Our cavemen days are over and electrical power has become a necessary part of life. Unless you plan to really rough it the benefit of a generator when you are away from electricity or there is a power outage cannot be understated.
Many people think that generators are prohibitively expensive but this is not the case. We will highlight 8 best generators under 1000. They have a decent lifespan and the investment will be well worth it for home backup or outdoor activities.
We will take you through the features and benefits of some of the best options currently available and give you a few pointers to look out for when making your choice.
Overview table
In order to bring you the very best of the best, we have done extensive research into the leading generators under 1000. We looked at the features, the quality, company reputation and a host of other factors. We also read extensive feedback from users that have purchased and operated the various models.
This enabled us to bring you accurate unbiased information to help you make an informed decision. Read on to learn more about the best generators under 1000.
The overview table will show you some of the main points and the reviews will go into more depth.

This generator ticks all the right boxes for a model under $1000. It is light and compact while still being durable. It produces clean power and works rather quietly. This is a popular choice that is well-loved by the majority of consumers.
(Best rated generator under 1000)
This generator ticks all the right boxes for a model under $1000. It is light and compact while still being durable. It produces clean power and works rather quietly. This is a popular choice that is well-loved by the majority of consumers.

For those wanting to power an entire house or with bigger power requirements, the A-iPower SUA12000E will do the trick. Despite being under 1000 it has plenty of power as well as many other great features. It is powerful, tough and efficient.
(Best whole house generator under 1000)
For those wanting to power an entire house or with bigger power requirements, the A-iPower SUA12000E will do the trick. Despite being under 1000 it has plenty of power as well as many other great features. It is powerful, tough and efficient.

Westinghouse makes a wide range of popular generators. This model is a good balance of power, size, and runtime. It is safe to use and delivers clean stable power.
(Best inverter generator under 1000)
Westinghouse makes a wide range of popular generators. This model is a good balance of power, size, and runtime. It is safe to use and delivers clean stable power.

Dual fuel feature is just one of the many advantages of this quality Ford generator. It is user-friendly and has a host of handy features making it a pleasure to use. Another benefit is that this is a tough generator that can handle all conditions.
(Best dual fuel generator under 1000)
Dual fuel feature is just one of the many advantages of this quality Ford generator. It is user-friendly and has a host of handy features making it a pleasure to use. Another benefit is that this is a tough generator that can handle all conditions.

Honda is a brand you can trust and this is a reliable and dependable workhorse. It delivers clean power with moderate noise and will run up to 8.7 hours at half load.
(Best quality generator under 1000)
Honda is a brand you can trust and this is a reliable and dependable workhorse. It delivers clean power with moderate noise and will run up to 8.7 hours at half load.

For those looking for good power from a well-priced generator this Champion model is a good option to consider. It also features decent runtime as well as great aftersales support.
(Best powerful generator under 1000)
For those looking for good power from a well-priced generator this Champion model is a good option to consider. It also features decent runtime as well as great aftersales support.

If safety and quiet operation are important this is one to consider. It has great features and is extremely user-friendly for a range of applications.
(Best compact generator under 1000)
If safety and quiet operation are important this is one to consider. It has great features and is extremely user-friendly for a range of applications.

This model offers great value for money is and super light and easy to carry. It is extremely versatile and easy to use. Something many users appreciate is the USB outlet which makes charging electronics convenient and safe.
(Best cheap generator under 1000)
This model offers great value for money is and super light and easy to carry. It is extremely versatile and easy to use. Something many users appreciate is the USB outlet which makes charging electronics convenient and safe.
- Starting watts (Gas/LPG): 3400 / 3060
- Running watts (Gas/LPG): 3100 / 2790
- 192cc 4-stroke single-cylinder engine
- Run time (Gas/LPG): 7.5 / 14.5 at 25% load
- 1.6-gallon fuel tank
- Noise level: 59 dB
- Less than 3% THD
- Economy mode
This is a 3400-watt inverter generator with running watts of 3100. Power is delivered from a 4 stroke, single-cylinder, air-cooled 192 cc engine. Power is clean so it is perfectly safe to use on cell phones, laptops, cameras, GPS devices, and other sensitive electronics. To protect the engine, there is a low oil shut-off.
A huge advantage of the Champion 100263 is that it works on two fuel types. This means you can use gas or propane. Dual fuel gives you greater flexibility and convenience. The propane hose is included in the kit so it is ready to connect.
Although 3400 watts is enough power for many applications, if you need more power it is also parallel ready. This allows you to connect an additional generator and double your power. Again, this gives you greater flexibility.
