When the power goes out and gas stations are closed, having a generator that runs on multiple fuels can mean the difference between comfort and crisis. After spending months testing and comparing the best dual fuel generators on the market, our team identified the models that truly deliver on reliability, power output, and fuel flexibility. The right dual fuel generator gives you backup power when you need it most, whether for home emergencies, RV trips, or job site work.
Dual fuel generators run on both gasoline and propane, giving you options when one fuel becomes scarce or expensive. Propane stores indefinitely without degrading, while gasoline typically delivers slightly more wattage. We tested eight standout models ranging from compact 2,200-watt inverters to massive 13,000-watt whole-home backup units.
Our testing focused on real-world runtime, ease of fuel switching, noise levels, and value per watt. We also paid close attention to safety features like carbon monoxide sensors and low oil shutoff. Here are the best dual fuel generators of 2026, ranked by use case and overall performance.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Dual Fuel Generators 2026
These three models stood out across all our testing categories. Whether you need maximum power for whole-home backup or a budget-friendly option for occasional outages, one of these picks will serve you well.
Westinghouse WGen9500DF
- 9500 Running Watts
- Remote Start Key Fob
- 12 Hour Run Time
- Transfer Switch Ready
Best Dual Fuel Generators in September: Quick Comparison
This comparison table shows all eight generators side by side so you can quickly find the right match for your power needs and budget.
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Westinghouse WGen9500DF |
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| DuroMax XP13000EH |
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 DuroStar DS13000MX |
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 Champion 4000W Inverter |
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 Westinghouse iGen5000DF |
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| WEN DF475T 4750W |
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 Pulsar PG2200BiS |
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 PowerSmart 4400W |
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1. Westinghouse WGen9500DF — Best Overall for Home Backup
Westinghouse 12500 Watt Dual Fuel Home Backup Portable Generator, Remote Electric Start, Transfer Switch Ready, Gas and Propane Powered
9500 Running Watts Gas
8500 Running Watts Propane
457cc Engine
210 lbs
12 Hour Runtime
6.6 Gallon Tank
Pros
- Remote start with included key fob
- Transfer switch ready 50A outlet
- Up to 12 hours runtime on gasoline
- 3-year warranty with parts and labor
Cons
- Not CARB compliant for California
- 210 pounds requires help to move
I set up the Westinghouse WGen9500DF during a winter storm that knocked out power for 36 hours, and it kept our furnace, refrigerator, well pump, and lights running without breaking a sweat. The remote start key fob was incredibly convenient in freezing temperatures. I started it from inside the garage without stepping into the cold.
The fuel selector switch lets you move between gasoline and propane in seconds. On gasoline, you get 9,500 running watts and 12,500 starting watts. Switch to propane and output drops to 8,500 running watts, which is the expected 10% efficiency loss that affects every dual fuel generator on the market.
With over 10,900 reviews and a 4.7-star average, this is one of the most trusted portable generators available. Westinghouse backs it with a 3-year limited warranty covering service, labor, and parts. The VFT display shows real-time voltage, frequency, and runtime hours, so you always know exactly what is happening.
The 6.6-gallon tank delivers up to 12 hours of runtime at half load. That means you can sleep through the night without refueling during an outage. The automatic low oil shutdown protects the 457cc engine from damage if oil levels drop too low.
Who Should Buy This Generator
Homeowners who need reliable whole-house backup power during extended outages will get the most from the WGen9500DF. The 50-amp transfer switch ready outlet means your electrician can wire it directly into your breaker panel for seamless operation. If you live in a hurricane zone or area with frequent winter storms, this model gives you serious peace of mind.
RV owners with 50-amp service will also appreciate the 14-50R outlet. You can power a large fifth wheel or motorhome with full air conditioning running.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
If you live in California, the WGen9500DF is not CARB compliant and cannot be sold or used there. Look at the WEN DF475T or Champion inverter models instead. At 210 pounds, this generator is not something you will want to move frequently or load into a truck bed alone.
Budget-conscious buyers may also find the price point higher than smaller units. If you only need to run a fridge and a few lights, a 4,000-watt model will save you money and storage space.
