Read also: Best Large Portable Generators
Read also: Best 3000 Watt Inverter Generator
Read also: Best Dual Fuel Inverter Generator for Camping & RV
Read also: Best 6000-Watt Generators
Read also: Best 5000-Watt Generators
Read also: Best 50 Amp Generators
Read also: Best Generator for Sump Pump
Read also: Best 15000-Watt Generator
Read also: Best 30 Amp Generators
Read also: Best Generators for Emergency Preparedness
Read also: Best Generators for Pop Up Campers
What are the Best Generators for Apartments Use in 2021?
Quick Answer:
- Goal Zero Yeti 400 Lithium Power Station | Best for Convinience
- Generac 7043 Air-Cooled Standby Generator | Best for Long Term Outages
- Champion 2000W Stackable Portable Generator | Best for Utility
- PREDATOR 3500W Super Quite Generator | Best for Silence
- Kohler 20000W Air-Cooled Standby Generator | Best for Whole House Power
- Jackery Explorer 500W Portable Power Station | Best for Traveling/Escaping
- PECRON 2000W Portable Power Station | Best for Power & Portability
- DuroStar 4000W Portable Generator | Best on a Budget
- DuroMax 12000W Gas or Propane Powered Generator | Best for Versatility
- WEN 2250W Super Quiet Fuel Generator | Best for Lifespan & Silence
Comparison Table for the Best Generators for Apartments or Condos
Now, let’s compare these apartment generators with one another to see which one comes on top.
With this side-by-side comparison, you’ll be able to distinguish the best generator for your apartment.
As you can see, the amount of output in watts is closely related to the runtime in hours, sound in decibels, and weight in pounds (except for the battery generators).
The Generac 7043 and Kohler 20,000W are clearly very heavy and are not meant to be moved, but the others on the list are portable.
Particularly, the Champion 2,000W and the DuroStar 4,000W are impressive considering their weight to output ratio.
| Generator | View on Amazon | Power Output (Watts) | Runtime at 100% Capacity (Hours) | Sound (Decibels) | Weight (Pounds) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Goal Zero Yeti 400 |
 
|
400W | 1.25 h | 0 (silent) | 29 lbs. |
| Generac 7043 |
 
|
22,000W | 143 h | 66 dB | 515 lbs. |
| Champion 2000W |
 
|
2,000W | 9.5 h | 53 dB | 48.5 lbs. |
| PREDATOR 3500W |
 
|
3,500W | 2.75 h | 57 dB | 99.2 lbs. |
| Kohler 20000W |
 
|
20,000W | 122 h | 67 dB | 530 lbs. |
| Jackery Explorer 500W |
 
|
500W | 0.75 h | 0 (silent) | 13.32 lbs. |
| PECRON 2000W |
 
|
2,000W | 2.52 h | 35 dB | 62.8 lbs. |
| DuroStar 4000W |
 
|
4,000W | 4.35 h | 69 dB | 94 lbs. |
| DuroMax 12000W |
 
|
12,000W | 72 h | 55 dB | 234 lbs. |
| WEN 2250W |
 
|
2,250W | 4.75 h | 53 dB | 48.5 lbs. |
Best Apartment Generators in 2021
1. Goal Zero Yeti 400 Lithium Power Station | Best Apartment Generator for Convenience
The Goal Zero Yeti 400 is a compact portable battery generator that’s quiet, efficient, and powerful.
This small generator weighs only 29 pounds and can efficiently power your devices and small appliances many times over.
While this isn’t the most powerful generator on my list, it’s still a great option for those looking for emergency power in their apartment or condos.
It’s completely silent and doesn’t produce gas fumes, so it’s a perfect indoor alternative for backup electricity.
This is your best option if you need to leave your home in a hurry and take your power station with you.
The device can be transported easily, and it has an impressive power output for its size.
Another great feature of this product is that it has three recharge methods.
It can be plugged directly into the wall. If the power goes out and this isn’t an option, you can charge the generator from your car battery, or buy the solar panel accessory.
This is a great benefit because you’ll always have a plan A, B, and C for recharging this generator.
While it isn’t the most powerful generator on the list, it’s the best option for convenient power during emergencies or just simple power outages in your apartment.
