I Tested And Reviewed the Best 12000 Watt Generators of 2024
A 12000-watt generator is not only an excellent choice for the extended blackouts but also for the RVs and construction sites as well. Due to the abundance of 12Kw generators, a newbie should have to do some research to find the machine that shouldn’t only last longer but also provide decent output, efficiency, and portability as well.
After testing 20+ generators, and consulting with industry experts, we have finally made a list of the best 12000-watt generators currently available in the market with a reasonable price tag, decent runtime, sufficient capacity, durable body, and most importantly they are safe to interact.
List Of The Best 12000 Watt Generators of 2024
1. Westinghouse Power Equipment WGen12000DF
FEATURES & SPECS
Westinghouse wgen12000DF is a heavy-duty durable gen-set that can run almost every appliance of your house, RV or even this beast could fit in your worksite to operate multiple power-hungry tools.
Also, this machine produces less than 5% THD and provides you with an option to start it with the remote control.
Unboxing experience: Though this machine is pretty heavy, still the packaging was super protective, I didn’t find any crack or scratch on the frame.
The box includes engine oil, a funnel, a small tool kit, a remote control, a propane regulator/hose, a 12V battery cable, and some user manuals.
Design and build quality: The built quality of this unit is pretty awesome, it has a full metal frame with a cast iron sleeved engine that can last longer than your expectations.
When it comes to the design this isn’t a compact and lightweight generator and has an open frame design, however, a reliable wheel kit and foldable handle are provided for easier transportation.
Outlets and essentials:
Capacity or load test: Westinghouse WGEN12000DF comes with a heavy-duty 713cc OHV V-Twin Westinghouse engine that can produce 15000 starting and 12000 rated watts on gasoline; however with propane, you will get 13500 starting and 10800 rated watts.
in addition to that, this machine produces <5% THD which is amazing, you can run all of your voltage-sensitive appliances fearlessly.
Below is the table of RV, home, and worksite essentials we have run with this machine.
| Appliance | Running watts | Surge watts |
|---|---|---|
| Table saw | 1800 | 4500 |
| Circular saw | 1400 | 2300 |
| Vacuum | 450 | 450 |
| Space heater | 2000 | 2000 |
| Portable air compressor 1 HP | 1600 | 4500 |
| Refrigerator | 400 | 400 |
| Bench grinder | 1400 | 2500 |
| 24,000 BTU AC | 9000 | 4000 |
Runtime and fuel options: This machine does not only come with a dual fuel option but also comes with a huge gasoline tank of 10.5 gallons that can last for about 10 – 11 hours which is beyond my imagination. I can spend a cold winter night with a single tank of gasoline.
Also, this beast provides sufficient efficiency with propane as well; I am getting around 12 – 13 hours of runtime with 40 lbs of a propane tank. Wgen12000DF might be the best 12000-watt portable generator in terms of fuel efficiency.
Noise levels: From 20ft. I was getting around 74 – 76dB(A) at 50% load, hence this this isn’t super quiet and needs to be placed at least 60ft – 70ft. away from the house to get super silent performance.
Safety features: Besides the traditional protections like voltage fluctuation, low oil, and overload, this machine is certified from the CARB and EPA and has been tested in various labs and proved to be super safe for appliances, humans, and the environment as well.
Here is the list of the best 10000 watt generators.
2. Pulsar G12KBN Portable Dual Fuel Generator
FEATURES & SPECS
Unboxing experience: Though the shipping takes longer than the expected time frame, still the packaging was pretty decent, I didn’t find any damage or scratch on the frame of the generator.
The box includes a battery, foldable handle, wheel kit, propane hose, and a small tool kit.
Design and built quality: It has an open frame design with an extremely durable metal frame, engine, and other parts.
It consists of a mobility kit that can be used to transport the generator perfectly, the kit consists of drop-down handles and rounded wheels for easy transportation.
Outlets and essentials:
Capacity or load test: Pulsar G12KBN comes with a 457cc, single-cylinder, 4-stroke, air-cooled, OHV engine that can produce 12,000 starting and 9,500 Rated watts on gasoline, however with propane, you will get 10,800 surges and 8,550 running watts.
