10 Best RV Ready Generators For Clean, Reliable Power

Last Updated on September 26, 2023 by mfttherese

When it comes to camping with an RV, you usually have two choices when picking a spot – one with electrical capabilities, and one without.

If you are wanting to camp anywhere you can drive to, having a portable generator for RV use can give you all of the luxuries of an electric capable campsite.

Choosing the right RV generator can be a daunting task as there are many different brands, features, wattage ratings, and noise levels to choose from.

It is very important to take into account the types of appliances you will be wanting to power and their individual power ratings. This will help give you a better starting point on what RV generator will best fit your needs.

In this article, we are going to look at the different wattage ratings and a few of the generators we would suggest in each category.

Not all generators are suitable for RV use, but this list will include generators with an RV plug that are also reliable and fuel-efficient.

We will discuss the pros, cons, buyer feedback, and features of each to give you a quick snapshot of the best generators for RVs.

The Top 10 Best RV Generators

Ready to purchase yours? Here are the best RV generators you’ll find on the market today:

Durostar DS4850EH Dual Fuel Portable Generator

The DuroStar DS4850EH’s dual-fuel technology enables a 120/240V output, providing excellent power and adaptability.

The generator has a noise rating of 69 dBA (less noisy than a normal conversation). It has two different starting mechanisms: a classic pull-start mechanism and an easy-to-use electronic starter (battery included).

The DuroStar DS4850EH’s traditional, open frame construction provides stability and enables the generator above ground level due to its size. This generator, we believe, is most suited for usage outdoors and in harsh conditions.

While the generator is theoretically ‘portable’ (in a sense, you may move it), owing to its considerable weight of 122 pounds, physically lifting and carrying it may be difficult.

Nonetheless, you can readily move the generator once put on the ground due to its wheel kit and folding handle (an excellent answer to its lack of agility).

The generator’s fuel level can be easily checked and conveniently thanks to a built-in fuel gauge.

DuroStar DS4850EH has an automatic low oil shut-off and an overload safeguard (circuit breaker) for added security, enabling you to use it with confidence.

This generator is well within the estimated budget for a product of this kind.

DuroMax XP4500iH

The DuroMax XP4500iH is a dual-fuel inverter generator with a rated power of 3600 watts and a starting power of 4500 watts.

It produces 120V and offers power and adaptability thanks to its dual-fuel technology.

You may start this inverter generator using either a classic pull-start mechanism or a practical and easy-to-use electric starter, with a noise rating of 65 dBA (only slightly louder than a regular conversation).

The DuroMax XP4500iH’s enclosed inverter generator design gives it a distinct aesthetic advantage over open-frame products. The design is in line with current trends and is ideal for producing electricity for recreational purposes.

While the generator is theoretically ‘portable’ (if you move it), owing to its considerable weight of 115 lbs, it felt like physically lifting and carrying it may be difficult. But on the other hand, it has two wheels and a telescopic handle, which allows you to transfer it quickly once it’s on the ground.

The data center in the control panel of the XP4500iH quickly offers information on the voltage, power output, frequency, fuel level, and lifespan run hours, allowing you to monitor its activity and condition.

The inverter generator’s fuel level can be easily checked and conveniently thanks to a built-in fuel gauge.

The generator is fitted with overload protection (circuit breaker) and an automated low oil shut-off, providing you with peace of mind when in operation.

Craftsman 3500 Watt Portable Generator

With 3500 operating watts and 4375 starting watts, the Craftsman 3500 Watt Portable Generator can power most of your home appliances.

When dangerous quantities of CO are detected, it features CO monitoring technology that turns off the generator.

It has a Briggs & Stratton 196cc OHV engine that starts efficiently and reliably. At 50% load, the 6-gallon fuel tank delivers up to 19 hours of operation time.

For us, this was a tremendous bonus. The majority of generators in this class have a fuel capacity of just 4 gallons. It began effortlessly on the first pull in our test.

It also incorporates a fold-out handle and never-flat wheels for convenient movement. It has a good build quality and a lovely appearance. It seems to be of much higher quality than the Durostar generator it replaced.

It is simply a lot noisier than we anticipated. It is a little too noisy for typical camping – it has a lot of power, but a bit too loud.

