Update September 2016: The SVS SB-1000 is now our top recommended subwoofer under $500.

Polk Audio PSW505 ($200)

Pros:

• Powerful enough to fill a large room
• Flexible input options
• Impeccable build quality

Cons:

• Too much bass for small spaces

Top Review Sources:

• Amazon 5.0/5.0 (200+ reviews)
• Newegg.com: 5.0/5.0 (225+ reviews)
• AudioEnz: “A fine sense of extension, tactile impact and all round bass weight and authority”

The Polk Audio PSW505 is an established and respected player in the large-room subwoofer game. Its performance is class-leading, with deep reserves of thundering bass and incredible precision. The PSW505 is a 12-inch woofer with a frequency range of 23 to 160Hz. It is solidly-built, measures 16-1/8″ H x 15-1/8″ W x 18-3/16″ D, weights 43 pounds, and is wrapped in black, real wood veneer. Features include an adjustable low-pass crossover, volume control, and a phase switch. This sub is magnetically shielded against interference and has an auto on/off switch to conserve power. Inputs are 5-way binding posts, line level (filtered), and LFE (unfiltered); output is a pair of 5-way binding posts. The PSW505’s 300 watts of power and big volume potential make it best suited for large spaces.

Amazon sells the Polk Audio PSW505.

Polk Audio PSW10 ($94)

Pros:

• Solid construction
• High value
• Clean and clear sound

Cons:

• No LFE input
• Might be insufficient for large rooms

Top Review Sources:

• Amazon: 4.5/5.0 (375+ reviews)
• CNET: 3.5/5.0 “It pounds out home-theater thrills and musical bass with equal prowess”
• Newegg.com: 5.0/5.0 (225+ reviews)

The low-price, high-performance Polk PSW10 makes it difficult to justify building a home theater without a powered sub. For $100, this subwoofer delivers 50 watts of continuous power through a 10-inch composite polymer speaker, producing rich bass with plenty of punch. Equally skilled at enhancing music, movies, or television, the PSW10 does its job without becoming boomy or muddled at high volumes. Its solid construction contributes to its great sound: 26 pounds of medium-density fiberboard measuring 14-3/8″ H x 14″ W x 16-1/8″ D. Included are speaker-level and line-level inputs, plus a speaker-level output. Frequency response is 35 to 200Hz. You also get on-speaker volume, crossover, and phase controls as well as an auto on/off switch. The PSW10 is built for small- to medium-size spaces. It is available in black or cherry finishes.

The Polk Audio PSW10 is currently available on Amazon.

Definitive Technology SuperCube III ($379)

Pros:

• Small package; huge bass
• Great range
• Solidly built

Cons:

• Will distort at extreme volume

Top Review Sources:

• Crutchfield: Staff Pick “True, accurate, and extremely deep bass in any room”
• Best Buy Customer Reviews: 4.5/5.0 (15+ reviews)
• Home Theater Magazine: “other SuperCube subs…have had amazingly low but very musical bass output—and lots of it. The SuperCube III is no exception”

Definitive Technology’s SuperCube III produces unbelievable bass despite its compact footprint. Its sound profile is defined by its extreme depth—all the way down to 16Hz. The SuperCube III produces an authoritative 650 watts of power, capable of handling the bass duties in small or large rooms. Listeners appreciate the SuperCube III’s versatility; it performs as well when asked to provide a steady, undistorted rumble as it does when the soundtrack demands rapid, staccato bursts of bass. Though this gloss black cube weights a substantial 25 pounds, it only measures 10-1/4 inches in any dimension. It has a signal-sensing auto on/off switch, low-pass crossover, volume control, 5-way binding post outputs, and line level, LFE, and 5-way binding post inputs. Its woofer is 7-1/2 inches in diameter.

You can buy the Definitive Technology SuperCube III on Amazon

The post The Best Subwoofers Under $500 appeared first on Reactual.