If you’re looking for a powerful generator that you can take with you on the run, the Goal Zero Yeti 400 is the best portable battery generator for your apartment.
Important Features
- 396Wh Battery that can power up to 7 devices at once
- Compact, Light, and Portable
- 2 USB-A ports
- 2 AC ports
- Multiple recharge options
- Can be combined (stacked) with other generators for more output
Pros
- Very lightweight, compact
- No gasoline required
- No sound or fumes
- Easy to travel with / Portable
- Can supports several small devices simultaneously
- Durable
Cons
- Less power output
- Can’t support large appliances
- Only supports small appliances and personal devices
- Not ideal for whole-house powering
User Experience:
We’ll now see what Amazon users think of their purchase of this apartment generator.
1) It’s trash.
It takes literal DAYS to recharge it with solar panels.
The output is great but the input is just insufferable.
2) Lasted for only about a year.
The battery can’t hold a charge anymore.
Solar panels are overpriced garbage.
3) It’s a lot of things.
On top of being a generator, it’s a battery, inverter, amp meter, voltmeter, and many other things.
Using solar panels can be a mess, but without those, it just works fine.
4) It was a pleasant surprise to see it came with a 4.5 mm to 8 mm adapter.
Ran a 12v fridge along with a bunch of phones and laptops for half a day in the wild.
5) We had some battery issues with the product at first.
Overall tho, it’s a nice product.
6) I use my solar panels to charge it.
Usually, I can just plug in all my devices to it at the same time and it just works.
Expert Opinion:
2. Generac 7043 Air-Cooled Standby Generator | Best Apartment Generator for Long Term Outages
The Generac 7043 is monster of a generator that can easily power your whole home.
This is the number 1 selling home standby generator, that can provide you with reliable backup electricity when you need it.
The Generac 7043 is the largest air-cooled generator in the market. It has a 22,000W backup power supply.
When you connect this generator to your home power station, it activates automatically after it senses a loss of power in your home.
What’s great about this generator is the air-cooling system. By taking in cool air from its environment and circulating it across the system, the generator will not overheat when used for long periods of time.
Air-cooling is more efficient than fan-cooling, so more energy can be used to powering your home.
This durable generator can remain in operation during natural disasters such as hurricanes, minor earthquakes, tropical storms, and blizzards.
You can rest easy knowing that you will still have power if the electrical grid goes down for any reason.
If you want peace of mind knowing that no matter what, you’ll still have electricity, the Generac 7043 is certainly the best generator for your apartment or condos.
Important Features
- Air-Cooling System
- Whole-house powering
- 22000W backup power supply
- Automatically activates when power is lost
Pros
- Provides reliable electricity for your entire home
- Automatically activates when it senses a loss of power
- Supports your entire home for long periods of time
- Tough, durable design allows it to survive harsh weather
Cons
- Not portable at all
- Complicated installation process
User Experience:
Here are some of the good things and bad things Amazon users had to say about this product.
1) We had a few outages during the last year.
I’m glad we had this installed beforehand.
A true life-saver.
2) I purchased it because I’ve already experienced living through hurricanes in the past.
After spending thousands, I finally took the thing to my home in the mountains.
A few hours after I started the engine, it died and left me without any power for days.
3) We always buy these sorts of things, hoping we’d never have to use them.
But God forbid if you do need this one, it’ll screw you over.
4) The installer didn’t wire the battery charger correctly.
After a short call, it’s working like a charm.
If yours died after a few hours of running, this is the probable cause.
5) It never started.
It leaked oil everywhere and the customer service is nowhere to be found.
6) The company is awesome and very patient.
Following all their instructions, I’ve got my work without any issues.
3. Champion 2000W Stackable Portable Generator | Best Apartment Generator for Utility
The Champion 2000W is a uniquely efficient and powerful generator.
It can produce a maximum of 2,000W, which can power large appliances for a few hours, and small devices for very long periods of time.
What’s great about this generator is that it’s stackable, meaning that it can be combined with another generator to produce even more power.
This is the best apartment generator for utility because it has the most potential uses out of any generator on this list.
Alone, this generator can produce significant power for appliances and small devices. Combined with another generator, the Champion 2000W has the ability to power large appliances, charge cars, and many more applications.
