Propane generators are useful for emergency backups, outdoor activities like camping, or RVs. They are environmentally friendly since they produce fewer emissions and are non-toxic.
They are most preferred in comparison with other generators that run on fuel diesel because they are mostly quieter. It these generators are convenient for you since you will not disturb your neighbors with the noise when running.
Propane generators only require refilling and don’t need electricity making them useful when you run out of power and you do not purchase fuel.
They are durable since they are refillable and are easy to maintain since they do not leave deposits like the gasoline or fuel generators.
Since they dare run on gas, you do not have to check on it regularly unlike the fuel generators that you have to check for oil levels continually.
Unfortunately, propane generators have low energy; therefore, they use more propane compared to the fuel generators that use less fuel. Choosing a quiet generator is not easy.
Most of them have noise levels ranging from 47 to 76 decibels its does not mean that the lower the decibel, the lesser the noise.
The amount of noise levels of a generator depends on its mechanism and the conditions in which it is used. There are many types of generators in the market. This buying guide and review will help you choose the best generators in the market.
Table of Contents
Quietest Propane Generator Comparison Table
Quietest Propane Generator
(Intro)
#1. DuroMax XP12000EH Generator-12000 Watt Gas or Propane Generator
- Powerful DuroMax Engine: the XP12000EH is powered by a DuroMax, 457cc OHV engine.With...
- Dual fuel technology: the ability to run on propane or gasoline allows the freedom...
- Plenty of power: with 12,000 starting watts and 9, 500 running watts, This unit can...
Starting off our list of the quietest propane generators is the DuroMax XP12000EH Generator, an exceptional machine with a ton of improvements that put it above the rest of the competition.
The DuroMax XP12000EH is a gas/propane hybrid generator, meaning it can run on either gas or propane, depending on what you have on hand. Although this generator is more expensive than some other propane-powered machines, you can save money using it if you use gas.
Another exceptional feature of the DuroMax 12000EH is its 12000-watt capacity. Not only can it handle all of your smaller devices, but it can run some of your larger appliances at the same time. This is especially useful during a power outage when you want to save as much food as possible by plugging your fridge into your generator.
This generator also has a 240V capacity with two 120V plugins. You can choose to either run the XP12000EH at 240V half-power or 120V full power. Plus, it runs much quieter than similar models, even at full power.
Overall, if you’re looking for a quiet generator that can run your household’s major appliances, there’s no better product than the DuroMax XP12000EH Generator.
#2. A-iPower 12000-Watt Dual Fuel Propane Generator
- The A-iPower SUA12000 Dual Fuel generator produces 12,000 starting watts with 9,000...
- Powerful 459 cc OHV 4 stroke engine with a low oil alert light and low oil automatic...
- Large 7 gallon gasoline fuel tank provides average run time of 7 hours at 100% load...
Taking the runner-up spot on our ranking is the A-iPower 12000-Watt DUral Fuel Generator, another hybrid generator that can run on both propane and natural gas. It’s also exceptionally quiet, deserving of a top spot in the quietest propane generator market.
Like our number one pick, this A-iPower generator has a 12000V capacity, making it perfectly suitable to run your large appliances through. During a power outage, you can link up your refrigerator, washing machine, and more at the same time, ensuring you’re well prepared for the next time the lights shut off.
One cool feature of the A-iPower 12000-Watt Dual Fuel Generator is that it has a low oil shutdown and warning system. A big problem with other generators is that they run out of fuel with no warning, leaving you without power when you might need it most. This generator allows you to save your last bit of fuel before it runs through the propane automatically.
If you load up the A-iPower 12000W to the max, then you’ll get about nine hours of runtime out of it. However, running it at half-capacity will almost double the runtime to 16 hours. Compared to the rest of the competition, those performance specs are pretty impressive.
#3. WEN DF1100T 11,000-Watt 120V/240V Dual Fuel Portable Propane Generator
- Switch between gasoline (11,000 surge watts, 8,300 running watt) and propane (9,500...
- Voltage easily goes from 120V to 240V, perfect for transfer switches and emergency...
