Briggs & Stratton PowerProtect+ 26kW
#1 in Over 22 kWFull review
For larger homes that want the most output and the longest full service warranty among the big brands.
Norwall $8,069 Signature Solar $8,069$8,069
The Briggs & Stratton PowerProtect+ 26kW is the better standby generator overall, rated 3.3 to 3.0. The Briggs & Stratton PowerProtect+ 26kW leads on warranty. The Briggs & Stratton PowerProtect+ 26kW costs $280 less ($8,069 vs $8,349).
Kohler 26RCAL 26kW
#5 in Over 22 kWFull review
For larger homes that want the biggest Kohler air-cooled unit with automatic load shedding and full service coverage.
Norwall $8,349$8,349
Prices were last checked November 1, 2026 and are subject to change; the price and availability shown by the retailer at the time of purchase apply.
Which should you buy?
- Choose the Briggs & Stratton PowerProtect+ 26kW for warranty (7-year warranty vs 5-year warranty).
Scores side by side
Each factor is scored 0-100 against the same fixed reference points for every over 22 kw standby generator; a clear win is highlighted. How we rank explains each one.
| Factor weight | Briggs & Stratton PowerProtect+ 26kW | Kohler 26RCAL 26kW |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 3.3/5 | 3.0/5 |
| Value 35% | 20 $310 per kW ($8,069 with transfer switch, 26 kW on propane) | 14 $321 per kW ($8,349 with transfer switch, 26 kW on propane) |
| Transfer switch 15% | 100 includes a 200 A transfer switch | 100 includes a 200 A transfer switch |
| Noise 15% | 42 67 dBA rated in normal operation | 42 67 dBA rated in normal operation |
| Power quality 10% | 83 under 5% THD | 83 under 5% THD |
| Warranty 25% | 57 7-year warranty | 29 5-year warranty |
Specifications
| Briggs & Stratton PowerProtect+ 26kW | Kohler 26RCAL 26kW | |
|---|---|---|
| Output | ||
| Rated output, propane | 26 kW | 26 kW |
| Rated output, natural gas | 24 kW | 24 kW |
| THD | Under 5% | Under 5% |
| Engine | 993 cc | 999 cc |
| Engine speed | 3,600 rpm | 3,600 rpm |
| Install | ||
| Transfer switch | Included, 200 A | Included, 200 A |
| Load management | No | Yes |
| Remote monitoring | Yes | Yes |
| Enclosure | Aluminum | Aluminum |
| Dimensions | 46 x 27 x 28 in | 47 x 26.0 x 32.3 in |
| Weight | 545 lb | 670 lb |
| Noise and warranty | ||
| Noise, normal operation | 67 dBA | 67 dBA |
| Noise, weekly self-test | 62 dBA | 56 dBA |
| Warranty | 7 years | 5 years |
| Released | 2026-05 | 2023-07 |