TOP 5 Best Propane Generator Reviews 2023 – Longer Runtime
In this buying guide, we have reviewed the best propane generator based on noise, load, fuel efficiency, size and weight, portability, power output, and approval rating from the users.
Investing in a propane generator is not only a smart decision for camping, RVs, and tailgating, but for the backup power source as well due to the increased number of power outages caused by natural disasters.
Propane is more shelf-friendly and it burns cleanly, we can store it for a long time that is why most campers including me invest in a dual-fuel portable generator instead of a traditional gas-powered unit.
Best Propane Generator
Since the sale of propane, generators have increased exponentially over the past 10 years, and there are endless options on the market, we have prepared this buying guide consisting top 5 best propane generators with a 90% approval rating from the users.
We tested 21 propane generators, interviewed 27 campers, and RV owners talked to 6 employees that are currently working in the generator manufacturing companies, and researched online.
We compiled all that data into this article after considering features such as noise, power output, fuel efficiency, portability, starter types, and reading meters.
Comparison Chart
| Products | NAME | WEIGHT | DIMENSIONS | WATTAGES (Starting/Running) | NOISE FROM 25 Ft. | RATINGS | PRICE |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | DuroMax XP12000EH | 224lbs. | 30 x 29 x 26 inches. | 11400/9025 with LPG. 12000/9500 with gasoline | 74dB | 9.9 | |
| 2 | DuroMax XP4850EH | 122lbs. | 25 x 24 x 21 inches. | 4608/3658 with LPG. 4850/3850 with gasoline. | 69 to 72dB. | 9.8 | |
| 3 | Champion 3400 | 95.7lbs. | 25.1 x 17.3 x 18.3 inches. | 3060/2790 with LPG. 3400/3100 with Gasoline | 59 to 60dB | 9.7 | |
| 4 | DuroMAX XP2300iH | 58lbs. | 22 x 24 x 20 inches. | 2150/1700 with LPG 2300/800 with Gasoline. | 52dB @ 25% | 9.6 | |
| 6 | WEN DF475T | 105.8lbs. | 23.2 x 17.5 x 18.5 inches. | 4350 / 3500 with LPG 4750/3800 with Gasoline | 65 to 69dB | 9.4 |
1. DuroMax XP12000EH – Best Propane Generator
FEATURES & SPECS
DuroMax XP12000EH is a total beast of a dual-fuel machine with a whopping 9025 running watts on propane and 9500 running watts on gasoline. It is one best portable propane generators for an entire home and camping.
The reason a lot of people including me love this unit is it produces almost the same amount of power on propane as it does on gasoline. It is essential for natural disasters when gasoline can a bit scarce.
This propane generator for the house has four different types of receptacles that can power anything including 50-amp appliances.
The fuel efficiency of this unit is excellent with high power output at a remarkable voltage recovery time. Connect a 100-pound propane tank and DuroMax XP12000EH can generator 32HP.
This machine isn’t portable, but it is not that big too. It is a bit heavy, but with the help of wheels and collapsible handles, you can easily move it around.
You might want to change the default wheels because those are just terrible. Replace them with 10-inch diameter wheels. I have done the same.
Noise and runtime test
It is a big propane generator so it is not going to be super quiet, but it is not that noisy as well compared to similar products.
During my noise test, I got about 75 to 80dB from 30 feet away under no load. That is not bad and the muffler technology reduces the frequency of the noise to make it sound thinner and quieter despite the 75 to 80 decibels.
Along with the low-oil shutoff, and idle control that automatically adjusts the engine speed according to the power required, DuroMax XP12000EH features MX2 technology to get the maximum power out of each 120V receptacle.
The primary reason I purchased it was the fuel efficiency of propane. I ran it at %55 load on propane gasoline and it lasted for 11.3 hours on gasoline. On propane, it ran for almost 20 hours which is crazy.
DuroMax XP12000EH is a fantastic dual-fuel generator with excellent fuel efficiency, very high power output, durably built, an array of different outlets, and MX2 technology to get maximum power out of each 120V outlet.
When you receive your package, take the faceplate off and check if the negative cable is attached to the battery. I have seen this issue with at least 8 to 9 guys.