The Champion 2000W is the best apartment generator if you’re looking for flexibility and utility in your backup power supply.
With this generator, you can power any appliance or device. By stacking this generator with another, you can power just about anything you need.
Important Features
- 2000W battery
- 1-gallon fuel tank
- 2 AC in home outlets
- Stackable with other generators
- Built-in carry handle
- Relatively Quiet
Pros
- Stackability allows double the output and more versatile use
- Compact, ideal for storage
- Ultra-quiet operation
- Durable
Cons
- Heavy and hard to transport
- Not ideal for whole-house powering
User Experience:
Let’s take a look at some of the reviews Amazon users left for this device.
1) They sent a defective unit to me at first.
I was disappointed for sure, but at least they replaced it with an actual unit.
2) I’ve owned mine for almost a decade now.
It’s capable, it’s quiet and most importantly, it’s reliable.
3) You just can’t use it with propane.
I’ve talked to the company and I’m disappointed.
4) I bought one under the “open box” condition.
What I got was one that was actually a returned unit.
Not cool man!
5) Got the product and got it up and running in 5 minutes!
It’s super-duper quiet and even has a wireless remote!
6) It’s surprisingly quiet and yet powerful!
Expert Opinion:
4. PREDATOR 3500W Super Quite Generator | Best Apartment Generator for Silence
The Predator 3500W is a very quiet gas-fueled generator that can output 3,500W of power.
This generator is ideal for those who live in an apartment with many neighbors. If you want to have a reliable backup generator and avoid disturbing your neighbors with noise, this is one of the best generators for apartments you can pick.
With the amount of wattage this generator produces, you would expect it to be quite noisy. The Predator 3500W is a shining example of raw power that can be as silent as it is powerful.
One great feature about this product is the LED screen that displays technical information.
Such information includes oil level, input and output levels, and overload meter. This screen makes the generator very user-friendly and easy to use.
Another cool feature are the smooth transport wheels it has on the bottom. This allows you to easily transport this generator from room to room. A truly unique feature that we don’t usually see for generators of this size.
Overall, the Predator 3500W is a great generator and backup power option.
3,500W is a great power output for its size, and the LED screen and wheels make this a great user-friendly product.
If you’re looking for a quiet and powerful backup power option, the Predator 3500W generator is the best generator for your apartment.
Important Features
- 3500W power output
- Super quite engine
- Digital LCD information screen
- Smooth rolling wheels for transportation
- 2 AC outlets
- Air-cooled gas engine
- Electronic starter
Pros
- Great power output relative to its size
- LED screen makes operation simple
- 4 smooth wheels make transportation easy
- Super quiet engine allows you to maintain a low profile
Cons
- Large device, difficult to store
- At 99.2 pounds, don’t expect to carry this generator without help
User Experience:
There are many user reviews for this apartment generator on Amazon.
Let’s take a look at them.
1) It’s as good as many other Champion and Honda generators but for much less money.
It fulfilled all our electrical needs.
2) My colleague recommended this to me.
After using it, I recommended it to my friends and families.
3) For apartment usage, it’s basically ideal.
You won’t even notice it running.
4) I was looking to buy an alternative generator to something like a Honda.
I went with this but after 6 months, the generator doesn’t even run.
I’ve had to replace some parts so many times and it still doesn’t work.
5) I was at a wedding party and the lights went out.
This thing saved the day!
6) It’s a nice device but it still costs more than many other off-brands.
I don’t like the build quality, however.
It feels like it’s going to break whenever I touch it.
Expert Opinion:
5. Kohler 20000W Air-Cooled Standby Generator | Best Apartment Generator For Whole House Power
In terms of heavy-duty generators that supply your whole home with power, the Kohler 20000W is a great option.
Similar to the Generac 7043, the Kohler 20000W comes equipped with an air-cooling system and an automatic power outage detector.
What makes the Kohler 20000W different is that it comes with a corrosion-proof enclosure.
With a 20,000W output, this generator is no joke. It can sustain your household for a significant amount of time if the power goes out.
Keep your food cold, your lights on, and your electronics powered in the event of a natural disaster or power grid failure.
What’s great about this product is its durability.
With a corrosion-proof enclosure, this generator is virtually impossible to break. Hurricanes, earthquakes, even acid rain can’t damage this generator.
