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Power outages obviously can happen everywhere. An auxiliary source of electricity is essential for every family's comfort and security. Unfortunately, buying a portable generator can be a confusing process because there are many different types available. The purpose of this quick buyer guide is to help you choose the best device for your needs and possibly save you hours of research.

Generators of course are used for a broad range of purposes. So, the first thing to do is to determine how you'll use it. Then you have to pick the right wattage. Note that technically speaking, what is sold as a generator is actually a genset- a set consisting of an engine and an alternator. The main difference between the gensets is in the type of fuel their motor is using. The main three motor types for portable models are gasoline, diesel and propane. For a detailed analysis you may read our complete guide and a review of portable generators. Our quick selection recommendations are the following. If you are not expecting to use your device frequently, you may consider a gasoline-fueled genset, which is the cheapest among all types. It also the least reliable though. If you plan to use your genset frequently, such as on jobsite, your best bet is a diesel model. It will cost several times more than a gas model, but diesels have the highest efficiency and reliability. However, remember that getting gas or diesel can be a problem during a blackout. If you don't want to store by your home large amount of fuel, and prefer a fuel with practically unlimited shelf life which can be available during a blackout, consider propane.

There are dozens of genset manufacturers to choose from. From a technical standpoint, Honda generators are probably the best. They are reliable and provide clean sinewave output. But, of course, Honda is at the high end of the price range. Based on the customer reviews at Amazon, major U.S. brands such as Generac and Briggs & Stratton typically have lower ratings. Furthermore, they do not necessarily have better reliability than lesser known lines manufactured in China. If you are looking for best prices, in the power range up to 5,000 watts I would consider Champion line made by Champion Power Equipment, DuroStar, Sportsman, and DuroMax. Based on their characteristics, cost and buyer reviews, they provide good value at low cost. That said, unfortunately, after major natural disasters, many low-cost generators are out of stock on Amazon, and third part sellers set exorbitant prices. Below are my picks of small bare bone portable devices for different types of fuel.

Gasoline DuroStar 4000 W peak/ 3500 W rated portable. 120 V outlets, 12 hours run time per tankful at half load; OHV engine; emissions meet EPA.

Propane Sportsman GEN4000LP: 4000 starting watt, 3250 W rated. Two 120V 20A outlets and one 12 VDC 10 amp outlet. Runs 10 hours at 50% load on 20-lb BBQ tank.

Dual Fuel DuroMax 3850 watts run; 4850 watts start. Run Time @50% Load: 16 Hours on propane BBQ tank and 12 hours on gasoline. Provides 120v/240v 30A twist lock and 120 volt 20A 3-prong outlets.

Note that any portable power source is intended to be hooked up to your appliances via extension cords. If you want to connect it to your home wiring to energize lights, wall outlets and other hard-wired devices, and you are on the grid, the safest way to do it is by installing a transfer system. In an emergency there are other connection methods without a transfer switch as well. For complete detailed information see our generator review and buying guide.

The above overview is based solely on the analysis of the published characteristics and prices. Although these models have generally positive user reviews at Amazon, no attempt was made to determine their actual reliability and customer service. All the information here is provided "AS IS" and do not constitute a professional advice: always do your own research. The sole responsibility when buying a product rests with you, the buyer: see complete Disclaimer and Disclosure linked below.