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PredatorModel 72872

Predator 3,900W Dual-Fuel Generator Review

The PREDATOR® 5000 Watt Dual-Fuel SUPER QUIET™ Inverter Generator with CO SECURE® offers dual-fuel capability, running on gasoline or propane. Powered by a reliable 224cc gas engine, it features a TT-30 RV outlet and an extra-large fuel tank, delivering over 18 hours of runtime. The push-button electric start and remote starting option provide convenience, making it ideal for RVs, home backup, and outdoor recreation.

At a Glance

  • Running Watts
    3900W
  • Starting Watts
    5000W
  • Fuel Type
    Dual-Fuel
  • Noise Level
    61.7 dB
  • Weight
    110 lbs

Where to buy

Prices can change. We update these automatically.

    Disclosure: Some links may be affiliate links. Specs and comparisons are never hidden.

    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

    • Dual-fuel capability: runs on gasoline or propane
    • 224cc gas engine
    • TT-30 RV outlet
    • Extra-large fuel tank with over 18 hours of runtime
    • Push-button electric start
    • Remote start option up to 100 ft. away
    • 5000 starting watts and 3900 running watts

    Cons

    • heavy weight at 110 pounds
    • no outlets listed in specs
    Best use cases
    Sensitive electronics

    Summary

    The Predator 72872 is a dual-fuel generator rated for 3,900 running watts with 5,000 starting watts. That combination gives it enough headroom to handle devices that draw extra power at startup while still supporting a solid continuous load once everything is running.

    Because it is an inverter generator, the 72872 is aimed at delivering cleaner power than a conventional generator design, which matters when you are powering sensitive electronics rather than only simple resistive loads.

    Power & Runtime

    With dual-fuel capability, the Predator 72872 gives you flexibility in how you supply energy, which can be valuable when one fuel source is easier to store or access than the other. Its 3,900 running watts define the sustained output you can plan around for ongoing use, while the 5,000 starting watts help it take on short bursts of higher demand when motors or compressors kick on.

    Noise is part of real-world usability, and this unit is rated at 61.7 dBA. That level supports operation with less disruption than louder open-frame designs, making it easier to live with during extended runs.

    Portability

    At 110 lbs, the Predator 72872 is a substantial portable generator that calls for deliberate handling when moving it into position. Its physical size, listed at 25 x 18 x 20.8 inches, helps you gauge where it can fit for storage and how much space it will take up when set up for use.

    Those dimensions also make it easier to plan transport, whether you are loading it into a vehicle or allocating room in a garage or shed, since you can match the footprint directly to the space you have available.

    Recommended Audiences

    • Owners of sensitive electronics seeking clean inverter power
    • Buyers wanting fuel flexibility with dual or tri-fuel capability
    • Homeowners needing emergency backup for essential circuits
    • DIY enthusiasts and hobbyists needing reliable portable power
    Updated: Feb 24, 2026

    Score Breakdown

    2.7
    / 10
    Rank #104 of 111 in Inverter (2,500-5,000W)
    Value (25%)
    Quality (25%)
    Practical (18%)
    Features (12%)
    Features (2.0 pts)
    • Inverter+1
    • Remote Start+0.4
    • Electric Start+0.6
    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:3,900W(recommended usable: 3,120W)
    • Surge:5,000W
    • Output:120V only
    • Inverter:Yes (clean power for electronics)

    Big-item compatibility

    Refrigerator
    Yes
    Sump Pump (1/3 HP)
    Yes
    Well Pump (1 HP, 240V)
    No

    Needs 240V output

    Furnace Blower
    Yes
    Central AC (3 Ton, 240V)
    No

    Needs 240V output

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

    Needs 240V output

    Electric Range/Oven (240V)
    No

    Needs 240V output

    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)

    Est. running: 2,900W

    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")

    Est. running: 1,600W

    Peak surge (single motor): 2,800W

    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 Watts3,900 watts
    Starting Watts5,000 watts

    Engine

    Engine Displacement224 cc

    Electrical

    Voltage (AC)120V

    Dimensions

    Dimensions25 x 18 x 20.8 inches
    Weight110 lbs

    Other

    Automatic Low Oil ShutdownYes
    Carbon Monoxide SensorYes
    Electric StartYes
    InverterYes
    Noise Level61.7 dBA
    Parallel CapableNo
    Recoil StartYes
    Remote StartYes
    RV ReadyNo
    Starter TypeRemote/Electric/Recoil

    Core

    Fuel TypeDual-Fuel

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