We tested 5 products and found DuroMax XP12000EH Dual Fuel Generator to be the best generator for 50 Amp RV usage.
We are avid RVers, having owned our Coachmen Prism for about five years now. We love being able to camp just about anywhere using our RV.
It makes the case because camping enthusiasts need a great generator on their side. I’ve rounded up five great ones, and first I will explain why I chose DuroMax as the #1 choice.
I chose the DuroMax XP 12000EH because it can operate on gas or propane, is legal in all 50 states, and features 12,000 watts starting and 9500 watts while running.
Different generators will suit different RVs. This is why we’ve categorized them according to their most ideal purpose. Plus, it becomes easier for you- the buyer- to see which one makes the most sense.
Keep reading to learn more about all of these incredible generators.
Our Top 5 Picks 50 Amp RV Generator
Table could not be displayed.Best Generator For 50 Amp RV Reviewed
DuroMax XP12000EH Dual Fuel Generator – Best Overall
The 457cc OHV Engine included will run all the appliances you want with no interruption. You may power the generator using propane or gasoline. This generator is CARB-approved and EPA-certified so it can be used anywhere, in any state.
There are two 120V receptacles that offer maximum power for whatever you need to run. Panel features are easy to navigate, you will see the key start, voltmeter, MX2 switch, Low Oil Alert and the circuit breaker grouped all together for easy operation.
This generator powers the RV (or home or job site) with 12,000 starting watts and 9500 watts running. You can use the 8.3-gallon gas tank to power the generator or use a propane tank to do so.
There’s a good variety of outlets available: 1 120/240V, 1 120/240 twist lock, 2 120v 20 amps, and 1 120V/30-amp outlet. The generator can run on propane or gas. Feel free to roll it anywhere. The tires will not go flat easily.
It can power all necessary appliances in the RV or and some in your home when the power goes out, too. Lastly, anyone can fire it up. The keyed start means there is no need to hurt your arm with a pull-string starter.
The only two things I did not like about the generator were the lack of a wireless starting feature, which would be nice for winter camping or home use during the chilly months, and the weight.
Now the generator is on wheels so it is easy to move, but the weight could be hard on people who aren’t supposed to be lifting heavy objects.
Pros
- Portability makes it easy to store and set up anywhere
- It can run for anywhere from 10-20 hours depending on wattage
- Auto-shutoff feature in case the oil level gets too low
- Noise level is just 74 dB at one-quarter load, a little louder than a vacuum cleaner.
Cons
- While we did not have issues with our wheels, it was noted during research that other users felt the wheels were poorly made.
DuroStar DS10000E Gas Powered Portable Generator – Best for Gas Users
This one is perfect for those of you that prefer to simply use gas above other fuel sources, it can operate for 10 hours at half-load capacity on just a single tank of fuel. It features an electric start so anyone can fire it up with no need to yank on a pull-string starter.
Idling control is in place to reduce RPM when the generator is not being used, saving gas and reducing noise. It features a powerful 493cc engine that can easily handle many appliances/tools at once. The generator features a whopping 10,000 starting watts and 8,000 while running. It is a good option for busy RVs or larger families.
In terms of outlets, you will get two 120V 20A GFCI outlets, a single 120V 30-amp twist-lock outlet, a single twist lock 120/240V 30A, and a single 120/240V 50A heavy duty outlet. The fuel tank holds 8.3 gallons of gasoline.
The Surge-Arrest is one example. Working from home or doing schoolwork online with a company/school computer? Worried about your electronics frying in a power surge? Don’t sweat it- the generator is guarded against power surges.
The MX2 Power Boost feature puts out double the 120V power for RVs and your appliances. At 218 lbs., it’s still pretty heavy, but not as heavy as some of the others I will feature.
There was one thing we didn’t like. The wheel kit for the generator is not included. Others include the wheels with purchase.
Pros
- Starts up nice and easy with an electric start
- A bit less heavy than some other models
- EPA and CARB certified for use anywhere
Cons
- Wheel kit not included
Champion 200914 4250-Watt Open Frame Inverter Generator – Best for Tailgating/Truck Camping
This generator has a small footprint. We know not everybody travels in a fancy RV or camper, and truck camping is tons of fun when you’ve got electricity! This little generator powers the party and measures 20.9 L x 18 W x 19 H in inches.
This generator is good for powering smaller appliances/devices as shown by the wattage. It puts out 4250 watts starting on gas power and 3500 watts running on gasoline power.
Outlets included are 120V 20a Duplex, 12V DC automotive, and 120V 30A. The fuel tank holds just 4 gallons of gas- a regular jerry can is all you need to power this up. You can also power it using propane.
It’s lightweight. At just 75 lbs., mostly anyone can lift this thing whether alone or with the help of a friend. We like that it is EPA & CARB compliant. [1] Feel free to use it anywhere as it is environmentally friendly.
It has a long runtime. At just 1 /4 load, you can run this for 22 hours. This operates at 64 decibels, which is the same as normal conversation or laughter. Use it without fear of bothering others.
We noticed this particular generator did not come with a wheel kit. As a result, you will have to pay extra for the 40065-wheel kit sold by Champion.