- Electric start powers the 457cc 4-stroke OHV engine with the turn of a key
Rounding off our top three picks for the quietest propane generators is the WEN DF1100T 11,000-Watt 120V/240V Dual Fuel Portable Generator.
Although this generator is heavy, weighing around 214-pounds, it packs a big enough punch to make it worth the while. Plus, the heavy-duty wheels mean you can cart it around wherever you need it to be. Just don’t expect to have an easy time bringing it up and down the stairs.
This generator runs 11,000 watts, slightly less than our top picks but plenty enough for your household appliances and basic electric devices. As a result, the WEN DF1100T is the perfect generator to use in your basement or garage. It’s incredibly handy to have in your work area during a power outage or when you just need a little extra juice to get the job done.
However, all that power doesn’t mean the WEN DF1100T is too loud to think straight. This model features an excellent design that contains the noise from the motor within the hard-plastic and metal casing. While it’s not completely silent, you also won’t be able to hear it through the walls like you might some other generators.
#4. Pulsar G12KBN-SG Heavy Duty Portable Dual Fuel Propane Generator
- 12, 000 peak watts/ 9, 500 Rated watts (gasoline) & 10, 800 peak watts/ 8, 550 Rated...
- Dual fuel capability allows you to choose between gasoline & LPG fuel sources; great...
- The 457cc, single cylinder, 4-stroke, air cooled, OHV engine with electric start is...
Next up on our list of the quietest propane generators is the Pulsar G12KBN-SG Heavy Duty Portable Dual Fuel Generator. While quite a bit heavier than our top picks, this generator is a ridiculously tough model that can handle almost anything you throw at it.
This exceptional propane generator sports a 457cc four-stroke engine with everything you need to keep it running for extended periods. It’s air-cooled and has an electric start ensures it remains as quiet as possible while also saving fuel.
With its 8-gallon fuel tank, you can keep the Pulsar G12KBN-SG running for up to 12 hours at half load, and you might get up to 8 hours with the full load using gasoline. Using propane will be slightly less, but you’ll still get a full day’s worth out of use with it either way.
To compensate for its weight, the Pulsar G12KVN-SG features heavy-duty wheels, an extremely durable frame, and strong drop-down handles. Plus, the wheel and body materials are shock-resistant, meaning they won’t make as much noise when you bang into something moving the generator around.
For a slightly lower price than our top picks, the Pulsar G12KVN-SG outperforms even some more expensive generators, especially in terms of runtime and overall durability.
#5. Ford 5,250W Dual Fuel Portable Propane Generator
- 5,250W Peak/ 4,250W Rated (Gasoline) & 4,750W Peak/3,800W Rated (LPG)
- The powerful 224cc, Single Cylinder, 4-Stroke, OHV, Air Cooled Engine is protected by...
- A 4 Gallon Fuel Tank gives you up to 11 Hours of Continuous Operation at half load...
Taking the fifth place on our list of the quietest propane generators is the Ford 5,250W Dual Fuel Portable Generator, an excellent piece of equipment that will power some of your major appliances.
The thing that makes the Ford 5,250W unique is that it only features a four-gallon fuel tank. While only about half the capacity of some higher-end generators, the Ford 5,250W’s four gallons run for an astounding 11 hours at half load when running gasoline. Propane will be less than that, but you’ll get more out of your four-gallons than you would otherwise.
Also, the Ford 5,250W Dual Fuel Portable Generator has a simple switch mechanism that allows you to change the type of fuel you’re using to power the generator. Switch between gas and LPG while the generator is still running!
Unlike some other propane generators, the Ford 5,250W comes with a propane hose so that the generator is ready to use as soon as you open the box. With its durable wheels, this generator is the perfect option if you like to have power on a camping trip or other outdoor activities.
However, the 5,250W charge means it isn’t the best generator for home use, especially during a power outage.
#6. Champion Power Equipment 200961 Propane Generator
- DUAL FUEL: Operate your 2500-watt portable generator right out of the box on either...
- QUIET OPERATION: With an ultra-quiet 53 dBA from 23 feet, enjoy 2500 starting watts,...
- PARALLEL READY: The optional, sold-separately clip-on parallel kit enables this...
