The 3 Best Small Portable Generators in Australia

The 3 Best Small Portable Generators in Australia

Generators provide backup power for your home and defend against power outages. They also make excellent additions to any camping vacation, outdoor BBQ, or beach day. Most small household items, such as a TV, LED light, fan, computer, or even a refrigerator, can be charged by a small portable generator. 

small portable generator

Portable generators are available in a range of designs and sizes. The market is brimming with devices ranging from those that can fit on your shelf to others that require wheels. But which ones are the tiniest? This page will cover the small portable generators in Australia, including their different types, factors to consider when purchasing a generator, and the top three small portable generators from Jackery.  

Product

Capacity

Dimension

Battery Cell

Solar Generator 1000 Pro

1002Wh (43.2V, 23.2Ah)

25.5x26.2x34cm

Lithium-ion

Solar Generator 500

518Wh (21.6V, 24Ah)

24.2x19.3x30cm

Lithium-ion

Solar Generator 300 Plus

288Wh (12.8V, 22.5Ah)

16.7x15.5x23cm

LiFePO4

Jackery Solar Generators are a combo of solar panels and rechargeable power stations. It can provide stable and constant power for your home backup, camping, RVing, off-grid living, and other outdoor excursions thanks to its high-quality lithium-ion battery, pure sine wave inverter, and MPPT charge controller inside the power station, and the high conversion rate of solar panels.

Key Takeaways:

  • Portability is the priority for a small portable generator, whether due to a lack of room in their garage, the difficulty of moving about a hefty device, or the ability to fit them in their car trunk.

  • There are five types of small portable generators, including gasoline, diesel, propane, inverter, and solar generators; they all have pros and cons and different working principles. After comparison, the solar generator could be the best small portable generator for home or outdoor adventures.

  • Before buying your small portable generator, you need to calculate the power consumption and starting & running watts for your generator.

  • We highly recommend Jackery Solar Generator 1000 Pro, 500, and 300 Plus as your best small portable generators with compact sizes, higher capacities, lower noise levels, and durability.

  • When choosing a small portable generator, consider its power output, fuel type, size & weight, and noise level.


What Is A Small Portable Generator? 

After all, mobility is why most people seek small portable generators in the first place, whether due to a lack of room in their garage, the difficulty of moving about a hefty device, or the ability to fit them in their car trunk. It is logical to seek out the tiniest ones possible.


Their diminutive size, however, comes at a cost. Most notably, the reduced dimensions impact the generator's power, fuel capacity, and the number and types of outlets accessible. Furthermore, they are sometimes less expensive than their larger equivalents. On the contrary, fitting a fully functional generator with all its parts inside a compact, portable coffin may be more challenging.


Many small portable generators are solar generators; most solar generators, such as the Jackery Solar Generator, are small. Solar generators will help most people because they can power any device directly, including delicate electronics, but remember that they have an intrinsically better wattage ratio.


Why Are The Types of A Small Portable Generator? 

Before buying a small portable generator, consider how and where you intend to utilize it. Laws, rules, and limits frequently govern their use in private residences, homeowners associations, campers, and construction sites. Choosing the proper one implies you can power up the necessary appliances or equipment. Another factor to consider is the classification of small portable generators based on fuel type.

types of small portable generators

Small Portable Gasoline Generator

Since gasoline is the most accessible fuel, it is used by most portable generators. However, there are some difficulties to consider while using generators for emergency electricity. The first is that when large, catastrophic storms come and power outages last for days, local petrol stations may struggle to satisfy demand, and huge lineups may form. The second issue is the infrequent use of backup generators, which might go months or years without being used.

Gasoline will slowly evaporate in a carburetor over time, producing sticky deposits that can restrict fuel flow and make starting difficult or impossible without repair. This can be prevented by turning off the fuel valve and allowing the generator to run until it stalls, consuming the remaining fuel in the carburetor. Over time, gasoline can oxidize or become "stale," reducing its combustibility. Tanks for gas and other metal parts of the fuel system could corrode if it absorbs water. Regularly starting a generator and treating the fuel with a stabilizer can assist in combating these concerns.

How Does A Gasoline Portable Generator Work?

An engine with internal combustion generates the mechanical force required to produce an electric current in a gas generator. The motor spins a shaft, which causes an electromagnet (armature) to rotate. The rotating armature spins within a stator-mounted magnetic field to produce an electric current using copper wire. Essentially, the engine drives a spinning shaft, which rotates the armature and creates electricity, much like a hand crank flashlight, but on a much grander scale.

how gas generator works

Small Portable Diesel Generator

A diesel generator is a mechanical-electrical unit that converts diesel fuel into electrical energy (electricity). It is utilized in the home, business, philanthropic, and governmental sectors to provide electricity in the event of a power outage or as the primary power source. They can be turned on and off in seconds, allowing them to respond swiftly, and they may run for many hours on a single charge using liquid fuel. The primary components of diesel generators are the same, from the smallest portable unit to the largest units in power plants.

