DuroMax XP12000HX and Pulsar G12KBN-SG: A Comprehensive Generator Comparison

DuroMax XP12000HX Overview

The DuroMax XP12000HX is a dual fuel portable generator designed to deliver a maximum output of 12000 watts. It is powered by a robust 460cc OHV DuroMax engine with all copper windings engineered for lasting durability. The generator is designed to operate using either gasoline or propane, providing flexibility in fuel choice. This model is available in a distinctive blue color and weighs 222 pounds.

One of the standout features of the DuroMax XP12000HX is its all-new control center with a digital multimeter and push-button start. The front-facing fuel interface allows users to switch fuel types in seconds, and the digital multimeter displays voltage, frequency, total hours run, and hours until the recommended maintenance. This model also incorporates DuroMax’s โ€œCO Alert Technologyโ€, which will automatically shut down the generator if an unsafe level of carbon monoxide is detected.

The power panel is fully loaded and includes four 120V GFCI household outlets, one 120V 30AMP outlet, one 120/240V 30AMP twist-lock outlet, and a heavy-duty 120/240V 50AMP outlet, making it transfer switch ready.

Attribute Detail
Brand DuroMax
Wattage 12000 watts
Fuel Type Gasoline / Propane
Power Source Gas
Item Weight 222 Pounds
Voltage 240 Volts
Output Wattage 12000 Watts
Special Feature Electric
Included Components Generator
Color Blue
Price $1,099.00

Pulsar G12KBN-SG Overview

The Pulsar G12KBN-SG is a heavy-duty portable dual fuel generator designed for both residential and emergency use. It can deliver 12000 peak watts and has a rated wattage of 9500 when running on gasoline. When using LPG as fuel, it delivers 10800 peak watts and 8550 rated watts. This model features a 457cc, single-cylinder, 4-stroke, air-cooled, OHV engine with an electric start. The generator, protected by a powder-coated frame, comes in a modern space gray color and weighs 209 pounds.

The dual fuel capability of the Pulsar G12KBN-SG allows users to choose between gasoline and LPG fuel sources, which can be particularly useful during emergency situations or natural disasters when LPG might be more readily available and easier to store. Moreover, it boasts an impressive continuous operation time of up to 12 hours at half load when running on gasoline, thanks to its 8-gallon fuel tank.

The generator is equipped with multiple output options, including four 120V 20A AC outlets, one 120V/240V 30A twist-lock outlet, one 120V/240V 50A outlet, and one 12V DC output. This variety provides ample space for powering appliances, tools, and other devices.

Attribute Detail
Brand Pulsar
Wattage 12000 watts
Fuel Type Electric
Power Source Fuel Powered
Recommended Uses For Product Residential
Item Weight 209 Pounds
Voltage 120240 Volts
Output Wattage 12000 Watts
Special Feature Electric
Color Space Gray
Price $899.99
Related Posts

Summary of Specifications: DuroMax XP12000HX vs Pulsar G12KBN-SG

Attribute DuroMax XP12000HX Pulsar G12KBN-SG
Brand DuroMax Pulsar
Wattage 12000 watts 12000 watts
Fuel Type Gasoline / Propane Electric
Power Source Gas Fuel Powered
Recommended Uses For Product N/A Residential
Item Weight 222 Pounds 209 Pounds
Voltage 240 Volts 120240 Volts
Output Wattage 12000 Watts 12000 Watts
Special Feature Electric Electric
Color Blue Space Gray
Price $1,099.00 $899.99

User reviews of DuroMax XP12000HX

Summary of Positive User Reviews for DuroMax XP12000HX

  • Users appreciated the generator’s compatibility with natural gas and its overall affordability compared to whole-house generators.
  • There was praise for its power output, as well as its 50-amp outlet, which is capable of starting even smaller AC units.
  • Customers liked the digital gauge, which helps in assessing the load.
  • Many users mentioned that the generator starts up immediately and runs smoothly, even when connected to propane.
  • Users noted that the generator was capable of handling multiple appliances at once, including ACs, refrigerators, and power tools.
  • It was also appreciated for its dual fuel functionality and its overall performance in weather crises, making it a suitable backup generator for small houses.
  • The generator was noted for its ability to power a whole house, despite its loud operation.
  • Customers praised the product’s build quality, stating it is well-designed and sturdy, contributing to its long-term durability.
  • Although some users experienced issues with customer service, others praised the excellent customer service and quick response times.
  • Overall, users were happy with their purchase, citing the generator’s easy setup, push-button start, and performance under load.
  • Lastly, the generator was commended for its packaging and clear instructions, making it a reliable backup power source for homes.

Summary of Critical User Reviews for DuroMax XP12000HX

  • Several users complained about the generator’s loudness, which can be distracting during operation.
  • There were concerns about the quality of the materials used, with the tires being made from plastic instead of rubber and the overall build feeling cheap.
  • Some customers received generators with missing bolts or malfunctioning parts, indicating possible quality control issues.
  • A few users experienced difficulties in starting the generator in temperatures below 32 degrees, limiting its usability in colder climates.
  • Several reviews highlighted issues with the generator’s power output, with some users experiencing light dimming and flickering UPSs, even under a load of 50A.
  • Users experienced difficulties in obtaining replacement parts and found the customer service to be lacking.
  • Some customers found the generator hard to move due to its heavy weight and the absence of a wheel kit.
  • A few customers reported receiving generators that were damaged during shipping, indicating potential issues with packaging and handling.
  • Some users found the generator’s idle setting to be set very high, leading to the generator running at full speed unnecessarily.
  • One user reported a fuel leak from the carburetor, indicating potential manufacturing defects.

