Generators with power ratings of 8000 - 8500 Watts are less widely available on the market than some other generator types.
This is because this power range falls outside of the typical generator recommendations for common backup power requirements.
For example, the recommended wattage for powering a small home during a power outage is roughly 5000 to 7500 Watts.
For larger homes with more appliances to run, a generator rated at 10000 to 12000 Watts and above is usually recommended. For RVs, 2000 to 4000 Watts of power is the norm.
However, an 8000 - 8500-Watt generator can actually offer you a very convenient middle ground in terms of power output and usage. These power ratings are sufficient to cover small home and RV use and will power up most of the essential appliances in a larger home during an emergency.
In the latter situation, 8000 - 8500 Watts of power will encourage you to use only the electricity that you really need whilst remaining more portable than a larger generator and lowering your operating costs.
If this sounds like an ideal solution, then you’re in the right place! In this article, we’ll be reviewing the best 8000 - 8500-Watt generators on the market, providing the individual advantages and disadvantages of each. We’ve also put together a buyer’s guide and FAQ section for your convenience.
We understand that generators are most often used in emergencies, so you may not have time to spare. If this is the case, take a look at our top choice:
OUR TOP PICK
No matter what size generator you’re looking for, you’re likely to come across at least 1 Champion model in the recommendations.
Champion generators consistently live up to their brand name due to the practicality and high performance of their designs, and this 8000-Watt model is no different.
This generator provides a great deal of power, with 10000 starting Watts and 8000 running Watts.
As a dual fuel generator, this generator can run on either gasoline or propane.
However, it’s important to note that the use of propane will affect the power output of the generator, reducing the starting Watts to 9025 and the running Watts to 7250.
The gasoline tank is sizeable at 6.1 gallons, allowing for 8 hours of continuous run time on 50% load.
The Champion 8000-Watt generator includes multiple power outlets. In addition to 4 standard GFCI-protected, 120-volt 5-20R outlets, there is a 120-volt 5L-30R outlet and a 120/240-volt L14-30R outlet, both with locks.
The generator can be started electrically using a simple switch and the included battery.
To protect the generator’s motor, Champion has incorporated a variety of safety and monitoring features. These include a low-oil shutoff function, built-in surge protection, and an Intelligauge display that allows you to monitor voltage and run time.
In terms of durability, you can trust this generator to last you a long time and resist wear and tear due to its cast-iron sleeve construction.
Additionally, the generator comes with a wheel kit and a handle for increased portability.
With the purchase of this generator, you will also receive an LPG propane hose with a gas regulator, as well as 1.2 quarts of oil, so you can start using your new generator straight away upon arrival.
Pros
- 10000 starting Watts
- Dual fuel (gasoline and propane)
- 8-hour run time
- 6 power outlets
- Electric start
- Intelligauge monitoring display
- Low-oil shutoff and built-in surge protection
- Durable cast-iron sleeve construction
- Includes wheel kit and handle
- Propane hose and 1.2 quarts of oil included
- Battery included
Cons
- Some reports of structural damage during and following shipping
EDITORS CHOICE
DuroMax is known for manufacturing quality generators, and reviews indicate that the company’s XP8500E generator has met and even surpassed the expectations of many customers.
At 8500 starting Watts and 7000 running Watts, this is the least powerful generator on our list, but don’t let that deter you - this generator still provides a good amount of power and has a lot to offer in other areas.
This generator is designed to be powered by gasoline, with a 7.9-gallon fuel tank that allows for a long-lasting run time. It also starts electrically for added convenience and ease-of-use.
The XP8500E has 5 main power outlets. These include 4 120-volt, 20 amp household outlets, and a single 120/240-volt, 30 amp outlet.
Thanks to the MX2 power boost technology, you can run this generator at 120 and 240 volts simultaneously. There are also 12-volt DC outlets.
With built-in surge protection, a low-oil sensor, and an AC breaker switch, this generator is fully equipped to keep its motor protected in potentially longevity-shortening situations. Moreover, a voltmeter is included to help you monitor the electric current.
The external construction of the XP8500E also contributes to its durability.
The all-metal build helps to ensure that this generator will be resistant to impact damage. This does increase the weight of the product somewhat, which is about 200 lbs.
Luckily, though, DuroMax has included the complementary wheel kit with this generator to help you manage the weight.
Also included are DC cables, a spark plug wrench, a tool set, an oil funnel, and a product manual.
