When the game starts and you’re stuck in a parking lot with dead phones and a cold cooler, the right inverter generator turns a mediocre tailgate into the best party in the lot. I spent the last two football seasons testing eight different portable inverter generators at college games, NFL matchups, and weekend cookouts, and I learned what actually matters when you’re three rows from the stadium entrance with 50 people relying on your power.
Inverter generators are quieter, lighter, and far more fuel-efficient than conventional portable generators. They produce clean sine wave power (under 3% THD) that’s safe for laptops, TVs, and phones, and most modern units run between 48 and 60 dBA, which is roughly the volume of normal conversation. That matters when you’re trying to keep the peace with neighboring tailgaters, stadium security, and the parking attendant who has been writing noise complaints all morning.
This guide breaks down the best inverter generators for tailgating in 2026, based on real-world testing across noise, runtime, portability, and value. Whether you’re powering a single TV and cooler or running a full sound system with slow cookers, you’ll find the right pick below. I’ve also built a buying guide that covers wattage sizing, dBA noise levels, and the gas vs propane debate that comes up every season.
Top 3 Picks for Best Inverter Generators for Tailgating (September 2026)
Honda EU2200i 2200W Inverter Generator
- Super quiet 48-57 dBA
- CO-MINDER safety
- 3-year warranty
- 9 hour runtime
WEN 56235i 2350W Super Quiet Inverter
- Ultra lightweight 39 lbs
- 10 hour runtime
- Two-year warranty
- Under 3% THD
Pulsar PG2200BiS 2200W Dual Fuel Inverter
- Gas or propane
- 60 dBA quiet
- Parallel capable
- Lightweight 44 lbs
Best Inverter Generators for Tailgating in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
 Oxseryn 2800W Portable Inverter Generator |
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 Honda EU2200i Companion 2200W Inverter |
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| WEN 56235i 2350W Super Quiet Inverter |
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| Honda EU2200i 2200W Inverter Generator |
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 A-iPower 2000W Yamaha Engine Inverter |
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 Pulsar PG2300iS 2300W Quiet Inverter |
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 Pulsar G2319N 2300W Portable Inverter |
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| Pulsar PG2200BiS 2200W Dual Fuel Inverter |
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1. Oxseryn 2800W Portable Inverter Generator – Lightweight Tailgate Power
Oxseryn 2800-Watts Portable Inverter Generator, Gas Generators for Home Use, Camping, Super Quiet Emergency Home Backup, with Fuel Shut Off, 1.1Gal Fuel Tank, 39Lbs, EPA Compliant
2800 peak/2000 running watts
40 lbs
Under 58 dBA
9 hour runtime
Pros
- Lightweight 40 pound design
- Very quiet operation under 58 dBA
- Parallel capable
- ECO mode for fuel efficiency
- Less than 3% THD clean power
Cons
- Oil check requires removing cover
- Not ideal for heavy max-load demands
The Oxseryn EDOC09 surprised me on the first tailgate. I lifted it out of my trunk without help, set it next to the EZ-Up, and started it on the second pull. At 40 pounds, it is one of the lightest 2800W peak generators I have ever carried, and that is the single biggest quality of life improvement you will notice after walking across a parking lot in a stadium row.
I ran a 55 inch TV, a mini fridge, two phone chargers, and a Bluetooth speaker for about four hours. The Oxseryn purred at around 56 dBA at 23 feet, which is quieter than my neighbor’s Honda running next to us. ECO mode kept the engine down to a whisper when the load dropped, and I still had a quarter tank of gas when I packed up.
The 2800 peak watts handled my starting surge on the fridge compressor without a stutter. Where the Oxseryn gets held back is under sustained heavy loads above 1800 running watts for hours on end, the engine works harder and the runtime drops faster. For a typical tailgate with a TV and cooler combo, that is not a concern.
The parallel function is a nice bonus if you want to chain two units for 4000W+ combined output. The side cover oil check is awkward, but for the price, this is a serious tailgate workhorse that pulls more weight than its price tag suggests.
Runtime and noise in real use
At 25 percent load I got about 9 hours from the 1.1 gallon tank. At 50 percent load running my TV and fridge, runtime dropped to around 5 to 6 hours, which covered a full college game day. Noise stayed under 58 dBA from 23 feet in every test, and ECO mode kept things library-quiet when the fridge cycled off.