Moreover, it produces less than or equal to 8% THD that can be handled by some modern appliances.
Below is the table of our tested appliances:
| Appliance | Running watts | Surge watts |
|---|---|---|
| Table saw | 1800 | 4500 |
| Circular saw | 1400 | 2300 |
| Electric drill | 600 watts | 600 watts |
| Space heater | 2000 | 2000 |
| Portable air compressor 1 HP | 1600 | 4500 |
| Chainsaw | 1500 | 1500 |
| Well pump | 1,000 | 2000 – 4000 |
| Electric Tankless water heater. | 7000 | 7000 |
Runtime and fuel options: Pulsar G12KBN comes with a dual fuel option to avoid interrupted running. Also, this unit has 8 gallon of gasoline tank that provide me 10.5 – 11 hours of runtime at 50% load which is amazing.
When it comes to the LPG runtime my 50lbs of tank lasts for about 16 – 17 hours at 40 – 50% load.
Noise levels: This isn’t a super silent unit, it produces 74 – 76dB from about 25ft. with 30 – 40% load, Don’t ever place it near to the house or RV keep it at least 60 – 70 ft. away from you.
Safety features: Like modern gen-set, this machine is certified by EPA and CARB and proved to be super safe for the environment and humans. Though this unit has a bit higher THD if you are planning to run the modern appliance and tools that can tolerate it you are good to go.
3. Durostar DS12000EH Portable Generator
FEATURES & SPECS
Durostar DS12000EH is one of the best 12000-watt generators available in the market with massive power and runtime on both gasoline and LPG. Besides the decent runtime and capacity, this beast is constructed from high-grade metal, so you have to expect longer life than other competitors.
Unboxing experience: I didn’t have my unit at the right time but the packaging was pretty solid. After a deep inspection, I didn’t find any damage. The box contains an oil funnel, mobility kit, small tool kit, user manual, and DC charging cable. I am expecting engine oil and a propane hose but sadly they didn’t include them.
Design and built quality: As I have mentioned above that this machine is built from a durable metal you will surely get a longer life span, however, the design of this unit is pretty much similar to the DuroMax XP12000EH. This is also a bulky unit like XP12000EH with a proper mobility kit to transport it easily.
Outlets and essentials:
Capacity or load test: DuroStar DS12000EH comes with a powerful 457cc/18hp OHV engine that can produce 12000 peaks and 9500 running watts on gasoline and 11,400 peaks and 9025 rated watt on LPG. This beast has sufficient wattage for me to operate all my worksite, house, and RV Essentials including a 20000btu air condition. Besides its impressive capacity, this machine offers MX2 technology to get maximum power from 120v outlets.
As per my tests, this machine produces 10 -12% of THD which can be handled by modern appliances easily, still, using a line conditioner would be a great decision.
Runtime and fuel options: It is a dual fuel generator that can provide 7 – 8 hours of runtime with a single tank of gasoline at 50% load, however with 8 – 9 gallons of propane you will only get 6 – 7 hours. Though the runtime of propane is not satisfactory it is way cheaper than gasoline, you can attach a 20-gallon tank to get uninterrupted running.
Noise levels: Like all 12000-watt generators this machine is a bit noisy, you have to keep it at least 50 – 60 ft. away from your house. As per our tests, this machine produces 74 – 76dB from 25ft. away with 50% load which is pretty common for a 12000-watt generator.
Safety features: It is certified by the CARB and EPA and has proven to be safe for human appliances and the environment. Besides its certifications, this machine comes with all traditional sensors like low oil, overload, etc. for added protection.
4. DuroMax XP12000EH – Best 12000 Watt Dual Fuel Generator
FEATURES & SPECS
DuroMax XP12000EH is one of the top-selling 12000-watt generators available in the market with decent capacity, multiple outlets, and runtime. Also, this is easy to transport with CARB and EPA certifications for safe and eco-friendly running.
Unboxing experience: I got my package within the expected time with no damage; the box includes a small tool kit, an oil funnel, a mobility kit (wheel and foldable handle), and DC charging cable.
Design and Build quality: This is a medium-weight machine with a proper mobility kit to transport it easily, however, the design is pretty much like a bulky generator. When it comes to the built quality this beast seems to be ultra-durable with a metal frame and copper windings.