Pros
- 5 power outlets
- MX2 power boost technology
- 7.9-gallon fuel tank
- Electric start
- Includes surge protection, low-oil sensor, and AC breaker
- Durable all-metal construction
- Wheel kit included
- Includes DC cables, assembly tools, oil funnel, and product manual
Cons
- Some customer reports of issues concerning the warranty
BEST VALUE
Generac’s GP8000E receives a good deal of critical and customer attention when it comes to the best 8000 - 8500-Watt generators. This is largely due to its combination of high power with advanced technology.
Although this generator is advertised as an 8000-Watt generator due to its running Wattage, it has a starting Wattage of 10000 Watts, making it a very powerful portable generator.
Beyond its powerful motor, the GP8000E has many other great features.
The fuel tank is large enough to allow 11 hours of run time on 50% load, so you know you’ll be covered in the event of a long power outage.
A battery is included for an easy electric startup, along with a plug-in battery jack.
Available outlets include 4 120-volt, 20 amp outlets, and a 120/240-volt, 30 amp outlet. These outlets are covered for added protection in the event of adverse weather conditions.
Speaking of protection, the low-oil shutdown feature and AC breaker keep the generator’s motor safe from overloading, while the hour meter and fuel gauge allow you to monitor the generator during operation.
This is a highly durable generator model thanks to the metal construction of its components, including the steel fuel tank and 1 1/4 -inch steel tube cradle.
The generator comes with a wheel kit to enhance its portability, along with a convenient folding handle.
Pros
- 10000 starting Watts
- 11 hour run time
- Electric start
- 5 power outlets
- Protective outlet covers
- Low-oil shutdown and AC breaker
- Hour meter and fuel gauge for monitoring
- Battery included
- Durable metal construction
- Wheel kit included
Cons
- Not CARB compliant
RUNNER UP
At a starting Watt rating of 11500 and a running Watt rating of 8500, this generator packs a powerful punch.
In fact, it’s the most powerful generator on our list. However, the WPro8500 offers much more than just superior power.
This generator includes 4 household outlets rated at 120 volts and 20 amps each, a 120-volt, 30 amp outlet, and a 120/240-volt, 30 amp outlet.
There are also 2 5-volt USB ports. All outlets are GFCI protected and, due to the low harmonic distortion, safe for sensitive electronics.
The 6.6-gallon fuel tank provides an impressive 16 hours of run time on a 25% load.
The WPro8500 has an automatic low-oil shutoff feature, fuel gauge, and idle control for motor protection and fuel efficiency.
The digital data center means you can monitor the voltage, frequency, and run time of the generator during operation.
One of the most convenient features of this model is its remote starting function, which allows you to start your generator from up to 260 feet away.
At 216 lbs, this generator is not easy to maneuver on its own. However, a wheel kit and lifting hook are included for portability.
The WPro8500 comes with everything you need to start using your generator straight away. These additions include oil, an oil funnel, a battery charger, a user manual, and a tool kit for assembly.
Pros
- 11500 starting Watts
- 6 main power outlets
- 2 USB ports
- 16-hour run time on 25% load
- Safe for sensitive electronics
- Remote start
- Data center for monitoring purposes
- Low-oil shutoff, fuel gauge, and idle control
- Wheel kit and lift hook included
- Includes oil, oil funnel, tools, battery charger, and user manual
Cons
- Very heavy at 216 lbs
RUNNER UP
This generator model from Durostar is, as you can see, advertised as a 10000-Watt generator.
However, we’ve included it on this list because it has a rated Wattage of 8000, meaning that although the generator provides 10000 Watts of power during start-up, it will run consistently at 8000 Watts.
The DS10000E generator features 5 primary power outlets, including 2 household outlets of 120 volts and 20 amps, 1 twist-locked 120-volt, 30 amp outlet, another twist-locked outlet of 120/240 volts and 30 amps, and a heavy-duty outlet rated at 120/240 volts and 50 amps.
DC charging ports are also included.
Like the DuroMax generator reviewed above, the DS10000E uses MX2 technology to allow for simultaneous 120-volt and 240-volt power.
This generator has a relatively large 8.3-gallon fuel tank that enables many hours of use at a time.
To protect the generator’s engine, Durostar has incorporated surge arrest technology, an AC breaker, and low-oil shutoff into the design of the DS10000E.
The voltmeter allows you to keep an eye on how your generator is functioning.
Thanks to its all-metal construction, this generator is very durable. However, it is also consequently very heavy, at 218 lbs once assembled. The included wheel and handle kit helps to manage this.
