Recommended size: 5,000–7,500W
A 5,000–7,500W portable generator handles most construction power tools. A circular saw (2,400W starting), air compressor (4,500W starting), and electric drill (900W starting) all run comfortably on a 7,500W unit. For basic tool use without an air compressor, 5,000W is sufficient.
Affordable dual fuel option with CO Alert safety shutoff and MX2 power boost technology. Runs on gas or propane for flexible fuel options during outages.
Jobsite generators need raw power and durability more than quiet operation or fuel efficiency. An air compressor alone can pull 4,500W on startup, so if that is part of your toolkit, a 7,500W generator is the minimum. Running a circular saw and drill simultaneously draws about 3,300W starting, which a 5,000W generator handles with headroom. The DuroMax XP5500HX is the budget pick at this tier. For running multiple heavy tools at once or adding lighting rigs, the Westinghouse WGen7500DFc and Generac GP7500E deliver the wattage and fuel flexibility contractors need for full-day operation.
| Generator | Starting W | Running W | Fuel | Noise |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DuroMax XP5500HX Dual Fuel | 5,500W | 4,500W | Gasoline / Propane | 69 dB |
| Westinghouse WGen7500DFc | 9,500W | 7,500W | Gasoline / Propane | 72 dB |
| Generac GP7500E Dual Fuel | 9,400W | 7,500W | Gasoline / Propane | 74 dB |
DuroMax
★4.4·370 ratings
Affordable dual fuel option with CO Alert safety shutoff and MX2 power boost technology. Runs on gas or propane for flexible fuel options during outages.
Westinghouse
Dual fuel flexibility with CO sensor safety shutoff. Transfer-switch ready with remote electric start and 6.6-gallon tank.
Generac
★4.4·175 ratings
Powers most essential home circuits during an outage. Electric start and dual fuel flexibility from a trusted brand.
The accessories most generator owners add to run safely and connect to the house.
Transfer / Interlock
★4.7·1,733 ratings
Lets you safely back-feed your panel from one inlet. Confirm it matches your breaker brand and amperage.
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Power Cord
★4.8·2,827 ratings
Heavy 10-gauge twist-lock cord rated to 7,500W, the standard link between a portable unit and your inlet box.
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Weather Cover
★4.6·2,107 ratings
Keeps rain and snow off the unit so you can run it through a storm with proper ventilation.
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CO Safety
★4.7·19,762 ratings
Generator exhaust is the top cause of CO poisoning during outages. A battery alarm keeps working when the grid is down.
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Fuel Care
★4.8·35,997 ratings
Treats 40 gallons and keeps stored fuel fresh for up to 24 months so the engine starts when you need it.
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