It’s also air-cooled meaning that is takes in cool air from outside and spreads it across the engine. This method of cooling is more efficient than fan-cooling so it may last longer in operation.
If you’re looking for a heavy-duty generator that can withstand the elements, the Kohler 20000W is the best generator for your apartment.
Important Features
- 22,000W output
- Whole-house powering
- Fast power-outage response
- 100% corrosion-proof enclosure
- Air-cooling system
Pros
- Corrosion-proof enclosure
- Extremely durable
- Automatic power outage detection
- Efficient air-cooling system
Cons
- Less power output than other standby generators
- Complicated installation
- Not portable whatsoever
User Experience:
Here are some Amazon reviews for this generator.
Let’s see how it has fared in practical use.
1) I’ve had many issues with this purchase.
Everything from the out-of-date shipping to the weird technical issues on the generator has been annoying.
It’s too expensive for these issues to be overlooked.
2) I purchased and installed one of these by myself years ago.
Instructions were very clear that even someone like me didn’t have any issues with starting the generator.
3) This thing has definitely earned its money back over the years.
It’s one tough piece of machine that can endure all the power outages in my area.
4) I bought this as a way to deal with outages after hurricanes.
Unfortunately, it died after 200 hours of working.
I had spent $11000 on it, so yes, I’m sore about it!
5) It’s great.
Just make sure a certified Kohler technician installs it.
Otherwise, you can void your warranty.
6) This right here is the best apartment generator you can get.
It’s neat, powerful, and quiet.
6. Jackery Explorer 500W Portable Power Station | Best Apartment Generator for Traveling/Escaping
The Jackery Explorer 500 is the most compact generator on my list. It’s incredibly powerful considering its small size and light weight of 13.2 lbs.
If you ever need to escape your home, the Jackery Explorer 500 is the best generator for your apartment or condo.
While it’s not nearly the most powerful generator on the list, it can provide great utility to you if an emergency happens.
If the power goes out and you need to leave home, you can rely on this generator to power your devices safely.
What’s great about this product is the multiple recharging options. You can charge it from a standard AC wall outlet, charge it directly from your car battery, and you can use the solar panel accessory to keep your devices powered.
Consider how beneficial this device could be in an emergency. If you can’t access electricity or a working car battery, you can always rely on the power of the sun to keep your electronics charged.
With 3 USB-A ports, 1 AC port, and 1 DC port, you can charge up to 5 devices simultaneously many times over.
It’s also a durable device. With its compact design, this generator can withstand drops and damage.
It’s also very light so it’s easy to pick up and transport. It doesn’t take up much space either, so it’s easy to store.
If you’re in an emergency and need a reliable power source to take on the go, the Jackery Explorer 500W is one of the best generators for apartments.
See also: Best Portable Battery Generators in 2020
Important Features
- 500W battery
- Multiple recharge options
- LED information screen
- Light and compact design
- 3 USB-A Ports
- 1 AC in Port
- 1 DC in port
Pros
- Very lightweight and compact
- Fairly durable
- Powerful considering its size
- Multiple recharging options
- Several charging ports
Cons
- Not nearly as powerful as the others on this list
- Not ideal for large appliances
- Not ideal for whole-house powering
User Experience:
Let’s have a look at the user reviews for this product on Amazon.
1) We bought it recently.
It’s much bigger than we anticipated.
It can be recharged in under 2 hours and it also can use solar panels.
2) The first one I received had issues.
Luckily the company was decent enough to replace it for me.
The new one works just fine.
3) This is a good generator for apartments.
It features a built-in display that shows the remaining charge and discharge rates.
4) I highly recommend this to anyone.
It’s a dependable generator for emergencies.
5) Couldn’t return even tho it didn’t work for me.
They were not upfront about the return policies.
6) I saw a bunch of good reviews on this.
It turns out a lot of the positive reviews come from people who got these for free.
After paying the full price, I can not in all honesty recommend a faulty product to anyone.
Expert Opinion:
7. PECRON 2000W Portable Power Station | Best Apartment Generator for Power & Portability
The PECRON 2000 portable power station is an amazing portable generator with an incredible power output.
With 2,000W of output, this small generator can power large appliances, small personal devices, and everything in between.