Also included with this generator are assembly tools, DC charging cables, an oil funnel, and a product manual.
Pros
- 10000 starting Watts
- 5 main power outlets plus DC charging ports
- MX2 technology
- 8.3-gallon fuel tank
- Surge arrest technology, AC breaker, and low-oil shutoff
- Includes voltmeter
- Comes with wheel and handle kit
- Includes tools, DC charging cables, oil funnel, and product manual
Cons
- Quite noisy
- Reports of wheels flattening under the generator’s weight
Best 8000 - 8500 Watt Generators Buying Guide
If you’re still hesitating over which 8000 - 8500-Watt generator to buy, this buyer’s guide will detail some of the most important factors to consider when choosing the best generator for your needs.
Construction
A generator certainly isn’t a cheap purchase, so when you buy one, you’ll want to make sure it’s going to last you a long time.
As a customer, it can be difficult or even impossible to determine the quality of a generator’s internal construction, especially before purchase. This means that you may not be able to account for the durability of the motor itself or other internal components.
However, one thing you can verify at the point of purchase is the external construction of the generator.
As a general rule, you should look for all-metal construction in a generator to ensure durability. This is especially important when it comes to bigger, more powerful builds such as 8000 - 8500-Watt generators because they tend to be heavier, meaning that non-metal parts are increasingly likely to break during handling.
Safety and Monitoring
Power rating and power outlets tend to be the primary focus of customers purchasing generators of any size. However, it’s also important to consider the other features that generators may have to offer, especially since these features are often related to safety and monitoring.
Generators can be dangerous pieces of equipment when used incorrectly or when overloaded. That’s why most generators include a variety of safety features that either automatically protect the motor or allow you to monitor its usage.
A low-oil shutoff function helps to prevent engine damage from operating on insufficient fuel. AC breakers, surge arrestor technology, and built-in overload protection also help to reduce the risk of overload related damage and safety risks.
Digital displays and voltmeters are useful for monitoring the electrical current passing through the generator. Digital displays can also tell you the fuel consumption, run time, and frequency of your generator.
Twist-locks are good preventative measures for accidental disconnection of power outlets. Meanwhile, outlet covers provide protection against rain and debris.
CARB Compliance
Speaking of safety features, you may have noticed a reference to CARB compliance in one of our product reviews.
If you’re not sure what CARB compliance means, it’s a safety standard set by the California Air Resources Board with which generators must be compatible in order to be legally sold in the state of California.
Specifically, for a generator to be CARB compliant, it must meet California’s air pollution regulations. CARB compliant generators produce less harmful emissions than non-CARB-compliant generators and are legal for use in all 50 states.
If you live in the state of California, please do your due diligence and ensure that the generator you are purchasing is CARB-compliant and legal in your state.
Even if you don’t live in California, we recommend prioritizing CARB compliance as a feature, since this safety standard benefits both your own health and the health of the planet.
Portability
As generators get more powerful, they also tend to get larger and heavier. 8000 - 8500-Watt generators, therefore, can be very heavy (in the region of 200 lbs) and difficult to transport or maneuver.
This is why most generators with these power ratings include features to enable portability.
The most common portability features included with 8000 - 8500-Watt generators are wheel kits and handles. The combination of wheels and handles means that you can more easily move the generator by pushing or pulling it across the ground.
Alternatively, some generators include other features, such as lifting hooks, which allow the generator to be physically hoisted into the air when connected to a suitable lifting contraption.
Additional Features
If you don’t want to have to make additional separate purchases before you can start using your generator, you may wish to prioritize the inclusion of additional features with the purchase of your new generator.
Included tool kits and wrenches are particularly useful if your generator requires some level of assembly prior to use.
Included oil can help to get you started, as can an oil funnel, which greatly facilitates the refueling process.
You may also want to check that all the necessary cables are included with the generator, such as battery charging and DC cables.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Can I Power With an 8000 - 8500-Watt Generator?
If you’ve read this far, you’ll hopefully be sold on the features of the 8000 - 8500-Watt generators we’ve showcased.
However, you may still be wondering which appliances specifically you can power with a generator of this power rating.
A generator of this size should be able to power most of the essential appliances in your home, including refrigerator, stove, heating, and lights.
It will also produce more than enough power for the vast majority of RVs.
Want To Read More?
Jeremiah Pike
I'm an environment and energy blogger who teaches outdoor and energy enthusiasts how to be better informed when it comes to purchasing or maintaining a generator, solar panel system, or anything else related to your energy needs.