Best 50 Amp Generator Reviews 2024: Top 6 with 50 Amp Plug
A 50-amp generator is a great solution for high power requirements like a 50-ton AC, power tools, sump pumps, dryers, 50 amp RVs, 50 amp travel trailers, or for a job site.
But there are a ton of 50 amp portable generators on the market that can give you 8 to 12 hours of backup power while running heavy appliances.
Our team gathered 5 to 6 heavy-duty 50 amp generators that are not only budget-friendly but powerful, portable, and durable as well.
RECOMMENDED BY EXPERTS
Best 50 Amp Generators
Luckily, I and my team have invested 32 days in research, and we have tested 21 50 amp generators, interviewed 6 employees who are currently working in the generator manufacturing company, and talked to 27 RV and travel trailer owners to gather as much data as possible.
We have made this list based on all that data to help you make a purchasing decision.
So without waiting, let’s get to the list.
Comparison Chart Of The Best 50 Amp Generators
1. Westinghouse 12500 watts- Best Generator for 50 amp RV
FEATURES & SPECS
Westinghouse Wgen9500DF is one of the most popular 50 amp generators with dual-fuel capabilities. It is a slightly lighter version than the previous Westinghouse Wgen9500.
It is a very dependable portable power source with enough juice to run the most critical appliances in your home or work site. It is highly fuel-efficient and powerful.
Westinghouse Wgen9500DF can easily run motor-driven tools, ACs, microwaves, heaters, refrigerators, and other high-power-consuming appliances.
This EPA- and CARB-compliant generator can be used in any State in the country. It comes with a 30-year warranty, nationwide support, and incredible customer care.
I love that Westinghouse Wgen9500DF comes with both an electric start and remote control. The remote start will work up to a distance of about 110 yards, which is incredible. It is a lifesaver for clumsy-ass guys like me who hate to get up and start the generator in the cold.
Out of the box, we get a measured oil bottle, tools, a user manual, a spark plug wrench, a propane regulator, a funnel, a remote, and a battery float charger.
Westinghouse Wgen9500D has an hour meter, which is always helpful, a low-oil shutoff feature, and an overload alarm.
There are two 5V USB ports, two 120V 5-20R household plugs, one transfer switch ready 120V L14-30R, and one RV Ready 120/240V 14–50R plug.
We all know that most 50 amp generators are not quiet, so keeping that in mind, I conducted a noise test from 20 feet away under 50% load, and no load.
At 50% load, I got 79 to 80dB, and at no load, 74 to 76 dB. These noise levels are not that bad. In real-time, the sound is not that pungent.
I also conducted the load test and runtime test on gasoline and propane to check their potential.
On gasoline, I ran my fridge, microwave, a small AC, heater, and some other necessary appliances. The total output power I got was 9390 running watts.
On propane, after cutting a few appliances, I got about 8400 watts.
After that, we ran it on propane at 55% load and it lasted for 7 hours and 5 minutes.
On gasoline, we again ran it at 55% load and it lasted for 12 hours and 6 minutes.
This 240v 50amp generator is a highly fuel-efficient and powerful 50-amp generator that can easily run most of the appliances in your home, RV, or worksite.
Though it is a bit heavy, noisy, and lacks a carbon monoxide sensor like the Westinghouse Wgen9500DFc version, it is perfect as an emergency backup power source if you don’t want to spend thousands of dollars on a whole-house generator.
But if you want something stationary and permanently installed that starts automatically during power outages, then check out our article on the best whole house generators of 2024.
2. Champion 12000 Watt Generator – Best Heavy Duty Generator
FEATURES & SPECS
Champion 12000 Watt is one of, if not the best heavy-duty generators specially designed for extended blackouts and 50amp RVs.
This generator is mostly purchased in cold areas because it has a huge tank capacity of 10.9 gals to last during long winter nights and cold start technology to start smoothly even in freezing temperatures.
I received the package undamaged on my doorstep. Champion provides an oil funnel, a user manual, engine oil, a wheel kit, and a battery. It is always a plus when you don’t have to pay extra bucks for the battery.
