When choosing a generator for your RV, there are many factors to consider, including reliability, noise level, and run time.
One of the most important factors, however, is its power output, as you need to choose a generator that offers not only enough peak watts but also rated watts to adequately power your RV.
With so many different options on the market though, it can be difficult to know which is best.
So to help you make a more informed decision when shopping for a new 50 Amp generator, we’ve compiled this list of the best 50 Amp RV generators for 2024.
Understanding 50 Amp RV Power
Before we take a look at some of the best and most popular 50 Amp RV generators though, it’s important that we first discuss RV power, specifically as it relates to 50 Amp service.
To do this, we need to go over amps, volts, and wattage, as well as how they relate to one another regarding RV power.
- Amps or Ampere – Unit of measurement that tells you the rate at which electricity flows through a conductor.
- Volts or Voltage -The pressure or force at which electricity flows through a conductor.
- Watts or Wattage The unit of measurement for power.
Now that we understand what amps, volts, and watts are, we can use this information and the below formula to figure out the max wattage for a 50-amp RV.
Knowing that a 50-amp RV is based on 240-volt service.
Volts (240) x Amps (50) = Watts (12,000)
What Size Generator Do You Need for a 50 Amp RV?
This is where many RVers get confused because they think based on the above formula they need a 50-amp RV generator capable of producing 12,000 watts to adequately power their 50 Amp RV.
However, that’s not what the above formula is indicating, as it only indicates the maximum wattage that a 50-amp RV can handle, not the wattage you need to adequately power one.
The truth of the matter is that most 50 Amp RVs in most scenarios can adequately be powered by a 50-amp generator producing around 6,000 rated watts.
So how much wattage do you need?
Well unfortunately there isn’t a cut-and-dry formula to determine this, because it largely depends on your specific energy needs and the size of your RV.
In general, though a 6,000-rated watt generator or above should be able to adequately power most 50-amp RVs in most circumstances.
However, if you’re a large power consumer or have a larger 50-amp RV with multiple AC units, you should look for a 50-amp RV generator that produces 8,000 to 10,000 rated watts of power to handle the larger power draw.
To ensure you always have enough power on tap to run the RV, no matter how many appliances or AC units you’re running at the same time.
What are the Best 50 Amp RV Generators?
Our top picks include models from Westinghouse, DuroMax, and Champion, offering a range of features and price points.
Each of these generators is designed for heavy-duty use, providing the power and reliability you need to keep your RV running smoothly when you’re boondocking or not connected to shore power.
So without further adieu, here are the best 50-amp RV generators for 2024.
Our Top Picks
Best Overall:
Westinghouse WGen9500DF Dual Fuel Portable Generator
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Quietest Operation:
GENMAX GM9000iED Portable Inverter Generator
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Longest Run Time:
Pulsar G12KBN-SG Heavy Duty Portable Dual Fuel Generator
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Best Affordable Option:
Champion Power Equipment 201004 Portable Generator
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Most Powerful Affordable Option:
WEN DF1100T Dual Fuel Portable Generator
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Best Dual Fuel Option:
DuroMax XP12000EH Gas/Propane Powered Generator
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Best Fuel-Injected Option:
Champion Power Equipment 100485 PRO Portable Generator
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Best Tri-Fuel Option:
DuroMax XP13000HXT Tri-Fuel Generator
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Best Overall – Westinghouse WGen9500DF Dual Fuel Portable Generator
- Average Price: $1,000
- Peak/Rated Watts: 12500W/9500W (Gasoline)
- Fuel Type: Gas/Propane
- Outlets: 120V 20A, 120/240V 30A, 120/240V 50A
- Noise Level: 74 dBA
- Run Time: Up to 12 Hours
- Weight: 199.6 lbs
The Westinghouse WGen9500DF Dual Fuel Portable Generator is our top pick for the best 50 amp RV generator available today.
As this powerful generator not only offers 12500 peak watts and 9500 rated watts when powered by gasoline but it also offers impressive fuel efficiency and has a run time of up to 12 hours on its 6.6-gallon fuel tank.
Making it one of the most powerful and longest-running 50-amp generators on the market.
In addition, this generator also features a variety of outlet and power options, including four 120V 20A outlets, one 120/240V 30A outlet, and of course one 120/240V 50 amp outlet.
This Westinghouse generator also offers a ton of standard upgrades as well, including electric and remote start, rubber covers over all the outlets, a heavy-duty 457cc Westinghouse 4-Stroke OHV engine, and a 12V battery charger.