Top Review Sources:

• L.L.Bean customer rating: 5.0/5.0 (65+ reviews)
• ExpertReviews.co.uk: 4.0/5.0 “By far the most flexible and clever torch that we’ve ever reviewed”
• ePHOTOzine: 4.0/5.0 “Ideal for a wide range of applications”
• Amazon: 4.5 out of 5 stars (100+ reviews)

The Joby GorillaTorch is a LED lamp mounted on three flexible legs. The legs can be wrapped around a nearly object in order to hold the GorillaTorch in place while you work. The end of each leg has a rubberized, magnetic foot — this means  you can also stick the GorillaTorch to metal surfaces. The light output is adjustable, with a maximum of 65 lumens. Running at full brightness, the GorillaTorch will last for about 20 hours; on its lowest brightness setting, it will go up to 80 hours before its three AA batteries need to be replaced (see our review of the top rated rechargeable AAs here).

Get the Joby GorillaTorch at Amazon in gray, orange, yellow, or blue for about $17.

The post The Top Rated Tripod Flashlight: Joby GorillaTorch appeared first on Reactual.

Pros:

• Great display and user interface
• Floats on water
• Portable

Cons:

• Small screen not the best for permanent installations

Top Review Sources:

• GPS Tracklog: “Highly recommended; probably the best marine handheld series currently made by Garmin”
• Marine Electronics Reviews: “One of the most sophisticated marine handheld GPS units on the market today”
• Amazon: 4.5/5.0 (5+ reviews)

The Garmin GPSMAP 78sc is a handheld GPS built for use in boating and watersports. The 78sc measures 6.0” H x 2.6” W x 1.2” D and weighs less than eight ounces with two AA batteries installed. The display itself measures 2.6” diagonally and has a resolution of 160 x 240. It is possible to hold and operate this unit with one hand—rubber sides enhance grip security. Above the screen, you’ll find eight buttons plus a directional pad, all of which control functions via a responsive and well-organized on-screen menu system. The 65K color TFT display is sharp and detailed, exhibiting no problems with washout in the sunlight. The 1.7 GB internal memory of the 78sc is preloaded with coastal charts, and the microSD slot enables you to add more maps or custom data via an external card. The microSD slot, mini USB port, serial port, and external antenna jack are all protected by a rubber cover on the back of the device. When the cover is in place, the 78sc is waterproof (and floats). If you’d like to permanently mount your 78sc, there is an optional mount and power cord available. Running on batteries, the 78sc will operate for approximately 20 hours. The 78sc is also equipped with an electronic compass and barometric altimeter. This unit comes with a one-year warranty.

The Garmin GPSMAP 78sc ($487) is for sale on Amazon. Also available is the GPSMAP 78 ($297), which is not preloaded with maps and does not have an electronic compass and barometric altimeter, and the GPSMAP 78s ($386), which also lacks the maps but has an electronic compass and barometric altimeter.

Humminbird 788ci HD Combo ($606)

Pros:

• High-resolution screen
• Very accurate GPS
• Excellent sonar

Cons:

• Some image details are very small

Top Review Sources:

• Cabela’s: 4.5/5.0 (10+ reviews)
• Bass Pro Shops: 4.4/5.0 (10+ reviews)
• Marine Electronics Reviews: “A desirable chartplotter fishfinder combo for any boater looking to upgrade their marine electronics gear”

The Humminbird 788ci HD Combo unites GPS capability with state-of-the-art sonar in a highly-regarded navigation/fishfinding device. The 788ci HD Combo has a 640 x 640, 256-color TFT screen that measures five inches diagonally. Its high resolution permits a high level of detail, though very small details can be hard to read. Viewing angles are wide, reflectivity and glare are low, and the display remains legible in direct sunlight. The unit itself has dimensions of 6.9” W x 7.5” H x 4.5” D and can be mounted either in-dash or on its included quick-disconnect stand. Its internal GPS receives praise for its impressive accuracy and tight integration with its sonar functions. Its sounding capability is similarly impressive, with 500 watts of power, multimode results display, and dual beams. The supplied transducer can be transom-mounted or mounted inside the hull. You can supplement the 788ci HD Combo’s internal memory via its two external memory card slots. This unit carries a one-year warranty.

Purchase the Humminbird 788ci HD Combo ($606) on Amazon. You’ll also find the 788ci HD DI Combo ($740), which has down imaging capability.

