Top 10 Best 10000 Watt Generators: Reviews & Buyer’s Guide

When crisis hits, a heavy-duty 10000-watt generator will keep all major appliances running in your home. Your food won’t spoil, your family won’t overheat, and you’ll be able to stay informed via local news updates. That’s why we recommend investing in a generator for your home before it’s too late. Why?

Because, hurricanes, wildfires, blackouts, and other extreme weather conditions leave an increasing number of homes and families without electricity each year.

I have tested and reviewed the top ten 10000 watt generators on the market today. After perusing this list, keep reading to learn more about key features you should consider when making your purchase. You’ll also find answers to the most frequently asked generator-related questions.

Best 10,000 Watt Generators: Our Top Picks

To save yourself some time, take a look at our summary list of the best 10000 watt generators, categorised by purpose. Whether you're looking for 10000 watt portable generators, a fuel-efficient generator, or simply the best all-round solution on the market, it will point you in the right direction.

You can find all of the items mentioned in this table (as well as some other great options that didn't make the cut) in the list below. Not only does it contain detailed descriptions of each generator, but also an account of my personal experience with these machines and their effectiveness at providing me with a stable electricity supply.

1. Westinghouse WGen9500DF

 

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The Westinghouse WGen9500DF is one of the most highly rated and popular generators currently available in the 10000 watt range.

It’s intuitive to use and extremely efficient. I loved its dual-fuel capability and the long runtime, ensuring that I had enough power to use for an entire day.

Plus, it has a three-year limited warranty and meets all of the highest safety and environmental standards.

Features and Benefits

The control panel has two ground fault circuit interpreters, which allow you to run more appliances at once without tripping the breakers. It has a 120v 5-20R duplex receptacle and an L-14-40 twist-lock outlet control that lets you run at either 120v or 240v.

You’ll have 9500 running watts from the WGen9500DF on gas and 8500 on propane. It also has a 6.6-gallon gasoline tank and the ability to connect to a standard propane tank. With a full gas tank and a grill-sized propane canister, you can run the WGen9500DF for 17.5 hours.

The remote start feature allows you to turn on the generator with the push of a button.

< Click Here For A More In-Depth Westinghouse WGen9500DF Review >

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2. DuroMax XP12000EH

 

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The DuroMax XP12000EH powered by a DuroMax 18HP engine is a versatile, generator with dual fuel technology ready for any situation that may arise.

It includes four different types of power inputs. I never found myself limited by the number of appliances I could run when testing it out in a blackout scenario.

Features and Benefits

As one of the most powerful generators on our list, the XP12000EH has a power output of 12,000 watts, with a run time of 20 hours on a tank of propane gas or for 10 hours with gasoline. Producing 72 dB of sound from around 20 feet away, the noise of the 457cc engine won’t interrupt your household. I have also found that it is quite versatile, and ensures a steady power flow, regardless of the intensity of your activities.

<Click Here For A More In-Depth DuroMax XP12000EH Review>

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3. DuroStar DS10000E

 

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If you’re looking for a capable generator that’s also affordable, consider the DuroStar DS10000E.

It isn’t fancy, but it provides enough grunt to get you through any power outage. During my time with it, I was impressed by how fuel-efficient this generator is, with enough running power to support multiple appliances without burning through your fuel supply too quickly.

Features and Benefits

The DS10000E can run 8,000 watts with its air-cooled, 420cc OHV engine. At 50% capacity, it runs for 10 hours, allowing you to go all night without refuelling its 8.3-gallon gas tank. It does, however, only have two 120v three-prong outlets, which limits the number of appliances that can be powered while using it.

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4. All Power America APGG10000GL

 

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If you spend time camping, traveling, or performing construction tasks, you’ll want a generator that can go with you. I was amazed by how much punch a single portable generator can pack, especially considering how quiet it is!

There’s no need for multiple generators when you purchase the All Power America APGG10000GL.