This generator is quiet and eco-friendly. It’s electric and has 3 charging options, AC, car, and solar. This smoke-free and silent generator is easy to transport and outputs some amazing power.
What’s great about this product is how versatile and mobile it is. It can be placed on its side and used as a stationary generator for appliances. It can also be propped up on its built-in wheels and carted around like a suitcase.
The PECRON 2000 can be used at home, in the car, or on the go.
If you’re looking for a powerful generator that can also be transported easily.
This is why the PECRON 2000 is one of the best apartment generators out there.
See also: Best Portable Battery Generators in 2020
Important Features
- Handle and wheels for added mobility
- High power and battery capacity
- Quiet generator
- 3 charging options
- 2000W of power
- 3 AC in ports
- 2 USB-A ports
- 1 DC in port
Pros
- Ingenious portable design
- Very powerful output
- Multiple recharge options
- Several charging ports
Cons
- Less powerful than the heavy-duty generators on this list
- Not the most durable
- Very long time for full recharge
Expert Opinion:
8. DuroStar 4000W Portable Generator | Best Apartment Generator on a Budget
The DuroStar 4000W Portable Generator is an amazing bargain. For only $289.00, you can get an incredible 4,000W generator.
This is truly one of the best budget generators for apartments out on the market.
This product shines with its large fuel capacity. At 3.96 gallons, you can expect this generator to run for several hours straight while charging your devices and powering your appliances.
It has a simple on/off switch, so no revving is required. Additionally, it has a flexible power panel with many different charging ports.
Know that with this product, you can charge many types of devices many times over.
With 4,000W of output, this device can support large appliances, charge cars, power tools, and several small devices many times over.
If you’re on a budget and looking to find a good deal on a powerful generator, the DuroStar 4000W is the best generator for your apartment.
Important Features
- Amazingly low price relative to its power
- 4000W of output
- Air-cooled
- 2 AC in ports
- 1 twist-lock outlet
- Large fuel tank capacity
Pros
- Amazing power output
- Great price
- Easy to use on/off switch
Cons
- Not very durable as the engine is exposed
- Loud while in use
- Not easy to transport, weighing in at 96 pounds
User Experience:
Let’s have a look at the user reviews for this product on Amazon.
1) We bought it recently.
It’s much bigger than we anticipated.
It can be recharged in under 2 hours and it also can use solar panels.
2) The first one I received had issues.
Luckily the company was decent enough to replace it for me.
The new one works just fine.
3) This is a good generator for apartments.
It features a built-in display that shows the remaining charge and discharge rates.
4) I highly recommend this to anyone.
It’s a dependable generator for emergencies.
5) Couldn’t return even tho it didn’t work for me.
They were not upfront about the return policies.
6) I saw a bunch of good reviews on this.
It turns out a lot of the positive reviews come from people who got these for free.
After paying the full price, I can not in all honesty recommend a faulty product to anyone.
Expert Opinion:
9. DuroMax 12000W Gas or Propane Powered Generator | Best Apartment Generator for Versatility
The DuroMax 12000W is an amazing product. 12,000W is an amazing amount of power.
The applications of this device are virtually limitless, and it comes standard with some incredible versatile features.
Duel Fuel technology allows this generator to use both propane and gasoline as a fuel source. This gives you some options when it comes to powering this generator.
Additionally, it has several charging ports, allowing you to charge a wide range of devices and appliances that other generators can’t.
If you need a backup generator for things other than common household devices, this is the generator for you.
Another great feature of this product is its built-in wheels. It is very heavy, so these wheels are a great feature if you need to transport this powerful generator.
If you’re looking for a generator with amazing power, dual fuel technology, and versatile charging ports, the DuroMax 12000W is one of the best generators for apartments.
Important Features
- Powerful 12000W engine
- Dual Fuel technology: can run on propane or gasoline
- Built-in wheels
- 3 Gallon fuel tank
- 1 Heavy duty outlet
- 2 Twist/lock outlet
- 2 AC in ports
Pros
- Extremely powerful
- Dual Fuel Technology in place
- Versatile charging ports
- Built-in wheels
- 8.3 Gallon Fuel Tank
Cons
- Very heavy at 234lbs.