Lowrance HDS-7 ($999)

Pros:

• Large, sharp screen
• Very precise GPS
• Easy-to-navigate interface

Cons:

• Included maps may not meet all needs

Top Review Sources:

• Marine Electronics Reviews: “Excellent for daylight viewability”
• Bass Pro Shops: 3.8/5.0 (15+ reviews)
• Cabela’s: 4.0/5.0 (2 reviews)

The Lowrance HDS-7 is a chartplotter/fishfinder combo unit with a 6.4-inch, 480 x 640 display. Images are sharp and bright even in sunny conditions, and viewing angles are excellent. On-screen functions are controlled by means of the HDS-7’s eight pushbuttons and arrow pad. Processing is speedy and the response time of menus is above average. As with the other nautical GPS units reviewed here, the HDS-7 can save thousands of waypoints and hundreds of routes. Memory capacity is expandable via the external SD card slot. The HDS-7’s 16-channel internal GPS antenna is a strong performer, locking on to signals quickly and exhibiting outstanding accuracy. The HDS-7 will also accept an external GPS antenna if you have a closed cabin. There are a variety of mapping cards available to supplement the included Expanded U.S. or Insight USA internal maps. The fishfinder works well with the included transom-mount, skimmer transducer and is able to sound 5,000 feet. The HDS-7 measures 8.8” W x 6.4” H x 3.5” D, comes with mounting hardware, and carries a two-year warranty.

The Lowrance HDS-7 with Expanded U.S. BaseMap and transducer ($999) is for sale on Amazon. You can also purchase the HDS-7 without the transducer ($949).

The post The Top Rated Nautical GPS Units appeared first on Reactual.

We have taken a close look at all the major brands in order to find the highest levels of quality, performance, and value. Our search took us to websites such as Bass Pro Shops, Amazon, Cabela’s, All Inflatable Boats & Kayaks, and Meijer for expert and customer reviews. Here are our picks:

Sevylor Fish Hunter 6 Person Boat ($193)

• Bass Pro Shops: 4.4/5.0 (25+ reviews)
• Meijer: 4.5/5.0 (10+ reviews)
• Amazon: 3.5/5.0 (15+ reviews)

The Sevylor Fish Hunter 6 Person Boat is the largest in the company’s Fish Hunter inflatable boat series. 3 Person ($97) and 4 Person ($135) Fish Hunters are also available. The Fish Hunter 6 Person gets high marks for its stability and its light weight. Reviewers have had success installing electric or small gas motors. The biggest complaint in reviews concerns the six-person advertised capacity; most who comment claim the Fish Hunter 6 Person Boat will comfortably hold only three or four adults. The 32-gauge PVC skin does a good job of resisting punctures and tears. This inflatable can accommodate up to a three-horsepower motor; it includes bow and stern fittings as well as a battery pouch. Fishing-specific extras include two inflatable seats, two rod holders, a gear bag, and chafing pads. Additional features: two tunnel chambers, four swiveling oarlocks, four drain plugs, and two carry handles. This boat comes with a 90-day warranty. Its weight capacity is 1,200 pounds.

The Sevylor Fish Hunter 6 Person Boat ($192) is available on Amazon, as are the 3 Person ($97) and 4 Person ($135) versions.

Intex Mariner ($350)

Top Review Sources:

• All Inflatable Boats & Kayaks: “We think you’ll find that the Intex Mariner inflatable boat offers awesome durability and comfort, and should live up to your expectations as a leisure craft”
• Cabela’s: 4.6/5.0 (25+ reviews)
• Amazon: 4.5/5.0 (20+ reviews)

The Intex Mariner resides at the top in of the company’s line of inflatable boats. This four-person craft has an inflatable keel, extruded plastic floor, and motormount fittings. Its skin is 26-gauge PVC vinyl with strategically-placed rock guards for extra puncture protection. Complaints about the Mariner, though sparse, center on the unrealistic claim of four-person capacity (three adults seems to be the max) and the poor quality of the included oars. Most feedback is positive; reviewers like the build quality, ease of transport, and quick setup/teardown times. The Mariner has four air chambers, two oarlocks, three seat cushions, two fishing rod holders, two grab handles, a gear bag, and a battery pouch. Customers report no problems installing a small motor. The Mariner’s weight capacity is 704 pounds.

You’ll find the Intex Mariner for sale on Amazon.