Runtime is impressive. On a full tank of gas, you can expect up to 7.5 hours. It has a 1.6-gallon fuel tank. A 20-pound propane tank will give you as much as 14.5 hours. This is possible thanks to its inverter technology and its economy mode. Economy mode lowers the power when the electrical requirements lower which saves fuel, lowers noise and extends the life of the engine.
At only 59 dBA the Champion 100263 runs with very little noise. This makes it perfect for camping or RV use or even as a home back up. The low noise will not disturb those around you and you can use the generator without any problems from neighbors.
The unit is compact and light and weighs a mere 95.7 pounds. This makes it portable and easy to move from place to place. The generator is encased in a protective cast iron sleeve making it tough and durable. It has a convenient electric start with a recoil start for backup.
Another great convenience is the user-friendly quick touch panel that allows you to easily control the generator operation. It is RV ready and comes with a 120V 30A RV outlet. It also has two 120V 20A household outlets as well as a 12V DC outlet and a dual USB adapter.
- Light and compact
- Parallel ready
- Inverter technology
- Clean safe power
- Low noise
- Dual fuel
- Economy mode
- Good runtime
- Durable cast iron sleeve
- Electric start
- The battery will need to be charged if the generator is not used for a while
- Some would prefer a larger fuel tank
A-iPower SUA12000E – Best whole house generator under 1000
- Starting watts: 12000
- Running watts: 9000
- Run time: 9 hours at 50% load
- Noise level: 78 dB
- Electric start
- 7-gallon fuel tank
- Never-Flat wheels
If you need something with more power for home use or other applications then this is one to consider. The A-iPower 459cc engine delivers a good 12,000 starting watts and 9,000 running watts. This is more than enough to power an entire home or to keep everything running at a job site. For a generator under 1000 this model packs plenty of power.
It has a large 7-gallon fuel tank and will give you a decent 9 hours of runtime at a 50% load. This means you do not have to run and top it up every few hours. The fuel tank is made from heavy-duty steel for durability and strength. The push-button electric start makes getting the powerful generator running effortless.
Naturally, the power will mean a slightly louder operation. At 78dBA it is not too bad considering the power output but is still a bit on the loud side. The higher wattage will also result in the generator being heavier. At 206 pounds that is certainly the case but the sturdy 9.5-inch never-flat wheels make moving the A-iPower SUA12000E 12,000-Watt relatively easy. They are designed to handle any terrain and make the generator highly mobile. A tough full frame protects the generator ensuring good durability.
The user-friendly control panel is well positioned for ease of access and good visibility. The A-iPower SUA12000E is safe to use when it is damp thanks to the GFCI Protected Outlets. All outlets feature a protective cover for added safety. A DC Adapter Plug is built-in and can be used to charge the battery or charge phones and other devices via USB. The DC charging cables are included in the kit.
- Very good power output
- Value for money
- Large fuel tank and good run time
- Safe to use
- User-friendly control panel
- Large sturdy all-terrain wheels
- Strong protective frame
- A bit loud
- Not CARB compliant
Westinghouse iPro4200 – Best inverter generator under 1000
- Starting watts: 4200
- Running watts: 3500
- 212cc Westinghouse OHV Engine
- Runtime: 15 hours at 50% load
- Noise level: 62 dB
- Inverter technology
- 2.6-gallon fuel tank
There are many advantages to inverter generators but power is not normally one of them. Meet the Westinghouse iPro4200 Portable Industrial Inverter Generator. It gives you many of the benefits of an inverter generator while still delivering exceptional power. This model runs at 3,500 watts with a peak or starting output of 4,200. This is generated by the 212cc Westinghouse OHV Engine.
Due to the fact that the inverter technology produces clean power, it is perfectly safe to use on all your sensitive electronics. You can conveniently charge laptops, cell phones, tablets, and other electronics. Moreover, thanks to this technology the unit is quieter than many other models with the same power. However, as iPro4200 features an open frame design, it is not as quiet as some other inverter options. Westinghouse does not quote the exact noise level so it is difficult to be sure of the precise noise level but there appear to be no consumer complaints in this regard. Clearly, noise is not an issue with this model.
The model has a durable steel 2.6-gallon fuel tank and will run for up to 18 to 22 hours. The variable engine speed combined with the inverter technology makes it extremely fuel-efficient.
The Westinghouse iPro4200 weighs in at 99 pounds. While not exactly lightweight it is still manageable. Most people will be able to handle the compact generator with ease and it is still portable enough.
