Review : DuroMax XP12000HX | CO Monitoring | Dual-Fuel

DuroMax generators don’t all receive the best reviews. Since this US generator brand entered the home portable generator market in 2003, we have seen an extensive variety of products bearing the DuroMax name. Prices have ranged from really cheap light-duty generators to more average-priced machines with a higher standard of build quality. As you’ll discover from this DuroMax XP12000HX review, it falls into the latter category, an insatiably powerful home and jobsite generator with a lot of heavy-duty attributes.

DuroMax refer to the XP12000HX as the beast in their portable generator lineup. With a peak power output of 12,000W and 10,000W running power, this is a great alternative to more expensive home standby generators. With enough power to run an average-sized home, it is quite affordable and has the benefit of being portable. This makes it great for a host of applications.

The DuroMax XP12000HX functions incredibly well as jobsite generator. While not quite in the same heavy-duty category as established industrial generator brands, the DuroMax XP12000HX is a really affordable jobsite generator with heaps of power. I’d rate it higher than most of the mid-priced, medium-duty generators with the same power output. Essentially, we can consider the XP12000HX as fantastic value for its capabilities.

VIDEO | A Closer Look at the powerful XP12000HX generator

Apart from a pretty robust engine and a high-quality alternator, with all-copper windings, the DuroMax XP12000HX has a bunch of extra features that make a truly attractive option. This is a dual fuel generator. It can run on propane or gas. It also has an impressive list of new and improved features. An important one is the CO monitoring safety feature. A sensor detects the carbon monoxide (CO) levels in the air. If the CO becomes a danger, the generator will shut down.  

There’s a lot of other cool stuff that make this a great generator. Not just for its price, but as worthy a competitor to many others in its class. To get the whole picture, the complete DuroMax XP12000HX review to follow is certainly worth a read.

The DuroMax XP12000HX is not the only high-power dual fuel generator to choose from. To keep things interesting, I’ll be reviewing a couple of options in a similar price range. This review will allow you to make an informed comparison of the more affordable dual fuel generators for home backup power or a jobsite.

One of my favorite dual fuel generators in this class has to be the Westinghouse WGen9500DF. It’s a natural choice as a great comparison to the DuroMax XP12000HX. There are two more dual fuel generators that you may want to consider, especially if you’re looking at budget options. These would be the WEN DF1100T and Briggs & Stratton Elite 8000.

If you are serious about getting the best deal for your money, this review should guide you toward making that crucial decision. These are all brands with good reputation, a proven track record for service and all-round good value. In then end, you’ll be making the final decision. My opinions on the various brands may come with some knowledge and experience, but they are simply opinions, nothing more. You may not always agree. Tough, I think it’s safe to say that all theses generators have something worth considering, whether it’s price, power output, or just a simple matter of personal preference for a particular portable generator brand.

At least, you’ll have all the facts to base your choice on credible information. That’s what we’re here for.

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Review : DuroMax XP12000HX / Dual-Fuel

Features :

• Control center has a digital multimeter, push-button start, and a front-facing fuel interface. Quickly change your fuel type.
• Digital Command Center will show you : Voltage, frequency, total hours run, and hours remaining until the recommended maintenance.
• Two Fuels : Runs on either gasoline or propane. When fuel is scarce you have more options. Propane never goes bad. Gasoline can only last up to about a year, with fuel stabilizers.
• Built-in CO Alert : Automatically shuts down the generator if  carbon monoxide levels are high. This is a rare feature on generators. DuroMax is looking out for the safety of yourself and your loved ones.
• 460cc OHV DuroMax engine and features ALL COPPER WINDINGS designed to make your generator last for years.
• Fully loaded power panel includes : 4x 120V GFCI household outlets, 1x  120V 30AMP outlet, 1x 120/240V 30AMP twist-lock outlet, and one heavy-duty 120/240V 50AMP outlet making it transfer switch ready!
• Onboard the XP12000HX are individual circuit breakers, idle control, and a low oil sensor. 