2. DuroMax XP4850EH Portable Dual-Fuel Generator
FEATURES & SPECS
DuroMax XP4850EH dual-fuel generator runs like a dream on propane. The clean power it produces is enough to run your refrigerator, sump pump, freezer, AC unit, and some lights.
I would say, this machine is ideal for people who are looking for a propane generator for camping and RVs. It generators 3850 running watts on gasoline and 3658 running watts on propane which is incredible.
This propane generator has a 98% approval rate from the users. It is one most positively reviewed generators on the market.
DuroMax XP4850EH has an electronic start and cold start technology which makes it easier to start the unit in cold weather.
A toolset, a funnel, a spark plug wrench, a user manual, a wheel and handle kit, and DC charging cable are included in the box. Putting it together is very easy with some screws.
DuroMax XP4850EH features MX2 technology to get the maximum power from each of the 120V outlets. You can use both 120 and 240V receptacles at 120V at full power.
Talking about its design, it is not heavy and bulky, but most people will find it hard to pick it. That is why this generator has nice wheels and foldable handles to make it portable for RVs and campers.
Talking about wheels, they’ll flatten within a year or so. I don’t like the quality of the wheels. You might want to replace them after 6 months.
Noise and runtime test
So I did a little noise test from 6 feet away, and the readings were 69 to 70dB which is not bad at all.
From 25 feet, it was down to 62dB, and from 50 feet, it was 55db. We will be using the generator 30 to 40 feet away from the camp or RV anyway.
Now time for the real test which is runtime time. So on gasoline, I gave it a 50% load of my trailer including one motor-driven appliance. The generator lasted for 10 hours and 57 minutes.
On propane at 50% load of similar appliances, the DuroMax XP4850EH lasted for 9 hours and 11 minutes.
The fuel efficiency of this unit is mind-blowing. That is why I specifically asked my team to bring DuroMax XP4850EH from the review. I wanted to test everything for myself.
Had I only needed a generator for camping, then I would have purchased DuroMax XP2300 because it is much lighter, quieter, and portable, but if you need a little bit of extra power for emergencies, RVs, or camping, then DuroMax XP4850EH is a multi-tasking portable generator that can also be used for power tools.
3. Champion 3400-watt dual-fuel Generator
FEATURES & SPECS
Champion 3400 is the dual-fuel variant of the Champion 3400 inverter generator. This machine is an excellent choice for camping and RVs.
It is super portable, ultra-quiet, and very powerful, and it comes from the Champion brand so you could expect reliable and durable performance.
Champion 3400 generates 3100 running watts on gasoline and 2790 running watts on propane which is more than enough power for outdoor activities.
The main selling point of the Champion 3400 inverter generator is it truly shines while tailgating.
At under 100 pounds weight and a portable body, a lot of people including me find it easier to carry around. It has wheels and a handle as well which is a bonus.
With a couple of 20-pound propane tanks, you will have enough power for a long weekend.
Champion 3400 has an electric start feature as well with a small LEAD-ACID battery which is why it is a tiny bit heavier.
So the reason we mostly review and test dual-fuel generators for RVs and campers is the flexibility to burn whichever fuel is handy, and propane has been the bread and butter for campers.
If you are not using the generator very often, propane may make the sense.
So out of the box, it takes on 45 minutes to get it ready for running. The recoil takes only 1 pull to start which is excellent.
One of the biggest concerns with inverter RV generators is the noise, none of us wanted to sit next to a loud ass machine. So I conducted a noise test and Champion 3400 was generating 58 decibels from 40 feet away.
I again took the readings at 50% load this time from 30 feet away, and the readings were 59dB.
I compared the noise with my HONDA EU2200 generator, and the Champion 3400 generator comes in just a decibel or two above the HONDA which is mind-blowing if you ask me.
This machine was able to power my RV microwave, hairdryers, and air-conditioner. I was able to push to 3200 running watts on gasoline for a moment. On propane, the maximum running watts I got was 2840 which is superb.
So did a runtime test on the Champion 3400 inverter generator.
- 1 gallon of gas, it lasted for 5 hours.
- On 1 gallon of propane, it lasted for 3.5 hours.