Pros
- Dual-fuel capability- use Propane or Gas
- Perfect for powering up smaller devices or appliances/tools
- Small and very portable
Cons
- The oil cap is made of plastic- a sturdy material could be better.
- Wheel kit is not included.
Westinghouse WGen9500 Heavy Duty Portable Generator – Best for Cold-Weather Camping
It has a remote starter. Simply use the key fob for easy operation indoors- great for starting indoors on chilly days.
The setup Is easy. Just follow the instructions and use the included tool kit, funnel, and oil to get up and running in just minutes.
The automatic low-oil shutoff is great. Don’t fear the oil levels- the generator will shut off, so your unit doesn’t end up damaged. This generator offers 9500 running watts and 12,500 peak watts.
Outlets included are a transfer-switch ready 120V L14-30R, a single RV ready 120V/240V 14-50R, and two 5v USB ports. Every outlet is covered in rubber for added safety.
The fuel tank holds 6.6 gallons and can run for up to 12 hours. We loved that this generator was easy to operate. It features a push-button start, so anyone can fire it up.
The generator is dual fuel. So, whether you operate on gas or propane, you’re good to go. It also comes equipped with Smart Idle functionality. It won’t use lots of power if idling- it will only increase power if you start to use your electronics/appliances.
Now onto what we didn’t like on this generator. Some users complained the battery that comes with the generator failed after 12 or so hours of use. This seems to be a rare occurrence but did give us pause.
Pros
- Comes with a 3-year warranty
- Propane or Gas fuel capability
- Push-button start
- Outlets are covered (good if kids are around)
Cons
- This generator lacks a DC outlet.
Champion 100813 9375/7500-Watt Portable Generator – Best Mid-Range Generator
The Intelligauge feature is one you’ll like. It makes it easy to keep track of hertz, voltage, and running hours. This generator comes with a 3-year warranty, plus free lifetime support from their experts.
It’s very easy to use and anyone can power it on. Simply press a button to fire this up. This generator offers 9375 starting watts and 7500 running watts. Outlets offered are four 120V 20A GFCI, 120/240V 30A outlets, plus a 120/240V 50A outlet.
The fuel tank holds 5.7 gallons of gasoline. We loved that the outlets were covered in rubber as an added safety feature.
We also loved that the generator included a Volt-Guard surge protector to keep your items safe. Lastly, the Cold-Start tech makes it ideal for cold days. The wheel kit is included.
Propane users, stay away. We noticed this particular Champion model did not support the use of propane. Also, it weighs in at 200 lb. So you will need that wheel kit.
Pros
- 8 hours of runtime on a single tank of gas
- 420cc engine with electric start
- Not very noisy- it’s just 74 dB at 23 feet
Cons
- Propane cannot be used with this model.
How To Choose A 50 AMP RV generator?
Need to know what to look for when buying a generator? This guide has you covered.
Type
Most portable generators for RV use run on LP or gas. Dual-fuel models can use both. You may also wish to seek a model that has a manual transfer switch or add one yourself because it brings the full power of the generator to your camper or home. A portable inverter generator is smaller and quieter, but could also use gas, LP, or both.
Related: Find out the best dual-fuel generator in the article here.
Accessories
You may wish to purchase some accessories to go with your generator. There are some items, however, that are necessary. For example, many of us cannot lift the generator to move it without hurting our backs, so a wheel kit is needed.
A fuel stabilizer is also required if you plan on storing the generator with a full tank of gas. This prevents corrosion, rust, and varnish that causes issues with engine starting and operation. Your best bet is to read the owner’s manual carefully, so you know just how to care for your generator.
Wattage
The wattage of your portable generator will determine what appliances and devices it can supply power to. Figuring out how much wattage is necessary for your home or camper is important to ensure you get the right one for your family’s needs.
Write down all the items you just can’t live without should the power go out and how many watts they use. Then, use that to guide your decision about which generator to buy.
Related: If you’re looking for a 15000 BTU AC generator, check out our article here.
Important Features
Any good generator should have these basic features:
- Wheel kits included or for purchase and folding handles.
- A power that is safe to supply any necessary medical devices, computers, and other important electronics.
- An appropriately sized fuel tank so you can run it longer.
- Outlets equipped with circuit breakers to prevent overloads.
- Mufflers for quieter usage.
- Fuel gauges that are integrated to guard against power interruption.
- Weather protection: make sure the generator you are most interested in can operate in inclement weather- namely, will it start in cold weather?
- Outlet Count: How many outlets are you going to need on your generator? Figure out how many appliances you’d like to run at one time and review the appliances to see what outlets they plug into.
Conclusion
In summary, we loved the DuroMax XP12000EH the best generator for 50 Amp RV. It’s got all the features that you need when it is time to keep the camper or house warm, and the wattage it supplies could keep you going for a while.
Its flexibility in fuel makes it ideal to have on the road. You do not have to choose between gasoline or propane with this one. It’s approved for use in all 50 states, so take it on the road trip with confidence.
I hope this guide has been helpful. Emergencies are unnerving, but having a good generator makes them more bearable.
