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 Watts5500W
- Starting Watts6500W
- Fuel TypeGasoline
- Runtime (50%)14.5h
- Noise Level73.5 dB
- Weight165 lbs
Where to buy
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Model Variations
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
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
Score Breakdown
- 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
May struggle with startup surge
Exceeds capacity
Exceeds capacity
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.
About Predator
Predator is recognized for its budget-friendly, high-performance generators, popular among homeowners and outdoor enthusiasts for reliable power solutions.
Full Specifications
Power
| Running Watts | 5,500 watts |
|---|---|
| Starting Watts | 6,500 watts |
Engine
| Engine Displacement | 301 cc |
|---|---|
| Spark Arrestor | No |
Electrical
| Voltage (AC) | 120/240V |
|---|---|
| GFCI Outlets | No |
Dimensions
| Dimensions | 26-7/8 x 22 x 22-3/4 inches |
|---|---|
| Weight | 165 lbs |
Other
| Automatic Low Oil Shutdown | Yes |
|---|---|
| Automatic Voltage Regulator | No |
| Carbon Monoxide Sensor | Yes |
| Covered Outlets | No |
| Electric Start | No |
| Fuel Gauge | No |
| Inverter | No |
| Noise Level | 73.5 dBA |
| Parallel Capable | No |
| Recoil Start | Yes |
| Remote Start | No |
| RV Ready | No |
| Starter Type | Recoil |
| Wheels | No |
Core
| Fuel Type | Gasoline |
|---|
Runtime
| Runtime @ 50% | 14.5 hours |
|---|
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