OVERVIEW —

I hinted, in the introduction to this review, that the DuroMax XP12000HX is not the run of the mill when considering an affordable portable generator with above average power output. In general, I’ve found the larger DuroMax generators to be of a much higher quality standard than their smaller models. This is evident in the price point. The smaller DuroMax generators (5,000W or less) tend be amongst the cheapest models in their class. As we head up the range, especially from 7,500W and higher, the DuroMax models start to display more heavy-duty traits. At the top of the pile, the DuroMax XP12000HX has it all. While this generator is fairly average in price, when compared to all other ±12,000W/10,000W dual fuel generators, it is above average in spec level and build quality.

In my opinion, the 460cc OHV engine powering the XP12000HX is one of the best that the brand has to offer. Second only to the mighty V-Twin 713cc dual fuel engine fitted to the top of the line XP15000EH hybrid generator. None the less, the DuroMax XP12000HX has a reliable, smooth running engine, with a huge muffler for reasonably quiet operation. That is for a mighty powerful open frame generator. At a rated 74dBA, it’s as loud as many generators with smaller engines that don’t deliver the same power output. The muffler includes a spark arrestor and the DuroMax XP12000HX engine is 50-state legal (EPA and CARB certified).

I’m never too blown away by DuroMax fuel efficiency and the DuroMax XP12000HX is no exception. It’s not the thirstiest generator in its class, but certainly not the best either. The 8.3 gallon gas tank is a very convenient size and will provide 8.83 hours runtime at 50% load, a little over 1 GPH. Using a 40 LBS propane tank, runtime isn’t quite as good, 7.2 hours at 50% load. Of course, as with any dual fuel generator, you also don’t have as much power when using propane. The power output, using gas is certainly impressive enough – 12,000W peak output and 10,000W continuous power. When using propane, wattage is reduced to 11,400W surge capacity and 9,025W running capacity.

 Using the word portable for a generator of this size, always requires a bit more than a grain of salt. The DuroMax XP12000HX weighs 230 pounds. Not something to be taken lightly. Apart from the gargantuan engine and solid alternator, this generator is mounted to a heavy-duty frame with plenty of metal protective panels. All of this is really great, but it does contribute to a substantial weight. Despite these challenges, the DuroMax engineers have done an outstanding job at making this weight as manageable as possible. I’m greatly impressed by the industrial quality rubber mountings that secure the engine and alternator to the frame. Not only are these super tough and secure the generator perfectly, they also do a lot to minimize vibration. Mobility is aided by one of the best wheel kits for a portable generator. The enormous solid wheels, with metal rims, make it possible to move the DuroMax XP12000HX over any terrain with relative ease. The heavy-duty fold down dual handles are just as impressive.

All your control functions are fitted to heavy-duty metal panels on the side of the generator. This is about as convenient as it gets. You can easily access the propane inlet and selector functions for fuel type. An adjacent panel houses staring functions, outlets, warning lights, and circuit breakers. A large starter (on/off) button is flanked by switches to isolate the battery, when storing the generator, and an idle control switch. When you switch the idle control to the on position, it reduces the engine speed when the generator is not supplying any load. Thereby saving fuel and reducing the noise. Routine maintenance is made easy with an accessible air filter, oil filler, and drain plug.

An abundance of AC outlets, make this a very practical generator in any situation. It has 4 X 120V 20A outlets, supplied by 2 X 20A circuit breakers. I like this dual breaker setup. It means that an overload on one circuit does not trip all the outlets, you’ll still have power on the other circuit. This is a great convenience on a jobsite. Another feature that makes the DuroMax XP12000HX a fantastic jobsite generator is the GFCI protection on the 20A outlets, making this an OSHA complaint generator. It has 2 X 30A twist lock outlets, one supplying 120V and the other 120V/240V. Since this generator has a peak output of 50A, I’m delighted to see that they have included a 50A 120V/240V outlet (supplied directly from the main 50A two-pole circuit breaker). This is ideal for maximizing the available power to your home electric panel when using a transfer switch.  