It has a tough steel frame for protection and this makes it extremely durable. This model is specifically engineered and designed for commercial and industrial use. It is highly versatile so will be equally useful during outdoor adventures or for home back-up use. One area it particularly shines is on the job site and you will be able to run multiple power tools with ease.
It has a VFT meter that will show you the lifetime hours, frequency and volts. The generator also has low oil shutdown as well as overload protection. It has Full Panel GFCI Protection with multiple outlets. There are six 120V outlets and 2 handy USB ports.
Another benefit is that this generator is EPA, USFS, and CARB compliant allowing you to use it anywhere with confidence. The customer service is good with a 1000-wour warranty and free lifetime technical support.
- Good power output for an inverter generator
- Clean power
- Decent runtime
- Good warranty and support
- CARB, EPA and USFS compliant
- Somewhat heavy
- Pricier than some other options
Ford FG7750PBE – Best dual fuel generator under 1000
- Starting watts (Gas/LPG): 7750 / 7500
- Running watts (Gas/LPG): 6250 / 6000
- Run time (Gas/LPG): 10.5 / 8 hours at 50% load
- 6.6-gallon fuel tank
- Noise level: 78 dB
- Switch & Go Technology
- 420cc, 4-Stroke, OHV engine
- Electric start
The 420cc, 4-Stroke, OHV engine delivers plenty of power and you will get a peak of 7,750W and running watts of 6,250W on gasoline. LPG will deliver starting power of 7,500W with a running power of 6,000 watts. The dual-fuel option is extremely handy and gives you the freedom to select the option that is more convenient at the time. It has Switch & Go Technology. This lets you swop between gasoline and LPG seamlessly for added convenience. You can change the fuel source while the generator is running.
It has an easy electric start with a backup recoil starter. The Ford 7,750W features a good-sized 6.6-gallon fuel tank. This will give you around 10.5 hours running at half capacity (on gasoline).
There is not much information available on the noise output but a few comments from users indicate that this not the quietest generator in this class. Given the size of the engine and the power output as well as the open frame design this is to be expected.
The built-in digital display is convenient and user-friendly. This model is also EPA and CSA certified which gives you an assurance of safety and the freedom to use the generator in multiple locations. For engine protection, the Ford FG7750PBE has low oil shutdown and overload protection. For additional safety and engine durability, it has an automatic voltage regulator as well as a digital hour meter. Servicing the engine for optimal performance and engine life will be easy.
Outlets are plentiful and you will get two 120V 20A GFCI Outlets, one 120V AC 30A Twist-lock Outlet, a 120/240V AC 30A Twist-lock Outlet. For additional protection, the outlets have rubber dust covers.
Ford has a reputation for quality, power, and reliability. This generator is no exception. It comes with everything needed to get going including a propane hose, a speak plug wrench, a combination wrench and even 600mL of 10W30 Engine oil and a funnel.
- Dual fuel
- Switch & Go Technology
- Decent power
- Fair runtime
- Electric start
- Outlet dust covers
- Large and sturdy wheels
- Solid durable steel frame
- EPA and CSA certified
- Digital display
- On the heavy side
- Limited to small and medium applications
- Not CARB compliant
- Starting watts: 2800
- Running watts: 2500
- Runtime: 8.7 hours at 50% load
- 186cc Honda engine
- Inverter technology
- 2.1-gallon fuel tank
- Noise level: 62 to 67 dB
- Recoil start
Honda is a trusted name and they are a very popular choice for generators. This gas model has a GC190LA, 186cc engine that pushes out a starting power of 2,800 watts and a running power of 2,500 watts. The power is clean therefore safe to use with all your sensitive electronics.
It is a compact and lightweight model that is extremely flexible. At only 34 pounds it is very easy to move around when necessary. It has a tough steel frame for improved durability.
It has enough power for home back up but the light and small design make it ideal for tailgating, RV use or other outdoor activities. The USDA-qualified spark arrestor/muffler not only reduces noise but makes it safer to use for outdoor adventures and other applications.
The inverter makes it more fuel-efficient and you can enjoy a good run time of 8.7 hours on only 2.1 gallons of fuel. That is great considering the power you get. The eco throttle regulates fuel consumption and makes it more fuel-efficient. It has a choke which makes it super easy to start even when it’s cold outside.
With a rated noise level of 62 to 67 dBA, it is not exactly quiet but should still be low enough for most environments. It is fully CARB, OSHA and LA-ETL compliant. The circuits are all GFCI protected.