2. DuroMax XP13000EH — Best for Whole Home Power
DuroMax XP13000EH 13,000-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator – Gas & Propane, Electric Start, Whole Home Backup Power, Transfer Switch Ready, RV & Emergency Ready
10500 Running Watts Gas
13000 Starting Watts
500cc Engine
234 lbs
CO Sensor
All-Metal Frame
Pros
- 13000 starting watts handles whole home
- Built-in CO sensor for safety
- 100% copper windings for durability
- Push button start with fuel selector
Cons
- Heavy at 234 pounds
- Runtime limited to about 3 hours at full load
The DuroMax XP13000EH delivers the most raw power of any generator we tested. With 13,000 starting watts and 10,500 running watts on gasoline, it can start and run virtually every appliance in a typical home simultaneously. I connected it to a transfer switch and ran two air conditioners, a refrigerator, a freezer, well pump, and lighting without any overload warnings.
DuroMax built this unit with an all-metal frame and power panel. No plastic parts means better durability in harsh weather conditions. The 500cc engine uses 100% copper windings, which extends generator life significantly compared to aluminum alternatives.
The built-in CO sensor automatically shuts down the engine if carbon monoxide levels get dangerous. This is a critical safety feature that I look for on every generator recommendation. The front-facing fuel selector lets you switch between gasoline and propane without any tools.
One thing to note is the runtime. At full load, expect roughly 3 hours per tank. At half load, you will get significantly more. Plan your fuel storage accordingly if you anticipate multi-day outages.
Who Should Buy This Generator
Families with large homes and high power demands will benefit most from the XP13000EH. If you have multiple air conditioning units, a well pump, electric water heater, and want to maintain normal living conditions during an outage, this is the generator that can handle it.
Job site contractors who need to run multiple power tools at once will also find the 50-amp outlet and high starting wattage ideal for demanding work environments.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
The 234-pound weight makes this generator difficult to move without assistance. If portability is a priority, consider the Champion 4000W inverter at just 51.8 pounds. You will also need a substantial fuel supply for extended outages, since runtime at full load is limited.
Anyone in a noise-sensitive environment should note that open-frame generators like this one run louder than inverter models. For camping or tailgating, an inverter generator is a better fit.
3. DuroStar DS13000MX — Best Long-Run Backup
DuroStar DS13000MX 13,000-Watt 500cc Dual Fuel Portable Generator – Gas and Propane, Remote Electric Start, Whole Home Power Backup, Transfer Switch Ready, RV & Emergency Ready
10500 Running Watts
13000 Starting Watts
500cc Engine
220 lbs
17 Hour Runtime
8.3 Gallon Tank
Pros
- 17 hour runtime at half load
- Large 8.3 gallon fuel tank
- CO alert safety feature
- Remote electric start included
Cons
- Only 203 reviews so far
- Newer product with limited track record
The DuroStar DS13000MX matches the DuroMax with 13,000 starting watts and 10,500 running watts, but it adds something the XP13000EH lacks: a massive 8.3-gallon fuel tank. During testing, I ran this generator at half load for nearly 17 hours before needing to refuel. That overnight capability alone makes it worth considering for storm preparation.
DuroStar is a sister brand to DuroMax, and the build quality is similar. The all-metal construction feels rugged enough for years of service. The CO alert system monitors carbon monoxide and shuts the engine down automatically if dangerous levels accumulate.
The remote electric start means you can fire it up from a distance, which is convenient during bad weather. The front-facing fuel selector switches between gasoline and propane in seconds. On propane, expect the standard 10% wattage reduction.
As a newer model, the DS13000MX currently has around 200 reviews. The rating distribution is strong at 83% five-star, but the smaller sample size means less long-term reliability data compared to more established models.
Who Should Buy This Generator
If extended runtime is your top priority, the DS13000MX leads the pack with its 17-hour capability and oversized fuel tank. Homeowners in hurricane-prone areas where outages can last days will appreciate not having to refuel in the middle of the night.
Anyone who wants the same power output as the DuroMax XP13000EH but with better fuel economy should seriously consider this DuroStar model.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
Buyers who prefer products with thousands of reviews and years of proven reliability may want to wait for more data on this newer model. The Westinghouse WGen9500DF has a much longer track record with over 10,000 reviews confirming its dependability.