A digital multimeter allows you to monitor basic operating parameters. Using a small selector switch, you can choose to display voltage, frequency (hertz), or operating hours. An indicator light alerts you when the oil is low, the engine will shut down when this warning light ignites. Another light tells you that the onboard battery is charging. As you may have guessed, this generator has an electric starter. It also has a manual backup recoil starter.

Although the DuroMax XP12000HX price may be fairly average, there is nothing average about this generator. It’s a remarkably powerful dual fuel generator that comes close to the top industrial machines for rugged design and reliability. It has copious safety features, including CO monitoring. A tough frame and excellent wheels, making this hefty generator about as portable as it gets for such a huge powerhouse. The DuroMax XP12000HX ticks just about every box, only falling a little short in the fuel efficiency department. With a 3-year warranty, from a brand that has earned a great reputation over many years, I think this is a purchase you can make with absolute confidence.

Tech Specs : DuroMax XP12000HX

Gas	Propane
Peak Watts : 12,000W	Peak Watts : 11,400W
Running Watts : 9,500W	Running Watts : 9025W
Peak Amps at 120V : 100A	Peak Amps at 120V : 95A
Running Amps at 120V : 79.17A	Running Amps at 120V : 75.21A
Peak Amps at 240V : 50A	Peak Amps at 240V : 47.50A
Running Amps at 240V : 39.58A	Running Amps at 240V : 37.60A

Visit the DuroMax site to learn more about this and other HX series generators.

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— Consider a Tri-Fuel Generator —

►Released in 2021 : Champion 100416 / Tri-Fuel Generator (Read our review)

Here’s a quick overview of this Tri-fuel generator from Champion. If you want more details read our indepth review here.

Features :

• Tri-Fuel Technology : Your 8000-watt portable generator operates on natural gas, propane, or gasoline. Includes natural gas and propane hoses. Ready to go out of the box!
  • Gasoline : Starting = 10,000W / Running = 8000W
  • Propane : Starting = 9000W / Running Watts = 7200W
  • Natural Gas : Starting = 8750W / Running = 7000W
• Electric Start : Power up the 459cc Champion engine with the handy rocker switch, battery included
• Intelligauge with CO Shield  : Rack voltage, frequency, session run time, and total run time to monitor output and track maintenance intervals, plus the UL-recognized sensor uses an LED to indicate CO shutoff or fault
• Champion Support : Includes 3-year limited warranty with FREE lifetime technical support from dedicated experts
• EZ Start dial : Safely select gasoline, propane (LPG), or natural gas (NG) as your fuel source, plus a propane/natural gas selector is located on the side panel.
• Natural Gas : 6-foot propane hose with a built-in regulator is included. To connect this generator to your home’s natural gas source, this generator includes a 25-foot NG hose kit, which includes a female quick connect end, a female flare fitting end and an NPT male adapter.
• Gas : 459cc Champion engine produces 10,000 starting watts and 8000 running watts, and will run for 12.5 hours at 50% load when the 8.5-gallon fuel tank is full. When using a 20-pound propane tank, it produces 9000 starting watts and 7200 running watts, and will run for 5 hours at 50% load.
• Electric start includes a battery, plus Cold Start Technology ensures quick cold-weather starts. With a 1.2-quart oil capacity, this unit has a low oil shut-off sensor and includes engine oil – all you need is fuel!
• Easily monitor power output and track maintenance intervals with Intelligauge, which allows you to keep track of voltage, frequency, session run time, and total run time to easily monitor output and track maintenance intervals.
• Noise level of 74 dBA from 23 feet, which is a little  louder than a vacuum cleaner.
• Carbon Monoxide (CO) Shield technology monitors the accumulation of poisonous CO gas produced by engine exhaust when the generator is running. If CO Shield detects elevated levels of CO gas, the UL-recognized sensor will alert and shut off the engine and will illuminate a red LED. This unit meets the ANSI/PGMA G300-2018 requirements to ensure the highest level of safety and performance.
• Covered OUTLETS : 120V 30A locking outlet (L5-30R), a 120/240V 30A locking outlet (L14-30R) and four 120V 20A GFCI protected household outlets (5-20R).
• EPA certified and CARB compliant.
• Champion Support and our nationwide network of service centers will back up your purchase with a 3-year limited warranty and FREE lifetime technical support.