Sea Eagle 9 ($329)

Top Review Sources:

• TheCampingLifestyle.com: “A great value for the weekend rafter”
• All Inflatable Boats & Kayaks: “A hull so firm and hard you can pound on it with a hammer without fear of it ripping or tearing”
• Cabela’s: 4.2/5.0 (5+ reviews)

Sea Eagle is widely known for its high-quality inflatable boats and kayaks. The Sea Eagle 9 is an 11-foot boat built with fishermen in mind. Reviewers repeatedly comment on the remarkable low weight/high stability balance this boat provides. The Sea Eagle 9 comes with a set of oars, foot pump, rowing seat, and high seat. Though capacity is listed at four to five persons, two or three is a more realistic (and comfortable) estimate according to customers. Maximum weight is 1,200 pounds. The five-chamber hull weighs only 38 pounds when collapsed. The Sea Eagle 9 will accommodate gas motors of up to 3 horsepower and electric motors with up to 74 pounds of thrust. Additional features include a carry handle and four oarlocks. Like the other boats reviewed here, the Sea Eagle 9 comes with a repair kit. Other compliments the Sea Eagle 9 receives involve its easy inflation/deflation and resilient, 38 mil PVC skin. This boat comes with a three-year warranty.

The Sea Eagle 9 is for sale on Amazon. The Fisherman’s Dream package adds a set of floorboards, motormount, motormount bench seat, and middle bench seat. It is available with the Sea Eagle 9.

The post The Top Rated Inflatable Boats appeared first on Reactual.

Uni-Solar PowerBond PVL-136 ($447)

Pros:

• Simple installation
• Five-year warranty

Cons:

• May need to purchase additional cables

Top Review Sources:

• BestFlexibleSolarPanels.com: 4.5/5.0 “One of the very best inventions in solar as far as we’re concerned”
• Amazon: 5.0/5.0 (1 review)
• Amazon: 3.5/5.0 (3 reviews) (PVL-68)

The Uni-Solar PowerBond PVL-136 is a commercial-grade, peel-and-stick flexible solar panel. As its name implies, each PowerBond PVL-136 panel will produce 136 watts, and multiple PVL-136s can be chained together for increased output. This panel is intended to be installed on building, boat, and RV rooftops, though it will work just about anywhere with a clean, large surface. The PVL-136 stays put because of its adhesive backing and will not slide off even in high winds or high heat. In fact, its high-heat operation distinguishes it from crystalline silicon, which degrades in performance as temperatures rise. The PVL-136 works in temperatures up to 185 °F. It is able to operate in low-light and shadowy conditions because of its amorphous solar cells. Each panel measures 216” L x 15.5” W x 0.2” D and weighs 17 pounds. The PVL-136 comes with a five-year warranty.

Purchase the Uni-Solar PowerBond PVL-136 solar panel on Amazon. You’ll also find the smaller PVL-68 ($234) and larger PVL-144 ($465).

PowerFilm R14 ($200)

Pros:

• Rugged construction
• Portable

Cons:

• Adapters for devices not included

Top Review Sources:

• Preparedness Advice Blog: “I was impressed with the one we had the opportunity to test”
• Amazon: 5.0/5.0 (1 review) (R28)

The PowerFilm R14 is a flexible solar charger designed to charge small- and medium-size devices such as netbooks, LED lanterns, and 12-volt batteries. The R14 is built to move, with a rollable, waterproof design and extreme temperature operability. It is useful for camping, hiking, and marine excursions. If it is punctured, it will continue to provide solar power, though its ability to repel water will be compromised. The R14 produces 14 watts and is able to function in cloudy conditions. When unrolled, it measures 14.5” W x 42” L (14.5” W x 4” diameter when rolled) and weighs about a pound. Devices are connected via the included RA-2 female cigarette lighter adapter, so make sure you have the proper cord for the gadget you wish to charge. Reviewers like the durability of the R14 and praise its performance/size balance.

Amazon sells the PowerFilm R14. Amazon also sells other rollable solar panels in the PowerFilm line, including the smaller R7 ($140) as well as the larger R21 ($270) and R28 ($346).

The post The Best Flexible Solar Panels appeared first on Reactual.

Starting batteries and deep-cycle batteries aren’t meant to be substituted for one another; doing so will leave you stranded. Some manufacturers produce dual-purpose batteries, which attempt to combine the functions of starting and deep-cycle batteries into one package.

We’ve explored expert and user reviews of all types of boat batteries in order to bring you a list of the top rated . Our sources include Amazon, Bass Pro Shops, Advance Auto Parts, Sears, and BatteryMart.com.

