Why do you need a 50 Amp Outlet on a Portable Generator?
A 50 Amp outlet has four openings to connect a 4-prong power cable. It contains two 120V hot wires, one ground, and one neutral wire. Four pronged outlets are needed to connect your RV to the generator or heavy appliances for work and construction sites. Some people believe that if you connect an adapter with a 30 Amp outlet and attach a 50 Amp cable to it, you will get the work done. It is not true; you will just get a maximum of 3600 watts of power. It will not be enough to power your entire RV. You will notice fluctuations and tripping while your appliances are running, and you would have to take offloads for running other appliances. For example, if you want to run your stove, and if you are using a 30 to 50 Amp adapter, you would have to turn off your AC regardless of the power output of the generator. However, if you were using a 50 Amp outlet and a large generator, you would have to make no compromise, and your RV experience will be smooth as silk.
Problems Associated with Buying 50 Amp Portable Generators
When you are on the hunt for a generator with a 50 Amp outlet, you must make sure of the following.
- It must fulfill all your power needs and have some cushion to adjust one or two small loads.
- It must be able to power your home or RV without having to make any compromises on your essential appliances.
- The running cost should be affordable.
- The generator must be durable.
- It must be safe to operate.
- It gives you a user-friendly control panel and maximum options on it.
- The generator must have wheels and handles to facilitate movement.
Keeping your needs and the above problems in view, we have developed a review guide for the best portable generators with 50 Amp plug. In this guide, you will go through the reviews of the best 50 Amp Generators, a buying guide, and a FAQ section. It will enable you to make the best purchase according to your needs.
Best Portable Generators with 50 Amp Plug
All the generators on our list have a 50 Amp plug. You don’t need to worry about using it for RV and other heavy machinery with a 4-pin plug.
If you are willing to buy a 50 amp portable generator, check the following seven best generators.
Table of Contents
Portable Generators with 50 Amp Plug Reviews
Image | Product Name | Features | Ratings | Reviews | Check Price |
 | Westinghouse WGen9500DF Dual Fuel Portable Generator |
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 | DuroMax XP10000E Gas Powered Portable Generator |
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 | Pulsar G12KBN Heavy Duty Portable Dual Fuel Generator |
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 | DuroMax XP15000EH Dual Fuel Portable Generator |
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 | Generac 5734 GP15000E 15000 Running Watts |
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 | Champion Power Equipment 100161 Portable Generator |
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 | WEN DF1100T 11,000-Watt 120V/240V Portable Generator |
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1. Westinghouse WGen9500DF Dual Fuel Portable Generator-9500 Rated 12500 Peak Watts Gas or Propane Powered-Electric Start-Transfer Switch & RV Ready, CARB Compliant – Best Overall
- Engine: 457cc, 4-stroke OHV
- Output: 12,500-9500 watts
- Start: Recoil, Electric, Remote
More Features: It’s an RV ready, CARB compliant power station that works on propane and gas.
Fuel Type, Tank Capacity, and Runtime: At the top of our list, we have a dual fuel generator for you. Dual fuel generators give you the freedom to run your generator on gas and propane. It provides a backup of up to 17.5 hours with a 25% load on a 6.6-gallon gas tank. For propane, the run time depends on the size of the cylinder.
Power Output: When the generator is running on gas, it gives you a power output of 9500 running watts and 12500 peak watts. The power output on propane is less than gas. Propane will provide 11200 peak watts and 8500 running watts. The power output in both conditions is enough to manage all the appliances in your RV through a 50 Amp output.
Engine Specifications: The generator comes with 457cc, 4-stroke OHV engine to ensure that all your appliances run smoothly without any jerks. The engine can be started in 3 ways: electric, recoil, and remote control start. The remote control has a range of 260 feet. You can start your generator from your room and just turn on the transfer switch to get an uninterrupted power supply during a blackout.
Weight and Dimensions: The dimensions are 27.20 x 26.10 x 26.50 inches, and it weighs 220 pounds. Considering the features and power it provides, it is one of the lightest generators in the market.
Portability: The unit offers a moving handle and a wheel kit to make sure that you don’t have problems dragging it outside your home or to your campsite. If you are planning to run your RV on it, it will not add too much weight.