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Review : Westinghouse WGEN9500DF

Ideal as backup power for larger homes or a dependable source of portable power during emergencies, jobsites or any other situation that requires a lot of backup power.

Features :

• 9,500 running watts, 12,500 peak watts (gasoline); 8500 running watts, 11,200 peak watts (propane)
• Runs for up to 12 hours on a 6.6 gal. fuel tank with built-in fuel gauge; up to 7 hours on a 20 lb. propane tank
• ENGINE : heavy duty 457cc 4-Stroke OHV Westinghouse Engine constructed with a durable cast iron sleeve
• Push-Button Electric Start pairs with key fob and is backed by emergency recoil start
• Dual fuel : Easily switches from gas to propane without shutting off unit
• Weighing 220 lb. with as low as 74 dBA operating volume
• OUTLETS : (2x) GFCI 5-20R household duplex outlets, (1x) Transfer Switch Ready L14-30R 120/240-Volt twist-lock, and (1x) 120/240V 14-50R with rubber outlet covers
• VFT display gives you real time updates with the voltage output, frequency, and lifetime hours
• Quality Control : Functionally tested in the factory. May contain minimum residual oil and/or fuel odor

OVERVIEW —

I’ve had the great privilege of reviewing every Westinghouse portable generator in the relatively short time they’ve been around. That’s not to say that Westinghouse is new to the power generation business. Over a hundred years ago, the Westinghouse Electric Company built many of the first power generation plants in the US. I have to say, this wealth of experience is clearly evident in the extensive range of Westinghouse portable generators available on the scene today, which has grown substantially since the first models arrived on the scene around 2012.

If I’m go to be blatantly honest, I much prefer the Westinghouse WGEN9500DF to the DuroMax XP12000HX. To be fair though, I prefer most Westinghouse generators to any competing model. Even when comparing these generators to the very best, like Honda, I find Westinghouse portable generators to be the best value for money when looking at things realistically. We can’t really call the Westinghouse WGEN9500DF cheap. Though, like the DuroMax XP12000HX, it is pretty much in the average price range for a Dual fuel generator with the watts to power your whole house quite comfortably in an outage.

I’ll begin with the 457cc Westinghouse engine. This is a truly magnificent heavy-duty engine. Not the type of power-plant one would expect to find on a generator of this price. It’s pretty close to the standards set by Honda, CAT, and Yamaha. Built to last, with a cast iron sleeve, it is as reliable as it gets and unbelievably fuel efficient.

When it comes to economical use, this generator leaves the rest behind. To give you an idea of what I mean, we only need to compare the Westinghouse WGEN9500DF to the DuroMax XP12000HX. The Westinghouse generator has a fairly small gas tank for a generator of this size, 6.6 gallons vs the 8.3 gallon tank supplying the DuroMax XP12000HX. Even with close on 2-gallons less fuel in the tank, the WGEN9500DF provides almost 4-hours longer runtime: 12-hours vs 8.8 hours (DuroMax XP12000HX). You don’t need to be Einstein to realize how much money you’ll save on gas, using the Westinghouse WGEN9500DF vs just about any other in this class. Propane runtime is just as impressive, a 20LBS propane tank will keep the WGEN9500DF running for 7-hours. That’s almost twice as efficient as the DuroMax dual fuel generator, which provides a fairly similar runtime specification (7.2 hours) but from a 40 LBS tank.

Comparing power output, the DuroMax XP12000HX fares better for continuous power: 10,000W vs only 9,500W for the Westinghouse. Looking at peak power, the opposite is true. The Westinghouse produces 500 more surge watts than DuroMax (12,500W vs 12,000W). Power performance when running on propane is, as to be expected, a little less, 11,200W peak and 8,500W running power.