This easy-to-move unit is ready for any terrain or situation thanks to its flat-free wheel kit.

Features and Benefits

The 8-gallon fuel tank will run for 11 hours at 50% of its 10,000-watt peak power. It only produces 76 dB of noise when running at 8,000 watts of power draw.

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5. Green-Power America GBG10000EW

 

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When you want to feel prepared but don’t expect to use your generator often, you need a reliable workhorse that won’t hurt your wallet.

The Green-Power America GBG10000EW is a solid, affordably priced machine. It's quite loud for a modern generator, but it more than makes up for it with friendly functions such as the fact that it automatically shuts off when it's running low on oil. In my opinion, putting up with that extra bit of noise is worth it when taking into account the Green-Power America's durability and price.

Features and Benefits

Its compact size makes it easy to store when not in use. The option for either an electric start or manual recoil ensures that it will start when you need it.

The 6.6-gallon gasoline tank will run for up to 10 hours with a 50% load. Its various outlets all have removable rubber covers to protect them from the elements.

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6. A-iPower SUA12000E

 

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Most 10,000-watt generators peak at 10,000 watts but run somewhere between 7,000 and 8,000. The A-iPower SUA12000E peaks at 12,000 watts and runs at 9,000 watts.

If you have high electricity needs, such as heavy-draw appliances like a home air conditioner, this is an ideal backup generator.

Thanks to the high-performance alternator built into this reliable machine, it allowed me to run more household items or tools at the same time than most other options on this list.

Features and Benefits

The available outlets highlight the increased running wattage. This generator boasts four 120v 20-amp outlets, one 120/240v 30-amp L14-30R, one 120/240v 50-amp 14-50R, and one 12v 8.3-amp adaptor plug. All include a plastic cover.

The one thing I can complain about regarding this higher-capacity generator is its shorter run time. The seven-gallon gasoline tank provides only 8.5 hours of runtime at a 50% load.

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7. Ford 11050

 

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For a durable, versatile generator that’s ready for any terrain, consider the Ford 11050.

It’s a bit heavy, but the 10-inch never-flat wheels help minimize the awkwardness of transporting it. What I loved most about this generator is the Switch & Go functionality that let me seamlessly switch between gas and propane without a break in power output.

Features and Benefits

An electric push start ensures that the 11050 is up and running quickly. You can expect loads around 9,000 watts on gasoline or 8,100 watts on LPG. An air-cooled, four-stroke single-cylinder OHV engine provides power to four duplex 120v 20-amp outlets, one 120v 30-amp twist-lock outlet, and one 120/240v 50-amp RV outlet.

Switch & Go technology allows you to transition between gas and propane without losing power to your home, RV, or construction equipment. This smooth source transfer is particularly important if you’re running medical equipment.

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8. Generac 7033 11kW

 

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The Generac 7033 is a permanent generator designed to provide peace of mind.

Bad weather or power outages won’t stand a chance with this generator protecting your home. If you want to continuously supply power to your home and not have to worry about damaging your equipment, this sturdy standby generator is your go-to machine.

Features and Benefits

A 200-amp transfer switch automatically transitions the house from grid power to the 7033. It produces a running 10,000 watts of power using propane or natural gas supply lines. You can choose whether the 7033 powers the entire house or only select essential circuits.

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9. Briggs And Stratton 40450

 

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In places that frequently lose power, you don’t want to bother dragging out the generator every time you need it.

The Briggs and Stratton 40450 is a permanent unit capable of powering up to a 4,200-square-foot home.

It only needs 18 inches of clearance from your home, which means you can use it even within the tightest lot lines.

Features and Benefits

The Symphony II power management system ensures that your high-demand home appliances run on separate circuits. With this, you can keep everything on without risking a circuit overload.

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10. Gentron GG10020

 

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Planning for disaster situations can be hard on your wallet.

The Gentron GG10020 is an affordable alternative to the more expensive generators on our list.

