Westinghouse vs DuroMax Inverter Generators: Specs Face Off

The short answer

Westinghouse and DuroMax both make inverter generators, but the best model depends on your loads and priorities. Inverter generators produce stable power and are often quieter than conventional portable generators, which makes them a strong choice for camping, RV use, tailgating and home backup.

Use the brand guides below to compare current models. For Westinghouse, see best Westinghouse generators. For DuroMax, see best DuroMax generators. If you want to stay focused on inverter models, start with best inverter generators.

Start with watts, not the brand name

Output is the first spec to compare. Generators are rated in watts, and the number that matters most is the running watt rating: the continuous load the generator can support. You also need enough starting watts for appliances with motors or compressors that draw a surge on startup. Learn the difference between running watts vs starting watts and use the how many watts do I need generator guide to build your load list.

As a reference, the average U.S. household uses about 10,500 kilowatthours of electricity per year, but a generator is sized by the items you will run at one time, not by yearly household use. If you plan to back up hardwired circuits, also see how to size a transfer switch.

Compare running watts and starting watts

Every spec sheet gives two output numbers. Running watts, sometimes called rated watts, is the continuous power the generator can provide. Starting watts, sometimes called surge or maximum watts, is the brief burst needed to start motor-driven appliances such as refrigerators, sump pumps and air conditioners. The gap between the two numbers tells you how much headroom you have for startup surges. See generator rated vs max watts confusion and generator starting wattage surge list.

Manufacturers organize inverter models into wattage classes, so match the class to the work you need done before comparing individual units. For example, start with best 3000 to 5000 W generators if your loads sit in that range. Use the table below as a checklist when you open a spec sheet.

Check fuel type: gasoline only or dual fuel

Fuel choice is one of the biggest feature differences among inverter generators. Some models run on gasoline only. Others are dual fuel and can also run on propane from a tank. Propane has advantages for storage, but output can differ between fuels, so check the running and starting watt ratings for each fuel. See dual fuel generator advantages to decide if the flexibility matters for you.

If you want gasoline and propane flexibility, look for a dual fuel inverter model rather than assuming every unit from either brand is dual fuel. Compare the published output numbers on both fuels before you buy.

Safety features are part of the spec sheet

Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless gas that can kill quickly. CPSC warns that one portable generator produces as much carbon monoxide as hundreds of cars, so a generator must never run inside a home, garage, basement or shed. Use it outside only, at least 20 feet from windows, doors and vents, with exhaust facing away. For more on the automated shutoff, see what is a CO sensor on a generator.

The CPSC and CDC recommend battery-operated or battery-backup CO alarms on every level of the home and outside sleeping areas. A generator CO sensor can shut off the engine when CO builds up near the machine, but it is not a substitute for outdoor placement or for household CO alarms. The Federal Register proposed safety standard for portable generators includes CO shutoff system requirements, so this feature is becoming a standard item to compare.

Inverter output quality protects electronics

An inverter generator converts raw alternator output into a cleaner waveform than many conventional generators. For laptops, phones, televisions and battery chargers, lower total harmonic distortion is better. A model with higher THD can still run tools and appliances, but it may be less ideal for sensitive electronics. See generator THD and sensitive electronics.

Both brands sell inverter models, so the category generally favors clean output. Even so, inverters vary by model and by load. If clean power is your priority, compare the published THD figures and keep sensitive loads within the generator's continuous rating.

Compare starting, outlets and portability

Once output and fuel are settled, compare the features that make a generator easy to live with. Starting systems include recoil pull start, electric start and remote start. Larger models are more convenient with electric start, and parallel kits let you combine two compatible inverter generators for more output when needed.

Outlet layout is another spec sheet item. Look for household duplex outlets, RV-ready outlets and locking outlets if you plan to connect a transfer switch. Also compare wheels, handles and overall weight. These details affect how often you actually move the generator from storage to its outdoor operating spot.

Check noise and enclosure

Quieter operation is one reason to choose an inverter generator. Noise is expressed in dBA at a stated distance, and a few dBA can be a noticeable difference. Compare the published noise rating the same way for both brands instead of relying on marketing names.

Enclosure style matters too. Closed-frame inverter models are often quieter and neater to move, while open-frame models can be simpler and easier to service. Think about where you will store it and how you will access the oil fill, spark plug and air filter.

What to pick for your use

Questions

Which brand is better, Westinghouse or DuroMax?

Neither brand wins every category. The right inverter generator depends on output class, fuel type, CO safety features and convenience features. Compare current models by output and features before you decide.

Can I run laptops and phones on a Westinghouse or DuroMax inverter generator?

Inverter generators are designed to produce stable power, which is generally a better match for sensitive electronics than conventional open-frame generators. Compare the published THD figure and keep sensitive loads within the generator's continuous rating.

Can I use one of these inverter generators for home backup?

Yes, if the generator is sized for the loads you want to run and is connected safely through an extension cord or a transfer switch. Build a load list first and follow the generator safety rules for outdoor placement.

Do I still need a CO alarm if the generator has a CO sensor?

Yes. The CO sensor in a generator can shut off the engine when carbon monoxide accumulates nearby, but it does not replace outdoor placement or household CO alarms. CPSC and CDC recommend working CO alarms on every level of the home and outside sleeping areas.

What do running watts and starting watts mean?

Running watts is the continuous power a generator can deliver. Starting watts is the extra surge needed to start appliances with motors or compressors. Choose a generator whose running watts covers your continuous load and whose starting watts can handle your largest motor startup.