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A solid dual fuel model, the DuroMax XP4850EH has 4,850 starting watts and 3,850 running watts. This portable generator can run off either its 3.96-gallon fuel tank or a 20-gallon liquid propane tank fuel source. Gasoline run time is about 11.5 hours at 50%, while propane will run 9.8 hours on 50%. There are two 120-volt outlets and one 120/240-volt outlet. (DuroMax/CNET/TNS)

Of all the models we looked at, this portable generator offers the highest run time for the least money. You'll get 12 hours of power output at 50% load for this $1,179 CAT model gas generator. That's thanks to a hefty 7.9-gallon gasoline tank. The CAT RP6500 delivers 8,125 starting watts and 6,500 running watts from its 420cc engine. (CNET/TNS)

This $1,069 Generac model delivers 10,000 starting watts for easy power-ups. You'll get 8,000 running watts for up to 11 hours at 50% load. A 7.9-gallon fuel tank feeds the 420 cc engine. The Generac GP8000E backup power generator includes flat-free tires, a carbon monoxide auto shutoff and six GFCI outlets. (Generac/CNET/TNS)

A solid dual fuel model, the DuroMax XP4850EH has 4,850 starting watts and 3,850 running watts. This portable generator can run off either its 3.96-gallon fuel tank or a 20-gallon liquid propane tank fuel source. Gasoline run time is about 11.5 hours at 50%, while propane will run 9.8 hours on 50%. There are two 120-volt outlets and one 120/240-volt outlet. (DuroMax/CNET/TNS)

Of all the models we looked at, this portable generator offers the highest run time for the least money. You'll get 12 hours of power output at 50% load for this $1,179 CAT model gas generator. That's thanks to a hefty 7.9-gallon gasoline tank. The CAT RP6500 delivers 8,125 starting watts and 6,500 running watts from its 420cc engine. (CNET/TNS)

This $1,069 Generac model delivers 10,000 starting watts for easy power-ups. You'll get 8,000 running watts for up to 11 hours at 50% load. A 7.9-gallon fuel tank feeds the 420 cc engine. The Generac GP8000E backup power generator includes flat-free tires, a carbon monoxide auto shutoff and six GFCI outlets. (Generac/CNET/TNS)

Power outages are more than just frustrating, they can quickly become downright dangerous, and they're becoming all too common for many of us. Going several hours (or longer) without power can lead to more than just spoiled food and other headaches. They can also result in uncomfortable and unsafe temperatures and can make it difficult to call for help in case of emergencies.

Large chunks of North America are facing an elevated risk of blackouts this year, thanks to warmer than normal temperatures and drought, which reduces hydroelectric output, the North American Electric Reliability Corporation said earlier in May. From the Midwest down to the Gulf Coast, many people face a high risk of blackouts.

Furthermore, hurricanes are getting stronger and fire season is devastating in some areas. This is why you need to start thinking about purchasing a portable generator for your home. Thankfully, plenty of options on the market can step in and keep things running. These include inverter generators, diesel generators, solar generators, gas generators and dual-fuel generator types. Check out our complete list of the best portable generators for more info to help you make the right pick at https://cnet.co/3BBXQzC.

CNET TAKE: A solid dual fuel model, the DuroMax XP4850EH has 4,850 starting watts and 3,850 running watts.

This portable generator can run off either its 3.96-gallon fuel tank or a 20-gallon liquid propane tank fuel source. Gasoline run time is about 11.5 hours at 50%, while propane will run 9.8 hours on 50%. There are two 120-volt outlets and one 120/240-volt outlet.

CNET TAKE: This $1,069 Generac model delivers 10,000 starting watts for easy power-ups.

You'll get 8,000 running watts for up to 11 hours at 50% load. A 7.9-gallon fuel tank feeds the 420 cc engine. The Generac GP8000E backup power generator includes flat-free tires, a carbon monoxide auto shutoff and six GFCI outlets.

CNET TAKE: Of all the models we looked at, this portable generator offers the highest run time for the least money. You'll get 12 hours of power output at 50% load for this $1,179 CAT model gas generator. That's thanks to a hefty 7.9-gallon gasoline tank. The CAT RP6500 delivers 8,125 starting watts and 6,500 running watts from its 420cc engine.

A CO Defense carbon monoxide automatic shutoff system keeps toxic fumes from building up near your home. There are six rubber-covered outlets, including four GFCI household outlets and two 120/240-volt twist lock outlets.

The following CNET staff contributed to this story: former CNET contributor Molly Price and Copy Editor Jim Hoffman. For more reviews of personal technology products, please visit www.cnet.com.

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