The Best Tri Fuel Portable Generator
We evaluated top tri fuel portable generators from DuroMax, Westinghouse, and Generac based on power output, fuel flexibility, noise, and reliability. Find the right backup power solution for your home or job site.
By Katherine Henderson
Updated September 12, 2026
When the power goes out, a tri fuel portable generator offers the flexibility to run on gasoline, propane, or natural gas, giving you the freedom to choose the most convenient or available fuel.
Whether you’re preparing for hurricane season, powering essential home systems, or running tools at a job site, the best tri fuel portable generator can keep you going for days.
At BestProducts, we evaluate generators by analyzing specifications, expert reviews, and verified buyer feedback to help you find the right model. In 2026, the market offers several standout options from DuroMax, Westinghouse, and Generac. Below, we’ve compiled our top picks.
Our research covers power output, fuel efficiency, noise levels, portability, and safety features. We also consider real-world reliability based on hundreds of owner experiences.
Whether you need a whole-house backup or a portable power station for camping, our guide will steer you toward the best tri fuel portable generator for your situation.
If you’re also exploring other backup solutions, see our roundup of portable generators for home use in 2026.
| Award | Product | BP Score About BP ScoreThe BP Score is our own rating from 0 to 10, based on performance, design and build, ease of use, and value. It reflects independent research and is never influenced by manufacturers, retailers, or affiliate commissions. Learn more › | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best Value |
DuroMax XP13000HXT 13,000-Watt Tri Fuel Generator
|
9.9/10 | $1,499.00 | Buy |
| Best Premium |
Westinghouse iGen12000TFc Tri-Fuel Inverter
|
9.9/10 | $1,949.00 | Buy |
| Best Overall |
Westinghouse Tri-Fuel 13500W Generator
|
9.9/10 | $1,249.00 | Buy |
| Best Budget |
Generac 12500 Tri-Fuel Portable Generator
|
9.8/10 | $1,069.00 | Buy |
Westinghouse 14500 Tri-Fuel Generator
|
9.6/10 | $1,499.00 | Buy | |
DuroStar DS13000MXT Tri-Fuel Generator
|
9.6/10 | $999.00 | Buy |
DuroMax XP13000HXT 13,000-Watt Tri Fuel Generator
This portable generator offers 13,000 watts of power and runs on gasoline, propane, or natural gas. It includes a CO Alert for safety and a push button start with remote, making it a flexible choice for whole-home backup during outages.
Pros
- Tri Fuel flexibility
- High 13,000-watt output
- CO Alert safety feature
- Push button and remote start
- 50 amp outlet included
Cons
- Heavy at 240 pounds
- Large footprint (30 x 29 x 26 inches)
Westinghouse iGen12000TFc Tri-Fuel Inverter
For whole-home backup power without fuel worries, this tri-fuel inverter generator runs on gasoline, propane, or natural gas. It delivers clean power under 3% THD safe for electronics, and features remote start, transfer switch readiness, and quiet operation at 64 dBA.
Pros
- Tri-fuel capability (gas, propane, natural gas)
- Low THD (<3%) safe for sensitive electronics
- Remote start key fob and transfer switch ready
- Quiet operation at 64 dBA with Eco Mode
- CO sensor and low oil shutdown for safety
Cons
- Heavy at 191 pounds, challenging to move
- Lower running output on natural gas (7,200W)
- Large footprint requires dedicated storage space
Westinghouse Tri-Fuel 13500W Generator
This tri-fuel generator from Westinghouse offers flexibility with gasoline, propane, or natural gas. It delivers up to 13500 peak watts and features a remote start with key fob, making it a solid choice for home backup power. The long run time of up to 19 hours on a full tank adds to its reliability.