Diesel is not the most commonly used generator fuel. It is, nevertheless, more efficient as a power source than gasoline. It is also less expensive and safer to run because it is not as explosive as many other fuels. Diesel generators typically use slightly more than one and a half gallons of fuel per operation hour. Diesel generators can be used for various applications, including construction site power, emergency backup, and a permanent power supply for recreational vehicles.

How Does A Diesel Portable Generator Work?

A diesel generator works by transforming the chemical energy in diesel fuel into mechanical energy through a diesel engine. The chemical energy stored within the diesel fuel is transferred to mechanical energy as a rotating shaft while the machine operates. The device is typically connected directly to a single-bearing alternator via the engine flywheel, but a flexible coupling is used for two-bearing alternators. The alternator's primary rotor spins as power is passed through the mechanical coupling, producing electrical energy as a voltage at the alternator terminals. 
how diesel generator works

Small Portable Propane Generator

Propane generators are sometimes known as liquid petroleum gas (LPG) generators since they require a separate tank from the generator. Unlike gasoline and diesel generators, propane generators do not degrade when stored, making them a feasible option for those not want backup power regularly. Propane is also a cleaner-burning fuel with a pleasant odor when burned. They are famous for leisure usage such as RVs, camping, and even tailgating before sporting events, in addition to emergency backup home use. 

How Does A Propane Portable Generator Work?

Machines that convert mechanical energy into electricity are known as propane generators. While it used to be huge, modern technology has enabled us to create smaller propane generators that may be carried as needed. Because fuel combustion propels this machine, these generators require gaseous or liquid propane as fuel. Propane, like most other natural gases, is very flammable. A propane generator takes advantage of this feature of propane. When the propane inside the generator is burned, it generates significant heat and energy.   

how propane generator works

Small Portable Inverter Generator

An inverter generator inverts electricity to produce cleaner, safer power for your delicate electronics. It is more compact, quieter, and energy efficient than a standard generator, although it is usually more expensive. The most significant disadvantage of inverter generators is their high cost. Despite occasional price reductions, the machines can be much more costly than a standard portable generator with a comparable claimed wattage—from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars more expensive.


The most significant disadvantage of inverter generators is their high cost. Despite occasional price reductions, the machines can be much more pricey than a standard portable generator with a comparable claimed wattage - from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars more expensive.

How Does An Inverter Portable Generator Work?

An inverter generator creates a cleaner wave of power by converting AC electric current to DC electric current and then inverting it back to AC. If you need clarification on the distinction between AC and DC power, please read our article on electrical phases. Also, learn the fundamentals of how generators function. Power from an inverter generator is also "cleaner," with a more stable voltage.

how inverter generator works

Small Portable Solar Generator

Small solar generators would require enough sunlight to function correctly. Solar-powered generators employ solar panels to convert clean and renewable energy from the sun, resulting in no hazardous emissions. It produces less power than other types and is not recommended for use in locations with overcast or low sunlight.


This small portable generator, such as the Jackery Solar Generator, comprises solar panels and batteries. It usually contains many outlets for charging various devices. The Jackery Portable Power Station is a rechargeable generator that can be set in multiple ways, including Jackery Solar Panels, wall outlets, and carports.

How Does A Solar Portable Generator Work?

The compact solar generator is a power station and solar panel hybrid. The power station stores energy in batteries and the solar panel gathers and converts solar energy into electricity. The solar generator can be utilized to provide power during a disaster or in an emergency circumstance.


Solar generators, particularly the Jackery Solar Generator, are becoming an increasingly popular option for portable power when camping because they provide a clean and renewable energy source. Solar generators may power camping items such as lights, phone chargers, and other electronics.


The Jackery Solar Generator combines Jackery Solar Panels with a Portable Power Station to deliver reliable and clean electricity for camping. The Jackery Solar Panels generate more electricity with a power conversion rate of more than 25%, and the first-quality lithium-ion rechargeable power station can store energy effectively. The battery protection system and MPPT charge controller ensure safety when using it to charge home appliances.

how jackery solar generator works


What Small Portable Generator Do You Need?

It would be best to decide how much power you require before using a small portable generator.


Step 1: Identify the wattage requirements of your appliances.


Examine the starting and operating power needs of the appliances and devices you intend to connect to the generator. The wattage needs are typically labeled on the item. However, we've collated common household appliances' starting and running watts in the table below.


