Kohler 20RCAL 20kW vs Kohler 26RCAL 26kW

Last updated: November 1, 2026

The Kohler 26RCAL 26kW rates 3.0 among over 22 kw standby generators; the Kohler 20RCAL 20kW rates 2.9 among 15 to 22 kw ones. The Kohler 20RCAL 20kW costs $1,501 less ($6,848 vs $8,349).

Kohler 20RCAL 20kW vs Kohler 26RCAL 26kW

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.

Scores side by side

These two sit in different size classes (over 22 kw and 15 to 22 kw), and each is scored against the reference points for its own class, so a rating says how well each does among its own size peers. How we rank explains each factor.

Factor weightKohler 26RCAL 26kWKohler 20RCAL 20kW
Overall rating3.0/52.9/5
Value 35%14 $321 per kW ($8,349 with transfer switch, 26 kW on propane)24 $342 per kW ($6,848 with transfer switch, 20 kW on propane)
Transfer switch 15%100 includes a 200 A transfer switch100 includes a 200 A transfer switch
Noise 15%42 67 dBA rated in normal operation17 70 dBA rated in normal operation
Power quality 10%83 under 5% THD83 under 5% THD
Warranty 25%29 5-year warranty29 5-year warranty

Specifications

Kohler 26RCAL 26kWKohler 20RCAL 20kW
Output
Rated output, propane26 kW20 kW
Rated output, natural gas24 kW18 kW
THDUnder 5%Under 5%
Engine999 cc999 cc
Engine speed3,600 rpm3,600 rpm
Install
Transfer switchIncluded, 200 AIncluded, 200 A
Load managementYesYes
Remote monitoringYesYes
EnclosureAluminumAluminum
Dimensions47 x 26.0 x 32.3 in47 x 26.0 x 32.3 in
Weight670 lb600 lb
Noise and warranty
Noise, normal operation67 dBA70 dBA
Noise, weekly self-test56 dBA66 dBA
Warranty5 years5 years
Released2023-07-

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