ODYSSEY Trolling Thunder/Marine Dual Purpose Series ($98 and up)

Pros:

• Above-average lifespan
• Long-lasting charge

Cons:

• Initial cost

Top Review Sources:

• BatteryMart.com: 4.9/5.0 (75+ reviews) (PC625)
• Amazon: 5.0/5.0 (10+ reviews) (PC625)
• Amazon: 5.0/5.0 (3 reviews) (34M-PC1500)

ODYSSEY Trolling Thunder/Marine Dual Purpose batteries use AGM technology to deliver performance that tops lead-acid batteries. Trolling Thunder batteries are built to fill both starting and deep-cycle roles. The manufacturer claims reliable starting energy coupled with up to 400 cycles at 80% depth of discharge. Reviewers confirm these impressive claims, expressing satisfaction with the long charge times and strong cranking power. Though Trolling Thunder series batteries cost more than conventional marine batteries, they last from 3-10 years, fully recharge in four to six hours, can be mounted anywhere due to their no-spill design, have higher impact and vibration tolerance, and are maintenance-free. Here a rundown of the six 12-volt batteries in the line:

• PC625 – MCA@32 °F: 250, RC: 27
• PC925 – MCA@32 °F: 500, RC: 52
• 34M-PC1500 – MCA@32 °F: 1050, RC: 135
• PC1800-FT – MCA@32 °F: 1450, RC: 475
• 31M-PC2150 – MCA@32 °F: 1370, RC: 205
• PC2250 – MCA@32 °F: 1550, RC: 240

Many AGM batteries use lead alloys for their flat plates, but ODYSSEY uses pure lead, which extends battery life. ODYSSEY Trolling Thunder batteries come with three- or four-year warranties.

Amazon has a selection of ODYSSEY Trolling Thunder/Marine Dual Purpose batteries for sale: PC625 ($98), PC925 ($170), 34M-PC1500 ($297), and PC2250 ($486).

DieHard Platinum PM-1 ($280)

Pros:

• Holds charge well while in storage
• Durable

Cons:

• Rare reports of premature failure

Top Review Source:

• Sears: 5.0/5.0 (15+ reviews)

The DieHard Platinum PM-1 features corrosion-resistant, tin-coated terminals, vibration protection, sealed construction, pure lead plates, and a three-year warranty. This AGM marine battery is dual-purpose; it can cover both starting and deep-cycle duties. It will typically last longer than lead-acid-type batteries. The Platinum PM-1 is a 12-volt unit capable of 1150 cold cranking amps at zero degrees Fahrenheit and has a reserve capacity of 205 minutes. It weighs 75 pounds and measures 9.5” H x 13” L x 6.8” W. Customers generally rave about the Platinum PM-1, citing its reliable performance and ability to start up after long periods of storage. Customers also have found the construction to be rugged enough to stand up to high levels of vibration and impact.

Purchase the DieHard Platinum PM-1 at Sears.

The post The Best Rated Boat Batteries appeared first on Reactual.

• If you want the best energy capacity (2550 mAh) — get the Eneloop Pro
• If you want maximum recharge capacity (2100 times) — get the 4th Generation Panasonic Eneloops

Overall, the best rechargeable AA battery is the Eneloop Pro. They have a high energy capacity (2500 mAh), and they perform better than similar high-capacity AAs. They can only be charged 500 times (versus 2100 times for regular Eneloops). But most people will never charge their batteries that many times. For example, if you charged your batteries twice a week consistently, it would take 5 years to reach 500 charges.

Sanyo Eneloop

Top Review Sources:

• Consumer Reports: Recommended
• Doc’s Charger and Battery Reviews: “Good performance for a 2000 mAh rated battery, and fantastic shelf life for a Ni-MH”
• Amazon: 4.5/5.0 (1,600+ reviews)

Eneloops are currently the top rated rechargeable AAs, and we have found them to perform well.  We should also mention Imedion batteries, which are similar to Eneloops but rated at 2400 mAh (this stands for milli Amp hour, and indicates a battery’s energy storage capacity). Eneloops, by comparison, have a lower rated capacity — 2000 mAh (or 1980 mAh according to my informal tests).

You’ll find the Sanyo eneloop AA four pack ($11) on Amazon. You can also buy an eneloop AA four pack with included recharger ($18) as well as an eneloop AA eight pack ($20).