Wattage (W) = Voltage (V) x Ampere (A)


Convert voltage/current to watts. This equation can compute an appliance's running watts if the power requirements are volts or amps.


Step 2: Calculate the starting and running watts.


The starting watts of a small portable generator, also known as surge watts or surge power, are the most significant amounts of electricity delivered in a short burst. In other words, a generator can surpass its running wattage rating but only for a few seconds. Surge power enables the generator to accommodate the greater wattage demands that some motor-driven appliances, such as refrigerators and air conditioners, have when they first turn on. The surge wattage capacity of a generator is always more than the running watts.


Running watts, or rated or continuous watts, refer to the consistent power output that a generator can sustain for a prolonged duration. The output capacity of a generator typically represents its running watts.


Count the watts that your appliances are using. Do the running watts of your devices surpass the running watts specified on your generator? If so, consider purchasing a generator with a higher output capacity. Consider the starting wattage. Determine which appliance has the highest beginning wattage. Add the beginning wattage of that appliance to the total running wattage. Compute the total. That final figure represents the total starting watts required by your generator. As previously stated, stay within your generator's beginning wattage rating to avoid overloading it.

Appliances

Running Watts

Starting Watts

Light Bulb

60-75W

0

TV

100W

0

Blender

300W

800W

Box Fan

200W

350W

Laptop

50-300W

0

Camera

150W

0


Jackery Small Portable Solar Generators 

As previously stated, selecting a solar generator as your small portable generator is prudent. The reasons include its large daily capacity, low noise level, reasonable pricing, long battery life, and portability. The Jackery Solar Generator is excellent for camping, RVing, off-grid living, and other activities. As the best compact portable generators, we propose Jackery Solar Generator 1000 Pro, 500, and 300 Plus!

Combining SolarSaga 80W solar panels with the Explorer 1000 Pro portable power station, which is a highly quiet solar generator (as low as 46dB) with a 10-year lifespan and can be fully charged in 1.8 hours. Its twin 100W PD architecture provides consistent power, charging all necessary equipment during power outages or outdoor adventures. 

The rechargeable Explorer 1000 Pro power station, with a capacity of 1002Wh, can power up to 93% off appliances such as a TV, CPAP machine, refrigerator, E-Bike, and more. It also has 2* USB-C and 2* 100W PD ports for charging your phone, iPad, laptop, and other devices. MPPT technology guarantees 99% solar charging efficiency. The Explorer 1000 Pro power station can be fully charged in less than 1.8 hours. Aside from solar charging, it also enables wall and automobile charging.

Product

Jackery Solar Generator 1000 Pro 

Image

jackery solar generator 1000 pro for camping

Capacity

1002Wh (43.2V/23.2Ah)

Life Cycle

1000 cycles to 80%+ capacity

Battery Cell

NMC battery

Dimension

25.5x26.2x34cm

Recharging Methods

Explorer 1000 Pro + 2*SolarSaga 80W: 9H; AC Adapter: 1.8H; 12V Car Adapter: 12H

Output Ports

2*AC Output: 230V, 1000W (peak 2000W); 2*USB-A: Quick Charge 3.0x2, 18W Max; 2*USB-C: 100W Max, (5V, 9V, 15V, 12V, 20V up to 5A); 1*Carport: 12V⎓10A

What plans do you have if electricity is unavailable in the camping area or your home? How will you keep the temperature of your coolers, charge your phones, and make coffee? A Jackery Solar Generator 500 can solve this problem quickly. It combines SolarSaga 80W or 100W solar panels to turn sunlight into electricity with the Explorer 500 portable power station.

The Jackery Explorer 500 Portable Power Station charges low to high-power equipment for extended lengths. The power station's huge 518Wh battery capacity, portability, foldable handle, lower noise level (46dB, similar to a human whisper), lightweight (6.4 kg), and industry-leading BMS technology make it ideal for short-term outdoor adventures. The Jackery Explorer 500 Portable Power Station contains three USB-A connectors, one AC outlet, two DC ports, and a vehicle for charging essential appliances like a refrigerator, computer, phone, and camera.

