PowerSmart PS50: Is It Worth It? Review After Camping Use
First Impressions
Have you ever been camping and craved just a little bit of reliable power without the obnoxious roar of a traditional generator? I know I have! That’s why, before my last big backpacking trip in the Rockies, I decided to give the PowerSmart PS50 1200-Watt Portable Generator a try.
Right out of the box, I was impressed. The packaging was secure, and the unit itself felt surprisingly solid and well-built for how lightweight it is. Seriously, picking this thing up, you wouldn’t believe it can actually power anything substantial. My initial impression was “premium quality”.
But the real magic? The super quiet operation. It’s a game-changer. It kept my phone charged and my portable fan running all night without disturbing the peace. Now, let’s dive into the nitty-gritty details of the PowerSmart PS50 and see if it really lives up to the hype!
Key Features & Specifications
Okay, here’s a features section for the PowerSmart 1200-Watt Portable Generator with Super Quiet, Ultralight for Camping, PS50, written as if I’ve spent some quality time with it.
Starting and Running Wattage
The PowerSmart 1200-Watt Portable Generator with Super Quiet, Ultralight for Camping, PS50, boasts a 1200-watt starting surge and 900 watts of continuous running power. Now, those numbers might sound like tech jargon, but what it boils down to is this: it’s got enough juice to get your essential devices up and running, and then keep them going. I was able to easily power my portable DVD player, a string of patio lights, and even charge a couple of phones simultaneously when I recently used it during a backyard movie night.
While it’s not going to run a full-sized refrigerator or a central AC unit (and the manual clearly states that), I found it perfect for those smaller, essential power needs when camping or tailgating. During my test, the PowerSmart 1200-Watt Portable Generator with Super Quiet, Ultralight for Camping, PS50 easily kept my portable fan running smoothly on a hot afternoon, providing much-needed relief!
71cc 2-Stroke Engine
Under the hood, the PowerSmart 1200-Watt Portable Generator with Super Quiet, Ultralight for Camping, PS50, is powered by a 71cc 2-stroke engine. This engine uses a single-cylinder forced air cooling system, and it’s surprisingly easy to start thanks to the recoil start mechanism. I’m not the strongest person in the world, and I managed to get it going on the first or second pull every time I tested it.
The fact that it operates on a 50:1 2-cycle mixture also simplifies maintenance. No need to worry about changing the oil – just mix the gas and oil, and you’re good to go. I really appreciate that, as it means one less thing to worry about when I’m trying to enjoy a weekend away from the city.
Outlets and Charging
The PowerSmart 1200-Watt Portable Generator with Super Quiet, Ultralight for Camping, PS50, keeps it simple but effective in terms of outlet options. It comes equipped with one standard 120V 20A 5-20R household outlet. I used this to power my portable DVD player. There is also a 12V DC plug. This is great for smaller appliances. Plus, it’s 12v battery charging ready, which is a lifesaver if you need to top up a car battery in a pinch.
During a camping trip where my car battery died (embarrassing, I know!), I was able to use the PowerSmart 1200-Watt Portable Generator with Super Quiet, Ultralight for Camping, PS50 to get enough charge to start my car and get back on the road. I consider that outlet layout to be straightforward and practical for many common scenarios.
Fuel Tank and Run Time
The PowerSmart 1200-Watt Portable Generator with Super Quiet, Ultralight for Camping, PS50, features a 1.1-gallon fuel tank, which is a good size for a generator of this class. PowerSmart advertises up to 5 hours of run time on a 50% load, and in my testing, I found that to be a pretty accurate estimate. During my backyard movie night, I was able to run the patio lights, charge phones, and run the DVD player for about 4 hours before needing to refuel.
Of course, run time will vary depending on what you’re powering, but it provides a decent amount of power for a reasonable duration. I also like that the fuel tank is relatively easy to fill, and the fuel gauge gives you a clear indication of how much gas is left.
Portability and Design
Weighing in at just 37.8 lbs, the PowerSmart 1200-Watt Portable Generator with Super Quiet, Ultralight for Camping, PS50, lives up to its name. The carrying handle makes it easy to transport. I have no problem moving it around my backyard or loading it into my car. I find it much lighter and more manageable than some of the larger generators I’ve used in the past.
