Portable Power Station Or Genset - Which Would Be Best?

If you live in an area where there are frequent power interruptions, it can get very frustrating. Fortunately, there are alternatives like generators and compact power stations to keep the lights on and the gadgets working. 

The problem, though, is trying to find out which to choose. Should you get a power generator or a portable power station? Many get confused between the two and may consider them the same. However, though both provide power, they are not the same.

Power Generator

A generator or Genset, as it is more popularly known, is a machine that converts energy into electricity. The energy source can be fuel like petrol, diesel, propane, CNG, or even solar. As they can convert a fuel source into electric power, they are extremely useful during power outages. 

Advantages:

• Can provide continuous power for as long as it is refuelled 
• Can be used to power the lights within your home and some of the appliances within it

Disadvantages:

• Produces noise 
• Storing combustible fuel required to power Genset can be a fire hazard
• Not advisable to attach sensitive appliances and electronics like smartphones and computers unless it has a transfer switch or is specifically rated for sensitive electronics
• Not advisable to be kept indoors due to carbon monoxide, as it can be a health hazard with prolonged exposure.

Compact Power Stations 

A portable power station is an electric power source with a rechargeable battery. It is mainly designed to provide power to small electronic appliances and devices like computers, smartphones, and CPAP machines. However, some have large batteries capable of providing enough power to light up your home, run a few fans, and some small appliances for several hours. 

Advantages:

• Can be very quiet
• Has zero emissions and can be safely kept indoors
• Provides a steady supply of power and is safe for use with computers and other sensitive electronics
• Certain portable power station models can support charging through solar power

Disadvantages:

• Limited run time because powered by a battery (requires charging)
• Charging the batteries may take some time
• Can models can be heavy and may not be so portable
• Does not produce as much power as generators

Whether you should go for a generator or a portable power station depends largely on your needs and how long you need to have an alternative power supply.