The Westinghouse WGEN9500DF is as loud as most with a similar engine, rated at 74dBA (the same as the DuroMax XP12000HX). I was quite impressed with the safety box around the Westinghouse muffler. This protects the muffler from damage and your hands from burns. For the most part, this generator is excellent in terms of up to date safety features. Though it does not include a CO warning and shutdown feature, like the DuroMax generator. Nor does the Westinghouse WGEN9500DF include GFCI protection for the 120V outlets. The Westinghouse WPro series generators are designed specifically for jobsite applications and include OSHA compliant GFCI outlets.

Apart from being a mighty fuel-efficient, robust workhorse, the Westinghouse WGEN9500DF is a really refined machine with a lot of cool features that you don’t readily find on a portable generator. The Westinghouse ST switch is probably the most noteworthy of these. A port on the user panel allows you to connect the WGEN9500DF to the revolutionary remote start, automatic transfer switch (Westinghouse ST switch), a unique feature on many Westinghouse models. The ST switch is sold separately and is the ultimate in home backup power convenience. When the power goes down, the generator will automatically switch on and transfer the electricity supply from the utility to generator. Previously, this was the domain of high-end automatic standby generators. You can also start the generator remotely at any time, using a remote control fob.

Although it’s not a technical wonder, I really like the simple battery disconnection plug. When you store the generator, you don’t need any tools to disconnect the battery, it has an easy to use plug. They’ve also made it super easy to charge the battery when the generator has not been started in a while. A 12V trickle charger is supplied with the generator and plugs conveniently into a port on the user panel. Another simple, but really great extra feature.

All the AC outlets have tough rubber protective covers. Neatly clustered together, you have 2 X 120V 20A duplex outlets with individual circuit breakers – providing a total of 4 X standard household receptacles. It has a single 30A 120V/240V outlet and a 50A 120V/240V outlet. In keeping with the trend in modern generator design, the Westinghouse WGEN9500DF is equipped with digital “VFT” display for voltage, frequency and lifetime running hours.

Because of the remote starting function, this generator has an automatic choke, so there’s one less thing to worry about for cold engine starting. It has a large dial on the user panel to select propane or gas, with an electric starter button just next to it. The fuel shutoff valve is one of those old school types, fitted to the fuel line. Not the easy start dial that you find more commonly these days. The propane inlet is easy to access, below the user panel. It’s also really easy to perform basic maintenance, like checking the oil level, cleaning the air filter (or spark-plug), and draining the oil. Everything is where you want it, with no hassles.

I guess, if carbon monoxide protection is high on your list of priorities, the DuroMax XP12000XH would the preferred choice. Perhaps also for OSHA compliant GFCI protection for a jobsite generator. In all other respects, the Westinghouse WGEN9500DF outshines the competition in a big way. Priced a little over $1,000, it could end up being cheaper than the DuroMax alternative, depending on where you buy your generator. At a very similar price, the Westinghouse generator has one of the best engines, with fantastic fuel economy, and a bunch of really cool features, like a remote starter and the option for an ST automatic transfer switch. As for faith in the brand, Westinghouse has my utmost respect, and they offer a 3-year residential (1-year commercial) warranty on this generator. Without a doubt, my first choice for a powerful dual fuel generator.

Read our indepth review of the Westinghouse WGEN9500DF and other 9500W portable generators.

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Review : WEN DF1100T / Dual-Fuel Generator

Features :

• Gasoline : 11,000 surge watts / 8,300 running watt
• Propane : 9,500 surge / 7,500 running
• Voltage easily goes from 120-Volt to 240-Volt, perfect for transfer switches and emergency backup 
• Electric start /  457cc 4-stroke OHV engine with the turn of a key
• 6.6 Gal. tank provides up to 8.5 hours of half load run time 
• OUTLETS : 4x 120V GFCI outlets (5-20R), 1x 120V 30A twist lock outlet (L5-30R), 1x 120V/240V 50A outlet (NEMA 14-50R), 1x 12V DC cigarette-lighter-style plug, a bottle of oil, a 47-inch LPG connection hose.
• Run your lights, TV, refrigerator, sump pump, power tools, or other essentials with ease.
• CARB & EPA III compliant generator is the perfect companion for emergency back-up. Simply plug your transfer switch into the NEMA 30A twist lock for electricity in times of need.
• Gas : Up to 8.5-hour run-time at 50% load.
• Backed by a nationwide network of skilled service technicians, a friendly customer support phone line, and a two year warranty.  

