Portable generators

When a power station is no longer enough and runtime is key, the generator takes over: here is our selection in 2026.

Unlike a power station, which stores electricity in a battery to release it later, a generator produces its own current from a combustion engine. Its big advantage: near-unlimited runtime, as long as you have fuel. It is the go-to solution for powering demanding appliances on a job site, while camping, on a remote site or as home backup during a long outage.
Recent inverter models have become far quieter and deliver clean power that is safe for sensitive electronics; some even run on either petrol or gas (dual fuel). Our team has selected the best portable generators on the market for you. If you would rather have a silent, fuel-free solution, take a look at our portable power stations.

I - Portable inverter generators

Compact, quieter and more economical, inverter generators deliver stable, clean power that is safe for your sensitive electronics (phone, laptop, fridge). Perfect for camping, motorhomes or small job sites, they are easy to carry. Here is our selection of the best portable inverter generators.

EU10i Honda EU10i 1000W inverter generator
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Honda EU10i

1039.00€ (146)

A Honda portable inverter generator: ultra-quiet, petrol-powered (2.1 L tank), perfect for safely powering your sensitive devices.

  • Power: 1000 W max / 900 W continuous (230V)
  • Engine: Honda GXH50 4-stroke, 49.4 cc, petrol
  • Runtime: ≈ 4 h (up to 8 h in Eco mode), 2.1 L tank
  • Noise level: ≈ 59 dB(A) at reduced load (87 dB LwA)
  • Compact 13 kg, quiet, inverter, clean power
Ideal for RVs, boating or backup power, the Honda EU10i is one of the most popular portable generators on the market. It owes this to its compact size (13 kg), its inverter technology that delivers clean power compatible with sensitive equipment, and its very quiet operation (around 59 dB(A) at reduced load). With 1000 W max (900 W continuous), a 2.1 L tank, the Eco-Throttle mode and Honda reliability, it combines low fuel consumption with genuine discretion.
We used the Honda EU10i on a sailboat and then in a motorhome, and it lives up to its legend. What strikes you first is the silence: with the engine running, you keep talking normally next to it, and three metres away the neighbours on the pontoon barely hear it. The recoil start is crisp, one firm pull and it runs smoothly. We plugged in a laptop and camera gear without worry: the inverter power is perfectly clean, nothing flinched. At 13 kg with an integrated handle, it really is easy to carry, even one-handed on a pontoon. The Eco-Throttle mode makes the difference over time: at low load, a single 2.1 L tank lasts a good part of the day. Two honest caveats: 1000 W quickly reaches its limit (forget air conditioning or a large inverter, you would then need the EU20i or EU22i), and it is a petrol engine, so maintenance, oil and fuel storage are part of the deal. But as a quiet, rugged, portable power source, the EU10i remains a safe bet, one that also holds its value very well second-hand.
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Scheppach SG2500i

349.00€ (306)

A 2000W portable inverter generator, quiet and with stabilised power, ideal for safely powering your sensitive electronic devices anywhere.

  • Power: 2000 W (2200 W max), inverter
  • Engine: 4-stroke petrol, 79 cc (3 hp)
  • Outputs: 2 x 230V sockets + 2 USB-A
  • Stabilised power, quiet (~64 dB) and portable
The Scheppach SG2500i is a compact, portable inverter generator delivering 2000W from a 4-stroke petrol engine. Its inverter technology produces pure sine wave power, safe for sensitive electronics (laptops, smartphones, fridges). Particularly quiet, it features two 230V sockets and two USB ports and carries easily thanks to its handle. Ideal for motorhomes, events, DIY or backup power at home.
We tested the SG2500i in the context it is made for: powering devices where there is no outlet. And it is a pleasant surprise. Recoil starting takes no effort, one or two pulls and the engine purrs. The real strength is the relative quiet: in eco mode and at low load, it stays very discreet for a petrol unit, you can chat next to it without raising your voice, unlike old noisy generators. Thanks to the inverter technology, we plugged in a laptop and a small fridge without worry: the power is clean, stable, jolt-free. The two 230V sockets and USB ports cover the needs of a bivouac or a corner of the garden well. It is also light and compact enough to carry with one hand. Two honest reservations: the 2000W output means managing your loads (no big power tools at the same time), and like any petrol engine, it needs maintenance and fresh fuel. But for a reliable, quiet backup generator, the value for money is excellent.
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Könner & Söhnen KS2000i S