- 5 gallon of propane bottle, it lasted for 15 hours at a 25% load
- On a full tank of gas, it lasted for 7.8 hours at a 25% load.
So overall I found the Champion 3400 dual-fuel generator easy to start and use, I particularly like the electric start feature, it burns on a cleaner on propane, it is highly fuel-efficient, it is not that bulky, and heavy, and it is super quiet. I would say it is ideal for RVs and campers.
4. DuroMAX XP2300iH Dual-Fuel Generator
FEATURES & SPECS
DuroMAX XP2300iH is an excellent dual-fuel generator that generates an almost equal amount of power on propane as well.
It is very modern looking, super lightweight, portable, fuel-efficient, and it generates 1700 running watts on propane which is fine for me if I am camping or tailgating.
Don’t worry it is parallel capable as well if you need a bit of that extra power.
The reason that makes DuroMAX XP2300iH such a good camping and tailgating generator is the clean power production while generating only 52 to 54dB. I have personally conducted a noise test at 25% load.
The built quality is very good with a nice set of wheels. It is simple to use and maintain. Very easy access to the air filter. Their customer service is top-notch if you have any questions.
We get a spark plug wrench, a funnel, some tools, a parallel cable, and a 30-amp RV adapter.
Whether at low idle mode, or full power mode, it generates super clean sine waves which is why they have included USB-C and USB-A type plugs so that we can charge our cellphones, laptops, computers, DSLR cameras, or other power-sensitive devices.
So the main reason I bought DuroMAX XP2300iH is to switch from gas to propane while the generator is still running. There will be no surge in power but I disconnect the load just to be safe.
A CO sensor is included which will automatically shut down the generator in case of higher concentrations of carbon monoxide. That is why I am saying it is safe around camping and RVs.
To check how much power output it can generate, I tried to power a 2000-watt lighting system on propane. I managed to cross 1800 watts before the overload alarm.
On gasoline, I managed to 2000 watts before the overload alarm. I can safely say this is one of the most fuel-efficient, and best propane generators on the market.
At 50% load, DuroMAX XP2300iHinverter generator managed to last for 6 hours and 40 minutes on gasoline, and 18 hours and 17 minutes on propane.
If you are a frequent camper, RV user, or outdoor, DuroMAX XP2300iHdual-fuel generator could be your best friend if you need continuous and clean power. It doesn’t take up space at all and it is lightweight. 9.8/10 from me.
5. WEN DF475T Propane Generator for House
FEATURES & SPECS
WEN DF475T is one of the absolute best dual-fuel generators for emergencies, camping, and Jobsite. It is budget-friendly because it is made for smaller power loads.
The 244cc engine generates 3800 running watts on gasoline, and 3500 running watts on propane which is not an easy task.
I am currently living in an area where blackouts are frequent and prolonged. So far I am impressed with the performance. It has been able to run pretty much everything I want it to run.
I just purchased this generator about a month ago and it is very easy to move around in grassy areas with the help of inflatable wheels and a handle. It is not super heavy as well.
It features both electric and manual start, the outlets on the control panel are GFCI protected, and there is a simple voltage switch selector to switch between 120 and 240V. This makes it perfect for emergency backup.
So the first thing I noticed when I started WEN DF475T dual-fuel generator was the noise. It has that traditional open-frame design, therefore it was never going to be quiet.
I took the readings anyways from 20 feet away, and it was around 69dB. I again took the readings from 50 feet away at 50% load, and it was around 65dB.
Fortunately, I know how to make a silencer for my generator, I built a soundproof box to cut the noise levels and it helped a great deal.
I usually use propane but I conducted a load test on both fuels to check their performance.
I gave connected my trailer and ran the AC, fridge, microwave, and some other appliances, it doesn’t have any idle mode but it burned a little fuel and I was able to get 3897 running watts before the overload protection.
On propane, I was able to get 3631 running watts before the overload protection. It burns efficiently and cleanly on propane.
In terms of cost, power generation, and fuel efficiency, WEN DF475T dual-fuel generator is a beast.
At 50% load, I got about 11.4 hours on gasoline, and 7.5 hours on LPG. This is more than the advertised capacity. That is why I am regularly using it for emergency backup. The voltage recovery time is incredible. It doesn’t bog down even for a second.
