Are you worried about alternate power during power outages and natural disasters, and you don’t have the budget to buy a generator from a leading brand? Don’t worry; we will help you purchase the best generator at an affordable price. Yes, we are talking about Predator generators. Predator generators have been around for almost 3 decades and providing quality portable generators at a reasonable price. Predator generators provide quality, reliability, and durability with all the features of leading brands.
Predator generators are sold by Harbor Freight and are assembled in China. Harbor Freight is a well-known name in America and currently offers around 7,000 tools and accessories to the American people. With 1100+ stores and 40 million customers across the country, its generators are well received and well placed in the market. Just like other brands, these generators, too, have some limitations/drawbacks.
In this article, we will be reviewing the five best Predator generators so that you can decide which unit is best for you. We have also included a buying guide and FAQ section to help you make a well-informed decision.
Let’s check out the reviews.
Table of Contents
Predator Generators Compared
Image | Product | Features | Ratings | Check Price |
 | Predator generators 63968 |
| ||
 | Predator 8750-watt Generator |
| ||
 | Predator 2000-watt Inverter Portable Generator |
| ||
 | Predator 3500-watt Inverter Generator |
| ||
 | Predator 4000-watt Generator |
|
Predator Generator Reviews
1. Predator generators 63968 9000 Max Starting/7250 Running Watts – Best Heavyweight Generator
Fuel Type and Power Output: It is a gas-powered machine and produces 9000 starting and 7250 running watts. The power output is enough to meet your needs during an outage, power small to medium-sized RVs, and run many tools at a worksite. It is also the most powerful model from Predator.
Tank Capacity and Runtime: The tank has a volume of 6 gallons. One full tank can run up to 13 hours at 50% load. If you reduce the load, you can do wonders with this machine. It is an excellent runtime to power to gas tank size ratio.
Engine Specifications: It is loaded with a 420cc 13HP Predator engine. You can start this machine with the recoil starting mechanism or with just the push of a button. The engine is powerful and will not let you down during tough hours. Please note that the battery for an electric start is not included.
Outlets: The outlets include two 120V 3-prong duplex outlets, one 120V twist-lock outlet, one 120/240V twist-lock outlet, and one 12V DC outlet. All the outlets are GFCI outlets.
Safety Features: As far as the safety features are concerned, you get low oil shutdown, overload protection, and low oil indicator LED. There is no overload indicator on the control panel.
Control Panel: The control panel lacks a lot of features like a data center, fuel gauge, and voltmeter. We can say that Predator has not included advanced control panel features in this unit.
Dimensions, Weight, and Portability: The generator measures 30 x 24 x 26 inches and weighs 194 pounds. Compared to other models in this power range, it is a lightweight machine. It comes with never-flat wheels and a two-hand push/pull handle. Portability with this unit is at its best.
Noise Level: The sound rating is 76 dBA. It is a lot of noise in this power range. You will need to keep this machine as far away as possible.
Warranty and Certifications: It comes with a 2-year limited warranty and certifications from EPA and CARB. You can use this machine in all 50 states.
My Opinion:
Pros: It is a lightweight unit, highly portable, and extremely fuel-efficient. These features make this machine perfect for worksites.
Cons: It is a noisy unit. A data center and fuel gauge must have been included in this price range.
2. Predator 8750-watt Generator – Under $1500
Generator Type: This Predator 8750-watt unit is also a conventional portable generator.
Engine and Power Wattage: It has the same 420cc/13HP OHV engine, but it generates higher power output than the Predator 6500-watt generator. It can produce 8750 watts of peak power and 7000 watts of rated power.
Tank Size and Runtime: Also, the same sized gas tank of 6 gallons offers up to 12 hours of runtime at half load.
Start Type: You can either start your unit manually or by using an electric start mechanism.
Sound Rating: Its 76 dB (A) decibel rating is slightly higher than the Predator 6500-watt generator.
Power Outlets: All the power outlets are covered for protection. There are four 120V 20A outlets, one 120V 20A twist-lock outlet, one 240V 30A twist-lock outlet, and one 12V DC outlet.
Safety: Low-oil indicator with automatic shutdown and UL listed circuit breakers
Weight: It weighs 194 pounds.
Portability: You can buy a wheel kit separately for easy transportation of the unit.
My Opinion:
Pros: It is a powerful machine that produces excellent output power to run your essentials. It has a big fuel tank that gives decent runtime. Also, it has a variety of power outlets.
Cons: No battery is included for the electric start system.
3. Predator 2000-watt Inverter Portable Generator – Under $500
Generator Type:This Predator 62523 is a portable inverter generator that looks like Honda EU2000i in specifications.
Start Type: You need to pull a cord to start the unit.