Product Review & Demonstration Video
Pros: Boasting dual fuel operation, electric and remote start, and extended run time with an easy-to-read fuel gauge, this generator is the best overall choice, backed by a 3-year limited service, labor, and parts coverage with a comprehensive nationwide customer service network.
Cons: While offering robust features, this generator’s open frame design results in increased noise during operation, and it has less durable plastic wheels.
To see additional reviews and the most up-to-date pricing on the Westinghouse WGen9500DF Dual Fuel Portable Generator click here.
Quietest Operation – GENMAX GM9000iED Portable Inverter Generator
- Average Price: $2,000
- Peak/Rated Watts: 9000W/7600W
- Fuel Type: Gas
- Outlets: 5V 1A/2.1A DC USB, 120V GFCI 20A, 120/240V 30A, 120/240V 50A
- Noise Level: 62 dBA
- Run Time: 10 Hours (at 50% Load)
- Weight: 259 lbs
The GENMAX GM9000iED Portable Inverter Generator is one of the quietest 50-amp RV generators you can buy, with only a 62-decibel rating at 23 feet, under a quarter load, thanks to its enclosed casing and advanced quiet technology.
Despite its quieter operation though, this GENMAX generator still produces more than enough power for a 50 Amp RV.
As the GM9000iED produces up to 9000 watts of peak power and 7600 continuous rated watts of power.
In addition, this generator also offers a variety of outlet options for powering your 50 Amp RV and other needs, with two 5V 1A/2.1A DC USB outlets, four 120V GFCI 20A outlets, one 120/240V 30A outlet, and one 120/240V 50 amp RV ready outlet.
Product Review & Demonstration Video
(Video features dual fuel model)
Pros: Offering the quietest operation, parallel readiness for extra power, and remote start, this generator sets the highest standard in its category.
Cons: The generator is more expensive compared to similar wattage models, heavier to transport, and equipped with small wheels that struggle on rough terrain.
To see additional reviews and the most up-to-date pricing on the GENMAX GM9000iED Portable Inverter Generator click here.
Longest Run Time – Pulsar G12KBN-SG Heavy Duty Portable Dual Fuel Generator
- Average Price: $900
- Peak/Rated Watts: 12000W/9000W (Gasoline)
- Fuel Type: Gas/Propane
- Outlets: 120V GFCI 20A, 120/240V 30A, 120/240V 50A
- Noise Level: 80 dBA (Approximate)
- Run Time: 12 Hours (50% Load)
- Weight: 209 lbs
The Pulsar G12KBN-SG Heavy Duty Portable Dual Fuel Generator is one of the best 50 Amp RV generators, thanks to its long run time and dual fuel operation.
This generator can run up to 12 hours on a single tank of gas at half load, which is more than enough even for extended camping trips.
Plus, the generator offers the flexibility of being able to run on gasoline or propane for added versatility.
And as far as powering a 50 Amp RV, there’s no issue there.
Thanks to the generator’s built-in 120/240V AC 50A 14-50R outlet, 12000 peak watts and 9000 rated watts.
Product Review & Demonstration Video
Pros: With its dual fuel operation and an extremely long run time enabled by an 8-gallon gas tank, this generator offers remarkable versatility and endurance.
Cons: Despite its strengths, this generator falls short when it comes to decibel level (on the louder side), plastic wheels, and the absence of a remote start feature.
For even more reviews and the most current pricing on the Pulsar G12KBN-SG Heavy Duty Portable Dual Fuel Generator click here.
Best Affordable Option – Champion Power Equipment 201004 Portable Generator
- Average Price: $900
- Peak/Rated Watts: 9375W/7500W
- Fuel Type: Gas
- Outlets: 120V GFCI 20A, 120/240V 30A, 120/240V 50A
- Noise Level: 74 dBA
- Run Time: 8 Hours (50% Load)
- Weight: 206.1 lbs
The Champion Power Equipment 201004 Portable Generator is one of the best 50 Amp RV generators out there if you’re looking for a budget-friendly option.
This generator from Champion Power Equipment has an average price of just under $1,000, making it a great deal based on what you get.
Because despite its more affordable price, this generator is still capable of producing up to 9375 peak watts and 7500 continuous rated watts, which is more than enough to power even large 50 Amp RVs.
Plus, this generator also offers a variety of outlet options for your various power needs, with four 120V GFCI 20A outlets, a 120/240V 30A outlet, and of course a 120/240V 50 Amp RV-ready outlet.
