Honda EU1000i

Reviews give top ranking to the Honda EU1000i as the best small portable generator. It's expensive but its inverter technology is ultra-quiet, fuel efficient and provides consistent clean voltage so it's suitable for use with sensitive computer and home-theater equipment (an inconsistent current can fry electronics with power surges). It's small enough for one person to handle easily and can do double duty for home backup and camping trips. You can daisy-chain two or more Honda EU1000i generators together for more electricity and add an extra gas tank to minimize refueling. If quality and durability matter less than price, consider the Blue Max JD4000 (*Est. $280), but experts advise against using cheap generators to power electronics.

We found the best comparison review of the Honda EU1000i at Camping Life, where it's tested along with four other high-end portable generators that use inverter technology. Comparison tests at ConsumerReports.org and Field & Stream cover other sizes of Honda EU generators, but most of the findings are also relevant to the small Honda EU1000i. Popular Mechanics covers the EU1000i specifically, but doesn't document any testing. Dan James' single-product review of the Honda EU1000i for website SilverOrange Stuff provides more detail, and we also found useful owner-written reviews at eHam.net and Epinions.com.