It’s best to be prepared for potential power outages due to winter storms, from having extra water on hand to flashlights and batteries. A reliable portable generator can also keep your necessities running in the event of downed power lines. Since these machines are a big investment, we’re sharing the best Black Friday generator deals that can save you hundreds of dollars.
We’ve tested several gas, propane, and solar models to choose the best portable generators. Right now, there are only a couple of deals on gas generators we recommend. Our budget pick, the Champion 4375-Watt Dual Fuel RV Ready Portable Generator, is down to $299 at Lowe’s, saving you 39%. It can power large appliances, such as refrigerators, or smaller appliances alongside a well pump. There are several deals on solar and battery-operated generators, including 56% off the Anker Solix F3800 Portable Power Station. It comes with two 200W solar panels. This is an excellent option for powering a mini fridge or full-size refrigerator.
Below, you can find other discounts from reputable generator brands, though we’ve only tested our top three picks. For more deals, check out all of our early Black Friday coverage across categories.
The best Black Friday deals on generators
Gas generators are the most powerful options but require ventilation and shouldn’t be used indoors. You’ll also need to make sure to keep fuel on hand, as it can be in short supply during an emergency. The highest-capacity generators aren’t on sale yet, but you can save $200 on our top pick for a compact generator: Honda EU2200i Portable Generator.
Solar and electric generators are essentially large batteries that you charge using solar panels, your car battery, or an existing outlet. They’re less powerful than gas models but can be used indoors and don’t require a liquid or gas fuel source. The Anker Solix F3800 power station, when combined with solar panels, is the best battery-powered generator we tested. You can get it for $2,798 off its regular price for Black Friday.
Jackery Explorer 1000 v2 Portable Power Station
This ultraportable generator can reach a full charge within an hour and supports solar charging with optional add-on solar panels. It weighs just 23 pounds and can support one to three days of minor off-grid activity, such as powering small appliances and charging phones and laptops.
Jackery Explorer 300 Portable Power Station
The Jackery Explorer 300 Portable Power Station can power or charge six small devices at a time and recharges using a solar panel (not included), wall outlet, or car port. Right now, it’s at an all-time low price when hitting the coupon box at Amazon.
FAQs
What type of generator should I buy?
The right generator for you depends on what you plan to power and how your home is set up.
Gas and propane generators are the most common. They provide enough power to run major appliances or even entire rooms, but they require fuel on hand. It’s smart to stock up before a storm, since gas stations often have long lines or limited supply during outages. These generators must always be used outdoors for safety. Many newer models are dual-fuel, meaning they can run on either gas or propane, giving you flexibility if one fuel source is unavailable.
Electric or solar generators, also known as portable power stations, are basically large rechargeable batteries. They’re ideal for smaller essentials, such as phones, laptops, or a mini fridge. You can recharge them via a wall outlet, car battery, or solar panels. Because they don’t use liquid fuel, they’re safe to operate indoors, though they don’t have the power to keep large appliances or medical devices running for long periods.
You’ll also come across conventional and inverter generators. Conventional models are typically more affordable and straightforward. Inverter generators, on the other hand, use advanced tech to adjust power output. This makes them quieter, more fuel-efficient, and safe for sensitive electronics.
What size generator should I buy?
To determine the right generator size for your needs, start by adding up the wattage of everything you want to power simultaneously.
The Home Depot provides a simple formula: Running Wattage (R) + Starting Wattage (R × 3) = Total Wattage Needed.
Even the best portable generators are designed to handle only a few essentials at once. For full-home power, you’ll need a larger, whole-house generator.
Shopping for more discounts today? Check out our roundup of all of the best Black Friday deals.
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