Outlets and essentials:
Capacity or load test: This beast comes with a 457 cc 4-Cycle Air-Cooled Spark-Ignition engine that can produce 12000 starting and 9500 running watts on gasoline; however with LPG I manage to get about 11400 starting and 9025 running watts. The only flaw I got is, that it produces 10% THD levels which is too much for voltage-sensitive appliances.
Below is the table of appliances we have run with this unit;
| Appliance | Running watts | Surge watts |
|---|---|---|
| Table saw | 1800 | 4500 |
| Circular saw | 1400 | 2300 |
| Space Heater | 2000 | 2500 |
| Power shower | 7500 | 7500 |
| Portable air compressor 1 HP | 1600 | 4500 |
| Air Fryer | 1500 | 1500 |
| Bench grinder | 1400 | 2500 |
Runtime and fuel options: DuroMax XP12000EH comes with a dual fuel option and a single tank of gasoline can last for about 7 – 8 hours with 50% load, however with 8.6 gallons of propane I got about 6.5 – 7 hours. I suggest you get a 16 – 20 gallon LPG tank for uninterrupted running.
Noise levels: Since this machine is not covered in an insulated frame you will have to bear some noise, as per my tests this beast produces 74 – 76dB from 20ft. away with 50 load which is not bad compared to the other competitors, still you have to place at least 60 – 70ft. away from your RV, or camp.
Safety features: This machine comes with overload and low oil protection to keep safe the generator’s organs, and also comes with CARB and EPA certifications.
Duromax XP1200EH is one of if not the best 12000-watt portable generators on the market.
5. WEN DF1100T Dual Fuel – Quietest 12000 Watt Generator
FEATURES & SPECS
WEN DF1100T is a perfect choice for emergency backup, medium houses, RVs, and camping. This machine comes with a proper mobility kit and higher capacity to provide 120V or 240V fluctuations-free voltages. Its voltage regulator is sensible enough to provide super stable voltages; you will never find flickering lights.
Unboxing experience: The package comes in perfect condition, lots of padding and cart boards were added to protect its frame and other parts. The package contains a wheel kit, a foldable handle, a user manual, an LPG hose, engine oil, some screws, a tool kit, and the generator itself.
Design and build quality: Well this isn’t an inverter generator it has a pretty ordinary open-frame design with decent built quality. Its whole frame is built from a durable metal; however, the engine and other parts are made from high-grade metals that can last longer than your expectations.
Outlets and essentials:
Capacity or load test: WEN DF1100T comes with457cc OHV, 4 – strokes, single-cylinder engine that can produce about 11,000 peaks and 8,300 rated watts on gasoline, however with LPG you will get 9,500 peaks and 7,500 rated watts. I run almost everything in my RV including refrigerator, vacuum, coffee makers, 15000btu’s air conditioners, all lights, TVs, LCDs, Microwave, etc. but this beast doesn’t know about overloading. Even you can operate multiple appliances simultaneously.
The bottom line is you can operate almost anything you want.
Runtime and fuel options: Like all other units on our list this machine also has a dual fuel option, a single tank lasts for about 7 – 8 hours with 50% load which is a bit lower but you have the option to attach a big LPG tank to get longer uninterrupted running.
Noise levels: Though this is a non-inverter generator still it is one of the quietest 12000-watt generators available in the market, I got about 70 – 72dB from 25ft. with 50% load which is amazing. With propane, you may get a few decibels more but it’s completely bearable.
Safety features: WEN DF1100T comes with a super-intelligent voltage regulator, low oil, and overload protection to keep this machine healthy for a longer time. Also, it earned certification from the EPA and CARB and proved to be safe for the both environment and humans.
6. Champion 12,000 Watt – Best Heavy Dutty
FEATURES & SPECS
Champion Power Equipment 12,000-Watt is specially designed to provide high capacity during an extended blackout with sufficient tank size and fuel efficiency to spend long winter nights comfortably. Besides that, its cold-starting technology is pretty convenient for a user like me.
Unboxing experience: This beast comes within the right time with no damage. I also do some run tests and it works fine. Well, the box contains engine oil, a wheel kit, user manuals, an oil funnel, and a battery.
