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In the event of a power outage, portable generators (also known as "portable power stations" or "solar-powered generators") are helpful — and sometimes crucial — essentials. Right now, they are available at massive discounts across major retailers, including $1,400 off our top-tested generator on Amazon during Prime Day on October 8 and 9.
Our Good Housekeeping Institute top-tested pick, the Anker SOLIX F3800 Portable Power Station is our experts' best overall solar-powered generator for its ability to turn on automatically during extreme weather or electrical grid issues. GH testers say that its panel has programmable circuits, "like those for the fridge and HVAC," so it'll boot up automatically when the power goes out. This is similar to a standby generator that runs on propane or natural gas.
GH Home Improvement & Outdoor Lab Director Dan DiClerico explains that this portable generator's 3.84 kWh battery capacity has enough power to run multiple major appliances and electronics, and if you include up to seven LiFePO4 batteries in this system, it can expand the capacity to 53.76 kWh for "whole-house backup power."
Shop the Best Amazon Prime Day Deals
More Excellent Generator Deals to Shop
If you're in search of another generator to fit your needs, we researched across retailers to find all of the best generator deals to shop now. Overall, Amazon has the widest breadth of generator deals at a discount during Prime Day for up to 55% off, but don't overlook Walmart and Target.
Walmart's deals reach up to 66% off on portable generators, including picks with solar panel technology. Target has generator accessories for sale that are over 30% off, like power linking systems to help prevent system overloads.
EcoFlow RIVER 2 Max Solar Generator
Nashia Baker is a commerce editor at Hearst Magazines; she covers all things home and lifestyle across brands such as Oprah Daily, Cosmopolitan, Delish, and Esquire. Before joining Hearst, she highlighted small business owners, creatives, and the best shoppable content.
Having written thousands of product reviews and how-to articles on all aspects of home ownership, from routine maintenance to major renovations, Dan (he/him) brings more than 20 years of industry experience to his role as the director of the Home Improvement & Outdoor Lab at the Good Housekeeping Institute. A one-time roofer and a serial remodeler, Dan can often be found keeping house at his restored Brooklyn brownstone, where he lives with his wife and kids.
