9 Best Portable Diesel Generators (Comparison & Reviews)

When choosing a diesel generator, customers are faced with a number of difficulties. First of all, this is due to the fact that the market for diesel generator equipment is wide and diverse. It presents both industrial and domestic models of a large number of manufacturers.

If with the capacity of the device it is possible to be defined independently, with a choice of concrete models it is much more difficult as all of them possess the advantages and lacks, and responses about them are not always unequivocal.

To help you make the right choice, we have collected the best diesel generators for you, which are characterized by high quality. you may also use a portable dual fuel generator if you prefer the other types of fuel.

This item has the best price and quality:

Our Top Pick
Honda EU2200i

Honda EU2200i

This popular model can operate a wide variety of appliances, making it perfect for portable use at home, camping, on the job site, or much more.

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The list of the other great portable diesel generators with a comparison of the main characteristics:

ItemDimensionsWeightWattageNoise Output
Honda EU2200i

Honda EU2200i

16 x 20 x 11 inches40 pounds2200 watts48 to 57 dBASee Best Price
Generac 7678 GP3600

Generac 7678 GP3600

24 x 22.5 x 21.3 inches105 pounds4500 watts

52 dBA

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Champion 4000-Watt

Champion 4000-Watt

20.5 x 17.9 x 17.7 inches81.6 pounds4000 watts

64 dBA

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Champion Power Equipment 42436 1500/1200-Watt

Champion Power Equipment 42436 

17.7 x 14 x 14.8 inches52.9 pounds1200 watts65 dBASee Best Price
Generac GP3500iO

Generac GP3500iO

19.7 x 16.5 x 16.4 inches74.3 pounds3500 watts62 dBASee Best Price
Briggs & Stratton P4500

Briggs & Stratton P4500

24.5 x 17.6 x 20.3 inches114.8 pounds4500 watts50 dBASee Best Price
Generac 6864

Generac 6864

33.1 x 22.5 x 25.6 inches254 pounds5500 watts52 dBASee Best Price
Mech Marvels 1500 Watt

Mech Marvels 1500 Watt

20 x 15.9 x 16.7 inches57.1 pounds1500 watts68 dBASee Best Price
A-iPower SUA2000iV

A-iPower SUA2000iV

22 x 13 x 20 inches50 pounds2000 watts58 dBASee Best Price

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Honda EU2200i

Honda EU2200iIt is the best choice for long-term and economical power supply. This diesel generator really shows itself to be a reliable and economical home helper.

The consumption of this generator is about 40-60% more economical than petrol models.

For all products, the manufacturer provides a 24-year warranty. The high functionality of the device is also taken care of here. It can connect the automation and air heating system for the easy start at negative temperatures.

The fuel tank with a capacity of 16 liters of diesel fuel is enough for 12 hours of continuous operation. Several household appliances can be connected to this generator at once. The engine power is able to withstand a heavy load.

Special dampers cut the vibration level. This eliminates premature wear and tear on internal parts and assemblies.

The control panel contains a voltmeter to display the voltage. There is also a motor-hour meter to display the operating hours of the diesel generator. There is an oil level indicator and a fuel indicator, and a protection machine.

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Generac 7678 GP3600

Generac 7678 GP3600This device is one of the best autonomous power sources. This generator has a powerful diesel engine.

The tank holds 17 liters of fuel, which is enough for 9 hours of uninterrupted operation. For comfortable work, the manufacturer has equipped the unit with many options.

This is a soundproofing cover, motor-hour meter, silencer, measuring instruments, wheels.

Buyers are positive about the quality of assembly, control system, acceptable noise, and vibration level. The generator starts up without any problems. During operation, all voltage indicators remain stable.

The presence of an oil level sensor is also an advantage. If the oil level is low, the generator will automatically stop running to avoid the dry running of the motor.

When the oil pressure drops below the permissible level, the signal lamp on the control panel will illuminate. A built-in fuel level sensor allows visual control of fuel residue in the tank.

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Champion 4000-Watt

Champion 4000-WattLooking for a quality source of electricity that runs on diesel fuel, you should pay attention to this model.

It is initially produced taking into account different operating conditions and customers’ wishes. The capacity of the unit is enough to supply the equipment with a total capacity of 5 kW.

The generator is on the basis of a wear-resistant 4-stroke engine. The presence of an electric starter makes it easy to start in adverse conditions.

The increased capacity of the fuel tank provides an 8-hour continuous operation. Fuel sensor alerts when refueling is required.

Besides, the device comes with an oil sensor, voltmeter, and voltage regulator. There is also a convenient transport kit – an ergonomic handle. There are supports and large rubber wheels. It allows operating the generator not only at home but also in hiking conditions.

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Champion Power Equipment 42436 1500/1200-Watt

Champion Power Equipment 42436 1500/1200-WattThe scope of this generator extends to construction when heavy equipment is used. It is also suitable for servicing private houses with a three-phase power supply.

Here is a powerful engine, which is more economical in comparison with analogs. It is for longer service life and produces less noise and vibration.

You can start it manually or with the electric starter button. The perfect operation of the unit is ensured by an air cooling system.