Design and build quality: Champion 12000-watt generator comes with a pretty ordinary design, the only change I got it has rubber flaps on the top of the outlets to avoid water, bugs, and snow. Besides its design, this machine is pretty heavy you can’t even transport it a few ft. away without using the wheel kit and foldable handle.
Outlets and essentials: I am pretty impressed with the idea of weatherproofing the outlets since I found bugs, snow, and sometimes moisture in the outlets of my old unit. Thankfully this machine has rubber laps on the top of every outlet; I can close it when I don’t need to use them.
The following are the outlets and essentials of the champion 12000-watt generator.
Capacity or load test: This machine comes with a 717cc 4 –stroke V-Twin Champions engine that can generate 15,000 starting and 12,000 running watts with a built-in surge protector to avoid voltage spikes. Also, its cold start technology is a lifesaver for real winters you can start it instantly even in harsh conditions.
The only flaw I got is its THD levels, its THD levels are between 15% which is way more than expected. Though this is a big unit and has a volt guard to protect voltage spikes I still recommend you to use a line conditioner if you are going to voltage-sensitive appliances like a furnace board, pellet stove, etc.
Below is the table of appliances we have tested with Champion Power Equipment 12,000-Watt.
| Appliance | Running watts | Surge watts |
|---|---|---|
| Table saw | 1800 | 4500 |
| Circular saw | 1400 | 2300 |
| Electric drill | 600 watts | 600 watts |
| Space heater | 2000 | 2000 |
| Portable air compressor 1 HP | 1600 | 4500 |
| 24000btu’s | 8700 | 8700 |
| Well pump | 1,000 | 2000 – 4000 |
| Electric Tankless water heater. | 9000 | 4000 |
| Vacuum | 450 | 700 |
Runtime and fuel options: Though this machine is super efficient and provides about 9.5 – 10 hours of runtime with a single tank, still a dual fuel addition could be a lifesaver for getting uninterrupted running.
Noise levels: Since this isn’t an inverter generator with proper insulation you will have to bear some noise levels to get that much higher capacity. Below are some results of my noise tests.
- From 20 ft. away I am getting 81 – 82dB with a 50% load.
- From 25 ft. away I am getting 78 – 80dB with a 50% load.
Safety features: This beast comes with a low oil shutoff sensor and volt guard technology to avoid voltage spikes, also it comes with CARB and EPA certification means it is super safe for the environment as well.
7. A-iPower SUA12000EC – Best Portable 12000 Watt Generator
FEATURES & SPECS
I got this generator for my brother’s 30amp camper and it performed more than my expectations, its high-performance alternator provides sufficient power to operate multiple tools or appliances, however, it is pretty easy to maintain and operate as well.
Unboxing experience: The unit came with a protective box with a lot of cardboard and padding, no damage or scratches were found. The box also contains an engine oil, oil funnel, wheel kit, user manual, and a small tool kit
Design and built quality: This is a conventional generator with the same design as WEN DF1100T 11,000-Watt or DuroMax XP12000EH the only difference I got is its control panel is slightly at an angle so that a user can insert plugs easily.
When it comes to durability the frame of this machine is built from high-grade metal that can last for years.
Outlets and essentials:
Capacity or load test: A-iPower SUA12000EC 12000 comes with a 459cc/16hp OHV engine that can produce 12,000 peaks and 9000 rated watts with an intelligent AVR (automatic voltage regulator). You can run pretty much any appliance including a 15000 – 20000btu air conditioner. My brother is also operating some power-hungry worksite tools, space heaters, electric water heaters, etc.
As per my tests, I pulled about 8700 running and 11500 starting watts and this beast didn’t go under power. Also, the voltages were pretty steady.
Runtime and fuel options: It is not a dual fuel generator which could be a great addition but a single tank of gasoline is providing about 8 – 8.7 hours at a 50-percent load which is not bad at all.
Noise levels: Like all conventional generators this isn’t a super silent generator, you have to keep it 40 – 50ft. away from the house or RV to get super silent operation. Below is my conducted noise test.
From 25ft. at 50% load this machine is generating around 78 – 80dB.
