When the power goes out, a standby generator can be the difference between comfort and chaos. These automatic systems kick in within seconds, keeping your lights on, your food cold, and your family safe. But with so many options, finding the right one can feel overwhelming.
This guide reviews the best standby generators on the market, from whole-home behemoths like the Generac 26kW to versatile portable options like the DuroMax XP13000EH. We’ll break down each model’s features, pros, and cons, so you can choose the perfect backup power solution for your home.
CERTAIN CONTENT THAT APPEARS ON THIS SITE COMES FROM AMAZON. THIS CONTENT IS PROVIDED “AS IS” AND IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE OR REMOVAL AT ANY TIME.
Generac 26kW Whole Home Generator, Cellular Capability
Best forMaximum whole-home coverage
- Cellular remote monitoring
- Fuel-efficient operation
ConsiderHigh upfront cost
Generac 22kW Whole Home Generator, Transfer Switch & Cellular Capability
Best forBalanced whole-home power
- Includes transfer switch
- Cellular monitoring
ConsiderMay be underpowered for large homes
Generac 26kW Whole Home Generator, Transfer Switch & Cellular Capability
Best forHigh-power with transfer switch
- Transfer switch included
- Cellular remote control
ConsiderPremium price point
Honeywell 18kW Whole Home Standby Generator
Best forFlexible fuel options
- Dual fuel capability
- Easy installation
ConsiderLower power output
Honeywell 14kW Home Standby Generator
Best forSensitive electronics protection
- Low harmonic distortion
- Quiet self-test mode
ConsiderSmaller power capacity
20kW Standby Generator with 200amp TS
Best forFast power restoration
- 10-second power restoration
- Dual fuel compatible
ConsiderHigher price tag
DuroMax XP13000EH 13,000-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator – Gas & Propane,…
Best forPortable whole-home backup
- Dual fuel capability
- Push-button start
ConsiderNot automatic
Kohler 26RCAL-200SELS Air-Cooled Standby Generator with 200 Amp Transfer Sw…
Best forLarge homes with high demand
- High power output
- 200A transfer switch included
ConsiderExpensive
Generac 24kW Whole Home Generator, Cellular Capability
Best forSmart home integration
- Cellular monitoring
- Fuel-efficient operation
ConsiderNo transfer switch included
DuroStar DS13000MX 13,000-Watt 500cc Dual Fuel Portable Generator – Gas and…
Best forSafety with CO detection
- CO Alert safety shutdown
- Dual fuel capability
ConsiderPortable, not automatic
Generac 26kW Whole Home Generator – Cellular Capability
Brand: Generac
The Generac 26kW is a premium choice for whole-home backup with smart monitoring.
The Generac 26kW is a powerhouse designed for whole-house protection. With cellular capability built in, you can monitor and control your generator from anywhere using the Mobile Link app. This means you can check its status, receive alerts, and even start a test run from your phone, giving you peace of mind whether you’re at work or on vacation.
Its electronic fuel and ignition control optimizes fuel use, lowering emissions and reducing your total cost of ownership. The oil level sensors ensure the generator is always ready to perform, and the robust design handles heavy loads with ease. If you want a top-tier generator that keeps your entire home running seamlessly, this is it.
- Cellular remote monitoring
- Fuel-efficient operation
- Oil level sensors
- High upfront cost
- Requires professional installation
Generac 22kW Whole Home Generator – Transfer Switch Included
Brand: Generac
A solid choice for most homes, offering smart features and reliable power.
The Generac 22kW is a reliable mid-size option that includes a transfer switch, simplifying installation and ensuring seamless power transitions. With cellular capability, you can manage it remotely via the Mobile Link app, monitoring performance and receiving notifications. This model is perfect for homes that need to power essential systems like HVAC, refrigeration, and lighting without overkill.
Its electronic fuel and ignition control reduces fuel consumption and emissions, making it cost-efficient over time. The oil level sensors add to its reliability, ensuring the generator is always ready when you need it. If you want a balance of power and convenience, this generator delivers.
- Includes transfer switch
- Cellular monitoring
- Fuel-efficient design
- May be underpowered for large homes
- Installation costs extra
Generac 26kW Whole Home Generator – Transfer Switch Included
Brand: Generac
A top-tier generator that combines power, convenience, and reliability.
