Which is better for running a fridge and furnace during an outage?

Both can do it. The Generac's 8,000 running watts leave more headroom for a furnace blower, fridge, and lights at once. The inverter's 6,000 watts cover the same loads with less margin.

Which is better for electronics?

The dual-fuel inverter. Its inverter output is clean enough for computers and TVs. The Generac uses a conventional alternator, so use a surge protector or UPS for sensitive gear.

Is the inverter worth the extra $80?

Yes if you want propane backup, quieter running, or clean power. No if you mainly need raw watts for well pumps or large AC units, where the Generac wins.

Which runs longer on a tank?

The Generac, up to 11 hours at 50% load on 7.9 gallons. The inverter runs up to 8.5 hours at half load on 3.6 gallons.

Can either run on propane?

Only the dual-fuel inverter. It makes 6,500 peak and 5,500 running watts on propane. The Generac GP8000E is gasoline only.

The inverter, rated about 62 dB. The Generac is an open-frame conventional unit and is noticeably louder.

Generac GP8000E Portable Generator vs 7,250-Watt Dual-Fuel Inverter Generator

Buy the Generac GP8000E if you want the most watts for the money and a conventional generator that can start large motor loads. Buy the dual-fuel inverter if you need clean power for electronics, propane backup, or quieter running. As of November 5, 2026, the GP8000E is $919.50 at eBay and the inverter is $999.00 at Home Depot, so the gap is about $80.

Today the Generac GP8000E Portable Generator costs $79.50 less at its best price.

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