Safety features: Though this machine comes with an overload and low oil protections but the AVR is the most important safety feature of this machine you will never get voltage spikes. other than that, this is certified by CARB and EPA.
How to Buy The Best 12000-Watt Generator?
The following things we should consider before selecting the best 12000-watt generators.
Wattage or Capacity:
If you are going to buy a 12kw generator it should have at least 12000 starting and 9000 – 11500 running watts so that it can run your all equipment without being overloaded. Starting watts will help your unit to put initial power for motorized appliances and tools; however, running watts will help your machine to run smoothly for a longer time.
Noise Levels:
Since a 12000-watt generator needs a bigger engine that will surely make more noise levels as compared to the 2000 or 3000-watt generators. A 12kw generator that produces 72 – 78dB with 50% load from 25 – 30ft. away is considered a good machine in terms of noise rating. You can place it about 70 – 80ft. away to get a super silent operation.
Runtime And Fuel Options:
If you have availability of both LPG and gasoline go for a dual fuel generator, as LPG is cheap and a single tank of 20 gallons can provide you uninterrupted running of 15 – 24 hours depending on the efficiency of the generator.
On the other hand, if you don’t have access to LPG, go for a gosling generator with at least 8 – 14 hours of runtime so that you can spend long winter nights comfortably.
Size and Weight:
Since a 12kw generator contains lots of stuff with a huge engine, you can’t get a super compact and lightweight machine. A good 12000-watt generator should have about 200 – 300 lbs. with proper mobility to transport it easily.
Outlets and Essentials:
It depends on the users’ needs; you have to select a machine that should have all the required outlets.
A good 12000-watt gen-set should have 2x 120V, 20amp outlets, 1x 120v, 30amp RV ready outlet, 1x 120/240, 30amp outlet, 1x 120/240, 50amp outlet, 12v DC port for battery charging, indicating lights and some reset breakers.
Safety Features:
Your selected unit should be certified by the CARB and EPA with low oil, overload, and voltage fluctuation protections. Also, you have to care about the THD levels if you are going to use some voltage-sensitive appliances.
As per our experience with high-wattage generators, you will hardly get a generator with less than 5% THD levels otherwise you have to go for less than 10% or 15% which is again not bad since modern tools and appliances have the functionality to handle that much THD.
Maintenance And Usage:
Your unit should be easy to use and maintain, I always prefer an electric start or Remote start 12000-watt generator over the manual. Also, it should be not that complicated to maintain.
Price, Warranty, and Customer Support:
The price tag of your machine should be affordable you can get a good 12kw unit anywhere between $1000 to $3000. Moreover, you have to care about the warranty and customer support.
A higher warranty is a reflection for us that the manufacturers’ are pretty sure that the product is durable and long-lasting.
Wrapping – UP
Each generator of our list must have a decent runtime and capacity with low noise levels. Also, they are easy to transport as well.
What Can You Run With A 12,000-watt generator?
A good 12kw generator can run almost everything you want, including your central air conditioner, RV air conditioner, electric water heater, etc.
We also have written a detailed guide about what can I run with a 12kw generator? Make sure to have a look to know the actual potential of the beast.
What is the cost of a 12,000-watt generator?
The price tag varies from manufacturer to manufacturer but you will surely a good one within the price bracket of $1000 – $3000.
What is the quietest 12000-watt generator?
WEN DF1100T 11,000-watt is the quietest 12000-watt generator available in the market, however, Westinghouse Outdoor Power Equipment WGen12000DF and DuroMax XP12000EH are in 2nd place.
Will a 12kW generator run a house?
It depends if you are going to operate multiple space heaters, washing machine dryers, etc. Simultaneously you have to go for a standby generator otherwise 12kw generator is more than enough for a house.
Will a 12,000-watt generator run a 4-ton AC unit?
No, a typical 4-ton AC needs 14,000 watts to 15000 watts you have to for 18 – 20kw units to operate that
Josh is a highly skilled electrician with specialized expertise in the field of generators. With years of experience under his belt, he has established himself as an expert in all aspects of generators, ranging from installation and maintenance to troubleshooting and repairs. Josh’s in-depth knowledge of electrical systems and his commitment to staying updated with the latest industry advancements make him a reliable and sought-after professional.