Other Features: The generator is loaded with a lot of features that increase its functionality. You get four outlets (two 120V 5-20R, one transfer switch ready, and one 120/240 50 A). All the outlets are covered with a rubber cover for enhanced safety. It comes with surge protection, oil for first-time use, oil replacement and tool kit, low oil shut down the sensor, and a digital meter showing voltage, frequency, and hours.
Warranty and Certifications: It is backed by a 3-year warranty and certified by EPA and CARB to be used in all the states.
Our Opinion and Verdict:
This generator is a superhero. It can power a large home, a big RV, tools, and machines. Everything about this generator is marvelous.
2. DuroMax XP10000E Gas Powered Portable Generator, Blue and Black – Best Gas Powered 50 Amp Portable Generator
Power Output: The generator has a maximum wattage of 10000 and 8000 running watts. It is enough to power a medium-sized RV, run all your home appliances and provide electricity to your home and work tools.
Fuel Type, Tank Capacity, and Run-Time: It is a gas-powered generator with an 8.3-gallon fuel tank. The generator provides a run time of 8-10 hours on a full tank at half load. Its backup time is impressive as compared to other generators with the same power output.
Engine Specifications: You get an all-metal constructed 18HP, 440cc DuroMax OHV engine. The engine is loaded with an automatic low oil shut-off sensor and an idle control to reduce the RPM when the load is low. It helps improve fuel efficiency.
Dimensions and Weight: It measures 30 x 29 x 26 inches and has a weight of 218 pounds. Its weight is almost the same as the one reviewed above. However, this generator is slightly bigger.
Portability: The generator comes with two pull handles and wheels to make dragging easy. Two handles are helpful for an individual to pull the generator.
Warranty and Certifications: You get a 1-year warranty on parts. The generator is not certified by EPA and CARB.
Other Features: You get surge protection, an MX2 power boost for heavy appliances, one 120V outlet, and one 240V 50 A outlet for RVs, and heavy loads. An oil funnel, spark plug wrench, toolset, DC cables, and a user manual are also included in the box.
Our Opinion and Verdict:
It is simple to use a generator with the best results. The only issue with this generator is that it is not a CARB compliant unit and cannot be used in California.
3. Pulsar G12KBN Heavy Duty Portable Dual Fuel Generator – 9500 Rated Watts & 12000 Peak Watts – Gas & LPG – Electric Start – Transfer Switch & RV Ready – CARB Compliant – Best Carb Compliant 50 Amp Outlet Portable Generator
Fuel Type, Tank Size, and Run-Time: It is another state-of-the-art dual fuel generator. It has a tank capacity of 8 gallons and provides a run time of 12 hours on full load. The backup timing is excellent when compared to other generators. The run time of LPG depends on the size of your cylinder. The propane hose is included in the box.
Power Output: Gas burns better and provides peak wattage of 12000 and 9500 rated watts. The wattage is low for LPG and stands at 10,800(peak) and 8550(running). The running wattage LPG is enough to power an RV, all your home appliances, and a couple of medium-sized work tools.
Engine Specifications: The engine is built to last. A 4-stroke, air-cooled, 457cc OHV engine is encased in a powder-coated steel frame to give durability and protect the engine from the outside. It is an electric and recoil starting unit.
Dimensions and Weight: This generator’s measurements are 28.5 x 26 x 25.5 inches and weigh 209 pounds. It is a compact and sleek unit.
Portability: To increase its portability, you get 10-inch never-flat wheels and two drop-down handles. The handles are designed ergonomically with comfortable grips on them.
Warranty and Certifications: The generator is certified by CARB and can be used in all 50 states. You get a 1-year warranty on parts and labor.
Other Features: As far as the outlets are concerned, it is a versatile unit. You get four 120V 20A AC outlets, one 120/240V 30A twist-lock outlet, one 120V/240V 50 A outlet, and one 12V DC output. The digital meter allows you to monitor voltage, running hours, and total hours to keep track of maintenance needs. It is loaded with voltage regulation technology to enhance the fuel economy.
Our Opinion and Verdict:
If you are looking for the best CARB compliant unit with various power output options, it is your best buy.