DuroMax XP4850EH Generator

One of the most popular hybrid generators is the Duromax XP4850EH. It is also one of the most highly recommended gas/propane contractor generators for individuals who want a machine with a running wattage between 3000 and 5000.

We thought this generator is a good option if you need to power electric equipment like saws, air compressors, or belt sanders.

It is also worth considering for RV owners searching for a traditional dual fuel portable generator.

The XP4850EH has a strong steel frame for protection. A Duromax 208cc 7hp OHV engine powers the generator.

One of the generator’s main advantages is its fuel economy. When fueled by gasoline, it can operate for up to 8 hours at 50% load, and on a single 20-pound propane tank, it can run for up to 9 hours at 50% load.

The Duromax XP4850EH generates less noise than many other generators of similar size because of its built-in silencer. It is, nevertheless, much noisier than other inverter generators.

There are three outlets on this Duromax generator. It is on the low end of the pricing range compared to comparable 3500-4500W generators. It may be an excellent choice if you are searching for a cheap generator.

Champion 3500/4000-Watt RV Ready Digital Hybrid

When it comes to power equipment, Champion Power Equipment is one of the most well-known companies globally for producing high-quality, long-lasting items.

One of the most popular Champion generators is the 3500/4000-Watt RV Ready Digital Hybrid. It is an open-frame model with a low noise level of 64dBA.

Digital Hybrid is an inverter generator, which means the engine effectively matches usage.

They are quieter than ordinary generators, emit fewer pollutants, and have higher efficiency, so you won’t have to add gas as often.

The design is straightforward, with Champion black and yellow accents, a clean control panel, and a manual starter.

Despite its size, it will be simple to stow in your RV while not in use.

It is 81.6 pounds in weight, which is pretty hefty yet 20% less than other Champion inverters. This variant does not have wheels, making transporting a bit more complicated.

You may purchase a wheel kit to simplify transport, although it is an extra expense.

The gasoline-powered engine has a displacement of 224 cubic centimeters. This type is fantastic since it is 50% quieter (64dBA) than many Champion’s 3500-watt generators.

The energy mode also helps you save money on gas and improves the life of your engine. The engine has a total operating duration of 17 hours.

It also includes a 3-year limited warranty and free lifetime specialized technical assistance.

Prepare to work in parallel. You may enhance your power output by adding one or two extra 2800-watt (or higher) inverters if you buy the optional paraLINK Parallel Kit.

Westinghouse WGen3600V 4,650/3,600 Watt Gas RV-Ready Portable Generator

When shopping for a portable RV power generator, you may consider this Westinghouse wgen3600v power generator.

This model has a starting power of 4650 watts and an operating power of 3600 watts. This gasoline-powered generator is CARB-compliant and RV-ready. This generator comes with many great features that make it truly unique.

It provides various services, such as power backup in a power outage.

This product also comes with a three-year guarantee and long-term technical support. In addition, the motor in this power generator is an OHV, and it has an autonomous shut-off mechanism for low oil, which helps protect the engine’s essential components from harm.

This generator can constantly operate for around 12 hours at 50 percent load, allowing you to power practically all gadgets with ease. The power generator improves fuel economy, lowering your fuel costs. On the other hand, the noise generated by this power generator is less.

This generator is 90 pounds and comes with a 4-gallon petrol tank. It also comes with handles and wheels for easy transport.

If you think it is too heavy to transport inside the campsite, you’re mistaken. This WGen3600 Portable Power Generator is lightweight and easy to transport.

This model comes with a wheel kit, so you can transport it and tow it with your RV. It has a built-in roll bar that gives you many options for maneuvering, fastening and transporting the device.

DuroMax XP5500EH

The Duromax 5.500 Watt portable generator is compact and lightweight. It also has a long service life. Duromax utilized several technical innovations to create this model by the engineers.

The sturdy metal frame, for example, has four cushioned engine mountings that reduce vibration. Natural cast iron is used in several engine components, enhancing their service life.

We thought the Duromax XP5500EH was practical since it enables you to charge the batteries independently using a 12V jack.

Simultaneously, large soft wheels and a convenient grip on the frame make it simple to move the generator from one location to another. The generator features a start button, so you don’t have to pull the cable to start it.