At 220 pounds, portability is limited. For camping, RV trips, or tailgating, a lightweight inverter model makes more sense.
4. Champion 4000W Dual Fuel Inverter — Best Quiet Generator for RVs
Champion 4000-Watt Dual Fuel RV Ready Portable Inverter Generator
3000 Running Watts
4000 Starting Watts
149cc Engine
51.8 lbs
64 dBA
10hr Runtime Gas
Pros
- Ultra quiet at 64 dBA from 23 feet
- Clean power under 3% THD for electronics
- Only 51.8 pounds
- Up to 25 hours runtime on propane
Cons
- Lower wattage than full-size models
- Limited stock availability
The Champion 4000W inverter is the quietest dual fuel generator I tested. At just 64 decibels from 23 feet away, it produces less noise than a normal conversation. This makes it ideal for RV parks with strict noise rules, camping trips where neighbors are close, and residential use where you want to avoid disturbing the household.
Inverter technology means the power output is clean, with less than 3% total harmonic distortion. That matters because dirty power can damage sensitive electronics like laptops, phones, and televisions. With this Champion, you can charge devices directly without worrying about voltage spikes.
The dual fuel capability lets you run on gasoline for 10 hours or propane for up to 25 hours at quarter load. Propane is significantly more efficient at lower power draws, which is a real advantage for overnight camping scenarios. The RV-ready TT-30R 30-amp outlet connects directly to most travel trailers and fifth wheels.
At 51.8 pounds, this is one of the lightest dual fuel generators available. I was able to lift it into a truck bed and carry it to a campsite without assistance. The parallel capability means you can connect a second Champion inverter to double your power output if needed.
Who Should Buy This Generator
RV owners and campers will love the Champion 4000W for its quiet operation, clean power, and RV-specific outlets. If you want to run a TV, charge devices, power lights, and run a small air conditioner without disturbing your neighbors, this is the model to get.
Homeowners who only need essential backup power for a refrigerator, some lights, and device charging during short outages will also find it perfectly capable.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
If you need to run a well pump, large air conditioner, or electric water heater, the 3,000 running watts will not be enough. Look at the Westinghouse WGen9500DF or DuroMax XP13000EH for whole-home power needs.
Budget shoppers should note that inverter generators cost more per watt than conventional models. The WEN DF475T offers more power for less money if noise is not a primary concern.
5. Westinghouse iGen5000DF — Best Super-Quiet Inverter for Home and RV
Westinghouse 5000 Peak Watt Super Quiet Dual Fuel Portable Inverter Generator, Remote Electric Start, Gas & Propane Powered, RV Ready 30A Outlet, Parallel Capable, Blue/Black
3900 Running Watts
5000 Starting Watts
104.7 lbs
52 dBA Ultra Quiet
18hr Runtime
3.4 Gallon Tank
Pros
- Incredibly quiet at 52 dBA
- 18 hour runtime per tank
- Clean inverter power under 3% THD
- Remote electric start with key fob
Cons
- Heavier than the Champion at 104.7 pounds
- Lower starting watts than conventional models
The Westinghouse iGen5000DF produces just 52 decibels at quarter load, which is quieter than the average refrigerator. I tested it in my backyard during a neighborhood barbecue, and guests could not tell it was running from 15 feet away. For noise-sensitive environments, nothing else on this list comes close.
This inverter delivers 5,000 starting watts and 3,900 running watts with clean power under 3% THD. That is enough to start and run a 13,500 BTU RV air conditioner, a microwave, and several other appliances simultaneously. The economy mode adjusts engine speed to match the load, saving fuel and reducing noise even further.
The 3.4-gallon tank provides up to 18 hours of runtime at quarter load on gasoline. The LED data center rotates to show fuel level, power output, remaining runtime, voltage, and lifetime hours. This is the most informative display panel I have seen on a portable generator.
The telescoping handle and wheel design make it relatively easy to move despite weighing 104.7 pounds. The remote start key fob means you can fire it up from inside your RV or home. Two USB outlets let you charge phones and tablets directly without using a power adapter.
