Film production requires a lot of equipment, and one of the most critical pieces is a generator. A generator provides power to all the necessary devices on set, including lights, cameras, and sound equipment. Choosing the right generator can be a daunting task, but having the best generator for film production is essential to ensure that everything runs smoothly.
When looking for the best generator for film production, there are several factors to consider. The first thing to consider is the wattage needed to power all the equipment. A generator that’s too small won’t provide enough power, while one that’s too large will be a waste of money. The second thing to consider is the noise level of the generator. Film sets require quiet operation, so a loud generator can be a distraction and ruin the audio quality of the production.
Another critical factor to consider is the type of fuel the generator uses. Diesel generators are more fuel-efficient, but they’re also more expensive. Gasoline generators are less expensive, but they’re also less fuel-efficient. Propane generators are a good option for film production because they’re quieter and cleaner than gasoline generators, but they’re also more expensive.
After researching and testing several generators, we’ve identified the best generator for film production. This generator provides enough power to run all the necessary equipment, operates quietly, and uses propane fuel to keep the set clean and quiet.
Top pick
DuroMax XP13000EH Dual Fuel Portable Generator
With its 13,000 starting watts and 10,500 running watts, the DuroMax XP13000EH is a workhorse that can power household essentials such as lights, large appliances, and central A/C systems, as well as high amperage power tools.
The dual fuel technology allows you to run the generator on propane or gasoline, giving you the freedom and flexibility of fuel choice.
Editor’s choice
Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 300
The Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 300 is a great choice for film production needs. Its reliability, convenience, and compatibility with solar panels make it a great investment for any filmmaker who needs a reliable power source on location.
Best Generators for Film Production
When it comes to film production, having a reliable generator is crucial. Whether you’re shooting on location or need a backup power source for your studio, a good generator can make all the difference. But with so many options on the market, it can be tough to know where to start. That’s why we’ve put together this list of the best generators for film production. We’ve researched and tested a variety of models to bring you our top picks. From quiet and portable options to heavy-duty powerhouses, we’ve got you covered. So without further ado, let’s dive into our roundup of the best generators for film production.
DuroMax XP13000EH Dual Fuel Portable Generator
If you’re looking for a powerful generator that can handle heavy loads and give you the freedom and flexibility of fuel choice, the DuroMax XP13000EH Dual Fuel Portable Generator is an excellent choice.
DuroMax XP13000EH Dual Fuel Portable Generator
With its 13,000 starting watts and 10,500 running watts, the DuroMax XP13000EH is a workhorse that can power household essentials such as lights, large appliances, and central A/C systems, as well as high amperage power tools. The dual fuel technology allows you to run the generator on propane or gasoline, giving you the freedom and flexibility of fuel choice.
Pros
- Dual fuel technology allows for the freedom and flexibility of fuel choice
- Provides plenty of power with 13,000 starting watts and 10,500 running watts
- Comes with a fully featured power panel that includes a push button start and a wide selection of outlets for maximum compatibility in your applications
- Useful selection of accessories
- Great price
Cons
- May be too heavy for some users to move around easily
- Can be loud when running at full capacity
- Some users have reported issues with the electric start not working properly
The generator is powered by a 500cc, OHV engine, and comes with a fully featured power panel that includes a push button start and a wide selection of outlets for maximum compatibility in your applications, including 2 120 V household GFCI outlets, 1 120 V 30 A twist lock outlet, 1 240 V 30 A outlet, and 1 240 V 50 A outlet.
While the generator is powerful and versatile, it may be too heavy for some users to move around easily, and it can be loud when running at full capacity. Some users have also reported issues with the electric start not working properly.
Overall, if you’re looking for a powerful and versatile generator that can handle heavy loads and give you the freedom and flexibility of fuel choice, the DuroMax XP13000EH Dual Fuel Portable Generator is definitely worth considering.
Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 300
If you’re looking for a reliable portable power station for your film production needs, the Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 300 is definitely worth considering.
Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 300
The Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 300 is a great choice for film production needs. Its reliability, convenience, and compatibility with solar panels make it a great investment for any filmmaker who needs a reliable power source on location.
Pros
- The Explorer 300 is armed with a 293Wh lithium-ion battery pack, which can deliver stable and safe 300W power through its 2 Pure Sine Wave AC outlets. This makes it an ideal power source for your film equipment, ensuring that you won’t experience sudden power outages that can ruin your shots.