There are the most important control devices, such as voltmeter, diesel fuel level indicator. There is also a protection system against the “oil starvation” of the motor. The device comes with a battery, adapter, and condenser compensator. In general, the generator is assembled qualitatively. The design is also reliable.

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Generac GP3500iO

Generac GP3500iOThis portable generator comes with a two-cylinder diesel engine. It also has an electric starter and an automation connector.

It is able to provide uninterrupted power to your home, factory, or construction site. With a large tank and liquid cooling, it can run for up to 6 hours without stopping.

There are other advantages. For example, a high motor resource and reliable design, as well as relatively low fuel consumption.

Users are well aware of the level of unit performance, its reliability, and unpretentiousness to fuel quality.

Start-up is provided by a manual cable and an electric starter. There is also a built-in connector for connection to the automation unit. This allows you to buy and install an automatic mode of the start-up.

The output voltage is stabilized and equalized to the required value. The alternator is copper, synchronous. Fuel is heated before switching on in cold weather, which allows avoiding its thickening.

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Briggs & Stratton P4500

Briggs & Stratton P4500 This diesel power plant is the best option for power supply to your home. You can start the engine manually or by means of an electric starter.

The generator generates a single-phase current. It is possible to connect from one to two devices to the power plant. The uninterrupted operation time of one filling station is limited to 13 hours. In this case, this device consumes 15 liters of fuel.

A robust cover is to protect important parts of the power plant from harmful factors. An efficient air cooling system prevents the motor from overheating during continuous operation.

Buyers emphasize such advantages of the generator as compactness, low noise level, easy start, ease of operation. The power plant is quite mobile due to its wheels.

The output voltage is stable. Moreover, there is an integrated AVR function in combination with a copper alternative. Users are also attracted by the clever design. It is an open steel frame on the transport kit. It is biaxial, has four strong wheels and a comfortable long handle, so it is easy to transport on any surface.

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Generac 6864

Generac 6864This diesel generator will not only do a great job of backing up power. It will also guarantee stable operation as the main power source. You can use it as an independent power source.

This electric generator runs on diesel fuel. Generators of open type can operate without refueling at 75% load for 8 hours, at ambient temperature not exceeding 20 degrees. After 8 hours of operation, the generator must necessarily cool for at least 1 hour.

The generator has a two-cylinder four-stroke engine with air type cooling. Electronic voltage regulators provide a high output voltage stability and overload resistance.

A thermal circuit breaker is to protect against overloads and short circuits.

It has preheating, which makes it possible to start the system itself in difficult conditions. To activate the preheater, turn the start key counterclockwise for 15-20 seconds. After that, perform the normal start-up of the generator without delay.

The electronic emergency protection system controls the station operation parameters. It also switches off the generator if necessary. Including overload or low oil level.

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Mech Marvels 1500 Watt

Mech Marvels 1500 WattThis model has an air-cooled engine. The synchronous alternator is 100% copper. Besides, it handles converting kinetic energy into electrical energy.

The main advantage of this solution is the ability to withstand peak loads and short-term fluctuations. At the same time, it provides a non-stop quality of electricity.

The other advantages of the unit are titanium spraying on the valves. It increases their service life and at the same time reduces the number of harmful substances in the exhaust.

There is also the cryogenic treatment of piston rings, due to which their service life has been significantly increased.

This is a budget power plant with all necessary settings. You can use it for houses, firms, and enterprises as a reserve. The device works without interruption for not more than 8 hours. It is not desirable to connect sensitive equipment, as there is no built-in stabilizer.

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A-iPower SUA2000iV

A-iPower SUA2000iV This generator can run without refueling for 8 hours, after which the engine needs an hour’s rest. Preheating makes it possible to start the alternator at low temperatures.

In case of overloading or reaching a low oil level, the electronic emergency protection system is triggered.

This controls the unit by means of sensors. If you follow the recommendations in the manual, this model will last much longer.

In user feedback, you can find information about the high quality of the frame.

It practically does not vibrate. Over time, there are no cracks and discrepancies in welding seams on its surface.

An air cooling system quickly cools the engine. High technical characteristics make it possible to use the generator in various spheres.

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FAQ for portable diesel generators buyers:

Do portable generators need to be covered?

Instructions for a portable generator warn you not to run it in the rain. To protect it from moisture, the Consumer Product Safety Commission recommends operating it on a dry surface under an open, canopy-like structure. Overusing extension cords.

Can you leave a generator running all night?

Never refuel a running generator, even a generator with a still-hot engine because heat from the engine parts or exhaust could ignite the gasoline. Turn the generator off overnight (your neighbors will be happy, too). A refrigerator/freezer will be fine for without power.

How long can a diesel generator run continuously?

Depending on your standby generator, most manufacturers recommend that you limit your generator to 500 hours of use at the most. That’s about three weeks of continuous use.

How often should you run a portable generator?

While these storage tips make a world of difference, it’s always best to start your generator every 30 days and allow it to run for a few minutes. Doing so will help keep components lubricated by circulating the oil throughout the engine.

How long do portable generators last?

Portable generators typically do not last as long as stationary generators. Depending on the quality of the engine, you can expect a portable generator to last between 1000 and 2000 hours. That means if you run your portable generator an average of 100 hours per year, it will last between 10 and 20 years.