Are you spending a lot of time working outdoors and camping? Or are you frustrated with frequent home blackouts? If you answered positively to any of these questions, it might be time to invest in the best Powermate generator.
Of course, there are countless generator manufacturers out there nowadays, but few of them has preserved an impressive reputation as long as Powermate. This US brand is creating generators for at-home and work use for more than 40 years now, and they are recognized for their durability, safety and reliable power. They source their components from the best brands from all over the world, which not only ensures outstanding quality, but also diminishes frustration from finding repair shops and spare parts in the long run. We believe longevity is a crucial factor in this sort of investment, which is why we choose to compare six of their bestselling generators in our guide.
Although there are many similarities between these generators, each of them has its own specific perks and downsides. We covered all of those in our reviews, and by the end of this article, you’ll be ready to make an educated purchase decision and get the portable generator that is best for your personal preferences and needs.
Overview Table
We spent days researching and comparing Powermate generators, to be able to select the top 6. We considered their price, construction quality and reliability, as well as reviews from other customers, and we are confident you will be happy with any unit you purchase from this list.
Below you can find an overview table, detailed reviews and buying guides, all of which will guide you towards a worthy investment that you won’t regret.
(Best Powermate Dual Fuel Generator)
Simple to operate on both gasoline and LPG, Powermate Df7500e is one of the best dual-fuel generators available on the market today. It is compact, efficient and sturdy, which makes it a worthy investment for anyone who spends a lot of time outdoors.
(Best Powermate Inverter Generator)
Travel-friendly portable generator that offers outstanding performance. It is silent, lightweight and parallel ready, giving you everything you need from your generator during camping or outdoor work.
(Best Powermate Generator with Subaru Engine)
A powerful engine, six outlets, efficiency-improving features – there’s nothing not to like in the Powermate Pm0601258. Frequently credited as one the best powerful generator on the market, this durable unit will diminish frustration during power outages and on-the-go work.
(Best Powermate Generator for Long Runtime)
Lightweight and portable, yet immensely powerful, the Powermate PC0145500 is an ideal generator for camping and home backup. The runtime of 12 hours and smart features make it convenient, reliable and effortless to use.
(Best Multipurpose Powermate Generator)
Offers everything you are looking for in a portable generator from robust built, reliable power to long runtime. It totally raises the bar for portable generators, and ensures many years of worry-free operation.
(Best Budget Powermate Generator)
Particularly interesting to RV owners, the Powermate PMC143500 is a budget-friendly generator with an impressive runtime. Constructed with great care and attention to detail, it is reinforced with safety features and made to last.
- Generator type: conventional
- Starting watts (Gas/LPG): 9375/8500
- Running watts (Gas/LPG): 7500/6750
- Fuel selector dial
- Comes with an included battery and hassle-free electric start up
- Runs 10 hours on gasoline and 8 hours on LPG (50% load)
- The digital multimeter
- Low-oil shutdown
- Four covered outlets
- Comes with a user manual, tool kit, funnel, oil and propane hose
- 2-year limited warranty
Powermate 6958 Df7500e is an innovative dual-fuel generator that can operate on both gasoline and liquid propane. Besides versatility, it also offers impressive power, producing peak wattage of 9375W when it runs on gasoline, and 8500 peak watts when propane-powered.
This portable generator provides 10 hours of consistent use with gas and 8 hours with LPG at 50% load, which is more than enough for camping and outdoor work. The tank’s intuitive features allow beginners and advanced users alike to operate this gen set hassle-free. Among the useful features are an electric starter, effortless fuel selector dial and a digital multimeter. Finally, it is easy to store due to its compact design, and has a 68-dBA noise rating, which is much less than most similar units provide.
Completed with a convenient low-oil shutdown feature and stable construction, Powermate 6958 Df7500e is an ideal product for those who need a reliable generator that they can use frequently and on every terrain.
