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PredatorModel 59205

Predator 5,500W Gas Generator Review

The PREDATOR® 6500 Max Starting Watt, 5500 Running Watt Gas Powered Portable Generator is built with reliability and safety in mind.

At a Glance

  • Running Watts
    5500W
  • Starting Watts
    6500W
  • Fuel Type
    Gasoline
  • Runtime (50%)
    14.5h
  • Noise Level
    73.5 dB
  • Weight
    165 lbs

Where to buy

Prices can change. We update these automatically.

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    Is this the right generator for you?

    Here's the quick tradeoff view — what this model does well, and where it may not fit.

    Pros

    • 6500 starting watts and 5500 running watts make this unit capable of powering several home essentials during an outage or providing power on the go.
    • The large gas tank means runtime up to 14.5 hours @ 50% load.

    Cons

    • relatively heavy weight of 165 pounds
    • lacks electric start and remote start options
    Best use cases
    Home backup

    Summary

    The Predator 59205 is a gasoline generator built around a 5,500-watt running output with 6,500 starting watts available for the extra surge that comes when equipment first kicks on. That combination makes it a practical choice when you want a single unit that can handle steady electrical demand while still having headroom for startup loads.

    Because it runs on gasoline, the 59205 fits shoppers who want a familiar fuel option, while its stated wattage figures frame it as a serious power source rather than a small convenience unit.

    Power & Runtime

    With 5,500 running watts and 6,500 starting watts, the Predator 59205 is set up to supply continuous power while also covering higher initial draw when motors or tools start. In real use, the running watt rating is the number to anchor your ongoing load planning to, while the starting watt figure is what helps prevent bogging down when something needs that brief surge.

    Noise is rated at 73.5 dBA, which gives a concrete sense of how loud it will be while operating. For runtime, it is listed at 14.5 hours at 50 percent load, a useful benchmark for planning longer stretches of operation without frequent refueling when you are not pushing the generator to its maximum output.

    Portability

    At 165 lbs, the Predator 59205 is a substantial piece of equipment, and that weight is an important consideration for moving it between storage and the place you plan to run it. Its dimensions of 26-7/8 x 22 x 22-3/4 inches help clarify the footprint you will need for transport and for setting it up where it can operate safely and conveniently.

    Recommended Audiences

    • Shoppers who prefer gasoline-powered generators
    • Homeowners needing whole-house or jobsite backup power
    • DIY enthusiasts and hobbyists needing reliable portable power
    • First-time generator buyers looking for a dependable option
    Updated: Feb 24, 2026

    Score Breakdown

    4.0
    / 10
    Rank #113 of 125 in Conventional (5,000-10,000W)
    Value (25%)
    Quality (25%)
    Practical (18%)
    Features (12%)
    Percentile Rankings (within peer group)
    • Watts/$
    • Surge/$
    • Runtime/$
    • Warranty
    • THD (lower=better)
    • Build Quality
    • Noise (lower=better)
    • Portability
    • Outlet Variety
    • Feature Points

    What this generator can power

    At a Glance

    • Continuous:5,500W(recommended usable: 4,400W)
    • Surge:6,500W
    • Output:120/240V
    • Inverter:No

    Big-item compatibility

    Refrigerator
    Yes
    Sump Pump (1/3 HP)
    Yes
    Well Pump (1 HP, 240V)
    Yes
    Furnace Blower
    Yes
    Central AC (3 Ton, 240V)
    Maybe

    May struggle with startup surge

    Window AC (10,000 BTU)
    Yes
    Electric Water Heater (240V)
    No

    Exceeds capacity

    Electric Range/Oven (240V)
    No

    Exceeds capacity

    Air Compressor (1 HP)
    Yes

    Example setups

    Essentials

    • Lights + Wi-Fi + Charging
    • Refrigerator
    • Furnace Blower
    • Sump Pump (1/3 HP)

    Est. running: 1,800W

    Peak surge (single motor): 2,000W

    Avoid starting multiple motor loads at the same time.

    Essentials + Comfort

    • Lights + Wi-Fi + Charging
    • Refrigerator
    • TV + Entertainment System
    • Microwave
    • Window AC (10,000 BTU)
    • Space Heater

    Est. running: 4,400W

    Peak surge (single motor): 2,000W

    Avoid starting multiple motor loads at the same time.

    Jobsite / Tools

    • Lights + Wi-Fi + Charging
    • Circular Saw (7 1/4")
    • Air Compressor (1 HP)

    Est. running: 3,100W

    Peak surge (single motor): 4,500W

    Avoid starting multiple motor loads at the same time.

    These are estimates using typical wattage assumptions. Real appliances vary. Startup surges can be 2–6× the running wattage for motor-driven loads. 240V loads require a 120/240V generator and proper connection. Use a transfer switch or interlock kit; never backfeed a panel.

    Predator
    ReliabilityCAverage

    About Predator

    Predator is recognized for its budget-friendly, high-performance generators, popular among homeowners and outdoor enthusiasts for reliable power solutions.

    Founded1977
    HQCalabasas, California, USA
    Website (opens in a new tab)
    Support1-800-444-3353
    Support / Manuals (opens in a new tab)
    View all Predator generators

    Full Specifications

    Power

    Running Watts5,500 watts
    Starting Watts6,500 watts

    Engine

    Engine Displacement301 cc
    Spark ArrestorNo

    Electrical

    Voltage (AC)120/240V
    GFCI OutletsNo

    Dimensions

    Dimensions26-7/8 x 22 x 22-3/4 inches
    Weight165 lbs

    Other

    Automatic Low Oil ShutdownYes
    Automatic Voltage RegulatorNo
    Carbon Monoxide SensorYes
    Covered OutletsNo
    Electric StartNo
    Fuel GaugeNo
    InverterNo
    Noise Level73.5 dBA
    Parallel CapableNo
    Recoil StartYes
    Remote StartNo
    RV ReadyNo
    Starter TypeRecoil
    WheelsNo

    Core

    Fuel TypeGasoline

    Runtime

    Runtime @ 50%14.5 hours

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