- Light and compact
- Low noise
- Clean and safe power
- CARB, OSHA & LA-ETL compliant
- Fuel efficient
- Sturdy base
- Easy to start when it’s cold
- A bit expensive
- Commercial warranty is only 1 year
Champion 100538 – Best powerful generator under 1000
- Starting watts: 9375
- Running watts: 7500
- Run time: 8 hours at 50% load
- 5.7-gallon fuel tank
- Noise level: 74 dB
- 420cc OHV Engine
- Intelligauge
- Electric start
This is a powerful dual fuel generator that will run smoothly on gas to power your home or job site. Power output from the 420cc single-cylinder OHV engine is an impressive 9,375 watts at peak and 7,500 running watts on gasoline. That is enough power for most applications including air-conditioning system and massive tools.
Runtime is also good. You can expect decent 8 hours of usage at half load. It holds 1.2-quarts of oil. This comes included in the kit. For engine protection, there is a low oil shutdown. The electric start will get you up and running with no effort. The battery is also included so no need for any extra expense there. As a backup, the Champion 7500-Watt has a recoil starter as well.
The moderate noise level is another great feature of this generator. At 74 dBA, it is not that loud considering the power that you get. However, if you are going to work nearby, it’s advisable to use ear protection.
You can track the run-hours, hertz, and voltage with the user-friendly Intelligauge. This will help you monitor the generator as well as track your maintenance intervals. The steel frame is thick and strong affording the generator extra protection and good durability. The surge protection will ensure you never have an overload.
Champion will give you lifetime technical support and a decent 3-year warranty. This will give you peace of mind knowing that your investment is backed up by good aftersales service.
- Very good power
- Decent runtime on gasoline
- Low oil shutdown
- Easy to track maintenance intervals
- Electric start with recoil backup
- Good warranty and technical support
- A bit loud
- Not the biggest fuel tank
- Starting watts: 2000
- Running watts: 1600
- Run time: 10.5 hours at 25% load
- 79cc OHV, air-cooled, single-cylinder, 4-stroke engine
- 1.1-gallon fuel tank
- Noise level: 51.5 dB
- Smart throttle
- Inverter system with Pulse Width Modulation
This compact and highly portable generator has a 79cc OHV, air-cooled, single-cylinder, 4-stroke gasoline engine. This will produce running watts of 1,600 with a peak or starting output of 2,000 watts. While this is not a huge amount of power it is good for its size and weight. If more power is needed the Yamaha EF2000iSv2 is parallel ready. This allows you to connect an additional generator to double the power output.
The power is clean and safe meaning you can use it to charge sensitive electronics such as laptops, cell phones, and other gadgets. The inverter technology with Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) control ensures these devices will be perfectly safe. Plus, the generator is EPA and CARB compliant.
It has a 1.1-gallon fuel tank which provides around 10.5 hours of runtime at a ¼ load. Noise levels are low due to the inverter technology as well as the super-quiet muffler. It also has a USFS-approved spark arrestor. The rated noise output is 51.5 dBA at 1/4 load. This, combined with the light compact design makes it safe and highly suited to outdoor adventures. You should not disturb those around. The smart throttle will automatically adjust engine speeds according to the load bring used. This also helps to reduce noise while making it more fuel-efficient.
The auto-decompression system makes it easier to start. An auto warm-up feature also helps in this regard, particularly in cold conditions. This will get the generator going quickly and allow you to power up larger appliances easily.
Engine performance and durability are enhanced by an oil watch warning system as well as an electrical overload breaker. Outlets are a bit limited. You will get two three-pronged 120-volt AC outlets as well as a 12-volt DC which can be used to charge batteries. The charging cables are included in the kit.
This is a popular and highly rated option that is well-loved by many consumers.
- Very light and compact
- Smart throttle
- Relatively quiet
- Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) control
- EPA and CARB Compliant
- Electrical overload breaker.
- Oil watch warning system
- Easy to start
- Parallel ready
- Limited outlets
- No option for 240V power
- Not the greatest runtime
- Starting watts (Gas/LPG): 2200 / 2000
- Running watts (Gas/LPG): 1800 / 1600
- Run time (Gas/LPG): 8 hours at 50% load / 75 min on 1-pound LPG
- 1.8-gallon fuel tank
- Noise level: 60 dB
- 80cc, 3Hp, 4 stroke, single-cylinder, OHV engine
If you are looking for an affordable compact generator with dual fuel versatility this is one to consider. Duel fuel allows you the choice of gas or LPG which is a great convenience. It has an air-cooled 80cc, 3Hp, 4 stroke, single-cylinder, OHV engine. Power output on gasoline is 2,200 watts of peak power and 1,800 running watts while LPG will deliver 2,000 peak watts and 1,600 running watts.