Coming in at number six on our ranking is the Champion Power Equipment 200961 Propane Generator, another great generator best suited for outdoor use.
For a significantly lower price than our top picks, the Champion Power Equipment 200961 is an exceptional portable generator. While its wattage doesn’t allow for you to plug in every appliance in your house, it can handle running a couple of major appliances during a power outage.
However, you’re best bet is to take this generator on the go. It’s exceptionally light; you can literally carry it like a briefcase from one area to the next. Also,
Another cool feature of the Champion Power Equipment 200961 Propane Generator is that you can link it to another Champion Power Generator to double your power capacity. However, the parallel kit supplement is sold separately, not included with the base price of this model.
Having two Champion Power Generators gives you a bit more flexibility in choosing how much power you need in any given situation. Only need to power a few things? Only turn one on. Is there a power outage, and you need to run all your appliances anyway? Link up both! The choice is yours.
#7. Duromax XP4850EH 3850 Dual Fuel Propane Generator
- Plenty of Power – With 4,850 starting watts and 3,850 running watts, this unit can...
- Dual Fuel Technology – This generator runs on gasoline or propane, giving you the...
- Powerful Engine – The DuroMax 210cc OHV engine is a workhorse that provides plenty...
The Duromax XP4850EH 3850 Dual Fuel generator is another great product from Duromax and is definitely their best budget generator on the market today. It has a dual fuel capacity for propane and gas, giving you the freedom to choose which type of fuel you want to use.
Also, this generator is way quieter than most of the competition. Smaller generators often make a whining sound on startup or during operation. Duromax has worked these kinks out of their machine, though, ensuring your generator is as quiet as possible. While it won’t be completely silent, you won’t hear it droning from the basement as you eat dinner upstairs.
With two 120V receptacles, you can plug in almost any appliance you might have in your house. However, the 3,850 wattage means that you won’t be able to plug in everything you own. You might be able to run your refrigerator and a few lights, for example, or maybe your washing machine and your TV.
Overall, the Duromax XP4850EH 3850 Dual Fuel generator is an excellent budget generator from an experienced and reliable manufacturer. If you’re looking to run a few appliances during a power outage or have a couple of amenities on an outdoor adventure, definitely check this generator out.
#8. A-iPower SUA2000iD 2000 Watt Portable Propane Generator
- The A-iPower SUA2000iD Dual Fuel inverter generator produces 2,000 starting watts...
- A-iPower’s inverter technology allows for safe and clean power for sensitive...
- Each SUA2000iD comes with a set of parallel cables enabling users to link two...
Taking the second to last spot on our ranking of the best quietest propane generators is the A-iPower SUA2000iD 2000 Watt Portable Propane Generator. It’s a lightweight, highly portable generator with enough juice to power a major appliance but not enough to cover several at once.
The A-iPower SUA2000iD is a lot quieter than other budget generators. The motor runs smoothly without any grating noises, and it’s really easy to clean if it does get a bit dirty and starts making more noise than it should. In general, this generator runs at around 52 decibels, ensuring your housemates and neighbors don’t lose their minds when you need to run it.
Have a tailgate party or a camping trip to attend soon? This generator is the perfect companion! It’s super lightweight, weighing only 55-pounds, and features a sturdy grip for easy transport.
Plus, this generator comes with a pair of parallel cables, meaning you can link two of them together and double your energy capacity. For those of you who don’t regularly need a lot of watts but do need a generator every now and then, buying two is a handy solution that keeps you prepared for whatever comes next.
#9. DuroMax XP2200EH Dual Fuel Portable Inverter Propane Generator
- POWERFUL DUROMAX ENGINE: The XP2200EH is powered by a DuroMax 79cc 4-Cycle Air-Cooled...
- DUAL FUEL TECHNOLOGY: The ability to run on Propane or Gasoline allows the Freedom...
- PLENTY OF POWER: With 2,200 starting watts and 1, 800 running watts, This unit...
The final product on our list of the best quietest propane generators is the DUroMax XP2200EH Dual Fuel Portable Inverter Generator. Although it’s the cheapest generator we’ve included, it still has quite a few noteworthy features that make it stand out from the rest of the budget crowd.
