What size generator do I need?
Two numbers matter: the power everything uses while running, and the brief extra power a motor may need to start.
Add only what must run together.
Pick a quick example or build your own list. Replace our planning watts with the figures on your exact appliances.
Don’t know the wattage? Find your deviceSearch an exact model or choose one of 27 quick device types.+
Start with a brand, model or device type.
Exact models show their source. If the model is not indexed yet, use an editable category estimate instead.
8 of 27 results shown · search or filter to narrow the list
Starlink Mini
Manufacturer-sourced range- Typical range
- 25–40 W
- Starting value
- 40 W
- Brief peak
- 60 W
Check and edit these values once you have a nameplate or measurement.
Wi-Fi router + modem
Editable category estimate- Typical range
- 12–25 W
- Starting value
- 18 W
- Brief peak
- 25 W
Check and edit these values once you have a nameplate or measurement.
Phone charging
Editable category estimate- Typical range
- 5–20 W
- Starting value
- 15 W
- Brief peak
- 20 W
Check and edit these values once you have a nameplate or measurement.
Laptop workstation
Editable category estimate- Typical range
- 45–100 W
- Starting value
- 65 W
- Brief peak
- 100 W
Check and edit these values once you have a nameplate or measurement.
Desktop computer + monitor
Editable category estimate- Typical range
- 150–500 W
- Starting value
- 250 W
- Brief peak
- 500 W
Check and edit these values once you have a nameplate or measurement.
Camera or drone charging
Editable category estimate- Typical range
- 40–200 W
- Starting value
- 120 W
- Brief peak
- 200 W
Check and edit these values once you have a nameplate or measurement.
12V compressor fridge — daily average
Editable category estimate- Typical range
- 15–35 W
- Starting value
- 22.5 W
- Brief peak
- 120 W
Check and edit these values once you have a nameplate or measurement.
Home refrigerator — daily average
Editable category estimate- Typical range
- 25–60 W
- Starting value
- 40 W
- Brief peak
- 600 W
Check and edit these values once you have a nameplate or measurement.
Watts are the first filter—not the whole purchase.
- 1Check the exact labelsPlanning examples are not appliance specifications.
- 2Choose the generator typeCompare waveform, noise, fuel and continuous output.
- 3Design safe operationOutdoor placement, CO alarms and a proper connection still decide the system.