Harbor Freight Expands Its Predator Line For 2026

Harbor Freight's Predator range runs from small engines and power equipment to pressure washers and pumps. They are expanding the line for 2026 with four new generators. These can do everything from providing power at a campsite to supplying home backup during outages or delivering electricity for off-grid living in different types of tiny houses.

All four Predator generators come in 49-state-compliant (49ST) versions or those meeting California's tougher clean air laws, with no difference in price. All have safety sensors that shut them off if dangerous carbon monoxide levels are detected. The Predator 5,000 Watt Gas-Powered Portable Generator and the Predator 10,000 Watt Gas-Powered Portable Generator are traditional models that focus on reliability and competitive pricing. The Predator 2,500 Watt SUPER QUIET Inverter Generator is particularly light and quiet, while the Predator 11,500 Watt Tri-Fuel SUPER QUIET Inverter Generator is a versatile model that can run off gasoline, propane, or natural gas. Both inverter models offer better efficiency but at a higher cost. Let's take a look at each of Harbor Freight's new Predator generators in a bit more detail.

Predator's traditional gas-powered generators are known for their reliability, their ability to deliver consistent power for long periods, and their comparatively low cost (note that although photos often show wheels, the required kits are extra).

The Predator 5,000 Watt traditional generator is just $499.99. It can run for up to 15 hours at 50% load (generators rarely run at full load because it can shorten their lifespan). There are 120V sockets, a 120/240V L14-30R socket (typically used to connect to RVs), and a 12V DC socket. It's the kind of generator that could power home essentials like lights and a refrigerator in the event of an outage or provide mobile electricity for power tools around the yard and jobsite.

The Predator 10,000 Watt traditional generator costs $899.99 and will run for up to 12 hours at 50% load. It shares many features with the 5,000W model but produces enough power for more comprehensive home backup, including air conditioning (it's vital to know the right way to hook up a generator to your house). It also has a built-in voltage regulator and electronic throttle for stable power, plus both push-button and remote starting.

Traditional generators are not recommended for running sensitive electronics like laptops or charging tablets and phones because they can produce damaging power spikes. Inverters do not, thus giving them greater versatility. The Predator 2,500 Watt SUPER QUIET Inverter Generator costs $629.99 and is capable of running for over 10 hours at 25% load. Key features are a weight of only 46 pounds and a noise level of just 58 decibels. That's similar to normal conversation and low enough to meet national park sound requirements. In addition to 120V outlets, this model also has USB-A and C ports for charging.

The PREDATOR 11,500 Watt Tri-Fuel SUPER QUIET Inverter Generator costs $2199.99. Run time can be up to 14 hours, but varies depending on the fuel chosen. This high-performance model can deliver enough power for extensive home backup yet is also sensitive enough to safely charge a smartphone. The feature set is so impressive that it really needs to be looked at in depth to appreciate its full capabilities.

Harbor Freight's expanded Predator line for 2026 means there are now durable, budget-friendly generators to suit just about every demand. That said, the variety of different specifications can be confusing. Consider reading up on everything you need to know about getting your first generator for help with choosing the right model.