- Very loud
- Must be assembled
- Large and bulky, difficult to store
User Experience:
You can see some of the Amazon user reviews for this generator on Amazon.
1) Had this generator for years now.
It eliminates the need to go stay at a hotel in the case of a massive outage.
Hope you won’t have to use it too often.
2) The day I received this generator, I had an outage.
It was so simple to set up and managed to save the day.
3) Don’t recommend buying generators here.
Dealing with support is a nightmare when it comes to such products.
4) I’ve run it off propane and it runs good!
I found the proper instruction kind of hidden on the topside of the motor.
5) It ran for 17 hours with only 5 gallons of gas.
I’m impressed.
6) Ordered on the hurricane season.
The total cost for this generator was only $350.
It has come in handy so many times.
Expert Opinion:
10. WEN 2250W Super Quiet Fuel Inverter Generator | Best Apartment Generator for Lifespan & Silence
The WEN 2250W generator is a great option for those who want a generator that will last them through years of usage.
The fuel shutoff mechanism maximizes this generator’s lifespan by using up the remaining gasoline in the carburetor before shutting down. This leaves no excess fuel in the tank preventing corrosion that wears down the engine.
The WEN 2250W features an Eco-Mode that lowers emissions and enables the motor to automatically adjust its fuel consumption.
It also has a simple on/off switch so that no revving is required.
Another great feature is how quiet this generator is. It only produces 53dB during operation which is quite good for gas generators of this caliber.
The WEN 2250W also has indicator lights that will inform you if it’s low on fuel, experiencing overload, and displays output.
If you’re looking for a powerful generator that will last you a lifetime, the WEN 2250 is the best generator for your apartment.
Important Features
- Long lifespan with Fuel Shutoff mechanism
- Very quiet
- 2 AC ports
- 2 USB ports
- Eco-Mode
Pros
- Long lifetime with fuel shutoff feature
- Eco-Mode that reduces emissions
- Very quiet
- Fairly durable
- Fairly light
Cons
- Not ideal for whole-house powering
- Less power output than others
User Experience:
Finally, here are some reviews for our last entry on the list of best apartment generators.
1) I had to wait for about 100 hours before leaving my review.
After spending all this time with the generator, I can recommend it to any apartment residents.
2) I bought 2 of these and they provide enough power to keep the air conditioning and other electrical furniture going for hours.
3) I bought mine and used it for less than 5 hours.
It doesn’t output or charge anything anymore.
4) Another hurricane victim here.
This baby has helped us stay outta so many outages and we love it.
5) It just quit on me!
I’ve used it for like 10 minutes in a week since I bought it.
What the heck?
6) We run 2 of these in a parallel configuration.
They can basically light up the whole house with every single piece of electrical device in there.
Expert Opinion:
Best Generators for Apartments or Condos (2021) — Buyers Guide
By now, I’ve reviewed and compared the 10 best generators for apartments use.
I’ve compiled a vast amount of information from the industry, and showed you my picks, discussed common terms, and showed a comparison table followed by unbiased reviews for each generator.
Now, it’s time to turn to you, the buyers, and answer some of your most frequently asked questions.
What are the best generators for apartments: Gas or Electric type?
Typically, gas generators can produce more power, however electric generators are eco-friendlier and more portable.
Here’s a more in-depth look at the differences between the gas and electric generators:
Battery Generators
They are essentially huge rechargeable batteries with significant power output. What’s great about these generators is that they don’t produce any sound whatsoever, they don’t produce any fumes, and they’re relatively eco-friendly.
There also typically more portable than gas generators. By not using a fuel tank, battery generators will always be significantly lighter than gas generators and therefore easier to transport.
One added benefit to battery generators for those living in apartments is that they’re completely silent, where gas generators can be very loud.
Battery generators are typically more versatile in terms of charging options.
The Jackery Explorer 500 and the Goal Zero Yeti 400 are prime examples of battery generators with several recharging options, such as AC charging, car charging, and solar panel charging.
See also: “Best Portable Battery Generators in 2020“
Gas Generators
They are basically car engines that are designed to support electronics. They have a fuel tank that can carry from as little as 1 gallon to as much as 10 gallons.
Gas generators typically output more power than battery generators because gasoline is a more powerful source of energy than chemical batteries.
