ETQ TG1200
With prices ranging from $90 to $200, as of May 2010, the TG1200 is an entry-level generator. Even though it lacks inverter technology, it's Sine Power design keeps electrical noise at safe levels for electronics. The TG1200's 1,000-watt continuous and 1,200-watt peak power output are capable of running several appliances at the same time. Since it weighs less than 45 pounds and is about a square foot in size, you can put it wherever you need it and pack it away when you don't. The TG1200's one-gallon tank will keep it running for about eight hours at a 50 percent load and 5 1/2 hours at 100 percent, but its 65-decibel noise level is easy to live with.
Honeywell HW2000i
If you have simple needs and a tight budget, Honeywell's HW2000i is worth a look. It's a top three consumersearch.com pick and an electricgeneratorsdirect.com editor's choice. The inverter technology of its 2,000-watt engine provides clean, surge-free power for sensitive devices like computers. Honeywell's HW2000i meets clean-air standards, and its economy mode adjusts the engine speed to the load to reduce noise and increase efficiency. You might feel limited by Honeywell's two outlets, but the HW2000i's power output and inverter design make it an efficient choice. It costs $500, as of May 2010.
ETQ TG32P12
Another low-price leader from ETQ is the 3,250-watt TG32P12 that can handle 4,000-watt surges but is priced from $320 to $520, as of May 2010. With its wheeled chassis and 106-pound weight, it's not as portable as its cheaper sibling, but its performance makes up for it. It has two 120-volt outlets and one at 240 volts that will power seven small appliances or one major appliance (like a water heater or central air conditioner). The TG32P12's Sine Power design makes it safe for running sensitive electronics and its oversize muffler keeps noise levels below 68 decibels. A four-gallon tank allows it to run for 13 hours at 50 percent power and up to nine hours at 100 percent load.
Generac 5724
As the winner of a "Good Housekeeping" seal of approval, the 5724's two-year warranty is backed by a "Good Housekeeping" two-year refund or replacement warranty. It's ConsumerSearch.com's best-rated generator. Generac's 5724 puts out 3,250 watts with surges to 3,750 and its four 120/240 volt outlets are circuit-breaker protected. The 5724 has a wheeled cart with a fold-down handle to make moving easy, and a low-tone muffler to keep the noise down. It retails for $400 to $500, as of May 2010.