4. DuroMax XP15000EH Dual Fuel Electric Start Portable Generator, Blue and Black – Best Dual Fuel 50 Amp Portable Generator
Fuel Type, Capacity, and Run Time: It is a dual-fuel generator with a 10.3-gallon gasoline capacity. The run time on gas is around 10 hours on a 25% load. The run time on propane varies according to the load and tank size.
Power Output: The generator provides a maximum wattage of 15000 watts and a running wattage of 12000 watts on gas. For propane, the wattages are less than gas. This generator is best for people who have high power needs. It can run a large RV setup.
Engine Specifications: Loaded with a powerful 713cc, 23HP DuroMax V-twin engine, it ensures that your power needs are always met. It delivers more power without any hassles to run all your appliances. The engine will stop without adequate oil and go in idle mode when not in use, or the load is very less.
Dimensions and Weight: Due to its large power output, the generator is big and heavy in size. It measures 33 x 30 x 35 inches and weighs 380 pounds. It may be difficult for one individual to drag it.
Portability: Its heavy weight makes it somewhat less portable. You can still drag it around your home and move with it in your RV, but it will be a bit difficult. It is ideal for one-place use.
Warranty and Certifications: It comes with a 1-year warranty and is not certified by EPA and CARB.
Other Features: You get four 120V, one 120V 30A, and one 240V 50 A outlets for heavy machinery. The control panel is loaded with a digital screen, electric start button, circuit breakers, and LED indicators to indicate working mode and overloading.
Our Opinion and Verdict:
It is a very economical and fuel-efficient generator. When run on propane, it will give you a very low operational cost and a stable backup.
5. Generac 5734 GP15000E 15000 Running Watts/22500 Starting Watts Electric Start Gas Powered Portable Generator – Best for Large Power Needs
Power Output: This generator is best for people who want excessive power. It will deliver 15000 running watts, which is way more than the other generators’ peak wattage in our list. It has a maximum power of 22500 watts. This generator will come in handy when you have to power a large RV or home and run large-sized tools.
Fuel Type, Tank Size, and Run-Time: It has one of the largest gas tank capacities in the market. A 16-gallons gas tank ensures that you don’t need to refill your generator before 10 hours at 50% load. Don’t worry; its 50% load is more than the peak wattage of many generators.
Engine Specifications: An electric start, powerful 922cc OHVI engine is a conventional and rugged engine to provide you with more power to keep your home and heavy appliances running during a blackout. The electric start option makes it easy to start this unit, and an X-torq governor ensures that you get a continuous supply of maximum power without any jerks and stalls. The engine is loaded with an oil filter and dual-element air filters to keep dust and unwanted substances out and enhance the generator’s life. We can confidently say that it is one of the most durable and reliable engines.
Weight and Dimensions: It is a large generator: both in terms of power and size. It weighs 373 pounds and measures 48.5 x 30.75 x 38.5 inches.
Portability: The generator is designed to give you a molded dragging handle to facilitate its movement. The wheels are rugged and heavy-duty. Please keep in mind that dragging it will not be an easy task because of its large weight.
Warranty and Certifications: You get a 2-years warranty on parts and labor. However, it lacks certification from CARB.
Other Features: Apart from one 120/240V 50A outlet, you get two 120V, 120V GFCI, one 120V 30A twist lock, and one 12V DC battery charger outlets. All these outlets are circuit-breaker protected and guard against overloads. The exhaust system of the generator is of very high quality and produces less sound. You get a battery, first oil supply, wheel and maintenance kits, and a user manual to help you get started.
Our Opinion and Verdict:
If power is your main concern, then you should look no further. This generator will provide you enough power to run all your appliances without any issues and compromises.
6. Champion Power Equipment 100161 Portable Generator – Best 50 amp Portable Generator with Volt Guard
Power Output: This generator is best for people who don’t have a very high power demand but need a 50 Amp output. It will provide a maximum wattage of 9375 watts and rated power of 7500 watts. It is enough to power small to medium-sized homes and RV and other appliances that fall in this power range.
Fuel Type, Tank Size, and Run Time: The gas tank is 6.1 gallons, and the generator provides a backup of 8 hours on one full tank and 50% load. Its load timing is also competitive as compared to other generators.