This generator is EPA and CSA approved and can operate on gasoline and propane. It can operate on gasoline for up to 9 hours and on liquid propane for up to 8 hours at 50% load. This model boosted autonomy and dependability while simultaneously lowering exhaust pollutants.

As you may recall from our past Duromax hybrid generator reviews, this technology makes the gadget ecologically friendly, popular among eco-conscious consumers.

Overall, the Duromax XP5500EH is a 5000 Watt RV generator that is cost-effective and ecologically friendly. It might be one of the top generators in terms of price, quality, and economy.

Westinghouse WGen12000 Ultra Duty Portable Generator

With a peak surge output of 15,000 kilowatts, the Westinghouse WPro12000 is a mighty worksite generator.

While this generator is for the rigorous needs of a worksite, it is also an excellent option for home emergency power.

It contains enough wattage to meet most of your household’s power requirements.

When analyzing the WPro12000, we thought the most likely to purchase it was contractors needing a heavy-duty industrial generator with enough watts to run a vast, busy worksite.

The Westinghouse WPro12000 has the power to run an air compressor, a worksite table saw, drills, and other small power tools. You won’t have to worry about tripping circuit breakers when many tools startup simultaneously.

It is one of the greatest worksite or industrial generators, thanks to its tremendous power, ultra-rugged design, and excellent engine. The ease of remote control is a feature that not many generators provide. Gas use is also one of the most cost-effective. It has a 3-year residential or 1-year commercial warranty.

Generac 7676 GP8000E Portable Generator

The Generac 7676 GP8000E is a mid-size portable generator worth considering if you need a high-capacity generator for any purpose.

Generac is well-known for its standby and portable generators for household use.

It is a dependable and high-performing unit. Even in terms of pricing, it competes with leading manufacturers like Honda and CAT.

The Generac 7676 has Power Rush advanced technology, which increases starting capacity by up to 30%. Its steel tank, which has a 7.9-gallon capacity and has a gasoline gauge, allows up to 11 hours of operation time at 50% load. It also includes a convenient electric start button and a rechargeable battery.

We thought Generac built this portable generator to withstand harsh conditions, so it has covered AC outlets, never-flat wheels, and a steel tube cage for more protection.

It comes with two 120V home outlets protected by 20A push-to-reset circuit breakers. It has an operating power of 8000 watts and a starting power of 10000 watts.

It also comes with two twist-lock 120V/240V 30A outlets and a maximum output of 66 amps at 120 volts. However, it does not include a DC outlet; therefore, you cannot use it to power small appliances or gadgets.

Champion 7500W With Remote Start

Champion Power Equipment’s years of experience have culminated in this portable generator. It is a strong generator that can fulfill the power needs of most households and construction sites.

Furthermore, the Champion 7500DF is adaptable due to its dual-fuel capability.

The generator is loaded with convenience and safety features to simplify the operator’s life.

Thanks to features like electric start, intelligauge, and a low-oil shutdown sensor, the generator is safer and simpler to operate.

This portable generator has a 7500-watt output and can operate on either gasoline or propane. Its dual-fuel capability is a valuable convenience feature that is useful when one of these fuels is unavailable.

It has a convenient toggle control for starting it. Thanks to the switch, turning on and off the generator is quick and straightforward.

The recoil on the Champion 7500DF remains, and you may always yank it when you are enthusiastic.

We like the electric start, which makes starting the generator a breeze. It seems that there will be no more recoil twisting. The Champion 7500DF is trustworthy in most conditions due to its dual-fuel capability.

Thanks to Cold Start technology, users can depend on the generator to start even under adverse weather. The generator may still start up immediately after many years of service.

You might be interested to read about how to determine what generator size your RV needs.

Buyer’s Guide: Frequently Asked Questions

In Conclusion

So there you have it, a list of the best portable generators for RVs in many different power ranges.

I hope that this guide has educated you on the different power levels, wattage needs, and different features of each generator and has given you the confidence to purchase the correct generator for your RV.

I want to hear from you! What generator are you currently using for your Recreational Vehicle?

Are you using multiple generators to fully power your generator? Which brands have you had success with?