In addition, the generator also comes with tons of standard upgrades, including electric and remote start, cold start technology, volt guard, covered outlets, and a 3-year limited warranty.
Pros: Offering great value, this generator features a more affordable price, a 3-year limited warranty, remote start capabilities, cold start technology, and several safety features.
Cons: While more affordable, this generator’s drawbacks include a noisier open frame design, slightly less power compared to other 50 amp models, and plastic wheels
To see additional reviews and the most up-to-date pricing on the Champion Power Equipment 201004 Portable Generator click here.
Most Powerful Affordable Option – WEN DF1100T Dual Fuel Portable Generator
- Average Price: $800
- Peak/Rated Watts: 11000W/8300W (Gasoline)
- Fuel Type: Gas/Propane
- Outlets: DC 12V, 120V GFCI 20A, 120/240V 30A, 120/240V 50A
- Noise Level: Not Available
- Run Time: 8.5 Hours (50% Load)
- Weight: 214 lbs
The WEN DF1100T is another great 50 Amp RV generator that offers some amazing features at such an affordable price, most notably its large power output.
The WEN DF1100T Dual Fuel Portable Generator produces 11000 peak watts and 8300 rated watts on gasoline, and 9500 peak watts and 7500 running watts on propane.
Making this generator from WEN one of the most powerful budget-friendly 50 amp generators you can buy.
It’s not just its large power output that makes this generator so great though, as this dual fuel generator is also loaded with upgrades as well, despite its more economical price.
As the WEN DF1100T offers a key-operated electric start, a reliable 457cc 4-stroke OHV engine, a digital LED counter, an automatic voltage regulator with overload protection, and a 2-year warranty.
And thanks to its dual fuel capability, you get the best of both worlds, with a large power output from gasoline and the added convenience of being able to switch to propane whenever you need to.
Product Demonstration Video
Pros: Boasting an affordable price, large power output, key-operated electric start, and dual fuel operation, this generator offers one of the best blends of cost-efficiency and capability.
Cons: This generator, while powerful, lacks a remote start feature, has less durable plastic wheels, and its open frame design results in louder operation.
To see additional reviews and the most up-to-date pricing on the WEN DF1100T Dual Fuel Portable Generator click here.
Best Dual Fuel Option – DuroMax XP12000EH Gas/Propane Powered Generator
- Average Price: $1,200
- Peak/Rated Watts: 12000W/9500W (Gasoline)
- Fuel Type: Gas/Propane
- Outlets: 120V GFCI 20A, 120V 30A, 120/240V 30A, 120/240V 50A
- Noise Level: 72 dBA
- Run Time: 7 Hours (50% Load)
- Weight: 224 lbs
While there are many dual-fuel 50 Amp generators on the market, one of the best is the DuroMax XP12000EH Gas/Propane Powered Generator, thanks to its robust construction, excellent reliability, and high power output.
In fact, this dual-fuel generator from DuroMax Power Equipment has one of the highest wattage ratings for a generator on propane available, coming in at 11400 peak watts and 9025 running watts.
Plus, this generator also includes a variety of other great features as well, such as a key-operated electric start, an easy-to-read analog volt meter, the ability to operate the generator at either 120 or 240 volts, and a powerful 457cc engine.
And thanks to the generator’s all-metal construction, all copper windings, and robust wheel assembly you can be sure that this well-built 50 Amp generator will stand up to the test of time.
Product Demonstration Video
Pros: Offering high power output on both gasoline and propane, this generator features heavy-duty all-metal construction, a key-operated electric start, a robust wheel assembly with large inflatable tires, and a 3-year factory warranty, combining durability with convenience.
Cons: While powerful, this generator is limited by a lack of remote start, having only two 120 GFCI 20A outlets, and a louder open frame design.
For even more reviews and the most current pricing on the DuroMax XP12000EH Gas/Propane Powered Generator click here.
Best Fuel Injected Option – Champion Power Equipment 100485 PRO Portable Generator
- Average Price: $1,600
- Peak/Rated Watts: 11500W/9200W
- Fuel Type: Gas
- Outlets: 120V GFCI 20A, 120/240V 30A, 120/240V 50A
- Noise Level: 74 dBA
- Run Time: Up to 11.5 Hours
- Weight: 219 lbs
If you’re looking for a generator with a fuel-injected engine there aren’t too many to choose from, as most generators have a carburated engine.
However, there are a few fuel-injected options out there and one of the best is the Champion Power Equipment 100485 PRO Portable Generator.
