Pulsar G12KBN
#15 in LargeFull review
A large dual-fuel generator for feeding a 50 A transfer switch, and one of the few this size sold in California, though it lacks CO shutoff.
Amazon $929.99$929.99
The Pulsar G12KBN is the better portable generator overall, rated 4.2 to 4.0. The Pulsar G15KTN wins on fuel options. The Pulsar G12KBN costs $369.01 less ($929.99 vs $1,299).
Pulsar G15KTN
#20 in LargeFull review
A large tri-fuel generator for whole-house backup through a 50 A transfer switch at a mid-range price, though Pulsar publishes few of its specs.
Amazon $1,299$1,299
Prices were last checked October 28, 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 Pulsar G15KTN for fuel options (gasoline, propane or natural gas vs gasoline or propane).
Scores side by side
Each factor is scored 0-100 against the same fixed reference points for every large portable generator; a clear win is highlighted. How we rank explains each one.
| Factor weight | Pulsar G12KBN | Pulsar G15KTN |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 4.2/5 | 4.0/5 |
| Value 30% | 89 $0.10 per running watt | 83 $0.11 per running watt |
| Run time 15% | 90 13 hours on a tank at 50% load | 50 run time not published (neutral score used) |
| Fuel options 15% | 70 gasoline or propane | 100 gasoline, propane or natural gas |
| Home hookup 15% | 100 240 V outlet for a transfer switch | 50 outlets not stated (neutral score used) |
| CO safety 10% | 0 no CO shutoff | 50 CO shutoff not stated (neutral score used) |
| Warranty 10% | 67 3-year warranty | 67 3-year warranty |
| Starting 5% | 80 push-button electric start | 80 push-button electric start |
Specifications
| Pulsar G12KBN | Pulsar G15KTN | |
|---|---|---|
| Output | ||
| Gasoline | 9,500 W running, 12,000 W starting | 12,000 W running, 15,000 W starting |
| Propane | 8,550 W running, 10,800 W starting | - |
| Outlets | 4 × 120 V, L14-30, L14-50 | 2 × 120 V |
| Transfer switch ready | Yes, 240 V | - |
| Price per watt | $0.10 | $0.11 |
| Fuel and run time | ||
| Fuel | Gasoline, propane | Gasoline, propane, natural gas |
| Tank | 8 gal | - |
| Run time (gasoline) | 13 hr at 50% load | - |
| Engine | 457 cc | 550 cc |
| Noise and safety | ||
| Rated noise | 74 dBA | - |
| CO shutoff | No | - |
| CARB compliant | Yes | - |
| Build | ||
| Starting | Electric and recoil | Electric and recoil |
| Wheels | Yes | - |
| Dimensions | 28.5 x 21.8 x 22.2 in | 33.7 x 24.8 x 24.6 in |
| Weight | 209 lb | 242.6 lb |
| Warranty | 3 years | 3 years |
| Released | 2020-11 | - |