
Pulsar PG12000B vs DuroMax XP12000EH
Comparing the Pulsar PG12000B and DuroMax XP12000EH dual-fuel generators. Both deliver 9500 running watts, but differ in runtime, weight, and warranty.
- DuroMax XP12000EH
- Pulsar PG12000B
Comparison Overview
The Pulsar PG12000B and DuroMax XP12000EH are remarkably similar on paper. Both are dual-fuel conventional generators producing 12,000 starting watts and 9,500 running watts, and both register at 74 dB during operation. The real differences come down to runtime, weight, warranty coverage, and overall value.
The Pulsar PG12000B offers a notably longer runtime at 50% load, lasting roughly 12 hours compared to the DuroMax's 8 hours. That four-hour advantage can matter a great deal during extended power outages or long workdays. The Pulsar is also lighter at 205 lbs versus the DuroMax's 224 lbs, making it slightly easier to move around, though neither qualifies as truly portable.
On the other hand, the DuroMax XP12000EH counters with a 3-year warranty, one full year longer than the Pulsar's 2-year coverage. DuroMax also publishes a 25% load runtime of 19 hours, giving buyers a clearer picture of fuel efficiency during lighter use. The Pulsar PG12000B edges ahead with a higher overall score of 6.20 compared to the DuroMax's 5.74, but the XP12000EH's longer warranty and established brand reputation make it a strong contender. Buyers who prioritize runtime and lighter weight may lean toward the Pulsar, while those who value warranty peace of mind might prefer the DuroMax.
Key takeaways
- Both produce 12,000 starting watts and 9,500 running watts on dual fuel
- Pulsar PG12000B runs 12 hours at 50% load versus DuroMax's 8 hours
- DuroMax XP12000EH includes a 3-year warranty, one year longer than the Pulsar
- Pulsar weighs 205 lbs, about 19 pounds lighter than the 224 lb DuroMax
- Both operate at 74 dB and offer gasoline and propane fuel options
- DuroMax publishes a 19-hour runtime at 25% load for lighter use scenarios
Best use cases
Choose the Pulsar PG12000B if you need a high-output dual-fuel generator that can run longer between refueling stops. Its 12-hour runtime at half load is a meaningful advantage for whole-home backup during storms or extended outages, where you want to keep essentials like a refrigerator, sump pump, and HVAC system running through the night without waking up to refuel. At 205 lbs, it is also about 19 pounds lighter than the DuroMax, which can make a difference when loading it into a truck bed or repositioning it on a job site. If you are comfortable with a 2-year warranty and want the generator that stretches each tank of fuel further under moderate loads, the PG12000B is a practical pick.
Choose the DuroMax XP12000EH if warranty coverage and brand support are high on your priority list. The 3-year warranty provides an extra year of protection, which is reassuring for a machine you may only use during emergencies and want to trust when it counts. The XP12000EH also provides a published 25% load runtime of 19 hours, which is useful information if you plan to run the generator during lighter demand periods, like powering just a few circuits overnight. DuroMax has a well-established presence in the home backup and job site generator market, and replacement parts and customer support tend to be readily accessible.
Both generators share the same wattage output and noise level, so neither has an advantage when it comes to raw power or how loud they will be in your backyard or on a work site. The dual-fuel capability on both models lets you switch between gasoline and propane, giving you flexibility during fuel shortages. Your decision really comes down to whether longer gasoline runtime or a longer warranty matters more to you.
Verdict & recommendation
If your priority is maximizing runtime on a single tank of gas, the Pulsar PG12000B's 12-hour half-load runtime and lighter weight give it a practical edge for extended home backup and remote job sites. If you would rather have a longer warranty and the confidence that comes with DuroMax's well-known support network, the XP12000EH's 3-year coverage is a genuine advantage, especially for a generator that may sit idle for months between uses.
Neither generator is a wrong choice here. They deliver identical power output, run at the same noise level, and both offer the flexibility of dual-fuel operation. The Pulsar scores slightly higher overall and runs longer per tank, while the DuroMax offers better warranty protection and transparent light-load runtime data. Pick the one that aligns with what you value most: endurance per fill-up or long-term coverage and peace of mind.