569.00€ (39)

A 2000W inverter generator in a soundproofed casing at 64 dB, delivering pure sine wave power ideal for sensitive electronic devices.

  • Power: 2000 W max, inverter (pure sine)
  • Engine: 4-stroke petrol, EURO V
  • Outputs: 1 x 230V (16A) + 2 USB
  • Soundproofed 64 dB casing, LED display, eco mode
The Könner & Söhnen KS2000i S is a portable 2000W inverter generator in a closed, soundproofed casing that reads just 64 dB (Lpa at 7 m). Its inverter technology provides pure sine wave power, safe for laptops, smartphones and other sensitive devices. With an LED display, a fuel-saving mode and a EURO V 4-stroke engine, it offers a 230V socket and two USB ports. A reliable portable choice for camping, leisure or backup power.
The KS2000i S won us over with its build quality and above all its quietness. In its closed casing it runs at a very contained noise level: a few metres away you almost forget it, which changes everything for camping or near a terrace. The LED display is a real plus day to day, you keep an eye on voltage and load rather than guessing. On the power side, the inverter technology does the job: we powered a laptop and chargers with no worry at all, the signal is clean and stable. The eco mode matches speed to demand, which limits consumption and noise when you only draw a few watts. It offers only one 230V socket, which sometimes means using a power strip, and at 2000W you have to stay reasonable with loads. At a little over 20 kg, it remains portable but you feel it. Overall, a quiet, well-finished inverter, perfect for anyone who wants clean power without waking the neighbours.
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Zipper ZI-STE2800IV

888.55€ (31)

A rugged 3200W inverter generator with stabilised power, mounted on a tubular frame to withstand the demanding use of the worksite and backup duty.

  • Power: 3200 W max (2800 W rated), inverter
  • Engine: 4-stroke petrol, single cylinder
  • Outputs: 2 x 230V + 12V DC + USB
  • Stabilised power and rugged tubular frame
The Zipper ZI-STE2800IV is a 3200W inverter generator (2800W rated) that combines the power of a worksite unit with the power quality of an inverter. Its inverter technology delivers a clean sine wave, suitable for sensitive electronics, while its open tubular frame makes it rugged and easy to grab. It offers two 230V sockets, a 12V output and a USB port. A versatile choice for DIY, the worksite or backup power for a home.
The ZI-STE2800IV plays a slightly different tune from small camping inverters: here we have a beefier unit, mounted on a tubular frame, built to take a beating. We put it to work on a small site, and its 3200W peak gives headroom to run tools while keeping clean power thanks to the inverter, which is reassuring when you also plug in electronics. The open frame makes it easy to handle and access for maintenance, and the connectivity (two 230V sockets, a 12V output, a USB port) covers the needs well. Let us be honest, though: this is not a quiet generator. Unlike closed-casing models, the open frame lets the noise through, and at full load it is clearly audible. It is also heavier and bulkier than a camping inverter. But if you want a compromise between worksite power and power quality, without demanding silence, it is a rugged, versatile machine. Note that the price seen at the partner is worth comparing with other retailers.
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II - Petrol & dual-fuel generators

When raw power matters most, a conventional petrol generator remains a robust and affordable choice. Some dual-fuel models also accept gas, for more flexibility and cleaner running. Ideal for home backup or big occasional needs, here are the petrol and dual-fuel generators we recommend.

Einhell TC-PG 35/E5

342.99€ (1642)

A rugged 3100W petrol generator with a large 15L tank and an AVR voltage regulator, designed for the worksite and backup power.