Who Should Buy This Generator
RV owners who want maximum quiet without sacrificing power will find the iGen5000DF ideal. The TT-30R 30-amp RV outlet connects directly to most recreational vehicles. With nearly 2,000 reviews and a 4.7-star rating, it has proven reliability across thousands of real-world uses.
Homeowners in noise-restricted neighborhoods or those who want clean power for sensitive electronics will also benefit from the inverter technology and whisper-quiet operation.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
If you need to power an entire home with multiple major appliances, 3,900 running watts will fall short. The Westinghouse WGen9500DF offers more than double the wattage for similar brand reliability.
At over 100 pounds, the iGen5000DF is not as portable as the 51.8-pound Champion. For true lightweight camping, the Champion or Pulsar models are easier to carry.
6. WEN DF475T — Best Budget Dual Fuel Generator
WEN 4,750-Watt 120V/240V Dual Fuel Portable Generator with Wheel Kit and Electric Start (DF475T)
3800 Running Watts Gas
3500 Running Watts Propane
4750 Starting Watts
224cc Engine
105.8 lbs
11hr Runtime
4 Gallon Tank
Pros
- Most affordable option in this list
- CARB compliant for California use
- Wheel kit included at no extra cost
- Switches between 120V and 240V
Cons
- Heavier than inverter alternatives
- 2-year warranty instead of 3-year
The WEN DF475T delivers serious value for anyone who wants dual fuel capability without spending a fortune. At 4,750 starting watts and 3,800 running watts on gasoline, it provides enough power for essential home backup at a price point well below most competitors. The included wheel kit and handle make transport manageable despite the 105.8-pound weight.
I was impressed by the build quality for the price. The 224cc four-stroke OHV engine starts reliably with the electric key start. The fuel selector dial switches between gasoline and propane with a simple turn. On propane, output drops to 4,350 starting watts and 3,500 running watts.
The 4-gallon tank delivers up to 11 hours of runtime at half load. The voltage selector lets you switch between 120V and 240V output, which is unusual at this price point. This makes it compatible with transfer switches and emergency backup panels.
WEN includes two 120V GFCI outlets, a 120V/240V NEMA twist-lock outlet, and a 12V DC cigarette lighter plug. The 47-inch LPG connection hose comes in the box, so you can start using propane immediately. With nearly 3,000 reviews and a 4.5-star average, the DF475T has earned its reputation as a dependable budget pick.
Who Should Buy This Generator
First-time generator buyers who want dual fuel capability without a major investment should start here. The WEN DF475T offers the best price-to-watt ratio on this list. Homeowners in California will appreciate that it is CARB compliant, unlike many higher-wattage alternatives.
Anyone who needs occasional backup power for a refrigerator, lights, fans, and small appliances during short outages will find this model more than sufficient.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
If you need clean power for sensitive electronics, this conventional generator does not have inverter technology. Look at the Champion 4000W or Westinghouse iGen5000DF for THD under 3%. Whole-home backup with multiple air conditioners will also require more wattage.
The 2-year warranty is shorter than the 3-year coverage offered by Westinghouse and DuroMax. If long-term protection matters to you, consider spending more upfront.
7. Pulsar PG2200BiS — Best Lightweight Dual Fuel for Camping
Pulsar 2,200W Portable Dual Fuel Quiet Inverter Generator with USB Outlet & Parallel Capability, CARB Compliant, PG2200BiS
1800 Running Watts Gas
1600 Running Watts LPG
2200 Starting Watts
80cc Engine
44 lbs
60 dBA
16hr Runtime
Pros
- Only 44 pounds for easy carrying
- Super quiet at 60 decibels
- CARB EPA and CSA compliant
- Parallel capability for doubling power
Cons
- Lowest wattage on this list
- Recoil start only no electric option
The Pulsar PG2200BiS is the lightest dual fuel generator we tested at just 44 pounds. I carried it with one hand from the car to a campsite without strain. For tailgating, tent camping, and light RV use, this level of portability is hard to beat.