Eneloop Pros

The Eneloop Pro is a high-capacity version of the regular Eneloop cell. The Eneloop Pro has a capacity of 2500 mAh –this is 500 mAh more than the regular Eneloops. Their only potential downside is that they can be charged 500 times — not 2100 times like the regular Eneloops. However, on average most people will charge their batteries about 100-200 times over a 5 year period.

Eneloop Pro batteries are available on Amazon.

Energizer Ultimate

Pros:

• Great for high-drain devices and maximum runtime
• Fantastic shelf life

Cons:

• Not rechargeable

Top Review Sources:

• Consumer Reports: Recommended
• Amazon: 4.5/5.0 (150+ reviews)
• CHOICE Online (Australia): “The ENERGIZER e2 Lithium was by far the top performer in our test”

The Energizer Ultimate is a disposable battery meant for high-drain devices and long periods of time away from another power source. It is the successor to the similar Energizer e2. Like the e2, the Ultimate is a lithium battery. One of lithium’s advantages over other types of batteries is a longer runtime. The Ultimate AA is a 3000 mAh battery that operates at about 1.7 volts; it is able to energize a high-drain device (such as a powerful camera) for a longer period of time than most other batteries. If you have a gadget that needs the higher voltage, or if you need a battery that will last in a high-drain device for as long as possible, lithium is a great option. Another lithium advantage is its 10+ year shelf life, making it a good backup battery to have around for emergencies. Lithium batteries also operate in sub-freezing temperatures, unlike alkaline disposables.

The Energizer Ultimate four pack ($5) is available on Amazon. Also for sale is an eight pack ($15).

Duracell CopperTop

Pros:

• Low initial cost
• Long shelf life

Cons:

• Not long-term cost-effective

Top Review Sources:

• Amazon: 4.5/5.0 (125+ reviews)
• PC Magazine: Longest runtime in flashlight test (of seven batteries tested)
• CandlePowerForums.com Alkaline Battery Shoot Out: 4^th place (of 19 batteries tested for watt-hours)

Duracell CopperTop batteries use alkaline technology to deliver reliable performance at a low cost per battery. While rechargeable batteries will save you money in the long run, disposable alkalines like the CopperTop have advantages such as lower initial cost and longer shelf life (7+ years). CopperTops are not suited for high-drain devices; they won’t last as long as NiMH or lithium batteries. However, if you use batteries very infrequently or need a long-lasting, inexpensive solution for a smoke detector or rarely-used remote control, the CopperTop offers a compelling price/performance balance.

The Duracell CopperTop 20 pack is for sale on Amazon.

See also our extensive review of rechargeable batteries and chargers on MetaEfficient.

The post The Top Rated AA Batteries appeared first on Reactual.

Most generators run on gasoline, but propane and diesel models are also for sale. In order to use a portable generator to power sections of your home in the event of an electricity outage, you will also need to purchase and install a transfer switch, which regulates the connections between your power sources and your house

We’ve consulted review sources such as Electric Generators Direct, Amazon, Northern Tool + Equipment, Home Depot, and Good Housekeeping to find the highest rated portable power sources.

Briggs & Stratton 30470 ($917)

Pros:

• Electric start
• Rugged construction

Top Review Sources:

• Electric Generators Direct: 5.0/5.0 “It’s hard to come by a mid-sized generator such as this one, loaded with features and that has electric start in this price range”
• Electric Generators Direct Customer Reviews: 4.9/5.0 (60+ reviews)
• Amazon: 4.0/5.0 (10+ reviews)

With 7,000 watts (8,750 watts surge) of power, the Briggs & Stratton 30470 is capable of keeping several rooms of your home fully operational when paired with a transfer switch. You can still use power cords with this unit, which includes four 120-volt outlets and one 240-volt outlet, but the 30470 is at its best when connected directly to your home’s electrical system. About the only appliance the 30470 is incapable of handling is a central air conditioner. Its 7-gallon gas tank can supply energy at 50% capacity for approximately nine hours. Big wheels and space-efficient construction ensure you don’t have to wrestle with this 250-pound machine in order to move it. Its dimensions are 34.8” L x 22.2” W x 25.9” H. Recoil starters are still common in this class of generators, so the electric starter in the 30470 is a notable convenience. Other features: an hour meter to remind you of oil changes, low-oil automatic shutdown, and included battery. The Briggs & Stratton 30470 ships with a 3-year warranty.