OVERVIEW —

The WEN DF1100T is not quite as powerful as the DuroMax XP12000XH. Though, with 11,000W starting capacity and 8,300W continuous power (using gas), it’s very much in the same league as the other portable generators in this review. At least when comparing wattage specs. The WEN dual fuel generator stands out as being the cheapest. You should be able to buy this generator for under $1,000, whereas all the others cost more than a grand. Despite being the cheapest of the bunch, the WEN DF1100T can, in most respects, compare well to any of the other generators in this review.

While the 457cc engine is a good runner and perfectly reliable, it is not a top-performer when considering fuel economy. It is only slightly less thirsty than the DuroMax XP12000XH, providing 8.5 hours (at 50% load) from a 6.6 gallon gas tank. A 20-pound propane tank will provide around 3-hours runtime at the same load. Of course, you don’t have the same power output running on propane, this drops to 9,500W surge capacity and 7,500W rated output.

Instead of a push button electric starter, like the others, the WEN DF1100T utilizes a key, like your car. One turn switches the generator on, turning it further starts the generator. The choke and fuel valve are on the engine, close to the carburetor. Like the DuroMax XP12000HX, you don’t have the ease of a user panel mounted choke/fuel dial. I guess this is not a big deal. Anyone who’s been using a generator for a while, is quite familiar with this starting and shutoff procedure. Not too long ago, all generators worked in this way. Selecting gas or propane, is as easy as pie. A large, clearly marked dial on the front panel takes care of this and the inlet for the propane hose is also at the front of the machine for easy access.

The WEN DF1100T has a cigarette lighter style 12VDC battery charging port. Something that’s lacking on the DuroMax and Westinghouse generators. For outdoor enthusiasts, this is a very handy feature. It allows you to charge your 12V deep cycle (leisure) batteries economically and easily. The AC outlets are just as convenient as the DuroMax XP12000HX, with same type of circuit breakers. Comparing the two generators, the WEN doesn’t have a 120V/240V 30A outlet, only a 120V 30A outlet. Then again, the Westinghouse WGEN9500DF is the same in this regard. The other AC  outlets are just as convenient and easy to use the other generators in this review. It has 4 X 120V 20A household outlets and a transfer switch ready 50A 120V/240V outlet. This generator also has a multi-function digital data center, displaying voltage, frequency, session running hours, and lifetime running hours.

Since this is a pretty powerful portable generator, mounted to heavy-duty metal frame, and has all the dual fuel extra components as the other two machines reviewed this far, it is also a heavy beast. While not quite as heavy as the back-breaking 230-pound DuroMax XP12000HX, the WEN is certainly no featherweight either, at 213.8 pounds. The WEN DF1100T has a good wheel kit and dual fold down handles, making it as portable as the others. Being an open frame generator, it’s about as noisy as the Westinghouse and DuroMax alternatives. No official sound spec is provided. I’m guessing this should be around 74dBA, like the others.

For a cheap, yet reliable dual fuel generator to supply your home during an outage, the WEN DF1100T is marvelous. Not quite as cool as the DuroMax XP12000HX, mostly because it doesn’t have as much power at the outlets, but amazing for its price. In my opinion, you can’t find a better 11,000W dual fuel generator for under $1,000. The WEN brand is known for great value products. Never expensive, good quality, and service to match. The WEN DF1100T has a 2-year warranty.