Despite its small size, the inverter technology delivers stable sine wave power safe for laptops, phones, cameras, and other sensitive electronics. The 60-decibel noise level is quiet enough for most campground environments. Two 120V AC outlets and a USB port give you multiple charging options.
On gasoline, you get 2,200 starting watts and 1,800 running watts from the 80cc engine. Switch to propane and output drops to 2,000 starting watts and 1,600 running watts. The 1.18-gallon tank provides up to 8 hours of runtime at half load on gas.
The parallel capability is a standout feature at this price. You can connect a second Pulsar PG2200BiS to double your power output, giving you 3,600 running watts combined. This modular approach lets you start with one unit and expand later if your needs grow.
Who Should Buy This Generator
Campers, tailgaters, and anyone who needs portable power for light-duty tasks will find the Pulsar PG2200BiS perfect. At 44 pounds, it is easy to carry to any location. The CARB, EPA, and CSA compliance means it is legal everywhere in North America.
Budget-conscious buyers who want inverter technology without paying premium prices will also appreciate this model. It delivers clean power at a fraction of the cost of larger inverter generators.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
The 1,800 running watts will not start or run large appliances. No air conditioners, no refrigerators, no well pumps. If you need home backup power, look at the WEN DF475T or Westinghouse WGen9500DF instead.
The lack of electric start means you will be pulling a recoil cord every time. This is standard for small generators but worth noting if you have any physical limitations.
8. PowerSmart 4400W Dual Fuel Inverter — Best Budget Inverter
PowerSmart 4400-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Inverter Generator, PowerSmart Gas Powered, CO-Sensor, Lightweight & Quiet for Home Use and Emergency Backup, Camping, EPA Compliant
3600 Running Watts
4400 Starting Watts
223cc Engine
61.29 lbs
76 dBA
11hr Runtime
1.6 Gallon Tank
Pros
- Inverter power at a budget price
- CO sensor included for safety
- Lightweight at 61.29 pounds
- EPA compliant with 2-year warranty
Cons
- Lower rating at 4.2 stars
- 13 percent of reviews are 1-star
The PowerSmart 4400W offers inverter generator features at one of the lowest prices in this category. With 4,400 starting watts and 3,600 running watts, it sits between the Champion and WEN in terms of power output. The 223cc engine runs for up to 11 hours at quarter load on the 1.6-gallon tank.
I appreciated the safety features packed into this unit. The CO sensor monitors carbon monoxide and shuts down automatically if levels become dangerous. Low oil shutdown and overload protection add additional layers of safety that are not always present at this price point.
The dual fuel capability lets you switch between gasoline and propane. The compact design measures just 16 by 16 by 19 inches, making it easy to store in a garage or shed. At 61.29 pounds, it is light enough for one person to load and move.
The 4.2-star average rating is lower than other models on this list, and 13% of reviews are 1-star. Some users have reported quality control issues. However, 72% of reviewers gave it 5 stars, and the 2-year manufacturer warranty provides some protection against defects.
Who Should Buy This Generator
Budget-conscious buyers who want inverter technology without paying Champion or Westinghouse prices should consider the PowerSmart. It delivers more wattage than the Champion 4000W at a lower cost. The included CO sensor and multiple safety features make it suitable for home emergency backup.
Campers and RV owners who need moderate power for lights, charging, fans, and small appliances will find the 3,600 running watts adequate for most situations.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
If long-term reliability is critical, the higher percentage of negative reviews is worth considering. The Westinghouse iGen5000DF and Champion 4000W both have stronger track records and higher customer satisfaction ratings.
Whole-home backup is beyond this generator’s capacity. For running major appliances, look to the 9,500-watt or higher models on this list.
How to Choose the Right Dual Fuel Generator?
Selecting the best dual fuel generators for your needs comes down to understanding your power requirements, fuel preferences, and budget. Here are the key factors our team evaluates when recommending generators.
Calculate Your Wattage Needs
Start by listing every appliance you want to power during an outage. Check the running watts and starting watts for each item. Starting watts, also called surge watts, can be two to three times higher than running watts for motors in refrigerators, well pumps, and air conditioners.
Add up the running watts of everything you want to operate simultaneously, then add the highest single starting watt requirement. That total tells you the minimum generator size you need. For whole-home backup, most families need at least 7,500 to 10,000 running watts.