This Generac 26kW model comes with a transfer switch, making it a comprehensive solution for whole-home backup. The built-in cellular capability allows you to control and monitor the generator from your smartphone, ensuring you’re always in the loop. It’s designed to handle heavy loads, so you can run multiple appliances and systems simultaneously without worry.
The electronic fuel and ignition control optimizes fuel usage, lowering emissions and operational costs. Oil level sensors provide added reliability, and the generator’s robust construction ensures long-term durability. For homeowners who want maximum power with the convenience of a transfer switch, this is an excellent option.
- Transfer switch included
- Cellular remote control
- Efficient fuel use
- Premium price point
- Professional installation required
Honeywell 18kW Whole Home Standby Generator – Dual Fuel
Brand: Honeywell
A versatile and easy-to-install generator ideal for flexible fuel needs.
The Honeywell 18kW offers reliable automatic backup power, keeping your essentials running during outages. Its dual fuel flexibility lets you operate on natural gas or propane, depending on what’s available in your area. This adaptability ensures you always have a fuel source, even if one supply is disrupted.
The user-friendly LCD control panel provides real-time updates in multiple languages, making it easy to monitor. Installation is quick and simple, thanks to the composite mounting pad that installs directly on soil—no concrete base needed. This generator is a practical choice for homeowners who want dependable power with flexible fuel options.
- Dual fuel capability
- Easy installation
- Multilingual LCD panel
- Lower power output
- No cellular monitoring
Honeywell 14kW Home Standby Generator – PrecisionPower
Brand: Honeywell
Perfect for homes with sensitive electronics needing clean, quiet power.
The Honeywell 14kW features PrecisionPower Technology, delivering less than 5 percent total harmonic distortion. This ensures clean, smooth power for sensitive electronics and appliances, protecting them from damage. The G-Force engine is purpose-built for generator use, offering reliable performance with less maintenance.
Its Quiet-Test Self-Test Mode runs at lower RPMs, making it significantly quieter and more fuel-efficient during tests. The Sync Controller includes a multilingual LCD display for easy monitoring. If you have delicate electronics and want a quiet, efficient generator, this model is a great fit.
- Low harmonic distortion
- Quiet self-test mode
- Reliable G-Force engine
- Smaller power capacity
- No transfer switch included
Kohler 20kW Standby Generator – 200A Transfer Switch
Brand: Kohler
A robust generator that delivers quick, reliable power with commercial-grade durability.
The Kohler 20kW restores power in just 10 seconds, with advanced voltage and frequency regulation to protect your valuable appliances. It’s compatible with natural gas (18kW) or liquid propane (20kW), and switching between fuels is simple in the field. This flexibility is a major advantage for homeowners with varying fuel availability.
The included RXT 200-amp automatic transfer switch is outdoor-rated and service entrance rated, ensuring seamless power transitions. Powered by the reliable KOHLER Command PRO engine, it’s designed for tough commercial applications, with hydraulic valve lifters that eliminate lengthy break-in periods. This generator is built to last and perform under pressure.
- 10-second power restoration
- Dual fuel compatible
- Heavy-duty engine
- Higher price tag
- Requires professional installation
DuroMax XP13000EH 13,000-Watt Dual Fuel Portable
Brand: DuroMax
A powerful portable generator that offers flexibility and reliability for emergencies.
The DuroMax XP13000EH is a portable powerhouse, delivering 13,000 watts to keep your whole home running during a storm. Its dual fuel technology lets you switch between gasoline and propane in seconds, giving you flexibility and peace of mind. The front-facing interface makes fuel changes easy, even in the dark.
With a push-button start and a variety of outlets, including a transfer switch-ready port, this generator is ready for emergency use. The robust DuroMax engine is designed for power and durability, ensuring it lasts for years. If you need a portable solution that can handle heavy loads, this is a top pick.
- Dual fuel capability
- Push-button start
- Transfer switch ready
- Not automatic
- Noisier than standby units
Kohler 26RCAL-200SELS Air-Cooled Standby Generator
Brand: Kohler
A top-tier generator for large homes needing substantial, reliable backup power.