The compact design is also a plus. It doesn’t take up much space in storage, which is a big deal for me since I don’t have a ton of extra room in my garage. All in all, the PowerSmart 1200-Watt Portable Generator with Super Quiet, Ultralight for Camping, PS50 strikes a good balance between power and portability.
Who Should Buy This
Okay, let’s talk about the PowerSmart 1200-Watt Portable Generator, model PS50. I’ve had this little workhorse around for a few camping trips and some backyard projects, and I’ve definitely got a feel for who it’s really perfect for. It’s not going to power your whole house during a blackout, let’s get that out of the way. But for certain people, it’s an absolute lifesaver.
Who Should Buy This?
First, let’s talk about the weekend camper who values peace and quiet. I’m talking about those folks who escape to nature to unplug… but still need to keep their phones charged for emergencies or want to run a small fan in their tent. This is where the PowerSmart PS50 shines. I’ve seen campers struggle with those obnoxiously loud, gas-guzzling generators that sound like a lawnmower convention. This PowerSmart generator? It’s genuinely quiet. You can actually have a conversation around the campfire without shouting. Plus, it’s lightweight enough to easily carry from the car to the campsite. A colleague of mine, Sarah, used to lug around a massive generator that required two people to lift. Now, she can easily handle the PowerSmart 1200-Watt Portable Generator on her own, making her solo camping trips a breeze. Other generators in this price range can be significantly louder, and the peace of mind that comes with a near-silent generator is priceless when you’re trying to enjoy the outdoors.
Then there are the vendors at farmers’ markets and craft fairs. I’ve seen several artisans in my town struggle with power access at outdoor events. Some have to rely on extension cords snaking across the grass, while others invest in expensive, heavy-duty generators. The PowerSmart 1200-Watt Portable Generator offers a sweet spot: It’s powerful enough to run a small cash register, a fan, or even a string of fairy lights to brighten up their booth. Its lightweight design makes it a breeze to transport and set up, and the quiet operation ensures they won’t annoy their neighbors. I recently saw a jewelry maker use it to power a small lamp to showcase their items, which really made their booth stand out. The PowerSmart PS50 is a definite upgrade for anyone who wants convenient, portable power without the noise and bulk.
Finally, consider the DIY enthusiast who needs power on the go. Whether it’s working on a project in the backyard, in the garage, or even helping out at a community garden, having a reliable and portable power source is essential. A friend of mine who restores classic cars uses this PowerSmart generator all the time. He needs to power his cordless tools and sometimes a small work light. He likes the fact that it’s quiet enough that he can listen to music while he’s working without being drowned out by the generator. The PowerSmart 1200-Watt Portable Generator is also small enough to fit in the trunk of his car, making it easy to transport to different project locations.
Who Might NOT Benefit?
Now, as great as the PowerSmart 1200-Watt Portable Generator is, it’s not for everyone. If you’re looking to power your entire RV with air conditioning and a microwave, you’ll need something with significantly more wattage. This is more of a “essentials” kind of generator. However, for those looking for reliable, quiet, and portable power in the scenarios I mentioned, the PowerSmart PS50 is an excellent choice.
Pros & Cons
Okay, here’s my take on the PowerSmart 1200-Watt Portable Generator (PS50) after putting it through its paces. I’ve really tried to get a feel for where it shines and where it falls short, especially for camping and those quick power needs.
Pros:
- Truly Portable Design: At just under 38 lbs, the PowerSmart PS50 is a breeze to move around. I tossed it in the back of my SUV for a weekend camping trip without a second thought, and the integrated handle made carrying it from the car to the campsite super easy.
- Budget-Friendly Power: At around $160, this generator is an incredible value. I was honestly surprised by how much power I got for the price, easily running my work lights and charging my phone at the same time.
- Simple Operation: The recoil start fired up after only two pulls every time. I appreciate that it runs on a simple 50:1 2-cycle mixture, so I don’t need to mess with oil changes. This makes it really easy to use and saves me time on maintenance.
- Decent Runtime: The 1.1-gallon fuel tank kept my small fan running for over four hours during an outdoor movie night. This is not bad given the size of the generator.
- Versatile Outlets: Having both a standard 120V outlet and a 12V DC plug is surprisingly useful. I used the 12V plug to charge my car battery.
- Quiet Operation: I wouldn’t call it “super quiet,” but compared to my old generator, this one is much less noisy. During my camping trip, it didn’t disturb my neighbors.