- Convenient dual-fuel technology
- Simple operation
- Easy to switch fuel source
- Powerful and efficient performance
- Quieter than other units with similar power
- Compact and sturdy design
- Competitive price
- Not CARB compliant
- Not the most lightweight option (209.9 lbs)
- Not so many outlets
Powermate 10000001790 – Best Powermate Inverter Generator
- Generator type: inverter
- Running watts: 1700
- Starting watts: 2200
- Less than 3% total harmonic distortion
- Weighs only 45 lbs for easy carrying
- Enclosed case simplifies traveling and reduces noise
- Runs 10 hours at 50% load
- Fuel capacity of 1.2 gallons
- Comes with a 5V USB port
- 2-year limited warranty
Frequently credited as the best inverter generator by Powermate, the10000001790 model is an ideal unit for all camping lovers and outdoor workers. It weighs only 45 pounds and features an enclosed case so it is easy to carry and doesn’t produce huge noise levels.
Although its fuel tank capacity is only 1.2 gallons, this generator can run more than 10 hours at 50% load. There are two duplex 120V 20 A outlets in addition to a 5V USB port so you can charge your phone or other gadgets on the go.
Powered by the Powermate OHV-4 stroke engine, this unit offers 2,000 peak watts and a running wattage of 1700W. If you happen to need more power, you can effortlessly connect it to a similar unit, since it is parallel capable.
Reinforced with important security measures, such as overload protection and low oil shut-off, the Powermate 10000001790 is a reliable machine which we would recommend to everyone looking for a lightweight, yet robust and powerful portable generator.
- Hassle-free carrying and storage
- Parallel capable
- Simple to operate
- CARB compliant
- Can be used with sensitive devices
- Reliable construction
- Affordable price
- Few outlets
- No electric start
- Parallel kit is sold separately
Powermate Pm0601258 – Best Powermate Generator with Subaru Engine
- Generator type: conventional
- Running watts: 12.500
- Starting watts: 15.625
- Low-oil shutdown and protected outlets
- Idle control function
- 8-gallon gas tank and 6 power outlets
- Weighs 336 lbs
- Comes with pneumatic wheels
- 2-year limited warranty
Offering 12 500 running watts and an 8-gallon gas tank, the Powermate Pm0601258 is an ideal generator for home backup or serious outdoor work. It is powered by a 22HP Subaru V-Twin OHV gas engine which offers up to six hours runtime at 50% load. The engine is quieter than those in similar units and comes with a cast iron sleeve which improves its durability.
Besides being powerful, this generator is also efficient and simple to use. The control panel features four 120V 20A outlets, one 120/240V 50A outlet and one 120V 30A outlet, and a hassle-free electric start, which allows you to turn it on with a simple turn of the key. This unit also comes with an idle control feature which ensures no fuel is wasted when there is no demand for power.
Powermate Pm0601258 is not as small as most of the other units on this list, but the added 13” pneumatic wheels and dual folding handles improve its portability. Shipped with a battery and 2 quarts of engine oil, this robust generator is perfect for those looking for a durable unit that can provide sufficient backup during power outages.
- Provides enough power for home backup
- Durable construction
- Easy and safe to use
- Energy-saving features
- Large fuel tank
- Reliable engine
- Six outlets
- Heavier than other portable units
- Not CARB compliant
Powermate PC0145500 – Best Powermate Generator for Long Runtime
- Generator Type: Conventional
- Powermate OHV 4-Cycle Engine
- Running watts: 5500
- Starting watts: 6875
- 7-gallon gas tank has a fuel gauge for simple tracking
- Features three outlets – 2 120V GFCI Duplex Outlets and one 120/240V (L14-30R) 30-amp Twist lock Outlet
- Outlets are covered
- Weighs 173 pounds and comes with never-flat wheels for increased portability
- Offers impressive runtime of 12.5 hours on 50% load
- Auto voltage regulation and low oil shutdown
- 2-year limited warranty
Perfect for tailgating, camping or home backup for smaller homes, the Powermate PC0145500 is a top model of the bestselling CX series. The CX units are particularly popular for their compact size and simple operation.
The PC0145500 is powered by the company’s patented OHV engine which ensures clean and consistent power for a range of applications. It is also protected with a cast iron sleeve that further boosts its durability. The gas tank has a capacity of 7 gallons and comes with a fuel gauge which allows you to track gasoline levels. The low oil shut down prevents damage if oil levels go below their minimum.
Offering 6875 peak watts and 5500 rated watts, this generator also provides impressive run time. It can work consistently for more than 12 hours on 50% loads, which is much more than similar units.