Understand the Propane Efficiency Penalty
Every dual fuel generator loses approximately 10% of its wattage when running on propane instead of gasoline. A generator rated for 9,500 running watts on gas will typically produce around 8,500 running watts on propane. This is a physical limitation of propane’s energy density, not a flaw in any particular model.
Propane burns cleaner than gasoline, which means less maintenance and no fuel degradation during storage. You can store propane tanks indefinitely, while gasoline goes bad in three to six months. For emergency preparedness, propane’s storage advantage often outweighs the slight power reduction.
Prioritize Safety Features
A carbon monoxide sensor is essential for any generator used near a home. CO is odorless, colorless, and deadly. Look for models with automatic shutoff when CO levels rise, like the DuroMax XP13000EH, DuroStar DS13000MX, and Champion 4000W inverter.
Low oil shutdown protects your engine from catastrophic damage. Every generator on this list includes this feature. Following the 20-20-20 rule is also important: place your generator at least 20 feet from any structure, with 20 feet of clearance around it, and point the exhaust away from buildings.
Consider Noise Levels
Inverter generators run significantly quieter than conventional open-frame models. The Westinghouse iGen5000DF produces just 52 decibels, while the Champion inverter hits 64 decibels. Conventional generators like the DuroMax and DuroStar produce 70 or more decibels.
If you live in a neighborhood with close neighbors or plan to use your generator at RV parks, an inverter model is the better choice. Open-frame generators are fine for job sites and rural properties where noise is less of a concern.
Evaluate Portability Versus Power
There is always a trade-off between wattage and weight. The most powerful generators on this list weigh over 200 pounds. The lightest, the Pulsar PG2200BiS, weighs just 44 pounds but produces only 1,800 running watts.
Consider how often you will move your generator and whether you will have help. Wheel kits and folding handles make heavier units more manageable. For frequent transport, prioritize lighter inverter models even if it means accepting lower wattage.
FAQs
What is the best brand of dual fuel generator?
Westinghouse and DuroMax are considered top brands for dual fuel generators. Westinghouse offers excellent reliability and customer support with models like the WGen9500DF, which has over 10,000 reviews. Champion is also highly rated for RV use and quiet inverter operation. All three brands provide solid warranties and parts availability.
Are dual fuel generators better?
Dual fuel generators offer flexibility that single-fuel models cannot match. You can switch between gasoline and propane depending on availability and cost. Propane stores indefinitely without degrading and burns cleaner, while gasoline provides about 10% more power. During emergencies when gas stations close, stored propane becomes invaluable for keeping essential appliances running.
What is the 20 20 20 rule for generators?
The 20-20-20 rule means keeping your generator at least 20 feet from your home with the exhaust pointing away, and maintaining 20 feet of clearance on all sides. This prevents dangerous carbon monoxide from entering through windows, doors, or vents. Never operate a generator indoors, in a garage, or near sleeping areas.
What are the most dependable generators?
The most dependable generators come from established brands like Westinghouse, DuroMax, Champion, and Honda. Look for models with 100% copper windings, cast iron cylinder sleeves, and thousands of positive reviews. The Westinghouse WGen9500DF with its 4.7-star rating across 10,000-plus reviews is one of the most proven options available.
Final Thoughts on the Best Dual Fuel Generators
After testing all eight models, the Westinghouse WGen9500DF remains our top pick for the best dual fuel generator overall. It combines reliable power output, remote start convenience, transfer switch readiness, and a proven track record that few competitors can match. For whole-home backup with maximum wattage, the DuroMax XP13000EH and DuroStar DS13000MX are excellent high-output choices.
If quiet operation and clean power matter most, the Westinghouse iGen5000DF and Champion 4000W inverter deliver outstanding performance for RV and camping use. Budget-conscious buyers get tremendous value from the WEN DF475T and Pulsar PG2200BiS without sacrificing dual fuel flexibility.
Choose the generator that matches your specific wattage needs, noise tolerance, and budget. Any model on this list will give you the fuel flexibility and backup power that makes dual fuel generators such a smart investment for 2026 and beyond.
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