Northern Tool Generator Reviews Uncover The Best Picks

When the lights go out or your job site demands serious portable power, a reliable generator isn't just a convenience – it's a necessity. If you're sifting through Northern Tool generator reviews to pinpoint the best picks, you're looking for dependability, durability, and performance that stands up to the toughest challenges. That's precisely what NorthStar generators, a hallmark brand from Northern Tool + Equipment, promise and largely deliver.
For nearly 40 years, NorthStar generators have built a reputation for high-quality engineering, robust reliability, and the kind of durability that makes them a favorite for both demanding homeowners and professional contractors alike. Their secret weapon? Genuine Honda GX series engines, renowned across the industry for their fuel efficiency, low noise output, and steadfast performance.

At a Glance: Your Quick Guide to NorthStar Generators

Brand Reputation: Produced by Northern Tool + Equipment for almost 40 years, known for high quality, reliability, and durability.
Engine Powerhouse: All featured models are equipped with genuine Honda GX series engines, ensuring top-tier performance and longevity.
Wattage Range: From 4,500 to a massive 13,500 running watts, covering everything from RVs to heavy-duty commercial applications.
Key Features: Look for electric starters, hour meters, varied outlet configurations (including 50-amp and 240-volt options), and robust frame construction.
Considerations: Generator weight, the inclusion (or absence) of wheel kits, and noise levels are important factors in your decision.

The NorthStar Difference: Why Honda Engines Matter

Before we dive into specific models, let's talk about the heart of every NorthStar generator: the Honda GX series engine. This isn't just a marketing bullet point; it's a critical component that elevates NorthStar above many competitors. Honda's GX engines are synonymous with:

Unrivaled Reliability: They start consistently, even in challenging conditions, and are built to run for thousands of hours with proper maintenance. This means less downtime when you need power most.
Exceptional Durability: Designed for commercial use, these engines feature heavy-duty components that withstand continuous operation and harsh environments.
Fuel Efficiency: Honda engines are engineered to maximize power output while minimizing fuel consumption, leading to longer run times and lower operating costs.
Quieter Operation: While no large generator is truly silent, Honda GX engines are generally quieter than comparable models, reducing noise pollution for you and your neighbors.
Ease of Maintenance: Parts are readily available, and routine service is straightforward, ensuring your generator remains in peak condition for years.
This commitment to using premium Honda power plants is a core reason why NorthStar consistently earns high marks in generator reviews for longevity and performance.

Deep Dive: Top 5 Best NorthStar Generators Review 2024

Now, let's explore the standout models that consistently impress in real-world Northern Tool generator reviews, helping you find your perfect match.

1. Editor’s Choice: 13,000 Surge Watts Portable Generator

The Powerhouse for Demanding Needs
When you need serious muscle, whether it's to power your entire home during an outage or keep a bustling job site humming, the NorthStar 13,000 Surge Watts Portable Generator steps up. This beast isn't just about raw power; it's built with an oversized Honda GX630 engine (688cc), a deliberate design choice that enhances longevity by ensuring the engine isn't constantly straining at its limits.
Who It's For: Homeowners needing robust whole-home backup, contractors running multiple heavy-duty tools, or anyone who can't compromise on power.
Key Specs & Features:

Power Output: 13,000 surge watts (starting power for motor-driven items), with substantial running watts to match.
Engine: Honda GX630 (688cc), providing exceptional reliability and a long lifespan.
Outlets: A comprehensive array, including heavy-duty 50-amp, two 30-amp locking, and eight 120-volt outlets, offering versatility for various applications.
Features: Includes an hour meter to track usage and aid in maintenance scheduling.
Considerations: The generator weighs over 300 lbs, making a wheel kit (sold separately) almost essential for portability. The battery for the electric starter is also sold separately. Its noise level is comparable to the even larger 15,000-watt model.
This generator is a true workhorse, ready for the most demanding tasks. Just remember to factor in the cost of a wheel kit and battery to complete your setup.