The maintenance is super easy don’t worry about that. The low-oil shutoff protection system helps. Oil changing is also easy.
WEN DF475T gives a 2-year warranty for both residential and commercial users and at this price point, it is gold.
I wouldn’t recommend it for tailgating for occasions where noise is a big issue, but WEN DF475T is a fantastic dual-fuel generator for home and emergency backup.
Despite not having an idle mode, the regulator protects the sensitive devices from sudden surges of power. WEN DF475T is a solid machine.
Best Propane Generator Buying Guide
Generator manufacturing is growing by the day with the increasing number of natural disasters. There are a ton of awesome propane generators in the market, but we have only selected the top 5.
Selection for the best propane generators depends on the outlets, fuel efficiency, wattage, weight and portability, and special features. We only considered models that have more than a 90% approval rating from the users.
The following factors will help you choose the best propane generator for home, camping, tailgating, RVs, or job site.
Power Output And Efficiency:
Most generators have decent running watts and starting watts on gasoline, but not so good on propane.
If propane is to be your first fuel for commercial, camping, and residential use, the power output on propane should be good. Most of the popular Propane generators are available in between 4000 – 12000 wattages.
If you want a unit with 4000 running watts on gasoline, then it should provide at least 3800 to 3900 running watts on propane. The difference between both fuels shouldn’t be greater otherwise, it won’t serve your problem with LPG.
Fortunately, all 5 generators on our list provide very high power output and efficiency on propane. Being a camper I want my generator to burn the fuel cleanly, and more efficiently.
A 4000-watt propane generator should at least last for 9 hours at 50% load.
Size And Weight:
I don’t know about you but I want my propane generator for a house to be highly portable and lightweight. It is a no-brainer that propane units are mostly used by campers, RV owners, and outdoor enthusiasts.
So bringing a lightweight and portable unit with you is a huge deal to save space.
Even if you are getting a heavy-ass generator, I recommend getting a unit with wheels. It will come in handy to move around.
Outlets/Receptacles:
If you are away from your home, chances are that you are going to charge or use multiple different appliances at the same time. For this reason, several different outlets are needed in a generator.
Apart from standard household plugs, transfer switches, and RV ports, a 12 DC cigarette-style plug, and USB ports do come in handy while camping.
In any generator, the choice of having different ports is considered to be highly effective.
Necessary Features:
- An auto-shutoff in case of low oil or overload is essential. It makes maintenance so much easy.
- I also prioritize propane generators with fuel gauges and LED data centers to monitor voltage, power output, and other necessary readings to keep everything in check and balance.
- If your propane generator has a parallel connection outlet, then you are lucky, because we never know when we need that extra bit of power.
Final Words
Propane generators are not only helpful and convenient during emergencies, they are mostly used for camping and tailgating as well.
The reason people mostly opt for dual-fuel generators is the storage of fuel. Propane doesn’t only burns efficiently and cleanly, but it is so much easy to store.
From our list, DuroMax XP12000EH is more of a high-end backup generator that is ideal for job sites as well, DuroMax XP4850EH is a beast on propane and is recommended for camping, and Champion 3400 is a fuel-efficient unit for RVs and tailgating, DuroMAX XP2300iH is a highly portable camping generator, WEN DF475T is used for residential purposes.
Thanks for reading our article. I hope it will help you to make a purchasing decision.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Depending on the load and generator, a propane generator consumes 1 to 2.5 gallons per hour. On a 20 pound tank, 8 to 10 hours is a standard.
A normal 4000-watt portable propane generator generates 55 to 58 decibels at 50% load. Noise depends on the generator type and wattage output, but generally, propane generators are quiet because propane burns efficiently and cleanly.
DuroMax XP4850EH is the most fuel-efficient propane generator on our list. On propane at 50% load, it lasted for 9 hours and 11 minutes.
Propane burns cleanly, efficiently, is cheaper than gasoline and produces fewer carbon emissions. Yes. Propane generators are excellent for camping tailgating because it gives us the freedom to store more fuel.
Yes. Propane burns cleanly and smoothly so the generators tend to make less noise.