Engine and Power Wattage: It is equipped with a 79.7cc air-cooled OHV engine that can generate 2000 starting watts and 1600 continuous watts.
Clean Power: You can power your smartphone, tablet, and PC without any fear because it is an inverter generator that produces clean power.
Tank Size and Runtime: It has a small-size fuel tank that gives up to 12 hours of runtime at a 25% load.
Eco-Throttle System: The Eco-Throttle system automatically changes the speed of the engine only to produce the power required for the application in use. This results in better fuel economy and noise-less operation.
Sound Rating: Its operational sound is 65 dB (A) at full load.
Parallel Capable: Parallel outlets are used to link another inverter generator to meet your additional power needs.
Power Outlets: Its control panel has two 120V 13.3A outlets and one 12V DC outlet.
Safety: Low-oil and overload indicators
Weight: It is quite light in weight (47 pounds).
Portability: Predator 62523 is light in weight so that you can carry it easily. Also, a comfortable handle makes it easy to move.
My Opinion:
Pros: This Predator generator produces clean power to run your small appliances and tools. It operates with little noise, allows you to double the output power, and weighs only 47 pounds.
Cons: There is no low-oil shutdown feature.
4. Predator 3500-watt Inverter Generator – Under $1200
Generator Type: This Predator 3500-watt unit is also an inverter generator.
Engine and Power Wattage: It is powered by a 212cc OHV engine that gives a decent output power of 3500 peak watts and 3000 running watts.
Clean Power: It produces clean AC power that is ideal for sensitive electronics.
Tank Size and Runtime: A 2.5-gallon tank gives up to 11 hours of runtime.
Eco-Throttle: The goal of the eco-throttle system is to save your fuel, extend the life of the engine, and offer quiet operation.
Sound Rating:57 dB (A) is its operational sound.
Parallel Capable: Connect another Predator inverter generator to produce more output power.
Power Outlets: Two 120V 20A outlets, one 12V DC outlet, and one 120V AC twist-lock outlet.
Start Type: Electric start system with recoil backup for emergency
Safety: Overload protection and low-oil indicator are there for the safety of your unit.
Weight: Its weight is 110 pounds.
Portability: Comfortable carrying handles and four small but durable wheels make movement easy.
My Opinion:
Pros: It is a small but reliable generator that produces clean power. Its eco-throttle system gives a good runtime as it limits the speed of the motor according to the load applied. Also, it is easy to move.
Cons: Its recoil start mechanism is faulty.
5. Predator 4000-watt Generator – Under $750
Generator Type: It is a conventional generator that is gas-powered.
Start Type: This unit only features a pull start mechanism.
Engine and Power Wattage: It produces 4000 peak watts and 3200 rated watts with a 212cc OHV engine’s help.
Tank Size and Runtime: A 4-gallon fuel tank allows you to run the generator for up to 10 hours at half load.
Power Outlets: If we focus on its control panel, then there is a 12V DC outlet along with four 120V 20A outlets and one 240V 30A twist-lock outlet.
Safety: Low-oil indicator with automatic shutdown
Weight: It is lighter in weight (99 pounds) than the Predator 3500-watt generator.
My Opinion:
Pros: It is equipped with a solid engine and a durable frame. Also, it has a good choice of power outlets.
Cons: You have to buy a wheel kit separately. Moreover, there is no electric start system.
Buyer’s Guide
In this buying guide section, you will learn about those factors that you must consider when buying a Predator generator.
Output and Power Needs
The most important thing before buying a generator is the power output. You must check the power output against your power needs. The easiest and simplest way to find your power needs is to go around your home/RV/worksite and make a list of the appliances/tools you need to run on the generator. Once the appliances are mentioned, list the starting and running wattage of each appliance and calculate the total. Consider the example below for a better understanding.
| Appliances | Starting Wattage | Running Wattage |
| Refrigerator | 1400 | 300 |
| 1/2 HP Furnace | 2350 | 875 |
| TV | 400 | 400 |
| Lights | 300 | 300 |
| AC | 1800 | 1200 |
| Total | 6250 | 3075 |
In the example above, you need 6250 watts to start all the appliances and 3075 watts to keep them running. If you buy a generator with 3500 running watts, you can power all the above appliances. The best way to do this is to start the heavy appliances one by one and switch off the unwanted appliances. This is known as load management. If you go for a smaller generator, it has its perks. It is cheap to buy, easy to maintain and store, and has a low running cost.
Type of Generator (Inverter vs. Conventional)
Once you have calculated the power requirements, you need to select the type of generator. With Predator, you can go for an inverter or a conventional generator. If your power needs are below 3500 watts, a Predator inverter will be best. For people with higher power needs, conventional generators are the best.