2. Budget Pick: 5,500-watt Generator

Reliable Power Without Breaking the Bank
For those who need a dependable power source for basic home backup, RV adventures, or smaller job site tasks without a hefty price tag, the NorthStar 5,500-watt Generator is an excellent choice. At approximately $1,200, it offers premium Honda engine reliability at a more accessible price point.
Who It's For: Value-conscious homeowners, RV enthusiasts, or anyone needing reliable mid-range power for essential appliances or tools.
Key Specs & Features:

Price: Around $1,200, making it a strong contender for best value.
Engine: Honda GX270, delivering powerful and reliable performance.
Noise: A relatively quiet 73 dB at 25% load, which is noticeably less intrusive than larger generators.
Weight: Under 175 lbs, making it manageable for two people to carry short distances.
Outlets: Eight 120-volt outlets and one 30-amp outlet (240-volt capable), offering good versatility for its size.
Starter: Features a recoil starter, known for its ease of use and reliable single-pull starting. (No electric start on this model).
Run Time: Impressive run time of over 14 hours at half-load, thanks to its fuel-efficient Honda engine.
This model is a fantastic entry point into the NorthStar family, providing essential power with the brand's signature reliability and exceptional fuel economy.

3. Most Reliable: 8,000-watt Generator

The All-Around Dependability Champion
If rock-solid reliability is your absolute top priority for an all-around generator, the NorthStar 8,000-watt model stands out. It strikes a superb balance between power, features, and manageable size, making it a versatile choice for various applications.
Who It's For: Homeowners seeking reliable backup for multiple essential appliances, small business owners, or anyone prioritizing consistent performance.
Key Specs & Features:

Application: Excellent for all-around performance, handling a good range of home and light commercial needs.
Weight: 206 lbs, a manageable weight for its power class (similar to the 10,000-watt model).
Engine: Honda GX390, a proven and highly respected engine in its class.
Noise: Quieter than larger models at 74.5 dB at 25% load.
Outlets: Eight 120-volt outlets and two 30-amp locking outlets (one convertible to 240-volt), providing ample connection options. Note: no 50-amp outlet.
Starter: Features an electric starter for convenience, backed up by a recoil starter.
Run Time: Offers 10 hours at half-load, sufficient for extended outages despite a slightly smaller fuel tank than larger models.
Considerations: A wheel kit is not included, and its 206 lbs weight means multiple people are needed for safe lifting and moving without one.
This generator is the embodiment of "set it and forget it" reliability, making it a smart investment for consistent, dependable power.

4. Best Commercial: 15,000 Surge Watts / 13,500 Running Watts Generator

Unleash Industrial-Grade Power
For the most demanding commercial applications, construction sites, or powering large farms, the NorthStar 15,000 Surge Watts / 13,500 Running Watts Generator is built to conquer. This is a heavy-duty powerhouse designed for continuous, high-output performance.
Who It's For: Construction crews, commercial businesses, industrial operations, or very large homes with significant power demands.
Key Specs & Features:

Application: Specifically designed for heavy-duty commercial use.
Engine: A robust 688cc Honda engine, engineered for extreme reliability under load.
Power: Massive 15,000 surge watts for starting big motors and 13,500 running watts for sustained operation.
Outlets: Features a heavy-duty 60-amp outlet for commercial tools, alongside eight 120-volt and two 30-amp outlets.
Noise: Operates at 79 dB at 25% load, which is typical for a generator of this size and power.
Fuel Tank: An 11-gallon tank provides substantial fuel capacity.
Run Time: Up to 8 hours at half-load, impressive given its output capabilities.
Features: Includes an hour meter for tracking use and maintenance.
Considerations: Its high cost and large size are factors. A wheel mount kit is not included and is highly recommended for any movement.
If your livelihood depends on consistent, high-capacity power, this NorthStar generator is an investment that pays dividends in productivity and peace of mind.