The DUroMax XP2200EH is extremely compact. It’s about the same size as a propane tank and weighs around the same, making it much more portable than most generators. Also, it’s way quieter, projecting only around 45 decibels at maximum use.
Plus, the dual-fuel technology allows you to switch to gasoline if you run out of propane or vice versa. It’s worthwhile to note, though, that this generator can’t switch fuel types during operation, meaning you’ll have to shut it down to keep it going on a different fuel.
However, we can’t recommend it as a home appliance generator because the DuroMax XP2200EH Dual Fuel Portable Inverter Generator only has 1,800 running watts. It’s perfect if you love camping trips or have a couple of smaller appliances to run outside, but not if you’re experiencing a power outage and need to run your large appliances.
How to Choose a Quiet Propane Generator: Buying Guide
In this section, we’ll go through the basic features every quiet propane generator shares. From fuel type to wattage and portability, there’s a lot to cover.
If you keep the following features in mind, you should be well-equipped to choose a propane generator that fits your needs. Keep reading if you’re in the market for a quiet propane generator and aren’t sure where to start.
Types of Generators
There are a few types of quiet generators that you should consider before deciding on a specific brand.
Fuel Type
Although generators have traditionally run on propane, that’s not the only fuel compatibility you might find on the market. Most generators either run on propane or natural gas, but you may find some diesel generators as well.
Propane
Propane generators are the most popular generator fuel type. While propane is more expensive than natural gas, it has a higher energy density, meaning it will last longer. Propane generators are also more widely available, so you might only find propane generators in your local area.
Natural Gas
Natural gas is a cheaper alternative to propane, but it doesn’t last as long. However, the cost savings are significant, with natural gas selling for around 40% less than propane in most cases. If you have a natural gas line running under your property, it might be the best option for you.
Diesel
However, you might find some specialized diesel generators, but these are very expensive to install. They require a liquid-cooled housing unit that’s more reliable than propane or natural gas but prohibitively expensive for most people.
Dual Fuel
Many of the generators we included on this list are what are known as “dual fuel” generators. Dual fuel means you can use gasoline or propane as the generator’s fuel source.
While most require you to use the fuel you loaded up before starting the generator, some generators allow you to switch fuel sources while in operation. That means that if you run out of gasoline but have some propane loaded into the fuel tank, you can switch without shutting your generator down.
Size
Size is also a big concern for shoppers looking for the best quiet generator. You might think that big and bulky generators run loud, and in most cases, you’d be right.
However, many larger generators coming out in recent years are much quieter than their older counterparts. Also, a small generator can pack a powerful punch, so don’t disregard a generator solely based on its size.
Wattage/Power Output
Wattage/power output is one of the most important generator specifications you need to think about. The number of watts your generator is capable of will determine how many devices and appliances you can plug in at one time.
For example, a 2000W propane generator will be able to handle more than a 1600W natural gas generator. As a result, you won’t be run as many devices.
Every generator has a power output limit, even if it’s hooked up directly via a manual transfer switch. However, you cannot install this type of switch on your own, and you need the help of a licensed electrician.
What Do You Need the Generator to Do?
Aside from a generator’s design specifications, you need to think about what you actually want your generator to do. For example, two generators might have similar power outputs, but one might be better for transport than the other. Before you decide on a generator
Noise Level
If you’re reading this article, chances are you value a generator’s noise level above its other characteristics.
Noise level is impacted by a range of factors, including wattage, fuel type, size, and exhaust mechanisms. Modern generators are getting quieter and quieter by the year, but many are still much louder than the quietest on the market.
If it’s listed, check the generator’s product manual for its noise specifications. You’ll often find its decibel level listed, but not all brands have measured their products for noise level.
Portability
Another essential thing to consider is your generator’s portability. If you only want a generator for when the power might go out in your home, then portability might not be a big issue for you.
However, if you plan on using your generator at worksites or another outdoor area, then you need to think about how easy it is to transport. Some generators are smaller and have handles and wheels attached, while others are relatively fixed in place.