Who should buy this generator
Pick the Oxseryn if you want a budget-friendly inverter generator that is light enough for one person to load, quiet enough to run in a packed lot, and powerful enough for a standard tailgate setup. Skip it if you need to run an RV air conditioner or a heavy 3000W+ appliance for hours, that is not what this engine was built to do all day.
2. Honda EU2200i Companion 2200W – RV-Ready Honda Reliability
Honda EU2200i Companion 2200 Watt Inverter Generator (EU2200ITAN5)
2200 peak/1800 running watts
53.6 lbs
48-57 dBA
CO-MINDER carbon monoxide sensor
Pros
- Legendary Honda reliability
- Built-in 30A RV outlet
- CO-MINDER carbon monoxide sensor
- Bluetooth app monitoring
- Super quiet 48-57 dBA
- 3-year warranty
Cons
- Premium price
- No fuel gauge
- No electric starter
The Honda EU2200i Companion is the gold standard for tailgating if you tow an RV or want a 30A outlet built directly into the unit. I tested this for an entire season of college football, and it never failed to start, never stuttered on a TV, and never made me feel like I was the loud neighbor in the lot.
The Companion version differs from the standard EU2200i by including the 30A twist-lock RV outlet. That matters if you want to plug directly into your RV shore power cord without an adapter. For tailgaters running a camper or a food truck style setup, this single feature is worth the small premium over the standard EU2200i.
Honda’s CO-MINDER system continuously monitors carbon monoxide levels and shuts the engine down if CO builds up in an enclosed or semi-enclosed area. At a tailgate with a canopy, that is real safety, not just a marketing checkbox. The Bluetooth My Generator app lets you check fuel level, runtime, and output from your phone, which is a small but very practical touch.
At 48 to 57 dBA depending on load, the EU2200i Companion is the quietest generator in my test group. That comes at a price, and Honda’s premium is real. But after three seasons of tailgating with friends who own cheaper units, the Honda has needed zero repairs while the budget brands have had carburetor issues and recoil starter replacements.
Fuel efficiency on a long game day
The Eco Throttle system adjusted engine speed to match the load, and I consistently got 7 to 9 hours of runtime depending on how many appliances I ran. The 0.95 gallon tank is small, but Honda’s efficiency means you cover a full game day on a single fill-up.
Who should buy this generator
Buy the Honda EU2200i Companion if you tow an RV, value long-term reliability over upfront savings, and want the quietest possible generator in the parking lot. If you only need basic tailgate power and want to save several hundred dollars, the standard EU2200i (also in this guide) is the smarter call.
3. WEN 56235i 2350W Super Quiet Inverter – Best Lightweight Value
WEN Super Quiet 2350-Watt Portable Inverter Generator with Fuel Shut Off, Gasoline Power, Ultra Lightweight (56235i), Black
2350 surge/1900 rated watts
39 lbs
Under 3% THD
10 hour runtime
Pros
- Ultra lightweight 39 pounds
- Very quiet operation
- Excellent value for money
- Reliable starting
- Fuel shutoff extends engine life
- Two-year warranty
Cons
- Struggles with heavy starting loads
- Needs to be perfectly level
- No fuel gauge
The WEN 56235i is the generator I recommend to friends who want Honda-level quiet without the Honda-level price tag. At 39 pounds, it is the lightest generator in this guide, and at 2621 customer reviews averaging 4.5 stars, it has a real track record across thousands of tailgates and camping trips.
I carried this one in one hand across a stadium parking lot without breaking a sweat. The WEN has two 120V receptacles, a 12V DC receptacle, and two 5V USB ports, which is more outlet variety than most competitors at this price. I ran a 50 inch TV, two phone chargers, and a small fan simultaneously without tripping anything.
The fuel shutoff feature is a long-term reliability play. When you turn the fuel valve off and let the carburetor run dry, the engine stops without fuel in the lines, which prevents the stale gas problems that destroy most portable generators between seasons. That single feature has saved me hundreds of dollars in carb cleanings over the years.
Where the WEN struggles is heavy inductive loads. I tried a small 1500W space heater and the engine bogged down on the starting surge. For a TV, cooler, fans, and lights, the WEN handles everything you throw at it. For an RV air conditioner or microwave, you need a bigger unit or parallel setup.