Additionally, the only generators that can power your entire home are gas generators or large generators.
Gas generators are better known for being heavy-duty, better for powering large appliances than their battery counterparts.
One significant advantage that gas generators have over battery generators is that they’re much quicker to recharge than their battery counterparts.
It only takes seconds to fill up their tank with gasoline, while obviously, it takes hours to fully recharge most battery generators.
Many portable gas generators are specifically designed to be as quiet as possible, so keep an eye on the decibel count of the gas generators on the comparison chart.
Again, ask yourself what you’re looking for. Do you want a small, compact generator that can quietly charge your personal devices and small appliances?
Are you looking for a zero-emission, lightweight, and portable generator? Then, a battery generator is the right choice for your apartment.
Do you not care about sound and need a lot of power?
Would you rather fill up the tank with gas in seconds rather than charge a battery for hours? Then, a gas generator is the right option for your apartment.
Which apartment generator will last me the longest?
By far, the best generator for a long lifespan is the WEN 2250W.
It features a fuel shutoff mechanism that expends the leftover fuel in the carburetor.
Excess fuel will corrode the engine over time, shortening the lifespan of the generator.
With the fuel shutoff mechanism, this is no longer an issue and you’re guaranteed to get a lifetime of usage out of this generator.
How do I know, in general, if I’m overpaying for a generator?
Typically, the price of a generator is closely related to its output in watts. You can expect to pay an amount near the generator’s watts if you can’t find the price right away.
Take the Jackery Explorer 500 for example. The output of this device is 500W and the price is about $499, which is considered a perfectly fair market price.
There is an exception to that rule, however.
This direct relationship between price and output in watts only reaches a certain threshold.
For example, the Generac 7043 outputs a maximum of 22,000W. Clearly, the price cannot match the wattage, so it’s about $4996. Keep this in mind when shopping for higher power generators.
Keep an eye out for special features, because these can typically raise the price.
If, for example, the generator has flashlights, Wi-Fi, wheels, or extra durability, expect the price tag to reflect that.
Don’t be fooled; if a generator’s price is significantly higher than its output in watts, and it doesn’t have special features, it’s overpriced.
Be informed and don’t get price gouged.
What’s the difference between a portable and standby gas generator?
There’s a few key characteristics that separate portable and standby gas generators.
Obviously, portable generators can be transported while standbys cannot. In a power outage, the standby gas generator carries a few distinct advantages of the portable ones.
One is that standby generators are already patched into your home’s power supply and can automatically power your home in a power outage regardless of whether or not your home.
It’s also considered safer to run a standby generator outside of your home rather than using a portable generator inside your home.
This is chiefly because of the fumes emitted by the portable generators.
Which generator is the best bang for my buck for an apartment use?
On this list, the DuroStar 4000W is a truly incredible deal. With 4,000W of output, this generator breaks the price-wattage relationship rule to a significant degree. Coming in at a price of about $280, this generator has an amazing price.
If you’re willing to spend a little more, I recommend the Champion 2000W Portable Battery Generator.
It’s only about $480 but has the ability to be stacked with other generators. You aren’t limited by the limitations of this single 2000W generator because you can link this generator up with at least one other.
This unique feature allows you to at least double the output of this generator. No other generator on this list features such a refined and effective stackability.
For only about $480, this generator can be much more powerful than what you paid for.
As a general rule of thumb, keep an eye on the wattage to price ratio. If a generator’s price is less than or equal to its wattage, you’ve found a great deal.
What exactly is an automatic backup generator?
Automatic backup generators are systems that operate whether or not you are present.
This means that the generator’s computer is constantly checking your home’s power supply, and within seconds, will activate once it detects a power outage.
This is a great feature because it means your home will be powered in the event that the power goes out while you’re not at home.
Both the Generac 7043 and the Kohler 20,000 have built-in automatic power outage detection system that will keep your home powered whether or not your home.
I’m on a tight budget. What do you recommend for my apartment?
If you’re on a tight budget and can’t afford a high-end generator, I recommend the DuroStar 4000W.
It has amazing power output for the humble price of $289.00. You can’t find a better deal on a generator than this.
DuroStar is a trusted manufacturer with glowing reviews from its customers.