So overall, it was extremely easy for me to unpack and assemble it. Though it is a darn heavy generator weighing 300 pounds, it rolls pretty easily with those wheels and handles kit.
I have always liked the designs of champion generators. This one follows the same pattern of protected outlets, a yellow color scheme, a quality metal frame, and a lifting hook for easy transport.
Champion 12000 watt is loaded with 50amp, 20amp, and 30amp outlets so you can practically run anything off of it.
The main part of the whole design and control panel is the intelligence that keeps track of voltage, hertz, and runtime so that we could track the output and monitor the performance.
So This 240v 50amp generator is equipped with a massive 717cc 4-stroke V-twin champion engine that can generate 12000 rated and a Volt Guard built-in surge protector to nullify sudden voltage spikes. I can vouch for this engine in terms of durability and quality.
I also test the THD of this generator using my harmonic analyzer.
- At 50% load, the THD was around 12%
- At 90% load, the THD was around 15 to 16%.
I wasn’t happy with the harmonic distortion despite the presence of the Volt guard. It is not a dual-fuel generator and the champion takes pride in producing smooth power.
I would recommend using an inline conditioner to smooth out the power if you opt for power-sensitive appliances.
I have been powering the following things off of this generator since I bought it.
| Appliance | Starting watts | Running watts |
|---|---|---|
| Table saw | 4500 | 1800 |
| Electric drill | 600 | 600 |
| Circular saw | 2300 | 1400 |
| Air compressor 1HP | 4500 | 1600 |
| Space heater | 2000 | 2000 |
| Electric tankless water heater | 9000 | 4000 |
| Vacuum | 3000 | 1000 |
| Well pump | 700 | 450 |
This is a bigass generator, so you shouldn’t expect noiseless performance like inverter generators. I conducted a noise test for the review after using it for a few months, and the results are:
- 81 – 82dB from 20 feet away at 50% load.
- 78 – 80dB from 25 feet away at 50% load.
It is not bad, but it isn’t ideal either. If you are a DIY guy, then I would suggest building a soundproof box.
For the runtime test, at 50% load on gasoline, Champion 2000 watts can run up to 9.5 to 10 hours each time.
For the load test, the maximum I got out of it was 1231 running watts before the overload protector shut off the generator.
Additionally, the Champion 12000W generator is EPA and CARB certified, and it has a 3-year limited warranty with fantastic customer support.
If you are looking for a solid generator with a 50 amp plug that has multiple essential outlets, safety features, and is powerful enough to run your entire home during outages, then the Champion 12000-watt generator is an ideal choice.
3. Generac GP15000E Industrial Generator
FEATURES & SPECS
The Generac GP15000E is one of the leading industrial 50-amp generators, with the monstrous 992cc OHVI engine generating a whopping 15K watts.
Generac is a highly reputable company, largely known for its generators. Their Generac GP15000E unit provides more than enough power to run an entire house without any trouble.
This machine features an X-Torq governor to maximize the unit’s performance while keeping it running continuously without lagging or bogging.
The idle control mode automatically adjusts the engine speed to provide as much power as required. It is extremely necessary for large generators to save fuel and reduce noise.
The engine also has a full-pressure lubrication system that can employ an automotive-grade, spin-on oil filter that sifts out dirt, debris, and other unwanted substances.
The GeneracGP15000E50 amp generator is loaded with outlets and also has a 12V DC battery charger.
Though the design is good with a 1 1/4” hardened steel tube cradle that provides extra strength, those wheels are just crap.
You are gonna have to complain to customer service to improve the quality of the wheels.
In case of power outages, the Generac GP15000E provides sufficient power to run your major appliances like ACs, security cameras, and refrigerators all at the same time.
But, in case you go over the 15000 running watts accidentally, it has a 50 amp breaker that will trip to let you know you are overloading it.
So Generac GP15000E features a muffler to keep the noise levels down, but let’s be honest, a 15000 running-watt generator isn’t going to be quiet.