Product

Jackery Solar Generator 500 

Image

jackery solar generator 500 for camping

Capacity

518Wh (21.6V/24Ah)

Life Cycle

800 cycles to 80%+ capacity

Battery Cell

NMC battery

Dimension

24.2x19.3x30cm

Recharging Methods

Explorer 500 + SolarSaga 100W: 9.5H; AC Adapter: 7.5H; 12V Car Adapter: 7.5H

Output Ports

1*AC Output: 240V, 500W (peak 1000W); 1*DC Output: 12V⎓7A; 3*USB-A: 5V⎓2.4A; 1*Carport: 12V⎓10A

Due to its 288Wh capacity, 300W power output, two PD ports with a maximum output of 100W each, rapid charging for multiple devices simultaneously, and multiple charging options, the Jackery Solar Generator 300 Plus, which combines the SolarSaga 80W solar panel with the Explorer 300 Plus portable power station, is suitable for outdoor charging or home emergency. It can, for example, run a 150W camera for 1.6 hours and a 60W portable speaker for 4 hours. The Jackery Explorer 300 Plus Portable Power Station fits easily in your camper, weighing only 3.75 kilograms.

The Jackery Explorer 300 Plus portable power station, which is powered by a Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4) battery and has a 10-year lifespan, protects the safety of all your electrical equipment by providing a consistent voltage and pure sine wave. Furthermore, the unique ChargeShield technology and constant power delivery prevent equipment damage. Our enhanced charging mechanism ensures longer battery life and faster charging times. Keep your phone charged and connected while camping, RVing, or other!   

Product

Jackery Solar Generator 300 Plus 

Image

jackery solar generator 300 plus for camping

Capacity

288Wh (12.8V/22.5Ah)

Life Cycle

3000 cycles to 80%+ capacity

Battery Cell

LiFePO4 battery

Dimension

16.7x15.5x23cm

Recharging Methods

Explorer 300 Plus + SolarSaga 80W: 6.3H; AC Adapter: 2H; 12V Car Adapter: 5.5H

Output Ports

1*AC Output: 230V, 50Hz, 300W Rated, 600W Surge Peak; 2*USB-C: 100W Max, 5V⎓3A (5V, 9V, 15V, 12V, 20V up to 5A); 1*Carport: 12V⎓10A


What Can A Small Camping Generator Run?

Bringing a small portable generator on your journey can significantly improve your outdoor experience. It gives you many of the conveniences of home while immersing you in nature. You can also use a small portable generator at home to power the necessary equipment in an emergency. Continue reading to find out what a modest portable solar generator can power.

Jackery Solar Generators
are available in capacities ranging from 240Wh to 12 kWh, and you can select one based on your power requirements. Power output is one of the most essential elements to consider while selecting one for camping. A generator's power output influences which appliances and gadgets it can power. Here is a formula for calculating the working hours of devices powered by Jackery Solar Generators:

Working Hours (H) = [Jackery Solar Generator Capacity (Wh)*0.85] / Wattage (W) of Appliance

For example, a Jackery Solar Generator 1000 Pro (1002Wh) can power a 300W blender for 2.7 hours (1002*0.85/300). Using this technique, you can quickly assess which of your appliances will continue to work and which are suited for camping.
how a small generator run for camping


How Do You Choose The Best Small Portable Generator?

When selecting the best small portable generator, several factors must be considered.

Wattage: The wattage of portable generators varies based on size and model, with options on our list ranging from 300 to 1,000 watts. Consider what you need to power and how much wattage it will require.

Fuel: Portable generators are often powered by diesel, gasoline, or propane. On the other hand, some portable generators do not require energy but rely on rechargeable batteries or the sun. When purchasing a portable generator, consider how long the power will last. Choose an inverter if you want a fuel-efficient generator because they can alter their engine output depending on electricity requirements.

Size and Weight: The weight and sizes of your portable generator are heavily influenced by its type, fuel source, and dimensions. Small portable generators with 500 to 1,000 watts of power typically weigh between 30 and 60 pounds, making them ideal for powering small appliances and devices.

Noise Level: If you're concerned about the noise level produced by your portable generator, read the manufacturer's specifications before purchasing. Some gasoline portable generators' noise levels range from 50 decibels, equal to the sound of a running refrigerator, to 60 dB, which is about as loud as a regular two-person conversation. The noise level of a solar generator, such as the Jackery Solar Generator, is only 30 to 46dB, which is the same as a human whisper.


Final Thoughts

Portable generators have become popular in Australia over the last ten years due to their capacity to make a single investment function across multiple applications. The essential considerations when determining what small portable generator you need are outlined above, including types, operating principles, and a purchase guide. Because of its portability, large capacity, and clean energy, the compact portable solar generator is perfect for outdoor or domestic use. Here, we highly recommend Jackery Solar Generator as your small portable generator. 

Best-selling Jackery Solar Generator

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Jackery Solar Generator 2000 Plus
$4,199.00$3,359.00
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Jackery Solar Generator 1000 Plus
$2,399.00$2,159.00
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Jackery Solar Generator 1000 Pro
$2,199.00$1,269.00

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