Offering a whole host of benefits over your standard carburated engine.
Including improved performance at all temperatures and altitudes, better fuel economy, and reduced carbon monoxide emissions.
It also packs a punch with its 9200 running watts and 11500 peak watts.
Plus, this generator also offers a variety of other great features as well, such as an electric start, a 5-mode digital meter, a carbon monoxide monitoring system with automatic shut off, and a variety of outlets and plugs with protective covers.
And as a bonus, thanks to the fuel-injected engine on this 50 Amp generator, there’s no need to worry about clogs or gum-ups during long-term storage, which can often happen to carburated engines.
Pros: With its fuel-injected engine, high power output, 3-year limited warranty with free lifetime technical support, electric start, and long run time, this generator is a reliable and powerful choice for sustained use.
Cons: This generator’s drawbacks include a noisier open frame design, the absence of remote start and dual fuel capabilities, and less durable plastic wheels.
To see more reviews and the most current pricing on the Champion Power Equipment 100485 PRO Portable Generator click here.
Best Tri-Fuel Option – DuroMax XP13000HXT Tri-Fuel Generator
- Average Price: $1,800
- Peak/Rated Watts: 13000W/10500W (Gasoline)
- Fuel Type: Gas/Propane/Natural Gas
- Outlets: 120V GFCI 20A, 120V 30A, 120/240V 30A, 120/240V 50A
- Noise Level: 74 dBA
- Run Time: Up To 8.5 Hours at 50% Load (Potentially Unlimited on Natural Gas)
- Weight: 260 lbs
If you’re looking for a 50 Amp portable generator that offers the best of all worlds, then the DuroMax XP13000HXT Tri-Fuel Generator should be on your shortlist.
This powerful generator from DuroMax boasts an impressive 13000 peak watts (10500 running watts) with gas and offers unmatched flexibility.
The generator is capable of running on gasoline, propane, or natural gas.
Allowing you to not only use the generator to power your 50 Amp RV but also to power your home in case of a power outage.
Thanks not only to the generator’s robust power output but also to its ability to run off natural gas, which allows you to connect the generator to your home’s natural gas connection to provide an unlimited fuel source.
But it’s not just the generator’s high power output and fuel flexibility that makes this 50 Amp generator so special, as the XP13000HXT is also loaded with upgrades.
Including such premium features as a powerful 500cc OHV engine, carbon monoxide detection with automatic shut-off, push-button, and remote start, 100% copper windings, and an advanced computer interface with a large LED display.
Product Demonstration Video
Pros: Equipped with tri-fuel capability, high power output, electric push button/remote start, and a robust wheel assembly with large inflatable tires, this generator stands out for its versatility and capability.
Cons: This generator’s open frame design leads to louder operation and its heavier build makes it challenging to move around and lift, which is definitely a strong two-person job.
To see additional reviews and the most current pricing on the DuroMax XP13000HXT Tri-Fuel Generator click here.
What to Look For When Buying a Generator for a 50 Amp RV
When shopping for a 50 Amp RV generator, it’s important to consider a variety of factors, from the generator’s power output and price to its run time and noise level.
So to help you make a more informed decision when buying a generator for your 50 Amp RV, we’ve included the below buyer’s guide, which shows you what to look for when buying a generator.
Power Output
When shopping for a generator to power a 50 Amp RV, one of the most important factors to consider is the generator’s power output.
In fact, the generator’s power output is probably the most important consideration.
Because if the generator can’t provide enough electricity to fully power the RV, the rest of the generator’s specs don’t really matter.
When looking for a generator to power a 50 Amp RV, make sure to choose one that produces at least 6,000 rated or running watts of power to ensure that it can properly power the RV.
(For those with larger 50 Amp RVs with more than one AC unit, it’s best to choose a generator capable of producing 8,000 to 10,000 rated watts to adequately power the RV.)
Price
Beyond the generator’s power output, the next most important consideration for most buyers is cost.
As most buyers will be shopping on a budget when looking for a generator to power their RV.
The good news though is that 50 Amp generators are offered in a wide range of prices, ranging from as little as $750 to more than $2,000, depending on its power output, noise level, and run time.
Run Time
Speaking of run time, another important factor to consider when shopping for a generator is the generator’s run time.
Ideally, you should choose a generator that can provide at least 8 hours of run time on one tank of fuel to provide the most versatility and usability while camping and traveling.
However, keep in mind that a generator’s run time can be greatly impacted by how much load the generator is under.