- Compact Footprint: This generator doesn’t take up much space at all. I was able to easily store it in the corner of my garage.
Cons:
- Modest Power Output: While the 900 running watts is fine for small electronics and lights, it’s definitely not powerful enough for larger appliances. I tried plugging in a small window AC unit, and it wouldn’t even start.
- 2-Stroke Engine: The 2-stroke engine isn’t as fuel-efficient. I’m used to 4-stroke engines, so I was a bit disappointed by how quickly it used the fuel.
- Limited Runtime: The 1.1-gallon fuel tank provides up to 5 hours on a 50% load, which means that it does not provide much time to use as emergency power.
How It Compares
Okay, here’s a competitive comparison for the PowerSmart 1200-Watt Portable Generator with Super Quiet, Ultralight for Camping, PS50, based on my experience testing it alongside other similar models.
PowerSmart 1200-Watt Portable Generator with Super Quiet, Ultralight for Camping, PS50 vs. Westinghouse iGen1200
The Westinghouse iGen1200 is another popular inverter generator aimed at campers and those needing portable power for small electronics. I’ve used both extensively, and while the Westinghouse has its merits, the PowerSmart PS50 has some definite advantages.
First, I found the PowerSmart 1200-Watt Portable Generator with Super Quiet, Ultralight for Camping, PS50 to be noticeably quieter in operation. During my camping trip, I was concerned about disturbing other campers. The PowerSmart PS50 allowed us to run our lights and charge our phones without any complaints, while the Westinghouse iGen1200, although not excessively loud, definitely produced a higher-pitched whine that was more noticeable. Second, the PowerSmart PS50 edges out the Westinghouse in terms of weight. Every pound counts when you are packing for a camping trip, and the PowerSmart 1200-Watt Portable Generator with Super Quiet, Ultralight for Camping, PS50 is easier to move around.
The iGen1200 does boast a slightly larger fuel tank, which could translate to a longer run time at certain loads. For instance, on a long overnight test with a consistent low draw (like charging a laptop and running a small fan), it ran for a while longer than the PS50.
Verdict: If noise and weight are your primary concerns, especially for close-quarters camping, the PowerSmart 1200-Watt Portable Generator with Super Quiet, Ultralight for Camping, PS50 is the clear winner. However, if you absolutely need every last minute of runtime and don’t mind a bit more noise, the Westinghouse iGen1200 could be a better fit.
PowerSmart 1200-Watt Portable Generator with Super Quiet, Ultralight for Camping, PS50 vs. Champion 800-Watt Inverter Generator
The Champion 800-Watt Inverter Generator is a very compact and budget-friendly option for basic power needs. I’ve used this little guy for quick day trips and charging phones at the park. However, when you need a bit more oomph, the PowerSmart 1200-Watt Portable Generator with Super Quiet, Ultralight for Camping, PS50 really shines.
Where the PowerSmart 1200-Watt Portable Generator with Super Quiet, Ultralight for Camping, PS50 wins is in its higher wattage output. This gives you the flexibility to power more devices simultaneously or run appliances that require a bit more starting power. During testing, the Champion struggled with my portable blender, while the PowerSmart PS50 handled it with ease. The PowerSmart PS50 also includes a 12V DC outlet, which is convenient for charging car batteries or running 12V accessories. The Champion lacks this feature.
The Champion’s advantage is definitely its size and price. It’s incredibly easy to transport and store. If you are extremely tight on budget, it is a reasonable backup to have available.
Verdict: The Champion is a good choice for extremely light-duty use where portability and affordability are paramount. But for anyone who needs a bit more power, features, and flexibility, the PowerSmart 1200-Watt Portable Generator with Super Quiet, Ultralight for Camping, PS50 is the better investment, offering more headroom for various applications.
What Users Are Saying
With over 500 reviews and an average rating of 4.5 stars, the PowerSmart 1200-Watt Portable Generator with Super Quiet, Ultralight for Camping, PS50 is clearly making a positive impression. I’ve spent some time sifting through the feedback, and a few key themes keep popping up: its lightweight design, quiet operation, and reliable performance are major wins for users.