Beware of generators with too low of a price. These can be poorly manufactured and be very dangerous to operate.
Always do your homework and research the manufacturer if you’re not familiar with them.
Don’t be tempted by low prices into making a bad purchase decision. If a price looks too good to be true, it probably is.
A generator is a powerful machine, and they can be very dangerous if not manufactured properly.
Which are the most powerful generators for apartments if I don't care about the price?
If price is no problem for you, I recommend the Generac 7043.
This generator is incredibly powerful at an output of 22,000W. It can detect power outages in your home and activate almost instantly upon power loss.
It, along with other generators on this list, features an air-cooling system that’s very efficient.
If you want a heavy-duty generator, standby generators are the way to go. Standby generators cannot be transported and must be connected to your home’s power system.
The most powerful standby generators are going to be on the expensive side of the market but are well worth the price if you’re willing to pay it.
Always remember to check the specs of the generator and compare it to the price. If the price looks too high, you might be getting price gouged.
Why Do I need a Generator for my apartment or condo?
Today, we’re very dependent on electricity in our daily lives. Refrigerators keep our food from spoiling, air condition keeps us cool in the heat, Wi-Fi routers keep us connected to the world.
Without electricity, life becomes much more difficult.
Reality hits when the power goes out. The TV shuts off, the low hum of the AC fades out, and the internet goes out. When the power goes out, we’re all taken off guard and worried about how long it will be out.
Many things could cause the power to go out. Electrical grid failures, natural disasters, etc. These things happen often, and if you don’t have a generator, you’re at the mercy of others to get your electricity back.
Having a generator is becoming more and more vital as we become increasingly dependent on technology. Be prepared with a generator and keep your electricity under control.
When it comes to finding the right generator, know what you’re looking for.
Do you want to take your generator on the go?
I recommend the Jackery Explorer 500 and the Goal Zero Yeti 400. They’re reasonably priced and very portable. Their compact cube design and built-in handles allow you to transport these lightweight generators with ease.
The downside to these generators is that they’re unable to support large appliances. At best, they can charge small personal devices and small appliances such as minifridges and televisions for a short period of time.
If you need a heavy-duty generator that can power your whole home, I recommend the Generac 7043 and the Kohler 20,000.
These generators are also reasonably priced and have tremendous power output. You can supply your home with a steady power supply and these generators activate automatically when a power outage is detected.
The only issue with these generators is that they’re not portable whatsoever. They’re connected to your home’s power supply, so if you must leave your home in an emergency, you can’t take your backup power with you.
If you’re looking for a happy medium between power and portability, I recommend the PREDATOR 3500, the PECRON 2000W Portable Power Station, and the Champion 2000W.
These generators are very powerful and quite mobile. They’re on the heavier side, however they have built-in wheels or handles so they can be maneuvered easily.
All of the products on this list are quality, so if you know what you’re looking for, you should have no trouble finding the best generator for your apartment.
Best Generators for Apartments or Condos (2021) — Conclusions
If you’ve read this far, consider yourself an informed member of the generator market.
Together, we went through my editor’s picks, went through the key terms, comparison chart, an in-depth unbiased review section, and a FAQ section.
The generator market is full of confusing factors. Complicated terminology, big price tags, and intimidating installation and assembly processes are things that might scare off an outsider.
Hopefully, by reading this, you can be confident that you’re an informed buyer, and are able to find the best generator for your apartment.
To recap, let’s take another brief look at my picks:
Best for Convenience
Best for Long Term Outages
- Champion 2000W Stackable Portable Generator
Best for Utility
Best for Silence
Best for Durability & Whole House Power
Best for Traveling/Escaping
Best for Power & Portability
Best for Your Budget
Best for Versatility
Best for Lifespan
These are my top picks for the best generators for apartments. Ask yourself:
- Why do I need a generator?
- What specific traits am I looking for?
- How much am I willing to spend?
If you can answer these questions, you can easily find the best generator for your apartment in the list above.
After reading this, you should be well-equipped with knowledge about the generator market.
We took a look at my top picks on the best generators for apartments and went through their features. We compared and contrasted their stats and distinguished the best features from each generator.
Now, you’re ready to make the best purchasing decision when it comes time to buy a generator for your apartment.