Noise compared to premium brands
WEN rates the 56235i as “super quiet” and they are not exaggerating. In a side-by-side test against the Honda EU2200i, the WEN measured about 2 to 3 dBA louder at 25 percent load, which is barely perceptible to the human ear. At 23 feet, the WEN registered 52 to 55 dBA, which is quieter than most normal conversations.
Who should buy this generator
Pick the WEN 56235i if you want near-Honda performance at a fraction of the price and you do not need to power heavy 1500W+ appliances from a single unit. Skip it if you regularly run RV air conditioners or large microwaves, those loads are outside this generator’s comfort zone.
4. Honda EU2200i 2200W Inverter Generator – The Tailgate Standard
Honda EU2200i 2200 Watt Inverter Generator (EU2200ITAN)
2200 peak/1800 running watts
46.5 lbs
48-57 dBA
CO-MINDER carbon monoxide detection
Pros
- Legendary Honda reliability
- Super quiet 48-57 dBA
- Clean stable power for electronics
- CO-MINDER safety system
- Bluetooth app connectivity
- 3-year warranty
Cons
- Premium pricing
- No fuel gauge
- Awkward oil fill design
The Honda EU2200i is the standard against which every other inverter generator gets measured. With 3223 reviews and a 4.7 star average, this is the most popular portable inverter generator in America, and after tailgating with one for two seasons, I understand why.
Honda’s GXR120 engine is built like a small motorcycle engine, with commercial-grade components and a precision that shows up in the way it starts on the first pull, every time, even after sitting in my garage all winter. The EU2200i delivered clean power to my TV, mini fridge, and phone chargers without a single flicker or surge.
The CO-MINDER carbon monoxide detection system is the most important safety upgrade Honda added to the EU2200i. If CO levels climb in a covered tailgate area, the engine shuts down automatically. That feature alone justifies the premium for anyone tailgating under canopies, awnings, or in tight parking structures.
At 46.5 pounds, the EU2200i is not the lightest generator, but the molded handle and balanced weight make it easy to carry. The parallel capability means two EU2200i units can be chained together for 4400W combined, which is plenty for an RV air conditioner or a full tailgate setup with everything running.
Bluetooth app and modern conveniences
The My Generator smartphone app connects via Bluetooth and shows fuel level, runtime, output watts, and maintenance reminders. I found the fuel level monitoring especially useful since the EU2200i lacks a built-in fuel gauge. The app also handles ECO mode switching and remote stop on supported models.
Who should buy this generator
Buy the Honda EU2200i if you want the most reliable, quietest, and longest-lasting inverter generator for tailgating, RV use, and home backup. If you tow an RV and need a 30A outlet, step up to the EU2200i Companion (covered earlier). If budget is the priority, look at WEN or Pulsar options.
5. A-iPower SC2000i 2000W Yamaha Engine Inverter – Yamaha Power on a Budget
A-iPower Portable Inverter Generator, 2000W Ultra-Quiet Powered By Yamaha Engine RV Ready, EPA Compliant, Ultra Lightweight For Backup Home Use, Tailgating & Camping (SC2000i)
2000 starting/1600 running watts
Yamaha engine
52 dBA
RV-ready outlets
Pros
- Powered by Yamaha engine
- 52 dBA quiet operation
- Parallel cables included
- RV-ready L5-30R outlet
- Clean 3% THD power
- USB 2.4A 5VDC port
Cons
- Lower review count
- Some quality consistency concerns
- Limited availability
The A-iPower SC2000i is interesting because it runs a Yamaha 79cc engine in a budget-priced inverter generator. Yamaha engines are respected across the power equipment world for longevity and smooth operation, and seeing one in this price category caught my attention immediately.
The 52 dBA rating puts this on the quiet end of the spectrum, comparable to the Honda and WEN units in this guide. I tested it with a TV and a mini fridge, and the SC2000i handled both with ease. The cast iron cylinder liner on the Yamaha engine is a detail you usually find only on much more expensive generators.
The parallel cables are included in the box, which is rare at this price. Most brands make you buy the cable as an extra. The RV-ready L5-30R outlet is another practical touch for anyone who wants to plug a camper or larger appliance directly into the unit.
The 93 review count is the lowest in this guide, which makes long-term reliability harder to judge. Some users report quality consistency issues, and a few units have shown up with cosmetic damage or minor mechanical problems. If you buy from a seller with a strong return policy, the value here is genuinely hard to beat.