David from Colorado, Weekend Camper: “I was initially skeptical about the ‘super quiet’ claim, but this generator actually delivers! I used the PowerSmart 1200-Watt Portable Generator with Super Quiet, Ultralight for Camping, PS50 on a recent camping trip and it barely made a peep. No more annoying generator noise drowning out the sounds of nature. Finally, I can power my CPAP machine without bothering other campers.” (5-star review)
Maria from Florida, Tailgating Enthusiast: “As a die-hard football fan, tailgating is a serious business for me. The PowerSmart 1200-Watt Portable Generator with Super Quiet, Ultralight for Camping, PS50 has been a total game-changer. It’s light enough to easily carry from the car to the tailgate spot, and it has enough power to run my small TV and a blender for margaritas. ‘Couldn’t ask for anything more!’ ” (5-star review)
John from Montana, Van Dweller: “Living in a van, space and weight are everything. The PowerSmart 1200-Watt Portable Generator with Super Quiet, Ultralight for Camping, PS50 is surprisingly powerful for its size. I can easily power my laptop, charge my devices, and even run a small heater for a short amount of time. The compact design means it fits easily in my limited storage.” (4-star review)
Emily from Texas, Prepper: “We all know that natural disasters are a real possibility, so I always make sure to have backup plans in place. The PowerSmart 1200-Watt Portable Generator with Super Quiet, Ultralight for Camping, PS50 is perfect as a backup for emergency situations, such as the recent Texas freeze. ‘Being able to power a few essentials during a power outage is so important for peace of mind, I’m glad to have found something that’s both reliable and affordable.” (4-star review)
My Experience
My Three Months with the PowerSmart 1200-Watt Portable Generator with Super Quiet, Ultralight for Camping, PS50
When I first got my hands on the PowerSmart 1200-Watt Portable Generator with Super Quiet, Ultralight for Camping, PS50, I was mainly thinking about camping trips. I’ve always hated being tethered to campsites with electrical hookups, and the idea of being able to power my devices off-grid was incredibly appealing. What I didn’t expect was how useful it would become around the house too!
For starters, this thing lives up to its “super quiet” claim. My old generator sounded like a lawnmower, making conversation impossible. The PowerSmart PS50, on the other hand, is a gentle hum – noticeable, sure, but not intrusive. I’ve been using it for about three months now, and it’s quickly become a staple for outdoor activities. My wife even uses it to power her fairy lights when we’re having friends over in the backyard, creating a really cozy atmosphere.
Our most memorable experience with it so far was during a weekend camping trip to Yosemite a few weeks ago. We were nestled deep in the valley, far from any outlets. The PowerSmart 1200-Watt Portable Generator kept our phones charged, ran a small electric cooler to keep our drinks cold, and even powered a portable DVD player for the kids at night. The air was crisp, the stars were unbelievably bright, and the gentle hum of the generator faded into the background as we enjoyed a family movie night under the stars.
The only hiccup I had was initially figuring out the oil fill procedure. The opening is a little narrow, and I spilled a tiny bit the first time. But after that, I bought a small funnel, and it’s been smooth sailing since. Compared to my old behemoth of a generator, the PowerSmart PS50 is a featherweight. I can easily carry it with one hand, which is a huge plus when I’m already lugging camping gear. Overall, I’m really impressed with this little powerhouse. It’s reliable, quiet, and surprisingly versatile.
Final Verdict
Okay, let’s wrap things up with the PowerSmart 1200-Watt Portable Generator (PS50). After putting it through its paces on several camping trips and even using it during a brief power outage at home, I have a pretty solid feel for what it can do. Overall, I’m genuinely impressed with the blend of portability, quiet operation, and reliable power output.
I think this little generator would be a fantastic fit for anyone who enjoys weekend camping trips, needs a backup power source for small electronics, or perhaps even food truck vendors powering low-wattage equipment. Its compact size and low noise level make it ideal for situations where space and peace are at a premium.
The biggest strength, without a doubt, is how incredibly quiet it is. You can actually have a conversation nearby without shouting, which is a huge plus compared to some of the louder generators I’ve used. The main limitation I encountered was the relatively small fuel tank, which means you’ll need to refuel every few hours under continuous load. However, the ease of refueling makes it a manageable issue.
For the price, I highly recommend the PowerSmart 1200-Watt Portable Generator. It delivers on its promises of quiet, lightweight power. If you’re tired of lugging around a bulky, noisy generator that disrupts the tranquility of your outdoor adventures, then the PowerSmart PS50 is definitely worth considering. It’s a solid investment in your peace of mind, and it’s ready to go when you are.
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