I conducted the noise test from 20 feet away at 50% load, the readings were between 82 to 84dB. It is not super noisy, but not silent as well.
To check its full strength, we gave it a load of the following appliances.
| Appliance | Quantity | Peak watts | Running watts |
| A standard fridge | 1 | 1200 | 200 |
| Microwave oven | 1 | 1000 | 1000 |
| Coffee maker | 1 | 600 | 600 |
| AC (10,000) BTU | 1 | 4400 | 3000 |
| Printer | 1 | 600 | 600 |
| Computer | 1 | 250 | 250 |
| Incandescent lights | 5 | 300 | 300 |
| Dryer | 1 | — | 6000 |
| Total | 8350 | 11950 |
It ran everything without any lag. Later, I pushed it to 15800 running watts just for a moment before the overload alarm.
For the runtime test, I ran it at 50% load on a full tank. It lasted for 10 hours and 27 minutes. The efficiency of this unit is superb.
Generac GP15000E is not only powerful and fuel-efficient, but it is highly durable, produces clean electricity, and is ideal for worksites and homes.
Instead of spending a large sum on a whole-house generator, you can opt for Generac GP15000E as an emergency power source.
4. Champion 7500 Watt – Quietest 50 Amp Generator
FEATURES & SPECS
Champion 7500 is one of the most affordable, powerful, durable, and convenient dual-fuel generators that pumps out 7500 running watts on gasoline, and 6750 running watts on LPG.
Though Champion 7500 is a 50-amp RV generator, it can also be used for residential and commercial purposes.
This 240v 50amp generator has a beautiful open-frame design with tiny details to make it more convenient. It weighs over 200 lbs. so it is not a lightweight unit, but it can be managed by wheels and a foldable handle to carry it around.
The initial setup is super easy. It took me only 15 minutes to completely assemble it including the wheel kit.
Along with several different outlets on the control panel including 1x, 120/240V 30A Locking (L14-30R) outlet, 1x 120V 30A Locking (L5-30R), and 4x GFCI 120V 20A Duplex (5-20R).
Champion 7500 features a digital data center that displays frequency, voltage, and runtime.
Like most champion generators, Champion 7500 has many safety features including a low oil shutoff, VOLT gaud surge protector, and cold start technology to smoothly start the engine in cold weather.
For the noise test, we took readings from 23 feet away and got about 78 to 80 dB. For a 7500 running-watt generator, it is not that loud because we will place it at least 50 to 100 feet away from the camp, worksite, RV, or home. I think the noise is manageable.
I also checked its runtime by running it at 25% load on gasoline. It lasted for 14 hours and 33 minutes on a 6-gallon tank.
Next up was the 20lb LPG tank. At 50% load, it lasted for 5.5 hours. I was better than what was advertised, but I was expecting more.
Maybe they can improve the fuel efficiency of propane because a lot of guys use LPG cylinders instead of gasoline while camping.
I would say, the Champion 7500 is safe, powerful, fuel-efficient, mildly quiet, and ideal for a 50-amp RV, house, and camping. It is EPA and CARB-certified too.
5. DuroMax XP12000EH Dual-fuel 50 Amp Generator
FEATURES & SPECS
This unit is a true heavy-duty hybrid generator because it is one of the most powerful, popular, and versatile dual-fuel machines in the generator market.
DuroMax XP12000EH dual-fuel is known as the “best heavy-duty generator” due to the 18HP generated by its 457cc overhead valve engine.
It produces 9500 running watts on gasoline and 9025 running watts on propane, which is more than enough power for small homes, outdoor events, worksites, and RVs.
The design of the DuroMax XP12000EH is excellent, with easy maintenance and a simple starting process, but it is a bit heavy. I moved it around easily with those wheels and the handle after I changed them to 10” diameter wheels.
The built-in wheels are terrible. A lot of people replace them, and I have talked to their customer service to improve the quality of the wheels.
This 240v 50amp generator starts smoothly without any vibrations, and it produces less than 12% harmonic distortion, which is not bad for a 9500 running-watt generator.