5. Best for Home Use: 10,000-watt Generator

Comprehensive Home Backup, Ready for Anything
When a power outage means more than just inconvenience, the NorthStar 10,000-watt Generator is engineered to keep your entire household running. This model offers ample power to handle almost all major home appliances, from refrigerators and freezers to well pumps and central AC units.
Who It's For: Homeowners seeking robust, whole-home backup power during extended outages.
Key Specs & Features:

Application: Specifically ideal for powering an entire home during outages.
Power: 10,000 surge watts (8,500 running watts) – enough to run almost all standard home appliances.
Engine: Powered by the reliable Honda GX630 (the same engine found in the 13,000-watt model), ensuring excellent performance and longevity.
Outlets: Eight 120-volt outlets, a versatile 50-amp outlet (often considered overkill for standard home use but offers flexibility), and two 30-amp outlets (one convertible to 240-volt).
Fuel Tank: A generous 11-gallon tank.
Run Time: Provides up to 11 hours at half-load, giving you extended operation between refuels.
Noise: Runs at 79 dB, similar to its higher-powered counterparts.
Considerations: It shares a similar price and noise level with the 13,000-watt model but offers slightly less power. A wheel kit is sold separately, which is a key accessory given its weight.
For comprehensive home backup, this generator offers serious capability, ensuring comfort and continuity when the grid fails.

Your Guide to Picking the Perfect NorthStar Generator

Choosing the right generator isn't just about picking the biggest or cheapest. It's about matching the generator's capabilities to your specific needs. Here's a breakdown of the critical factors to consider when evaluating NorthStar generators. If you're looking for an even wider selection, you can Explore Northern Tool generators across their entire range.

Understanding Watts: Surge vs. Rated

This is perhaps the most crucial distinction in generator specifications:

Surge Wattage: This is the peak power a generator can produce for a short burst. It's vital for starting motor-driven appliances like refrigerators, well pumps, or air conditioners, which require a temporary surge of power to kick on.
Rated (Running) Wattage: This is the continuous power output a generator can sustain over hours of operation. This number is what you'll use to calculate the total power demand of the appliances you want to run simultaneously.
How to Use This: First, list all the appliances you need to power. Note their running wattage and their surge (starting) wattage. Sum the running watts to get your baseline. Then, identify the single appliance with the highest surge wattage and add that to your running total (assuming you won't be starting multiple high-surge items at the exact same instant). Your generator's rated wattage should exceed your total running watts, and its surge wattage should exceed your highest individual surge requirement.
NorthStar generators range from 4,500 to 13,500 running watts, accommodating a wide spectrum of needs. For context, a basic household often needs 8,000-10,000 watts to comfortably run essentials and some conveniences, while an RV typically requires around 4,000 watts.

Outlets: Powering Your Specific Needs

The type and number of outlets on your generator dictate what you can connect:

120-Volt Outlets: Standard household outlets for most smaller appliances, lights, and electronics. All NorthStar models offer multiple 120-volt outlets.
30-Amp Twist-Lock (120-Volt or 240-Volt Capable): Essential for RV users to connect directly to their RV's power inlet. These are also crucial for homeowners or contractors who need to connect to a transfer switch for whole-home backup or run larger 240-volt power tools. All reviewed NorthStar models feature this versatility.
50-Amp Outlet (240-Volt): Typically found on larger generators, this is for very high-demand loads, such as large central air conditioning units or connecting to a high-capacity transfer switch for extensive home backup. The 10,000-watt and 13,000-watt NorthStar models include this.
60-Amp Outlet (240-Volt): Exclusively on the 15,000-watt commercial model, designed for industrial-grade tools and heavy machinery.
Always check the amperage and voltage requirements of your devices and ensure your chosen generator has the appropriate outlets.