Pros
- Tri-fuel capability (gas, propane, natural gas)
- Remote start with included key fob
- High peak wattage (13500W on gas)
- Up to 19 hours run time on full tank
- Multiple outlet types including RV-ready 50A
Cons
- Heavy at 230 pounds
- Large footprint (27 x 26 x 26 inches)
Generac 12500 Tri-Fuel Portable Generator
The Generac 12500 Tri-Fuel portable generator delivers 12,500 starting watts and runs on gasoline, propane, or natural gas. With COsense automatic shutdown, electric start, and a 7.5-gallon tank providing up to 14 hours runtime on propane, it's a solid choice for home backup or job sites.
Pros
- Tri-fuel capability for flexible fuel use
- High surge capacity for starting large loads
- COSense safety system shuts off generator
- Electric start with included battery
- Large fuel tank gives extended runtime
Cons
- Heavy at 219 pounds, hard to move
- Requires oil change every 100 hours
Westinghouse 14500 Tri-Fuel Generator
A heavy-duty backup generator that runs on gas, propane, or natural gas, delivering up to 14,500 peak watts. Its low THD makes it safe for sensitive electronics, and it can power a home for up to 19 hours on a full gas tank.
Pros
- Tri-fuel flexibility
- High peak and running wattage
- Long runtime on gasoline
- Safe for electronics
- Remote start included
Cons
- Very heavy at 230 pounds
- Large footprint (27 x 26 x 26 inches)
- Propane runtime only 7 hours
DuroStar DS13000MXT Tri-Fuel Generator
For whole-home backup power, the DuroStar DS13000MXT delivers 13,000 watts with the flexibility of running on gas, propane, or natural gas. Its remote electric start and CO Alert add convenience and safety, making it a solid choice for emergency preparedness.
Pros
- Tri-fuel flexibility
- High 13,000-watt output
- Remote electric start
- CO safety shut-off
- 50-amp transfer switch ready
Cons
- Large footprint (30.5 x 27.3 x 26 inches)
- Only available in red
Best Tri Fuel Portable Generator Buying Guide
Power Output: Starting and Running Watts
Tri fuel generators commonly offer starting (peak) and running wattage ratings. The starting wattage handles the surge needed to start motors in appliances like refrigerators or well pumps, while running wattage maintains continuous operation.
A typical home backup requires 5,000, 7,500 running watts, but larger homes or job sites may need 10,000 watts or more. To gauge your needs, calculate the total wattage of devices you plan to run simultaneously.
For guidance on sizing, our 13000 watt portable generator guide explains the math.
Fuel Types and Flexibility
The defining advantage of a tri fuel generator is the ability to switch between gasoline, propane, and natural gas. Gasoline offers the highest energy density and is widely available, but it degrades over time.
Propane stores indefinitely and burns cleaner, while natural gas provides an unlimited supply if you have a hookup. Some models feature dual-fuel or tri-fuel capability with a simple selector knob.
For emergency preparedness, natural gas is ideal because it avoids refueling trips. Check out our emergency backup power guide for more on fuel strategies.
Portability and Weight
Tri fuel generators in the 12,000, 14,500 watt range are heavy, often 200, 300 pounds. Most come with a wheel kit and folding handle for mobility on flat surfaces.
If you plan to move the generator between home and a job site, look for models with sturdy carts and pneumatic tires. For lighter-duty needs, an inverter generator might be easier to transport.
See our best portable generator for every situation for lighter alternatives.
Noise Level and Safety Features
Noise is a major consideration, especially in residential areas. Most tri fuel generators operate between 65 and 75 decibels, about as loud as a vacuum cleaner. Look for models with noise-dampening enclosures and low-tone mufflers.
Safety features like CO (carbon monoxide) shutoff, GFCI outlets, and automatic low-oil shutdown are now standard on reputable units. The best large portable generators prioritize these protections.
Outlets and Transfer Switch Compatibility
To power your home safely, a tri fuel generator should be compatible with a transfer switch or interlock kit. Look for models with a pre-wired NEMA L14-30R or NEMA 14-50R outlet for 120/240-volt output.
Multiple 120V household outlets (5, 20R) are handy for extension cords. Some generators offer remote start and push-button electric start for convenience.
For a broader list of features, our best portable generator for reliable backup power article covers what to look for.