Always consider whether you’re going to need to move the generator before you decide on one brand over another. Are you going upstairs? You’ll need handles. Have a rocky driveway? Grab one with durable wheels. You never know where you’ll need to take your generator, so it’s better to be prepared.
What’s Your Budget?
In all honesty, your budget is going to determine the quality of the generator you’re able to purchase. More expensive generators aren’t always better, but that’s a pretty good rule of thumb to go by.
Depending on how much you can afford, there is a range of low-budget and high-budget generators available. Figure out how much you want to spend before you start looking, and you’ll get a good idea of what options are out there for you.
Low Budget Capabilities
Cheaper propane generators typically have a shorter runtime than more expensive alternatives. For example, you might only get 8 hours of use out of your budget generator but up to 16 from a more expensive brand.
Also, low-budget generators are often louder than high-end models. If the primary reason you’re reading this article is to find the quietest propane generator, you can be sure that it won’t be the cheapest.
However, low-budget generators have some benefits. Cheaper generators often weigh far less than expensive models. They might also be more maneuverable and portable, simply because they weigh less than the competition.
High Budget Capabilities
High budget generators are typically much more capable than low budget models. You’ll get more runtime, and generators are often much quieter the higher up the price ladder you’re willing to climb.
Not only that, but you might even save money if you spend more at the start. High-end generators are often more fuel-efficient than low-end models and typically last longer. You won’t have to replace your generator as soon, and you won’t be spending as much money on propane.
Also, high-budget generator accessories are of higher quality as well. Your wheels won’t break, your handles won’t snap, and the generator won’t knock out on you for no reason.
As a note, all of the generators on our list are somewhere in the mid to higher price range of the market. This is to ensure that every model we recommend is top quality and doesn’t sacrifice features to save money.
Good Brands to Consider
While every product we’ve included on this list is worth checking out, there are a few propane generator brands that many people trust over the rest of the competition.
Here, find out which brands are considered the best by leading consumer market reports.
Duromax
Duramax is the leading brand of high-end generators available today, and there’s a reason we included a couple of their models on this list of the quietest propane generators.
Not only do their generators run an insane amount of watts, but they do it in the quietest way possible. They’re fuel-efficient, especially when it comes to propane, and often have dual-fuel capacity if you prefer gasoline.
However, Duromax sells other products in addition to generators. That means that any maintenance you might need to have done on your generator may take longer than other leading generator brands.
A-iPower
A-iPower is one of the most trusted generator brands on the market today. Although competing manufacturers might make other products, A-iPower focuses entirely on pressure washers and generators.
As a result, A-iPower has developed some of the most fuel-efficient, green, and quiet generators available. Nearly every one of their generators is the perfect fit for someone, and it’s very rare that they put out a product that falls flat.
However, A-iPower generators are often more expensive than similar brands. While you might think that you’ll save money by going with another brand, the reality is that you’d probably save money by using fuel-efficient machines from A-iPower.
Ford
Although they’re best known as one of the world’s leading car manufacturers, Ford also makes robust and efficient generators. Although we included one of them on this list of quiet generators, they also make some worthwhile generators that aren’t as quiet that you might want to check out.
Conclusion: Which One Should You Buy?
There you have it—everything you need to know about propane generators and how to pick the quietest one.
Every generator we’ve included is perfect for someone out there, but our number one pick is the DuroMax XP12000EH Generator-12000 Watt Gas or Propane Generator. This generator’s wattage, size, and ease of use are unmatched on the market today.
However, if you’re looking for something a bit more portable, our top choice goes to the Champion Power Equipment 200961 Propane Generator. It’s incredibly easy to take to work sites or throw in the car to have an impromptu party in a cornfield. Plus, it’s super quiet too.
With that in mind, another one of our listed products might be a better fit for you instead. No matter which one you choose, we hope this list has helped you get there. Check out our ranking of the best quiet 2000W generators if you’re looking to check out portable quiet generators!
- Powerful DuroMax Engine: the XP12000EH is powered by a DuroMax, 457cc OHV engine.With...
- Dual fuel technology: the ability to run on propane or gasoline allows the freedom...
- Plenty of power: with 12,000 starting watts and 9, 500 running watts, This unit can...