The control panel consists of two 120V 5-20R duplex outlets, a single 120-240V L14-30 outlet, and a digital multimeter that tracks engine runtime and ensures no fuel is wasted. Featuring a compact, easy-to-carry design and completed with safety features, PC0145500 offers the well-known Powermate reliability and durability in a portable package.
- Impressive runtime
- Sturdy framework
- Simple to operate
- Affordable price
- Safety features
- Efficient fuel usage
- No electric start
- Not CARB compliant
Powermate 10000001785 – Best Multipurpose Powermate Generator
- Generator type: conventional
- 445 cc Powermate OHV 4-stroke engine
- Running watts: 8000
- Starting watts: 10.000
- The fuel tank has a capacity of 7 gallons and comes with a fuel gauge
- There are two 120V 5-20R Duplex outlets, one 120-240V L14-30R outlet and one 120V L5-30R outlet
- Operates 9.4 hours at 50% load
- Electric and recoil start
- Equipped with handles and wheels for simple transportation
- 2-year limited warranty
Combining sturdy construction, outstanding power and extended runtime, the Powermate 10000001785 can be used for a broad range of applications. Whether you need it for camping, work or home backup, the 10,000 peak watts and 8,000 continuous watts are more than enough to keep all your appliances going.
The trusted OHV engine is powered by a 7-gallon tank and ensure consistent power for more than 9 hours at 50% load. There are both 240V and 120V outlets, allowing you to use it for a wide array of electronics and tools. The start is possible with both recoil and electric starters, while the low-oil shut off improves durability and gives you peace of mind.
Since this generator is quite large, sturdy wheels and two handles have been added to simplify transportation. Combining consistent power with reliable construction, the Powermate 10000001785 is an ideal unit for professionals and home users alike.
- Long runtime
- Great value for money
- Four outlets for multiple simultaneous applications
- Built to last
- Clean power
- Sturdy wheel kit
- Heavy (219 lbs)
- Not CARB compliant
- Quite noisy
Powermate PMC143500 – Best Budget Powermate Generator
- Generator Type: Conventional
- Powered with 208 cc Powermate OHV 4-stroke engine
- Running watts: 3500
- Starting watts: 4375
- Two 120V 5-20R outlets and one 120V L5-30R outlet
- Spark arrestor, built-in fuel gauge and protected outlets
- Handle and never-flat wheels
- Low-oil level shutdown
- The control panel meter measures lifetime hours, voltage and frequency
- 2-year warranty
The Powermate PMC143500 is a gasoline-powered portable generator. Due to its relatively small size, it is particularly suitable for handicrafts and camping, though it can also be used to power up fundamental devices during home blackouts. It is powered by OHV 4-stroke engine, which has a 120V output and produces a running wattage of 3500W and 4375 peak watts.
The compact design of this generator makes it easy to store and its transportability is further improved with handles and robust wheels. The operation of the generation is hassle-free as well, as it features the intuitive pull-start mechanism.
The fuel capacity of Powermate PMC143500 is 4.5 gallons. Although it is comparatively smaller than those in other units, it offers a surprisingly long runtime of 12.5 hours at 50% load. There are 3 outlets which are travel trailer receptacle, so you can easily incorporate it in your RV.
Completed with smart features such as a multi-purpose meter and a built-in fuel gauge, the Powermate PMC143500 is perfect for anyone looking for a lightweight, easy-to-use generator at an affordable price.
- Great price
- Long runtime
- CARB compliant
- Relatively portable
- RV-ready
- Numerous safety features
- No electric start
- Slightly small fuel capacity
Buyer’s Guide
Now you know what are the best Powermate generators and why, but you’re still not certain which one to get? There are several important factors you should consider, that will help you to shortlist your options and select an ideal generator for your needs.
Before you look at these factors, consider what are you mainly planning to use your generator for. Those looking for a professional unit for work or home backup should especially look at the maximum wattage of your unit, while those planning to travel with their generator should focus on weight and overall portability.