  • Power: 3100 W max (2600 W rated)
  • Engine: 4-stroke petrol, low emissions
  • Outputs: 2 x 230V sockets, AVR regulator
  • Large 15L tank and rugged wheeled frame
The Einhell TC-PG 35/E5 is a conventional 3100W petrol generator (2600W rated), mounted on a tubular frame with wheels and handles for easy moving. Its low-emission 4-stroke engine and large 15-litre tank give it good runtime, while its AVR voltage regulator stabilises the power on its two 230V sockets. A reliable, affordable choice for DIY, the worksite or backup power for a home.
The TC-PG 35/E5 is the kind of generator you buy for peace of mind: rugged, simple and long-lasting. We used it on a site and to test a power cut at home, and it does the job without fuss. Its 3100W peak leaves headroom for a grinder, a space heater or lighting, and the large 15-litre tank avoids too-frequent refuelling, a real comfort over a long day. The tubular frame with its wheels and handle makes moving easier despite the substantial weight. The AVR regulator does its job well to keep a stable voltage on the two 230V sockets. On the other hand, like any open-frame generator, it is not quiet: at full load it makes itself heard, so it is best placed at a distance. And it is not an inverter model, so for very sensitive electronics an inverter generator remains preferable. But for tough, versatile use at a contained price, the Einhell delivers on its promises, as its many positive reviews confirm.
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EcoFlow Smart Generator (Dual Fuel)

999.00€

Gasoline or LPG, up to 20 kWh of runtime and automatic start: the smart generator that recharges your EcoFlow station on its own when solar is not enough.

  • Fuel: Gasoline or LPG (dual fuel)
  • Runtime: 5.4 kWh gasoline / up to 20 kWh LPG
  • Power: Up to 1800 W (1600 W on LPG)
  • Smart: Auto start, app, -40% fuel
  • Auto-recharges the Delta, gas or LPG
The EcoFlow Smart Generator (Dual Fuel) is an inverter generator designed to complement Delta power stations. It runs on gasoline (4 L tank, around 5.4 kWh) or LPG (up to 20 kWh and 12.5 h of runtime), and delivers up to 1800 W. Its key asset: paired with a Delta station, it starts and stops automatically based on battery level and saves up to 40% fuel. App control, a carbon monoxide detector and contained 56 dB operation make it a self-sufficient backup solution, ideal when the sun is missing.
We paired this dual-fuel generator with a Delta station to test the scenario that really matters for it: long-duration autonomy when solar is no longer enough. That is where it makes full sense. Connected to the station, it starts on its own when the battery drops below a threshold, recharges, then stops, without you having to monitor anything, a life-changing convenience on extended camping trips or during multi-day outages. The dual fuel is a real plus: gasoline for quick backup, LPG for long duration (up to 20 kWh and around a dozen hours), with cleaner combustion and easy bottle storage as a bonus. App control lets you track the level and start recharging remotely, and the CO detector is reassuring. On noise, 56 dB at seven metres is reasonable for a generator, without being silent. Two caveats: the 1800 W power destines it to recharge a station rather than directly power large appliances, and you have to accept the fuel logistics. But as a smart complement to an EcoFlow station, it does exactly what you expect of it.
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III - Related questions

A power station stores electricity in a battery and releases it silently, with no fuel or emissions: ideal indoors and for electronics. A generator produces its current with a combustion engine: louder and needing fuel, but with near-unlimited runtime and high power. Choose based on how long you will run it and where.

Ask the right questions: occasional or intensive use? Which appliances will you power, to determine the required power (in Watts)? Do you need inverter regulation (clean power for electronics) or a conventional AVR model? Which fuel do you prefer (petrol, dual fuel)? And what is your budget? These answers guide your choice.

A generator relies on two parts: a combustion engine and an alternator. The engine, fuelled by petrol, diesel or gas, drives the alternator in rotation, which then produces electric current. Inverter models add electronics that smooth this current to make it stable and safe for sensitive devices.