Run Time & Fuel Efficiency

How long your generator can run on a single tank of fuel is a critical factor, especially during extended power outages.

Fuel Tank Size: Larger tanks generally mean longer run times. NorthStar offers tanks up to 11 gallons.
Engine Efficiency: The genuine Honda GX engines are renowned for their fuel economy, allowing NorthStar generators to deliver impressive run times even with substantial power output.
Load Dependency: Run time is typically measured at half-load. The heavier the load you place on the generator, the faster it will consume fuel.
Consider your likely usage scenarios. If you're planning for multi-day outages, a generator with a longer run time (like the 5,500-watt model's 14+ hours) could significantly reduce the frequency of refueling.

Noise Levels: What to Expect

Generators, especially larger ones, can be noisy. Noise levels are measured in decibels (dB).

Smaller vs. Larger: Generally, smaller generators with less powerful engines are quieter. The 5,500-watt model, for example, registers 73 dB at 25% load, which is quite tolerable.
Higher Output: As you move to 8,000 watts and above, noise levels typically increase. The 10,000-watt, 13,000-watt, and 15,000-watt models average around 79 dB at 25% load.
Practical Impact: 70-80 dB is comparable to a vacuum cleaner or a busy street. While not ear-splitting, it's noticeable. If noise is a major concern (e.g., in residential areas or campgrounds), consider generator placement and potentially noise-reducing enclosures. NorthStar models are generally on par or better than competitors in their class due to the Honda engines.

Portability & Practicality

A generator's physical characteristics heavily influence its usability.

Weight: From under 175 lbs (5,500-watt) to over 300 lbs (13,000-watt), weight impacts how easily you can move or transport your generator.
Wheel Kits: Many larger NorthStar models do not include wheel kits as standard, selling them separately. Given the substantial weight of these units, a robust wheel kit is often a necessity for maneuverability. Factor this into your budget and plan.
Electric vs. Recoil Starter:
Electric Starter: Offers push-button convenience, especially beneficial for larger engines or in colder weather. Most mid-to-large NorthStar generators include this, often with a recoil backup. (Note: the battery for the electric starter is often sold separately).
Recoil Starter: A reliable pull-cord method, common on smaller generators like the 5,500-watt model. NorthStar's Honda engines are known for their easy, single-pull starts.

Beyond the Specs: Why Trust NorthStar?

Choosing a generator isn't just about horsepower and outlets; it's about investing in peace of mind. Northern Tool + Equipment, a family-owned business, has spent decades building the NorthStar brand on a foundation of quality. Their commitment to using genuine Honda engines isn't a shortcut; it's a statement about their dedication to providing equipment that performs reliably year after year.
When you invest in a NorthStar generator, you're not just buying a machine; you're buying into a legacy of durability, strong customer support, and access to readily available parts and service through a reputable national retailer.

Final Considerations for Your Purchase

Before making your final decision on a NorthStar generator, take a moment to confirm these key aspects:

Assess Your True Power Needs: Don't just guess. Calculate the running and surge watts for everything you realistically need to power. It’s better to have a little more capacity than not enough.
Budget for Accessories: Remember that essential items like wheel kits and electric starter batteries are often sold separately for NorthStar models. Don't forget extension cords rated for outdoor, heavy-duty use, and potentially a generator cover for protection.
Fuel Storage: Plan for safe fuel storage. Generators run on gasoline, which requires careful handling and proper storage containers.
Ventilation is Key: Generators must never be run indoors or in enclosed spaces. Ensure you have a safe, well-ventilated outdoor location away from windows and doors to prevent carbon monoxide buildup.
Installation for Home Backup: For whole-home backup, consult a qualified electrician about installing a transfer switch. This ensures safe connection to your home's electrical system and prevents backfeeding the grid, which can be dangerous.
By carefully considering these factors alongside the detailed reviews of NorthStar's top generators, you’re well-equipped to make an informed decision that will provide reliable power when you need it most.