Why You Should Trust Us
BestProducts is an independent product review site that rates each item using a consistent BP Score from 0 to 10.
Our evaluations are based on thorough research: we analyze manufacturer specifications, aggregate expert review consensus from trusted sources, and analyze verified buyer feedback from multiple retailers.
We do not conduct our own product trials; our evaluations are grounded in research, published data, expert review consensus, and verified buyer feedback. This method ensures our recommendations are objective and data-driven.
We also maintain strict editorial independence; our content may contain affiliate links, but that does not influence our reviews or scores.
For this guide, we focused exclusively on tri fuel portable generators that run on gasoline, propane, and natural gas. We compared power output, fuel efficiency, build quality, safety certifications, and real‑world reliability.
Every product listed meets our threshold for quality and has a BP Score of 9.6 or higher. To learn more about our process, browse our best quality portable generator guide.
Final Thoughts
After analyzing the top models, we’ve identified the following standouts:
- Best Overall: DuroMax XP13000HXT, With a 13,000‑watt peak and 500cc engine, this generator offers massive power and reliable tri‑fuel operation. Its high BP Score reflects outstanding performance and owner satisfaction.
- Best Value: Westinghouse 13500 Peak Watt Tri‑Fuel, Combines a strong 13,500‑watt peak with remote electric start and a transfer switch ready design at a competitive price. Owners praise its ease of use.
- Best for Electronics: Westinghouse 12000 Peak Watt Tri‑Fuel Inverter, An inverter generator with low THD, making it safe for sensitive devices. It’s also parallel capable for expanded power.
- Highest Peak Power: Westinghouse 14500 Peak Watt Tri‑Fuel, Delivers the highest peak wattage in our roundup, ideal for powering large appliances and multiple circuits.
- Best Budget Pick: DuroStar DS13000MXT, Offers solid 13,000‑watt peak performance at a significantly lower price, making it an excellent choice for those on a tighter budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size tri fuel generator do I need for my home?
Calculate the total running wattage of essential appliances (refrigerator, lights, furnace fan, well pump) and add a buffer for surge. A 10,000, 13,000 watt generator can handle most homes. For a detailed method, refer to our 13000 watt portable generator guide.
Can I run a tri fuel generator continuously on natural gas?
Yes, many tri fuel generators are designed for continuous operation on natural gas, provided you have a permanent gas line. Natural gas burns cleaner and eliminates the need for refueling, making it ideal for extended outages.
Check the generator’s rated output on natural gas (which is typically about 10, 15% lower than on gasoline).
Is a tri fuel generator safe for sensitive electronics?
Most tri fuel generators have a total harmonic distortion (THD) of under 5%, which is safe for electronics like computers and TVs. For extra protection, choose an inverter model with THD below 3%. Our pick for electronics is the Westinghouse 12000 inverter, which delivers clean power.
Do I need a transfer switch for a tri fuel generator?
For home backup, a transfer switch is recommended to safely connect the generator to your electrical panel. Many tri fuel generators are “transfer switch ready” with a pre-installed outlet (e.g., L14-30R).
If you plan to power your whole house, a transfer switch ensures you don’t backfeed the grid, protecting both you and utility workers.
How do I maintain a tri fuel generator?
Regular maintenance includes checking oil level, changing oil after the first 25 hours and every 100 hours thereafter, replacing the air filter, and draining the carburetor if storing for more than 30 days.
Use fuel stabilizer for gasoline and treat propane tanks as per manufacturer guidelines. For long‑term storage, natural gas lines should be left shut off.
What brands make the best tri fuel generators?
Top brands include DuroMax, Westinghouse, Generac, and DuroStar. Each offers reliable models with strong warranties. For a broader look at reliable options, see our best portable generator under $500 guide (though tri fuel models are typically higher priced).
About the author
Katherine covers ladders, portable generators, and work lights for BestProducts, weighing load ratings, runtime, brightness, and safety certification. She helps readers work safely above the ground and through an outage.