Last updated March 20, 2026
| Specification | DuroMax XP12000EH | Pulsar PG12000B |
|---|---|---|
| General | ||
| Product type | Generator | Generator |
| Fuel | Dual-Fuel | Dual-Fuel |
| Inverter | No | No |
| Parallel capable | No | No |
| RV ready | Yes | No |
| Running watts | Winner: Winner: 9500 W | Winner: Winner: 9500 W |
| Starting watts | Winner: Winner: 12000 W | Winner: Winner: 12000 W |
| Noise (lower limit) | Winner: Winner: 74 dB | Winner: Winner: 74 dB |
| Weight | 224 lbs | Winner: Winner: 205 lbs |
| Run time @50% load | 8 h | Winner: Winner: 12 h |
| Run time @25% load | 19 h | Not available |
| Fuel tank | 8.3 gal | 8 gal |
| Fuel gauge | Yes | Yes |
| Approx. dimensions (L × W × H) | 29 x 30 x 26 | 28.5 x 21 x 22 |
| Electrical | ||
| Voltage (AC) | 120/240 | 120/240 |
| Voltage (DC) | 12 | 12 |
| GFCI outlets | Yes | No |
| Covered outlets | No | No |
| Automatic Voltage Regulation | Yes | Yes |
| THD | Not available | Not available |
| Engine | ||
| Engine | 457 cc DuroMax OHV 4-stroke, cast iron sleeve | 457 cc OHV 4-stroke |
| Alternator | Not available | Not available |
| Starting system | Recoil, Electric | Recoil, Electric |
| Warranty | ||
| Warranty | 3 years | 2 years |
| Power by fuel | ||
| Gasoline | Not available | Not available |
| Running watts | 9500 W | 9500 W |
| Starting watts | 12000 W | 12000 W |
| Running amps (120V) | Not available | Not available |
| Running amps (240V) | Not available | Not available |
| Peak amps (120V) | Not available | Not available |
| Peak amps (240V) | Not available | Not available |
| Run time @50% load | 8 h | 12 h |
| Run time @25% load | 19 h | Not available |
| Propane | Not available | Not available |
| Running watts | 8075 W | 8550 W |
| Starting watts | 10200 W | 10800 W |
| Running amps (120V) | Not available | Not available |
| Running amps (240V) | Not available | Not available |
| Peak amps (120V) | Not available | Not available |
| Peak amps (240V) | Not available | Not available |
| Run time @50% load | 3.5 h | 5 h |
| Run time @25% load | 7 h | Not available |
| Other | ||
| Data center | Not available | Not available |
| Indicators | true | false |
| Compliance | CARB, EPA | CARB |
| Security | Not available | Not available |
| Spark arrestor | Yes | Yes |
| Neutral | Not available | Not available |
| UPC | 811640014681 | 814726025021 |
| Core / High-priority specs | ||
| Running Watts (Gasoline) | 9500 | 9500 |
| Running Watts (Propane) | 8075 | 8550 |
| Starting Watts (Gasoline) | 12000 | 12000 |
| Starting Watts (Propane) | 10200 | 10800 |
| Runtime @ 50% Load (Gasoline) | 8 | 12 |
| Runtime @ 50% Load (Propane) | 3.5 | 5 |
| Runtime @ 25% Load (Gasoline) | 19 | Not available |
| Runtime @ 25% Load (Propane) | 7 | Not available |
| AC Outlet Types | 1x Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R) GFCI1x 120V 30A (L5-30R)1x 120/240V 30A (L14-30R)1x 120/240V 50A (14-50R) | 2x Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R); 1x 120/240V 30A (L14-30R); 1x 120/240V 50A (14-50R) |
| Electrical & power | ||
| Frequency | 60 | 60 |
| Engine & construction | ||
| Engine Type | OHV 4-stroke | OHV 4-stroke |
| Engine Displacement | 457 | 457 |
| Cylinder Sleeve | cast iron sleeve | Not available |
| Alternator Winding Material | Copper windings | Not available |
| Engine Oil Type | Not available | 10W-30 |
| Runtime & fuel system | ||
| Runtime @ 25% Load (Gasoline) | 19 | Not available |
| Runtime @ 50% Load (Gasoline) | 8 | 12 |
| Runtime @ 50% Load (Propane) | 3.5 | 5 |
| Controls & display | ||
| Display Type | Voltmeter | Not available |
| Safety & compliance | ||
| Overload Protection System | Low oil and overload protection | Low oil and overload protection |
| Low Oil Protection | Yes | Yes |
| Carbon Monoxide Monitoring | No | No |
| Included equipment | ||
| Included Accessories | Funnel, tool kit, propane hose, battery, and wheel kit | Funnel, tool kit, propane hose, battery, and wheel kit |
| Warranty & identification | ||
| Residential Warranty | Not available | 2 |
| Commercial Warranty | 3 | 2 |
| Additional specs | ||
| Summary | The DuroMax XP12000EH is a 9,500-watt dual-fuel generator built around a 457 cc OHV 4-stroke engine with cast iron sleeves. This wattage class handles simultaneous operation of multiple household appliances, power tools, and RV systems. The dual-fuel capability means users can switch between gasoline and propane based on fuel availability and storage preferences. Gasoline delivers 9,500 running watts with an 8-hour runtime at 50% load. Propane reduces output to 8,075 running watts but extends runtime to 19 hours at 25% load, making it the better choice for extended backup scenarios where refueling frequency matters. The 12,000 peak watts handle motor inrush demands during startup of compressors, pumps, and air conditioning units. | The Pulsar PG12000B is a 12,000-watt dual-fuel portable generator designed for reliable and robust power, featuring a 457cc OHV engine, electric push start, and a run time of up to 12 hours at 50% load. |
- Most PowerfulDuroMax XP12000EH9500W running
- QuietestDuroMax XP12000EH74 dB
- Longest RuntimePulsar PG12000B12h at 50% load