You’ll find the Briggs & Stratton 30470 on Amazon.

Generac GP5500 ($669)

Pros:

• Reliable
• Easy to use and move

Cons:

• No DC outlet

Top Review Sources:

• Electric Generators Direct: 5.0/5.0 “You can find cheaper generators, but no where near the quality of this Generac”
• Northern Tool + Equipment Customer Rating: 4.9/5.0 (15+ reviews)
• Home Depot Customer Reviews: 4.5/5.0 (5+ reviews)

The Generac GP5500 provides 5,500 watts of power (6,875 watts surge) from a 389cc gasoline engine. Reviewers like the GP5500 because of its excellent build quality, value, ease of use, and reliability. Think of the GP5500 as a way of keeping the vital systems running in the event of a home power outage. With 5,500 watts, you won’t be able to run your entire house, but you will be able to connect a refrigerator, furnace fan, and lights at the same time. You can use a transfer switch with the GP5500, but running extension cords is a more appropriate option with a generator of this size. The GP5500 has four 120v outlets and one 240v outlet, all of which are covered when not in use. It will run for 10 continuous hours under moderate load and holds 7.2 gallons of fuel. Its rigid frame and two-wheel design ease transport. The GP5500 weights 180 pounds and has dimensions of 33.5” L x 26.5” W x 27.5” H. It comes with a 2-year consumer warranty.

Purchase the Generac GP5500 on Amazon.

Generac GP17500E ($2,599)

Pros:

• Immense capacity
• Many outlets

Cons:

• Not CARB compliant

Top Review Sources:

• Electric Generators Direct: 5.0/5.0 “Recommended”
• Electric Generators Direct Customer Reviews: 4.8/5.0 (20+ reviews)
• Good Housekeeping Seal

The Generac GP17500E is about as powerful as portable generators get. It delivers 17,500 watts of continuous power and up to 26,250 watts surge. Its engine is a gasoline-powered 992cc unit capable of providing 10 hours of uninterrupted power when loaded at 50%. Fuel capacity is 16 gallons. The GP17500E fires up via an electric start system connected to the included 12-volt battery. 17,500 watts is enough to power central air conditioning systems of up to 60,000 BTUs. The GP17500E is capable of energizing an entire house. Its advantage over immobile, standby generators is that is doesn’t need propane or natural gas to run. Keep in mind, however, that portable generators do not have auto on/off switches; if you aren’t around when the power goes out, the GP17500E will not activate. If you need this functionality, look into standby generators. The GP17500E has an oil hour meter, low oil alert, 12-inch all-terrain wheels, and built-in lifting eye. Outlets include several AC-type and one DC-type. As large as the GP17500E is (48.5” L x 30.75” W x 38.5” H, 400 pounds), it is compact and rigid enough for one person to roll. The manufacturer’s warranty is 2 years for consumers.

Generac’s GP17500E can be purchased through Amazon.

Yamaha EF2000iS ($989)

Pros:

• Fuel efficient
• Very portable
• Quiet

Cons:

• Oil not included

Top Review Sources:

• Amazon: 5.0/5.0 (35+ reviews)
• Electric Generators Direct: 5.0/5.0 “A practical, versatile machine that can go anywhere with ease”
• Electric Generators Direct Customer Reviews: 5.0/5.0 (15+ reviews)

The Yamaha EF2000iS is a gas-powered inverter-generator of compact size and class-leading performance. The EF2000iS produces 1,600 watts of continuous power—enough to run several small appliances simultaneously. It is capable of producing a temporary surge of 2,000 watts should the demand arise. Built in are two 120v AC outlets and one 12v DC outlet. The EF2000iS is extremely portable, measuring only 19.3” L x 11” W x 17.9” H and weighing 44 pounds. Compared to older, traditional camping generators, the EF2000iS’s inverter alternator setup is much quieter (51.5 to 61 dB at a distance of about 20 feet). Its 1.1-gallon gas tank provides 8 to 10 hours of nonstop operation at moderate load. To conserve fuel, the EF2000iS features a smart throttle system that adjusts engine speed to match demand. Two EF2000iS’s can be connected to produce 3,200 watts of power. The Yamaha EF2000iS carries a 3-year consumer warranty.

The Yamaha EF2000iS is for sale on Amazon.

The post The Top Rated Portable Generators appeared first on Reactual.