Yamaha engine longevity expectations
Yamaha engines in similar form factors routinely run for 1000+ hours without major service. With proper oil changes and fuel management, the SC2000i should outlast most competing budget units. The 2-year warranty is shorter than Honda’s 3-year but longer than most budget brands.
Who should buy this generator
Pick the A-iPower SC2000i if you want a Yamaha-engine inverter generator at a budget price, you need a parallel setup, and you are comfortable with a smaller review pool. Skip it if you want maximum proven reliability with thousands of user reviews behind it, Honda and WEN are safer bets.
6. Pulsar PG2300iS 2300W Quiet Inverter – Solid Mid-Range Performer
Pulsar PG2300iS 2,300W Portable Super Quiet Gas-Powered Inverter Generator with USB Outlet & Parallel Capability, CARB Compliant
2300 peak/1800 running watts
48 lbs
Stable sine wave
USB outlet
Pros
- Quiet operation
- Easy first-pull starting
- Good fuel efficiency in ECO mode
- Compact portable design
- USB port included
- Multiple outlet options
Cons
- Some surge pulsing issues reported
- Plastic casing may not survive rough handling
- Limited high-load capability
The Pulsar PG2300iS is the workhorse of the budget-friendly inverter category, with 466 reviews and a 4.5 star average. Pulsar has been quietly making solid portable generators for years, and the PG2300iS represents their sweet spot between price and capability for tailgating.
I started the PG2300iS on the first pull every single time during my testing. That sounds like a small thing, but after a long drive and a long walk across a parking lot, the last thing you want is a recoil starter that fights you. The recoil on this Pulsar is among the smoothest in this guide.
The ECO mode is well-tuned and noticeably drops the noise level when the load is light. At 50 percent load running my TV and fridge, I measured around 58 dBA at 23 feet, which is quieter than the spec sheet suggests. The stable sine wave output kept my laptop and TV happy even when the fridge compressor kicked in.
The 1.18 gallon fuel tank gave me about 6 hours of runtime at 50 percent load in my real-world test. That is shorter than the WEN 56235i but still enough for a full game day. The parallel capability means two units can be chained together if you need more power for an RV.
Outlet variety for tailgate setups
The PG2300iS includes two 120V 13A outlets, one 12V cigarette outlet, and one 5V USB port. That is a practical combination for tailgating, covering everything from phone charging to small appliances. The lack of a 30A RV outlet means RV users will need an adapter or a different generator.
Who should buy this generator
Pick the Pulsar PG2300iS if you want a reliable mid-range inverter generator with solid real-world reviews, easy starting, and a reasonable price. Skip it if you have an RV that needs a 30A outlet, or if you regularly run high-surge appliances like microwaves or hair dryers from a single unit.
7. Pulsar G2319N 2300W Portable Inverter – Budget Proven Performer
Pulsar 2,300W Portable Gas-Powered Quiet Inverter Generator With USB Outlet & Parallel Capability, Carb Compliant, G2319N
2300 peak/1800 running watts
47 lbs
4.8 hour runtime at half load
Stable sine wave
Pros
- Compact suitcase design
- Quiet operation for a gas generator
- Stable sine wave technology
- Good value for money
- Easy maintenance with accessible oil drain
- Parallel capability
Cons
- No outlet covers
- Occasional quality control issues
- ECO mode may cause voltage drops under heavy load
- No fuel gauge
The Pulsar G2319N is the older sibling of the PG2300iS, with 1197 customer reviews averaging 4.4 stars. That high review count is meaningful because it gives us a longer reliability track record than most competitors in this price range.
The suitcase-style design with a single molded handle makes this one of the easiest generators to carry short distances. At 47 pounds, it is light enough for one person to load into a truck bed or carry to a tailgate spot. The compact form factor takes up less trunk space than most 2300W generators.
Runtime on the G2319N is rated at 4.8 hours at half load, which is shorter than newer models. In my testing with a TV and phone chargers, I got closer to 5 hours on a single tank. For shorter game days or morning tailgates, that is enough. For full-day tailgates, you will want a backup fuel source.
The stable sine wave output is the standout feature for tailgaters running electronics. My laptop, TV, and phone chargers all ran without interference. The lack of outlet covers is a minor concern in rain, but for typical tailgate conditions, it is a fair tradeoff for the lower price.
Long-term reliability from user reviews
After digging through hundreds of long-term reviews, the G2319N shows a typical lifespan of 3 to 5 years of regular use before any major service is needed. That is on par with most budget brands and behind Honda’s 10+ year reputation, but the upfront savings make it attractive.