The Kohler 26RCAL-200SELS is a high-capacity standby generator, rated at 26kW on LP and 24kW on natural gas. It comes with a 200-amp automatic transfer switch and OnCue Plus monitoring, giving you full control and peace of mind. The 999cc Command Pro V-Twin engine is powerful and durable, designed for heavy-duty use.
This generator is ideal for large homes with high power demands, ensuring everything from HVAC to appliances runs smoothly during outages. The included transfer switch simplifies installation and ensures automatic operation. If you need maximum power and reliability, this Kohler model is a standout.
- High power output
- 200A transfer switch included
- Durable V-Twin engine
- Expensive
- Large footprint
Generac 24kW Whole Home Generator – Cellular Capability
Brand: Generac
A smart, efficient generator that provides reliable whole-home power.
The Generac 24kW offers a great balance of power and efficiency for whole-home backup. With cellular capability, you can monitor and control it remotely via the Mobile Link app, ensuring you’re always aware of its status. This model is perfect for homes that need to power multiple systems without going overboard on capacity.
Its electronic fuel and ignition control optimizes fuel use, reducing emissions and operational costs. Oil level sensors enhance reliability, and the generator’s design ensures consistent performance. If you want a mid-to-high power generator with smart features, this is an excellent choice.
- Cellular monitoring
- Fuel-efficient operation
- Reliable oil sensors
- No transfer switch included
- Installation costs extra
DuroStar DS13000MX 13,000-Watt Dual Fuel Portable
Brand: DuroStar
A safe and versatile portable generator with excellent fuel flexibility.
The DuroStar DS13000MX is a portable generator with 13,000 watts of power, perfect for home backup, job sites, or RV use. Its dual fuel technology lets you choose between gasoline for maximum power or propane for longer run times and cleaner emissions. This flexibility is invaluable during extended outages.
The CO Alert system automatically shuts down the generator if dangerous carbon monoxide levels are detected, protecting your family. With push-button electric start and an intuitive control panel, it’s easy to operate. If you want a safe, versatile portable generator, this model delivers.
- CO Alert safety shutdown
- Dual fuel capability
- Electric start
- Portable, not automatic
- Heavier than some models
Buyer’s Guide: What to Consider
Choosing the right standby generator involves several key factors. This guide covers the essentials to help you make an informed decision, from power output to installation requirements.
- Power Output: Determine your home's power needs by calculating the wattage of essential appliances. Standby generators range from 14kW to 26kW; larger homes with central air conditioning or electric heating need higher output. Choose a generator that can handle your peak load without overloading.
- Fuel Type: Generators run on natural gas, propane, or both. Natural gas is convenient if you have a line, while propane offers portability and longer storage. Dual fuel models provide flexibility, allowing you to switch based on availability. Consider your home's setup and fuel accessibility.
- Transfer Switch: An automatic transfer switch (ATS) is essential for standby generators, as it automatically switches power from the grid to the generator during an outage. Some models include an ATS, while others require a separate purchase. Ensure the switch is rated for your generator's amperage and your home's electrical panel.
- Monitoring Features: Modern generators offer remote monitoring via apps like Mobile Link or OnCue Plus. These features let you check status, receive alerts, and control the generator from your smartphone. This is especially useful if you travel or want peace of mind. Consider models with built-in cellular connectivity for convenience.
- Installation and Maintenance: Standby generators require professional installation, including electrical and gas connections. Some models come with mounting pads for easier setup. Regular maintenance, such as oil changes and filter replacements, is necessary for longevity. Look for generators with features like oil level sensors to simplify upkeep.
Conclusion
Selecting the best standby generator depends on your home’s size, power needs, and budget. For whole-home protection with smart features, the Generac 26kW models are excellent. If you prefer flexibility, the Honeywell dual fuel options are great. For portable backup, the DuroMax and DuroStar generators offer reliable power on the go.
Consider your specific requirements and consult a professional for installation. With the right generator, you can keep your home comfortable and connected during any outage.
Erica Steven is the founder and lead writer of WorstBrands, a site dedicated to providing honest and trustworthy reviews about outdoor gear and fashion products.
With a passion for exploring the great outdoors and staying up to date on the latest fashion trends, Erica uses her expertise to provide valuable insights into the products that matter most to her readers.
Whether you're looking for camping equipment or the latest fashion accessories, Erica's articles are the perfect resource for finding the best products that fit your lifestyle.