It doesn’t have all the bells and whistles you find on other units, but it will keep your home appliances running, and with a decent fuel tank capacity, I found that its runtime is not far behind some of the more expensive options (though I did have to struggle a bit with the initial set up).

Features and Benefits

The GG10020 runs at 8,000 watts with a 10,000-watt peak. The 8-gallon fuel tank lasts for 11 hours, making it easier for you to get a full night’s sleep without worrying about the power going out.

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10,000-Watt Generator Buying Considerations

Not everyone requires the same features in a generator. That’s why it’s crucial to choose one with specifications that meet your needs. Below we’ve compiled a list of our most important considerations when buying a 10000 watt generator.

Price

Not all generators are of the same quality or have the same capabilities. As a result, you will see a wide price range across available units. Bargain 10000 watt generators are nowhere near as efficient, quiet, or lightweight as the more expensive models, nor do they have the same long-term warranties.

Fuel Type And Availability

Generators typically run on either gasoline or propane. Dual-fuel units allow you to choose between the two. It’s best to go with the fuel type that’s most readily available in your area.

Gasoline provides higher output than propane but needs to cool down before refueling. You can switch propane tanks as soon as they run low, and it’s easy to store numerous backup tanks. Proper propane storage is necessary, however, to prevent the risk of an explosion.

Noise Level

There’s no such thing as a silent—or even quiet—high-wattage generator. Many on our list do feature a lower operational decibel rating. Most people find noises between 70 and 74 dB tolerable. Anything higher can affect your quality of life or hearing. Smaller generators  generally run quietly if that's important to you.

Power Outlets

The best generator for you will have an adequate number of outlets available on its control panel to meet your electric needs. Be sure to check both the voltage and amperage of the unit. Some generators have the right number of outlets but are not equipped to power larger household appliances.

Warranty

A generator is an investment that you want to last for a long time. It’s crucial to purchase a unit with a comprehensive warranty. Check with the seller to be certain you understand what the warranty covers. Ideally, your unit has coverage for at least two years.

Looking For A Smaller Generator? Check Out These Reviews

The Best 2,000-Watt Portable Generators
The Best 4,000-Watt Portable Generators
The Best 5,000-Watt Portable Generators

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FAQs

What Can You Run On A 10000 Watt Generator?

A 10000 watt generator will power most critical household appliances. Don’t forget to check whether the individual outlets can handle the amp load of the item you plug into it. Devices with higher power needs sometimes pull too much current for the generator, despite falling comfortably under the wattage limit. Check the user manual for the specific power outputs of the outlets.

When Is A 10000 Watt Generator Needed?

In the past, one would only have seen 10,000-watt generators on construction sites. With extreme weather patterns and frequent power outages, they have become ideal for supporting the power needs of single-family homes. A 10,000-watt generator can handle your refrigerator, fans, and lights until power returns.

How Noisy Is A 10000 Watt Generator?

A generator makes the most noise when you start it. After you flip the switch, the sound reduces to a more constant rumble.

In terms of noise levels, most generators are comparable to an OHV. Quiet 10,000-watt generators fall into the 70-75 dB range. Louder units and ATVs are closer to 100 dB. More info on noise levels available here.

How Much Fuel Does A 10000 Watt Generator Use?

The amount of gas a 10000 watt generator uses depends on the type of generator, the size of the tank, and its runtime.

A conventional portable generator requires 18 to 20 gallons of gasoline to run for 24 hours. An inverter generator only needs 8 to 10 gallons of gasoline for the same amount of time.

Mechanical issues, including low oil, can decrease your generator’s efficiency, resulting in the need to refill the tank more often.

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Summing Up

All 10000 watt generators provide portable power for single family homes, worksites, or large RVs. The latest models come with a wide variety of features that get the job done while offering ease of use to the consumer.

If you choose any of the above generators, you’ll likely find yourself pleased with the results.