POWER
One of the fundamental questions you should ask yourself is simply how much power you need? If you’re looking for something to power smaller devices and tools, a smaller model such as the Powermate PMC143500 should be enough for you. On the other hand, if you need a machine for home backup or demanding outside work, you should go for a more powerful unit, such as the Powermate Pm0601258. If you plan to use your generator for hours at a time, you also should consider the run time. For example, the previously mentioned Pm0601258 does offer impressive power, but at the same can run only half as long as the Powermate 10000001785.
INVERTER OR CONVENTIONAL?
Conventional generators have been on the market for a long time. Although they can generally produce more power and are cheaper, they also produce much more noise and won’t always be used to power delicate devices. Inverter generators, on the other hand, are relatively new. They offer less harmonic distortion so they are safer for sensitive electronic, and also have a much lower noise level. Your choice would depend on how important noise is to you, and whether you mainly plan to charge sensitive electronics, or you would rather have the most power possible at a great price.
SAFETY FEATURES
Safety features are also incredibly important, and all Powermate generators are luckily all equipped with them. Especially important are the low-oil auto shutdown that increases durability and protected outlets that keep the debris and moisture out while your generator is out of use. However, not all of these generators are CARB compliant, as they emit too much pollutants, which is something you should particularly focus on if you live in California, or if you prioritize an environmentally-friendly unit. CARB compliant units also tend to produce cleaner power, which is more suitable for sensitive devices.
PORTABILITY
If you’re buying a generator for home use, a large and heavy generator such as the Powermate Pm0601258 won’t trouble you a lot. However, if you plan to take your new unit to work and camping, weight and size are a factor you should consider. In the latter case, aim for a lightweight generator, such as the Powermate 10000001790 which weighs only 45lbs. If you are purchasing a heavier unit due to its power, make sure it has wheels or handles, especially if you’re planning to transport it frequently.
OTHER FACTORS TO CONSIDER
Once you have determined all the main features above, there are few more things you can look for to make your choice. Fuel is one of them. Most generators on this list are gasoline-powered, except for the duel-fuel Powermate 6958 Df7500e, which is a great option if you prefer to use propane on some occasions.
If ease of use is your main concern, look for a device that offers an electric start has enough outlets to simultaneously suit all your needs. Finally, if price is your determining factor, select a model that offers the features that are crucial to you at a reasonable price tag, so it will be the best value for money.
FAQs
Q: Can I use the generators at above sea level?
A: Yes, you can, but the maximum power of the generator might decrease by approximately 3.5% for every 1000 feet above sea level.
Q: What kind of gasoline should I use with my generator?
A: You can use standard gasoline, but make sure it has a minimum 85 octane. Always wait for your tank to slightly cool before you refuel it. Never refuel your engine while its running.
Q: What kind of oil should I use?
A: This will depend on the engine manufacturer, as not all engines are made by Powermate. Generally, you can use a 30-weight detergent during summer or a 10W-30 during warmer days, but check the included user manual to be sure.
Q: Is it safe to connect the generator to my home?
A: All Powermate generators can be connected to your household. However, call a professional if you’re not experienced with electrical jobs. Never connect your generator to a dryer outlet as it can damage other devices.
Q: What does the warranty cover?
A: The Powermate warranty protects you in case of defects in material and workmanship, and usually covers labor and replacement parts.
Q: How often should I use my generator?
A: You should use your generator at least once every month. If you plan to store it in your garage or basement, make sure to drain all gasoline beforehand, for safety reasons.
Conclusion
If you enjoy camping, working outside or simply don’t want to let go of your main devices during a power outage, you should invest in a durable and reliable generator. Powermate generators are simple to operate and built to last, which is why we believe you should consider getting one of their units.
There is something for everyone on this list, whether you’re looking for a lightweight generator which you can easily transport, or a robust machine that can provide sufficient backup for your home.
In our buying guide, we shared all the factors you should consider when getting a generator. If you’re still not sure, we recommend you a safe bet, and our overall winner – the dual-fuel Powermate 6958 Df7500e. We particularly like this unit because it combines everything you might need in a generator, from powerful engine to long run time and decently sized fuel tank. The switching between fuels is easy, so you can explore what best suits you, and the weight, noise levels and price are much lower than in similar units.
We hope our article was helpful to you, and that you will soon become one of the thousand happy owners of the best Powermate generators.