Engine Specifications: The generator packs a surprise for you in the shape of the engine. It is an air-cooled, single-cylinder, 439cc engine with low oil shut off sensor. You can start your generator with a push electric start button, recoil, and remote control. The engine comes loaded with oil for the first time use.
Dimensions and Weight: It is a comparatively smaller unit with measurements of 27.3 x 26 x 27.8 inches and weighs 230 pounds.
Portability: It is not a very bulky unit. To support portability, it comes with a pull handle and durable wheels. Its small size and less weight make it perfect for RVs and camping.
Warranty and Certifications: The generator is backed with a massive 3-year warranty and a lifetime Champion customer support service. It is EPA and CARB certified.
Other Features: You get covered outlets for 120/240V 30A twist lock, 50A, and 30A outlets for RVs. The generator is loaded with surge protection. The display gauge will keep you informed about voltage, hertz, and running hours.
Our Opinion and Verdict:
It is one of the best mid-size generators in the market. The only issue with this generator is that it is a bit noisy compared to others on our list.
7. WEN DF1100T 11,000-Watt 120V/240V Dual Fuel Portable Generator with Wheel Kit and Electric Start – CARB Compliant, Black
Fuel Type, Tank Size, and Run-Time: You can run this generator on gas and propane. On a full gas tank (6.6), the generator gives a run time of 8.5 hours and 3 hours on a 20-gallon propane cylinder. Propane is cheap as compared to gasoline and gives a better running cost.
Power Output: You can get a maximum of 11,000 watts and 8300 running watts on gas. On propane, the generator can produce 9500 peak wattage and 7500 running wattage. It will be enough to power all the appliances for a small-medium sized home and your RV.
Engine Specifications: The generator uses a 457cc 4-stroke OHV air-cooled engine to give you an uninterrupted supply of clean power. It is loaded with an electric start option as well.
Dimensions and Weight: One of the best things about this generator is that it is compact and does not weigh much. The unit has measurements of 27.3 x 20.6 x 21.9 inches and weighs 214 pounds.
Portability: With less weight, it is easy to drag this generator from one place to another. It comes with sturdy wheels, and 2 handles to pull this generator.
Warranty and Certifications: The unit is certified by EPA and CARB. It has a 2-year warranty cover on labor and parts.
Other Features: The generator has four 120V GFCI outlets, one 120V 30A, one 120/240V 50A, and one 12V DC car lighter style plug. You also get a 47-inch long propane hose and oil for the first time use. The generator is loaded with an automatic voltage regulator, overload protection, surge protection, and a digital meter to display voltage, running hours, and total hours. It helps in maintenance.
Our Opinion and Verdict:
The best thing about this generator is its compact size. It gives you reasonable power and an economical running cost.
Buying Guide
Let’s look at all the factors that can influence your purchase decision.
Power Needs
When you are on a hunt for a generator, you need to make sure that it will deal with your power needs. One should never buy a too large generator or too small generator as compared to his needs. The best way to calculate the power needs is to list all the appliances and their starting and running wattages. If you are buying a dual fuel generator, you must keep the propane wattage in mind. Let’s look at the following table for a better understanding of wattage calculations.
Portable Generator for Home Appliances
| Appliances | Starting Wattage | Running Wattage |
| Refrigerator | 1200 | 200 |
| 1/2 HP Furnace | 2350 | 875 |
| TV | 300 | 300 |
| Lights | 300 | 300 |
| AC (2) | 3600 | 2400 |
| 1/2 HP Well Pump | 2000 | 900 |
| 1/2 HP Sump Pump | 2000 | 900 |
| Total | 11750 | 5875 |
In the above situation, you need 5875 watts to keep all the appliances running at one time. The starting wattage for all the appliances at one time is 11750 watts. If you do load management and start all the appliances one by one, you can get the work done with a small to medium generator. If you have more appliances to run, you can add the wattages in the above table and then look for the generator according to your needs.
If you plan to buy a generator for an RV, you can take help from the following table.