For example, a generator that has a runtime of 8 hours under a 50% load might only have a runtime of 6 hours or less if the generator is under a 75% load, which is another reason why the generator’s power output is important.
As a larger generator with a higher power output will have to work less hard to produce the same amount of power compared to a smaller less powerful generator.
Noise Level
In addition to the generator’s power output, price, and run time, another important factor to consider when shopping for a portable RV generator is its noise level.
As a quieter generator is always better than a louder one, all else being equal.
Because of their higher power output and larger size though, they tend to be pretty loud, as most have a decibel or noise rating of between 60 and 80 dBA.
To give you an idea of how loud that is, an average gas-powered mower usually produces between 90 and 95 decibels.
Also, don’t be surprised if the generator is considerably louder than advertised under normal circumstances.
As advertised decibel ratings are usually achieved by taking readings pretty far from the generator, often 25 feet or more, and while the generator is under a light load.
Fuel Source
The most common fuel source for portable generators is gasoline.
However, many can run off either gasoline or propane, which are considered dual-fuel generators.
While it’s not necessary to opt for a dual-fuel generator, they can provide a lot of extra flexibility and versatility.
Just keep in mind that if you’re looking for maximum power output you need to run the generator off gasoline.
As all dual fuel generators produce more power on gasoline compared to propane, due to gasoline’s higher energy density.
Mobility & Weight
Another factor to consider when looking for a 50 Amp generator is mobility, as most are big and bulky and weigh more than 200 pounds.
So when considering different generators look for one with sturdy ergonomic handles and large heavy-duty wheels, so that the generator can be easily moved around the campsite.
Available Outlets
To power a 50 Amp RV with a generator, the generator must have a 240V AC 50A 14-50R outlet.
However, it’s also not a bad idea to look for a generator that offers additional outlets as well, as this provides more flexibility and convenience while camping.
Additional outlets to look for that come in handy on a 50 Amp generator include 5V 1A/2.1A DC USB outlets and 120V GFCI 20A outlets.
Also, to help future-proof the generator for other RVs, it’s not a bad idea for the portable generator to have a 120V 30A outlet, as this type of outlet allows you to plug a 30 Amp RV into the generator as well.
To see the best 30 Amp RV generators, check out our blog post “10 Best 30 Amp RV Generators for 2023 (Ranked/Reviewed).
Upgrades & Added Features
The final factor to consider when shopping for a 50 Amp generator is what upgrades or features the generator offers.
Because these features are often what separates one generator from another.
Some upgrades and features to look for on 50 Amp generators include electric start, remote start, carbon monoxide detector with auto shutoff, eco-mode, parallel capability, and LED displays that monitor everything from volts and wattage to session and total operating hours.
To see some of the best portable generators with remote start, check out our blog post “8 Best RV Generators With Remote Start (30 & 50 Amp)“.
Frequently Asked Questions
To power a 50-amp RV with a generator you’ll need one that produces at least 6,000 rated or running watts of power, that’s capable of producing 50 Amps and 240 volts.
Typically larger generators that produce at least 6,000 rated watts of power and that are capable of producing 240 volts will have a 50 Amp RV plug, as these are the minimum power requirements necessary to adequately power a 50 Amp RV.
When it comes to RV generators, there is no single brand that’s the best, as different brands offer different benefits. However, there are a handful of premium generator brands that tend to offer the best quality and reliability including:
– Westinghouse
– Champion
– Honda
– DuroMax
– WEN
– GENMAX
While a 50 Amp generator is generally more powerful compared to a 30 Amp generator that doesn’t necessarily make it better. As 50 Amp generators also tend to be more expensive as well as larger and heavier compared to 30 Amp generators. Because of this, it’s important to pick the right size generator for your particular needs and power requirements.
While available amps can vary from one generator to the next, depending on its size and power output, a generator capable of producing 12,000 watts of power will typically be a 50 Amp generator.
RV Generator Wrap-Up
Now that you’ve gone through our list of the best 50 Amp RV generators, as well as our buyer’s guide and frequently asked questions section.
You now possess all the information you need to make an informed decision on which generator is right for you and your needs.
Regardless of which one you choose though, we hope that it provides you with years of reliable trouble-free use.
Thanks for reading!
Additional Portable RV Generator Resources
Still, have questions about RV generators?
If so, check out some of our other generator blog posts.
- Find the Perfect Generator Size for Your 50 Amp RV
- Do Travel Trailers Have Generators? A Beginner’s Guide
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