- With its 1* PD 60W USB-C port (input/output supported), 1* fast charge 3.0 port, 1USB-A port, and 1 DC car port, the power station can recharge itself and charge up to 6 devices (e.g. drones, cameras, etc.) at the same time. This makes it very convenient to use on location.
- The Explorer 300 is compatible with the Jackery SolarSaga 100 solar panel. The integrated MPPT controller enables the solar generator set to operate at its max power point, so that it speeds up the battery recharge, making it an ideal portable power kit for outdoor film productions.
Cons
- The Explorer 300 is a bit on the heavy side, weighing 7.1 pounds. This might make it a bit cumbersome to carry around if you’re on the move a lot.
- The power station has a runtime of only 5 hours, which might not be enough for longer film shoots. However, this can be extended by using the solar panel or recharging it through the car outlet.
- The Explorer 300 is a bit expensive compared to other portable power stations on the market. However, its reliability and convenience make it worth the investment if you’re serious about your film production needs.
EF ECOFLOW Solar Generator DELTA2 with 220W Solar Panel
If you’re looking for a reliable and eco-friendly generator for your film production, EF ECOFLOW Solar Generator DELTA2 with 220W Solar Panel is a great option. It provides enough power to run most of your appliances without the fumes or noise of traditional outdoor generators.
EF ECOFLOW Solar Generator DELTA2 with 220W Solar Panel
EF ECOFLOW Solar Generator DELTA2 with 220W Solar Panel is perfect for film production as it’s designed for outdoor use. With its 1800W output, you can power most of your appliances, including cameras, lights, and laptops. The solar panel is bifacial, which means it can generate more energy from both sides, making it more efficient than traditional solar panels.
Pros
- Comes with a 220W bifacial solar panel to capture up to 25% more energy
- Built to last 6x longer with a portable power station that has a 3000+ cycle life
- Expandable capacity from 1-3kWh with extra batteries, ideal for camping, RVs, or home backup power
Cons
- DELTA 2 and 220W Portable Solar Panel are shipped separately
- It’s a bit heavy, weighing 58 pounds
- It’s a bit pricey compared to other solar generators on the market
The portable power station is built to last 6x longer than other generators, thanks to its LFP battery chemistry. It’s also auto-regulating, making it safe to use. You can add extra batteries to expand its capacity from 1-3kWh, making it ideal for camping, RVs, or home backup power.
One of the downsides is that DELTA 2 and 220W Portable Solar Panel are shipped separately, which means you’ll have to wait a bit longer to use it. It’s also a bit heavy, weighing 58 pounds, which can be a bit of a hassle if you need to move it around. It’s also a bit pricey compared to other solar generators on the market, but the quality and features make it worth the investment.
In conclusion, EF ECOFLOW Solar Generator DELTA2 with 220W Solar Panel is a great option for film production as it’s eco-friendly, reliable, and provides enough power to run most of your appliances. If you’re looking for a generator that’s built to last and expandable, this is the one for you.
Buying Guide
When choosing a generator for film production, there are several important factors to consider. Here are some key features to look for:
Power Output
The power output of the generator is crucial for film production. You need to ensure that the generator you choose can provide enough power to run all of your equipment. It is recommended to look for a generator with a power output of at least 5000 watts.
Fuel Type
Generators can run on a variety of fuels, including gasoline, diesel, propane, and natural gas. Each fuel type has its own advantages and disadvantages. Gasoline generators are the most common and are generally the most affordable. Diesel generators are more fuel-efficient and offer longer run times. Propane and natural gas generators are cleaner burning and produce fewer emissions.
Portability
Portability is an important factor to consider when choosing a generator. If you need to move your generator around frequently, you should look for a model that is lightweight and easy to transport. Some generators come with built-in wheels and handles, which can make them easier to move around.
Noise Level
Noise level is an important consideration, especially if you are working on a film set. Look for a generator that produces minimal noise, ideally less than 70 decibels. Some generators are designed to be extra quiet, which can be a good option if you are working in a residential area.
Run Time
The run time of a generator refers to how long it can run on a single tank of fuel. Look for a generator with a long run time, especially if you are working on a long film shoot. Some generators have a run time of up to 12 hours or more.
Price
Price is always a consideration when purchasing any piece of equipment. Generators can vary widely in price, with some models costing thousands of dollars. It is important to find a generator that fits within your budget, while still providing the features you need for film production.