User reviews of Pulsar G12KBN-SG

Summary of Positive User Reviews for Pulsar G12KBN-SG

  • Many users praised the generator for its reliability and power, capable of running entire homes, including air conditioners, fridges, and other appliances, even in the event of a power outage.
  • Users have found the generator to be relatively quiet compared to other models, describing the noise level as manageable and decent for its size.
  • The generator’s dual fuel capacity, allowing it to run on either gas or propane, was highly appreciated by many users.
  • Several users noted the generator’s endurance, with one user reporting a continuous run time of about 12 hours on a single tank of gas, and another user reporting a run time of 16 hours.
  • The generator’s ease of assembly and use was frequently mentioned as a positive aspect. Users found the generator easy to start, and appreciated the simple, straightforward controls.
  • Some users highlighted the product’s good packaging and the inclusion of a fuel gauge as beneficial features.
  • One user commended Pulsar’s customer service for their prompt response and support when an issue arose.
  • Despite some concerns about noise levels and the lack of supplied engine oil, most users expressed satisfaction with their purchase and would recommend the Pulsar G12KBN-SG generator to others.

Summary of Critical User Reviews for Pulsar G12KBN-SG

  • Several users reported issues with the generator’s performance, including backfiring, stalling, and failing to produce power after short periods of use.
  • Some users complained about the generator’s noise level, describing it as excessively loud and disruptive.
  • There were reports of the generator arriving with damaged or bent parts.
  • Several users had issues with the electric start function and the battery charging, despite these being advertised features of the Pulsar G12KBN-SG.
  • A few users reported an unpleasant propane smell when running the generator, and found it difficult to identify the source.
  • A common criticism among users was the lack of effective customer service from the company, with reports of unresponsiveness and failure to resolve issues in a timely manner.
  • Some users reported having to make repairs or replace parts on their own, despite the product being new.
  • One user noted that the generator’s voltage could be inconsistent, causing flickering in LED lights and other appliances to restart.
Related Posts

Pros and Cons of the compared products

Pros and Cons of DuroMax XP12000HX

Pros:

  • Compatible with natural gas and overall affordability compared to whole-house generators.
  • Impressive power output and the presence of a 50-amp outlet capable of starting even smaller AC units.
  • Features a digital gauge that aids in assessing the load.
  • Starts up immediately and runs smoothly, even when connected to propane.
  • Capable of handling multiple appliances at once, including ACs, refrigerators, and power tools.
  • Dual fuel functionality and its performance in weather crises makes it a suitable backup generator for small houses.
  • Despite its loud operation, it is capable of powering a whole house.
  • Well-designed and sturdy build quality contributing to its long-term durability.
  • Some users reported excellent customer service and quick response times.
  • Easy setup, push-button start, and performance under load were appreciated.
  • Packaging and clear instructions commendable, making it a reliable backup power source for homes.

Cons:

  • The generator is notably loud during operation.
  • Concerns about the quality of the materials used, such as plastic tires and an overall cheap build.
  • Quality control issues, with some customers receiving generators with missing bolts or malfunctioning parts.
  • Difficulties in starting the generator in temperatures below 32 degrees, limiting its use in colder climates.
  • Light dimming and flickering UPSs reported, even under a load of 50A.
  • Difficulties in obtaining replacement parts and subpar customer service.
  • Heavy weight and the absence of a wheel kit make the generator hard to move.
  • Potential issues with packaging and handling, as some customers received damaged generators during shipping.
  • The generator’s idle setting is set very high, causing it to run at full speed unnecessarily.
  • Potential manufacturing defects, as one user reported a fuel leak from the carburetor.

Pros and Cons of Pulsar G12KBN-SG

Pros:

  • Reliability and power, capable of running entire homes, including air conditioners, fridges, and other appliances, even in the event of a power outage.
  • Relatively quiet compared to other models, with manageable and decent noise level for its size.
  • Dual fuel capacity, allowing it to run on either gas or propane.
  • Endurance, with reported continuous run times of about 12 hours on a single tank of gas, and up to 16 hours.
  • Easy assembly and use, with straightforward controls.
  • Good packaging and the inclusion of a fuel gauge.
  • Some users praised Pulsar’s customer service for their prompt response and support.
  • Most users expressed satisfaction with their purchase and would recommend the Pulsar G12KBN-SG generator to others.

Cons:

  • Issues with the generator’s performance, including backfiring, stalling, and failing to produce power after short periods of use.
  • Noise level described as excessively loud and disruptive by some users.
  • Reports of the generator arriving with damaged or bent parts.
  • Issues with the electric start function and the battery charging.
  • Unpleasant propane smell when running the generator.
  • Lack of effective customer service from the company, with reports of unresponsiveness and failure to resolve issues in a timely manner.
  • Some users reported having to make repairs or replace parts on their own, despite the product being new.
  • Inconsistent voltage, causing flickering in LED lights and other appliances to restart.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both the DuroMax XP12000HX and Pulsar G12KBN-SG are formidable generators with their unique sets of features and capabilities. The choice between the two ultimately boils down to your specific needs. If you are looking for a generator with the flexibility of fuel choice, the DuroMax XP12000HX’s dual fuel capability might appeal to you. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a generator that’s slightly lighter and more affordable, then the Pulsar G12KBN-SG could be a better choice. Always remember to consider your power needs, budget, and the generator’s specifications before making a final decision.