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Review : Briggs & Stratton Elite 8000 / 030742

Features :

• Bluetooth Connectivity – Connect with your smartphone to monitor power usage, run time, fuel level and more in real time, from the comfort of your home.
• Free, easy-to-use Info-Hub Portable Power app – Download the intuitive app from the Apple App Store or Google Play store in just minutes. The app is best equipped for an iPhone 6 running iOS 9 (or newer) or a Samsung Galaxy S6 running Android 6.0.1 (or newer).
• Briggs & Stratton Engine (420cc) – Get high-performance power and durability from one of the most trusted names in engines.
• Multi-Featured Control Panel with Circuit Breaker Protection – Enjoy the flexibility of four GFCI 120V household outlets and one 120/240V 30A locking outlet that let you power more essentials in your home. Additionally, rubber outlet covers protect against the elements.
• 12-inch Never Go Flat Wheels – Easily maneuver the generator around your property.
• 9-Hour Run Time (at 50% Load) – Take a break from regular refueling with a durable 7.5-gallon steel fuel tank that provides 9-hours of run time.
• Power Surge Alternator – Start large, motor-driven appliances and tools by leveraging a Power Surge Alternator, which produces a short surge of high power.

OVERVIEW —

The Briggs & Stratton Elite 8000 is a departure from all the other generators that we’ve reviewed here, in that this is the only model without dual fuel operation. It is also a bit less powerful, producing 10,000 peak watts and 8,000 running watts. It does, however, share some common ground with the DuroMax XP12000HX, as this generator also has the great advantage of a carbon monoxide protection system. Something Briggs and Stratton call CO Guard. It serves exactly the same function as the DuroMax CO Monitoring feature, by shutting the generator down before carbon monoxide can become a danger.

One of the cool features that is included in the Briggs & Stratton Elite series, is a wonderful Bluetooth App. This is a high-tech information hub that can access at any time using your phone or tablet. It allows you check up on power consumption, runtime, fuel, and all sorts of useful information. I think technophiles would find this to be a great attraction to the Elite 8000 over the other three generators in this review.

The Briggs & Stratton XR Professional 420cc engine is really great. It’s more reliable, powerful, and efficient than previous generation B & S engines, which could (at times) be a little temperamental. This engine starts really easily in all weather, with a quick turn of the key, using the electric starter, or a light tug on the recoil starter. Fuel consumption isn’t bad either. The 7.5 gallon gas tank provides a very convenient 9-hours runtime at 50% load.

The Briggs & Stratton Elite 8000 has a very slick, modern control panel. Flush rubber covers completely seal the outlets when not in use, keeping the dust and pesky critters out. It has 4 X 120V 20A outlets, supplied by two individual circuit breakers. Unlike the DuroMax XP12000HX, this generator does not have a 50A 120V/240V outlet. Since this is a less powerful 10,000W/8,000W generator, the 50A outlet is not really essential. Running power at 240V reaches a maximum of 33.3A, making the 30A 120V/240V transfer switch ready outlet, fitted to the Briggs & Stratton Elite 8000, quite acceptable.

The frame is as solid as they come, and it has amazing handles with soft grip padding. There are two grips at the top, on either side of the metal gas tank, for lifting the 237 pound machine, as well as a T-Shape fold down handle with the same soft comfortable grip. The 12” solid wheel kit is another welcome advantage. For a heavy powerful generator, weighing in the region of 230 pounds, the Briggs & Stratton Elite 8000 is delightfully portable.

The low-tone muffler works well, making this a relatively quiet open frame generator for its size. There are no official sound level specifications, but I’m assuming that this would be slightly lower than all the other generators reviewed here.

Briggs & Stratton has always been renowned for manufacturing reliable generators, a bit cheaper than most competitors. I know that earlier B & S engines, while lasting incredibly long, were not always the most reliable. This seems (hopefully) to be a thing of the past. I’m mighty impressed with the performance delivered by the Briggs & Stratton Elite 8000. It shares the great CO safety feature with the DuroMax XP12000HX and has the added benefit of a intelligent Bluetooth app. For a modern, sophisticated generator, this is a pretty affordable option. Briggs & Stratton has a well-established service network, and this generator comes with a pretty impressive 3-year residential warranty, or 12-month commercial warranty.