DuroMax XP12000EH is an excellent machine due to the capacity of the fuel it can hold. It is not exactly very big in dimensions, but the compact design enables it to store 8.3 gallons of gasoline.
It has five different outlets on the control panel that can be used for household and worksite applications. I use it for my RV, though.
I already knew DuroMax XP12000EH was not going to be quiet due to the high power output and big size despite quiet engine technology. I conducted a noise test anyway.
From 5 feet away under no load, I got about 88 to 90dB, and from 30 feet away, I got 75 to 76dB. That is not bad. I was expecting a much louder performance, but it surprised me.
I also conducted a runtime test on gasoline and propane at 55% load for both.
- On gasoline, it lasted for 8.5 hours
- On propane, it lasted for 7.3 hours
Again, I was very surprised. I was not expecting this much fuel efficiency out of a big-ass generator. DuroMax XP12000EH is a total beast man.
This unit was able to run most of the appliances in my RV including a fridge, AC unit, microwave, TV, an electric place, and other small devices.
The recovery is excellent. From low to high voltage in a flash. It can manage a couple of large power-consuming tools all at once including saws.
Keep in mind that the battery doesn’t always come fully charged, and sometimes the negative is not attached to the battery. It is a common problem with this unit.
So overall DuroMax XP12000EH is a versatile, powerful, and reliable 50 amp dual-fuel generator. It may not be as quiet as a Honda generator, but it isn’t that noisy as well.
6. WEN DFT1100T Dual-Fuel 50 Amp Generator
FEATURES & SPECS
This machine is very popular and is mostly used for small houses and professional jobs. It has a 457cc air-cooled dual-fuel engine that produces 9500 running watts on gasoline, and 7500 running watts on propane.
WEN DFT1100T has an electric starter along with the manual recoil in case of emergencies. It has an automatic energy controller and surplus protection.
Gas and propane can be interchanged with a flick of a switch which is cool. It is both EPA and CARB-compliant as well.
Like other Wen generators, WEN DFT1100T also creates clean and safe power at 120V AC, 240V AC, or 12V DC to power lights, TVs, sump pumps, AC units, refrigerators, power tools, electric heaters, and other things.
They gave oil, a wheel kit, a propane connection hose, a spark plug wrench, and a user manual in the package. It took me only 15 to 20 minutes to fully assemble this little beast.
WEN DFT1100T is a pretty heavy machine. Thanks to the wheel kit and handle I was able to move it around freely, but getting it in the back of the truck was a hustle.
Before pouring fuel into it, remember to place it on a flat surface otherwise it will not start because the fuel pickup is on one side.
I took readings after conducting the noise test. From a distance of 20 feet away, the readings were 79 to 81dB. The generator was running was 5700 watts.
WEN DFT1100T recovery time is very good. We pushed it to its limit by running multiple motor-driven appliances at the same time. From low voltage to high voltage, it takes less than a second.
I managed to get 9800 running watts of output power on gasoline, and 7814 watts on propane for a moment before the overload alarm.
I also ran it at 50% load on gasoline to check how long it could last. It managed to run for 8.5 hours which is excellent. I checked the hour on is multi-meter.
So overall WEN DFT1100T is a fantastic dual-fuel unit with excellent fuel efficiency, high power output, less noise, and a strong build.
How To Buy The Best Generator For 50 Amp RV?
There are a lot of 50 amp generators currently on the market. The following factors will help you select the top-rated 50 amp machine for your home, camping, RVs, or worksites at a budget-friendly price.
Power Output:
Most 50 amp generators are designed for backup power sources, and outdoor usage so they come in between 7000 to 15000 running watts.
Power output depends on your usage. First, you need to calculate the wattage of the appliances that you want to run:
Watt = Amps x Volts
Also, calculate the starting watts of the motor-driven appliances because they need extra power to overcome inertia to start.
Then, purchase a generator that has a few extra hundred watts than your original need.
If you need 8000 running watts for your home or RV, purchase a 9000 running-watt generator.
