By type

Backup power by type

Whole-home standby, a portable in the shed, or a silent battery in the closet? Start with the type of backup power that fits your outages, then compare the best picks in each.

1. Power StationBig lithium batteries with outlets — silent, indoor-safe, zero-maintenance backup that doubles as camping and job-site power.39 models10 brands · from $280
2. Inverter GeneratorQuiet, fuel-sipping portables with clean sine-wave power that's safe for laptops, CPAPs, and sensitive electronics.31 models12 brands · from $417
3. Home Standby GeneratorPermanently installed whole-home units that start themselves within seconds of an outage and run on natural gas or propane.17 models5 brands · from $3,899
4. Portable GeneratorOpen-frame workhorses with the most watts per dollar — wheel them out, fuel up, and power the essentials through cords or a transfer switch.16 models5 brands · from $551
5. Home Battery SystemWall-mounted whole-home batteries that switch over instantly, pair with solar, and back up your panel with zero noise or fuel.13 models12 brands · from $3,300