Both gas and LPG will deliver safe and stable power that is perfect for charging sensitive electronics. The generator uses inverter technology. It is parallel ready so if additional power is needed one can always connect a second generator.
It has a 1.8-gallon fuel tank which will deliver 8 hours of runtime at a ½ load. A 1-pound LPG tank will give you 75 minutes.
Noise output is rated at under 60 dBA which is quiet enough for most environments. The design is compact and light at a mere 44 pounds. The generator is highly portable and has a convenient handle to make moving it a breeze.
There are a number of outlets including two 120V 15A AC outlets and a 5V integrated USB outlet as well as the parallel connection sockets. The generator comes with 350ML of 10W30 oil, a funnel, a spark plug wrench, and a propane hose.
- Good value for money
- Dual fuel convenience
- Light and compact
- Parallel ready
- USB ports
- Safe and stable sine WAVE power
- Not enough power for certain applications or appliances
- A few users had difficulty starting
Buyer’s Guide
There are a number of important factors to consider before investing in a generator. Let’s consider them one by one.
Power
This is the first and probably the most important consideration. Purchasing a generator that does not have sufficient power for your needs will lead to disappointment. By the same token, additional power that is not needed with result in a larger, heavier and more expensive generator.
Consider your needs and what appliances you intend to power. Give it some serious thought before making your final decision.
A generator that is parallel ready will allow you to add a second generator to double the power if needed. For those needing a fair amount of power, look at the A-iPower SUA12000E Gasoline Powered Generator.
Size and weight
If the generator is for home backup power this is not a major issue. If, however, you intend to take it with you for outdoor activities or other purposes you will want one that is light and compact enough to be easily portable. As a rule, the more power generators deliver the larger and heavier they tend to be.
If you are looking for a lightweight compact option the Pulsar 2,200W Portable Dual Fuel Quiet Inverter Generator and the Honda Power Equipment EB2800IA are both solid choices.
Noise
Generators have a reputation for being noisy but this is not the case with all of them. Many are relatively quiet, particularly those that use inverter technology. Consider the environment in which the generator will be used. You do not want to disturb yourself or those around you with a loud noisy generator.
If you are after a quieter option than consider the Yamaha EF2000iSv2 or the more powerful Champion 3400-Watt Inverter Generator.
Runtime
To avoid having to worry about topping up every few hours you want to select a generator with a decent runtime. Dual fuel generators operate on both LPG and gasoline which makes them more versatile.
The more compact generators naturally have smaller fuel tanks resulting in a lower runtime. For a generator with a good long runtime consider the A-iPower SUA12000E Gasoline Powered Generator. The Westinghouse iPro4200 Portable Inverter Generator also has an exceptional runtime.
Budget
These are all decent products under $1000 but some are easier on the wallet than others. Think about how often you intend to use the generator and consider your budget when making your buying decision. If you are on a tight budget the Pulsar 2,200W Portable Dual Fuel Inverter Generator is great value for money.
Other important factors include safety measures such as a low oil shutdown and electrical overload breakers. The type and number of outlets are also worth considering.
FAQs
Q: How much power do you need?
A: This is a common question and can be tricky to answer. It really depends on what appliances you intend to run and how much power they consume. Certain appliances are a lot more power-hungry than others. Most should state the power they consume so a simple sum should make it relatively clear.
Q: What is starting or peak power vs running power?
A: Larger appliances such as fridges and air conditioners take a lot more power to get going than they do to run. All generators are described with their peak or staring power output as well as the running power. Both need to be taken into consideration when making a power requirement decision.
Q: What is a dual fuel generator?
A: These generators are designed to work on gasoline as well as propane (LPG). This gives you great flexibility as there will be times when one will be more convenient than the other. Runtimes and power are generally different depending on the fuel source used.
Q: What are the options to start a generator?
A: Many generators feature an electric start which is quick and convenient. Others will have a recoil start. It is handy to have a recoil start as a back with an electric start in case the battery is flat.
Conclusion
That information should guide you and help you to make the right choice in finding the best generator for your needs. While we have only reviewed leading generators the Champion 100263 3400-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Inverter Generator stands out as the best of the best. It has good power that is safe and clean. It produces very little noise and has dual fuel functionality. It is also parallel ready if you need additional power. This is a highly versatile option that will help you in a wide range of environments.
Consider your requirements and what features are important to you. This will help you select the best generator under 1000.