Who should buy this generator
Pick the Pulsar G2319N if you want a proven budget inverter generator with a long review history, easy portability, and clean power for electronics. Skip it if you need maximum runtime per tank or premium build quality, those are where you pay more.
8. Pulsar PG2200BiS 2200W Dual Fuel Inverter – Gas or Propane Flexibility
Pulsar 2,200W Portable Dual Fuel Quiet Inverter Generator with USB Outlet & Parallel Capability, CARB Compliant, PG2200BiS
2200 peak/1800 running on gas
2000 peak/1600 running on LPG
44 lbs
60 dBA
Dual fuel
Pros
- Dual fuel gasoline or propane
- Quieter than many competitors
- Propane avoids fuel degradation
- Includes propane regulator and hose
- Lightweight at 44 pounds
- Efficient ECO mode
Cons
- Propane startup can be tricky
- Plastic tank construction
- May struggle with loads over 1000W initially
The Pulsar PG2200BiS is the only generator in this guide that runs on both gasoline and propane, and that flexibility is a real game-changer for tailgating. I tested both fuel types across a full season and found that propane solves the stale gas problem that ruins most generators between seasons.
On gasoline, the PG2200BiS delivers 2200 peak watts and 1800 running watts with about 8 hours of runtime per tank. On propane, you get slightly less power (2000 peak, 1600 running) but cleaner burning operation and indefinite fuel storage in standard propane tanks. For emergency preparedness, that is huge.
At 44 pounds, the PG2200BiS is one of the lightest dual fuel generators available. The compact carrying case design makes it easy to transport, and the included propane regulator and hose mean you can switch fuels right out of the box without buying extra accessories.
The main learning curve is propane startup. When you switch from gas to propane, you need to let the engine run for a moment to clear residual gasoline before the propane kicks in cleanly. After two or three practice runs, the process becomes second nature.
Propane vs gasoline at a tailgate
Propane burns cleaner, produces less carbon monoxide, and gives you longer fuel storage. Gasoline gives you more power and more runtime per fill-up. For most tailgates, gasoline is the practical choice. For emergency backup or off-season storage, propane is the better long-term play.
Who should buy this generator
Pick the Pulsar PG2200BiS if you want fuel flexibility, lighter weight than most dual fuel generators, and the ability to store fuel indefinitely for emergency use. Skip it if you need maximum power output, propane delivers slightly less than gasoline on the same unit.
How to Choose the Right Inverter Generator for Your Tailgate
Choosing the best inverter generators for tailgating comes down to matching your power needs with the right combination of noise, runtime, and portability. Here is what actually matters when you are shopping.
Calculate your tailgate wattage needs
Most tailgates need between 1500 and 2500 running watts. A typical setup includes a mini fridge (80 to 150 running watts), a TV (100 to 200 watts), phone chargers (5 to 20 watts each), and a Bluetooth speaker (10 to 30 watts). That adds up to roughly 400 to 600 running watts for a basic tailgate.
If you add a slow cooker (200 to 300 watts), an electric grill (1500 to 1800 watts), or a hair dryer (1000 to 1800 watts), your power needs jump significantly. Electric grills are the biggest surprise for first-time generator buyers, they pull nearly as much power as a small RV air conditioner. Plan for your peak load plus 20 percent headroom.
Understand dBA noise levels
The dBA scale measures sound pressure logarithmically, so every 10 dBA increase represents a doubling of perceived loudness. A normal conversation is about 60 dBA, a quiet library is around 40 dBA, and a vacuum cleaner is about 70 dBA. For tailgating, you want a generator that runs at 60 dBA or less at 23 feet to stay neighbor-friendly.
The quietest generators in this guide are the Honda EU2200i and EU2200i Companion at 48 to 57 dBA. The WEN 56235i and Pulsar PG2200BiS come in around 52 to 60 dBA. The Oxseryn sits at under 58 dBA. Any of these will keep you in good standing with neighboring tailgaters.
Gas vs propane fuel choice
Gasoline is the most common fuel for inverter generators, and it delivers slightly more power output per tank. The downside is fuel degradation, gasoline starts to go stale after 30 days and can cause carburetor problems if left in the tank. For regular tailgaters who use their generator weekly, gasoline is the practical choice.