I would suggest a 9000 or 10000 watts 50 amp generator.
Fuel Type And Efficiency:
I would suggest a dual-fuel generator if you are an outdoor enthusiast because we never know when we run out of gas.
So having an option of propane is also good. Single fuel is also fine if you are just going to use your generator for residential and commercial purposes.
Fuel efficiency is the key. At 50% load, your 50amp generator should at least last for 6 to 7 hours because that is the standard. Technology has greatly evolved so why settle for a less fuel-efficient generator?
Fortunately, all the units on our list are super-fuel economical.
Noise:
All generators make some noise even with the modern quiet technology. For a large 50 amp generator, anything between 78 to 85dB is considered a standard.
Even under the idle mode, 50 amp units will produce some sort of noise. You would have to operate them at least 40 to 50 feet away.
Before purchasing, check the actual decibel levels. We tested the noise levels of each generator to get real readings.
A lot of websites are writing fake data. People often complain about the noise after the purchase. So be vigilant and look for real data.
Size And portability:
Large 50-amp generators are often heavy and hard to pick up. Look for a generator with a wheel and handle to make it portable.
There are a lot of lightweight options available so you don’t necessary to get a heavy-ass unit. I would prefer anything under or a little over 200 pounds so that I can do my camping peacefully. Otherwise, it would be hard to pick it up and put it in the backup of my truck. we also have reviewed some of the top camping generators, give it a visit if you are hunting for one.
Why Should You Buy A 50 Amp Generator?
A 50 amp plug is an absolute necessity for RV guys, campers, and outdoor guys. A 50 amp unit powers most of the appliances we need without connection to any extra extension cable.
An average home has either a 100amp or 200-amp circuit breaker. Even the largest portable generators can only cover 25% of the total energy needed.
It can run most high-power appliances such as refrigerators, AC units, sump pumps, electric heaters, or motor-driven tools.
The best 50 amp generator connects directly to the 50 amp travel trailer and an RV. These units are mostly recommended for RVs and trailers.
Final Words And Recommendations
I hope you have found your 50 amp generator after reading this article, but if you are still confused, DuroMax XP12000EH, Generac GP15000E, and WEN DFT1100T are my choices if you want my advice.
As an expert in the generator industry, I would suggest getting the best 50-amp generator that is not too heavy and noisy.
Choose a generator that has a long runtime to save money. Check the built quality as well. Why spend a huge sum on bad material?
If you still have any questions, leave a message, and I will reply.
Frequently Asked Questions – [FAQs]
What is the difference between 30-amp and 50-amp generators?
The 30 amp generator has three prongs on its outlet with a single hot wire of 120 volts whereas a 50 amp generator has four prongs with two hot wires of 120 volts each and two separate feeds on 50A 120V each. A 30 amp generator can produce 3600+ watts, and a 50 amp generator can produce 12000+ watts.
How many watts is a 50-amp generator?
As much as 12000+ running watts output with its 50 amp outlet.
Can I run my 50 amp RV on a 30 amp generator?
Using a 50 amp female-to-male adapter, you can run your RV on a 30amp generator.
Can you plug my 50 RV into my house?
Using a 30/50 hookup, you can plug your 50 amp RV into your house.
Alex Black is a seasoned electrical engineer with a remarkable 8-year track record specializing in appliances, generators, and transfer switches. With extensive hands-on experience in the field, Alex possesses a deep understanding of electrical systems and their intricate workings. Throughout their career, Alex has consistently demonstrated expertise in designing, troubleshooting, and maintaining various electrical appliances.
How do these generators compare to inverter generators in terms of the sine wave? Do these all have an AVR instead of capacitor style?
Hey Brian LeBlanc,
Don’t expect to get pure sine wave power from large generators. They do have AVR but the harmonic distortion (THD) will be on the higher side.
However, it is not like it will damage the sensitive appliances so you don’t need to worry.
But, if you are getting the maximum power out of your 15Kw generator for any reason, then don’t charge of power senstive device like cellphone or a laptop, the fluctuation in power in that case will be higher.