Portable Generator for RV Appliances
| Appliances | Starting Wattage | Running Wattage |
| 10000 BTU Air Conditioner | 2000 | 700 |
| Fridge | 600 | 200 |
| Coffee Maker | 600 | 600 |
| Microwave Oven | 1000 | 1000 |
| Cooking Range | 1700 | 1700 |
| TV | 120 | 120 |
| DVD Player | 350 | 350 |
| Laptop and Phone Charger | 500 | 500 |
| Total | 6870 | 5170 |
The maximum wattage needed to power all the appliances at one time is 6870 watts and to keep them running is 5170. The thing to understand is that not all the appliances will run at one time. You won’t be using a coffee maker all the time or charge your phone 24/7. You need to make sure that your generator has enough power to meet your demands. You can add or remove the appliances in the above table and then make the final calculation.
Power Outlets and Control Panel
Along with a 50 Amp outlet, your generator must have other outlets to facilitate the connections. Some generators come with a car-style charger outlet, and others have USB outlets. The control panel must be easy to use and loaded with maximum options to control the generator. An ideal control panel must have an LCD for readings, circuit breakers, and LED indicators.
Type of Fuel
50 AMP generators come with gas or dual fuel options. Dual fuel generators are a bit costly but offer your versatility for running your generator. A single fuel generator increases your dependability on one type of fuel. Please note that propane gives cheap running costs as compared to gasoline.
Starting Mechanism
Electronic starting gives you ease of use. Almost all the generators with a 50 AMP plug come with an electric start button and a recoil starting mechanism. Electric units need more maintenance as compared to recoil generators.
Fuel Capacity and Run Time
Look for a generator that can give you your desired run time. The size of the fuel tank directly impacts the backup time. However, you must try to buy a generator that offers economical running costs.
Portability
All the generators on our list are with wheels and pull handles. The maximum portability a large generator can give you is moving from one area of your home to another. If you plan to use your generator for RV, you must make sure that you have enough space for it. It is best to make designated spaces for generators at the front or back of your RV.
Noise Level
Noise level is not directly related to the working of the generator. A low-noise generator will give you peace of mind and will let your neighbors sleep in peace. You can also try high-quality mufflers to reduce sound emissions.
Safety
Look for features that make your generator experience safe. Low oil shut-off sensor, surge protectors, overload and overheating protection, enhance the performance and life of your generator. Safety covers, grounding, a durable frame, and high-quality materials keep you safe.
Warranty and Certifications
Warranty and certifications increase your satisfaction. CARB and EPA certifications allow you to use your generator in all 50 states. A warranty covers relieve you from the maintenance hassles for 1-3 years.
FAQs
How a 50 Amp generator differs from a 30 Amp?
The functionality of both generators is the same. The difference is the power output. A 30 Amp outlet has one hot wire (120V) and can give a maximum of 3600-watt output (120 x 30). On the other hand, a 50 Amp plug has two hot wires and gives 12000 watts (50 x 240). Large wattage can help your power bigger appliances.
Can I use an adapter to convert the 30 Amp plug to a 50 Amp plug?
Yes. You can use adapters to connect 4 prong plugs in 30 Amp plugs. However, it will not increase the wattage. It will only be good for running a four plug appliance under 3600 watts.
Is there any difference in the maintenance need of a 50 Amp plug generator?
No. The maintenance needs of a 50 Amp generator and other generators are the same. You need to take care of the following.
- Timely oil change
- Sparkplug replacement
- No overloading
- No overheating
- Don’t store your generator with gas in the tank and carburetor.
- Air filter replacement
- Run periodic tests
- Follow all the instructions in the user manual.
What steps should I take before starting my generator for the first time?
Make sure you follow all the instructions mentioned in the user guide. Check oil in the engine, check battery connections, and never use old gas or propane for the first time use.
How can I save my generator from being stolen?
For RVs, you can make special generator boxes at the front or back. If you are using your generator at home, you can use generator cables and safety locks.
What is the safe distance for running my generator?
You should run your generator at least 15 feet away from your living space.
Can I use my generator without a transfer switch?
You should never use your generator without a transfer switch at your home. If you have to use power extensions, make sure they are of high-quality and can withstand the power output of the generator.
Final Thoughts
A 50 Amp plug gives you the freedom of running heavy machinery, power RV, and your home. You can select the best one from the above list according to your preferences. All the generators are of high-quality, reliable, durable, low running cost models.