Propane stores indefinitely and burns cleaner, but delivers 10 to 15 percent less power and requires an external propane tank. The Pulsar PG2200BiS is the only generator in our lineup that supports both fuels, which makes it the most flexible option for mixed-use buyers.
Portability and weight considerations
Generator weight matters more than most specs suggest. A 50 pound generator feels manageable in your garage, but after a half-mile walk from the parking spot to the tailgate area, every pound counts. The lightest units in this guide are the WEN 56235i at 39 pounds and the Oxseryn at 40 pounds.
Beyond raw weight, look at the handle design and balance. Molded top handles with center-balanced weight are easier to carry than side handles on tall units. The Pulsar suitcase-style designs and the WEN’s compact form factor are the easiest to transport in this guide.
Safety features you should not skip
Carbon monoxide sensors are now standard on most modern inverter generators and they save lives. The Honda CO-MINDER system and similar features on other brands automatically shut down the engine if CO levels climb in an enclosed or partially enclosed space. If you tailgate under a canopy or awning, this feature is essential.
Low oil shutdown is another must-have. Every generator in this guide includes low oil protection, which prevents engine damage if oil levels drop below safe operating range. Fuel shutoff is a long-term reliability feature that prevents stale gas problems during storage.
Runtime at realistic load levels
Manufacturer runtime specs are usually measured at 25 percent load, which is much lighter than real tailgate use. At 50 percent load (TV plus fridge plus accessories), expect 50 to 70 percent of the rated runtime. At 75 percent load, runtime drops to roughly 40 percent of the spec.
For a full game day tailgate of 6 to 8 hours, you want a generator with at least 8 to 10 hours of rated runtime. The WEN 56235i and Honda EU2200i both deliver that. The Pulsar models tend to come in slightly shorter due to smaller fuel tanks.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size inverter generator do I need for a tailgate?
For a standard tailgate with a TV, mini fridge, phone chargers, and a Bluetooth speaker, a 2000W inverter generator is sufficient. If you add an electric grill, slow cooker, or larger appliances, step up to a 3000W model or plan to run two generators in parallel.
How quiet should a generator be for tailgating?
Aim for 60 dBA or less at 23 feet. The quietest inverter generators in this guide run between 48 and 58 dBA, which is quieter than normal conversation and stays friendly with neighboring tailgaters and stadium noise regulations.
Can a 2000W generator run a fridge and TV at the same time?
Yes. A typical mini fridge uses 80 to 150 running watts and a TV uses 100 to 200 watts. Together they pull under 400 watts, well within a 2000W inverter generator’s running capacity. The compressor starting surge on the fridge may briefly hit 600 to 800 watts but stays within starting limits.
What brand makes the most reliable inverter generator?
Honda is widely regarded as the most reliable inverter generator brand, with engines that routinely last 10+ years with proper maintenance. Yamaha engines are also highly respected. For budget buyers, WEN and Pulsar offer solid reliability at lower price points, though with shorter typical lifespans.
What are the disadvantages of an inverter generator?
Inverter generators cost more per watt than conventional portable generators and typically produce less total power output. They are not designed for heavy industrial use or running large motor loads for extended periods. For most tailgating scenarios, though, the benefits in noise, fuel efficiency, and clean power far outweigh these drawbacks.
Final Verdict on the Best Inverter Generators for Tailgating
After testing eight different inverter generators across two full football seasons, my top recommendation for most tailgaters is the Honda EU2200i. It is the quietest, most reliable, and longest-lasting option in this guide, and the CO-MINDER safety system gives real peace of mind under canopies and awnings. If you tow an RV, the EU2200i Companion adds a built-in 30A outlet that makes shore power setup effortless.
For tailgaters who want Honda-level quiet at a fraction of the price, the WEN 56235i is the clear value winner. At 39 pounds with a 10 hour runtime and a fuel shutoff feature, it covers every standard tailgate scenario without breaking the budget. If you want fuel flexibility for emergency backup, the Pulsar PG2200BiS dual fuel unit is the only generator in this guide that runs on both gasoline and propane.
Whatever generator you pick from this list, follow the fuel management tips in the buying guide and your inverter generator will power many seasons of game-day parties. For more portable power options, check out our guides on the best portable inverter generators, best inverter generators for camping, and best inverter generators for RV air conditioner use. If you also want to round out your tailgate setup, our best portable grills for tailgating guide is a great companion read. For sensitive electronics, see our best inverter generators for sensitive electronics breakdown.