Inverters are best known for powering sensitive appliances, small RVs, camps, or running necessary appliances in small homes and apartments. They are lightweight, easy to move around, and are quieter than conventional generators. On the other hand, conventional generators are noisy, produce more power, and their output may fluctuate sometimes. It depends on the load applied and the quantity of gas in the tank. Inverters are best for outdoor use, whereas conventional generators are suitable for homes and worksites.
Gas Tank Size and Runtime
If you plan to run your generators for longer spells, then look for a generator with a bigger gas tank. Runtime is directly dependent on gas tank size and load applied to the generator. For people with occasional usage, a small gas tank will suffice too. To enhance the runtime, keep the load below or at 50% of the total generator output.
Control Panel
Predator offers user-friendly control panels on its generators. You get power outlets, on/off buttons, choke, warning lights, and an odometer. Features like control-panel don’t interfere with the unit’s efficiency but make it easier to operate it.
Outlets
Make sure that the unit you are planning to buy has all the outlets on it. If you plan to use your generator at the worksite or outdoors, you will need to connect the appliances directly with it. So, it is better to check the available outlets. The generator must offer 120V, 240V, and 12V DC outlets to support various machines. Inverters must have USB outlets as well. If the outlets are covered, it makes the experience safer.
Portability
A couple of models on our list don’t come with wheels. If you are buying one of them, you will need to invest in a wheel kit. Inverters reviewed above have wheels and carry handles. If your usage is limited to one place and you have a safe place for a generator, you won’t need wheels. However, for worksites and outdoor use, a wheel kit is important.
Starting Mechanism
Some Predator generators offer electric starting, while some come with only a recoil start option. The electric start option brings in comfort while starting the unit. It also saves some time. However, they are costly than recoil start models.
Paralleling Capabilities (Inverters Only)
The two inverters on our list are parallel capable. You can connect two same models and double the power output. It also provides more outlets. Paralleling helps in running heavy appliances.
Eco Mode (Inverters Only)
Another feature to look in inverters is eco-mode. Eco mode or auto-throttle feature adjusts the engine’s RPM according to the load applied on the unit. When the load is less, the engine will run at low speed, providing fuel efficiency.
Safety Features
Make sure that the unit you are buying has all the safety features. You must look for surge voltage protection, overload protection, and low oil shutdown. If the generator offers covered outlets, it is an icing on the top. It will help keep the plugs and sockets safe from dust and water.
Noise Level
Predator inverters are one of the quietest in the market. However, conventional generators are noisier. You will need to install after-market mufflers or keep the generators in an enclosure to reduce the running noise.
Warranty
Predator offers a 2-year limited warranty on all the units. Any faults in parts and labor are included in the warranty. Make sure you read the terms and conditions before starting the unit for the first time.
Price
Harbor Freight has strived to provide great quality generators at a fair price to the American people. With Predator, you will get the value of money and a great experience. Predator is a recommended brand for budget buyers.
FAQs
Can I use a Predator generator for my RVs and camping?
Yes. Predator generators are perfect for RVs and camping use. However, we suggest that you go for a Predator inverter because conventional Predator generators are too noisy.
Can Predator be used as a whole house generator?
Predator generators don’t produce enough power to run a whole house. You can use it to run essentials during a power outage or at a worksite.
Are Predator generators CARB compliant?
Some models from Predator are CARB compliant. You will need to check for every individual model before buying it.
How to maintain and safely use a Predator generator?
Safety Protocols
- Always maintain a safe distance of 15 feet from the running side.
- Never run your generator indoors or near windows and doors, and always place it on flat ground.
- It is best to avoid refueling or moving a hot unit.
- Protect your generator with a generator tent when it is raining during rain or snow.
- Use high-quality extension cables for direct connection and use a transfer switch to connect the unit with your home.
Maintenance Needs
- Always use fresh gas.
- Check spark plugs and battery periodically.
- Replace engine oil when it is due.
- Store your generator at a safe, dry place and cover it with a generator cover.
- If you are storing the generator with fuel in the tank, remember to add a fuel stabilizer.
Is it a better idea to go for two inverters or one large conventional generator?
If you don’t run heavy machines frequently and want an independent backup power option for your RV and home, go for two inverters. If you want high power at one time and place, buying a single large conventional generator is a better idea. You can parallel the two inverters together and get double power.
What are the limitations of a Predator generator?
Conventional Predator generators are too much noisy. Some units don’t come with adequate safety features and don’t offer rubber coverings on the outlets.
Conclusion
We have explained everything about Predator generators. The final decision rests with you. If you want a quality generator at an affordable price, then Predator is an excellent choice.