Further down the page, you'll find some explanations regarding the key similarities and differences between the Generac GP6500 and the Generac GP5500.
But before checking out explanations regarding their power, portability, and features, here's a table that summarizes the main pros of each of these 2 generators:
Generac GP6500 | Generac GP5500 |
---|---|
![]() | ![]() |
|
|
Buy on Amazon (opens in a new tab) | $701.12 at Home Depot (opens in a new tab) |
Show all offers |
As the GP6500 and the GP5500 are both Generac generators, they benefit from the same level of quality and attention to detail.
Power Comparison
The following charts are provided to show you at a glance how the main specs of the Generac GP6500 compare to the Generac GP5500.
- Power: With a running wattage of 6,500 W, the Generac GP6500 will allow to power more appliances and tools than the 5,500 running watts of the Generac GP5500. Moreover, compared to the 6,875 starting watts of the GP5500, the GP6500 and its starting wattage of 8,125 W will give more power to start the appliances which require an additional boost to get their motor running.
- Runtime: When running at a 50% load, the GP6500 enjoys a higher approximate runtime on a full tank than the GP5500. It can deliver power for around 10.5 hours, whereas the GP5500 will be able to power your appliances for around 10 hours.
- Fuel Efficiency: With a gasoline consumption at 50% load of 0.72 GPH (gallon per hour), the GP5500 is less fuel efficient than the Generac GP6500 with its 0.66 GPH. The latter will therefore be more economic to run than the former.
- THD: Neither the Generac GP6500 nor the Generac GP5500 has a THD low enough to allow you to safely power your sensitive electronic devices (both <20%).
Portability Comparison
- Bulkiness: As these two products share the same overall bulk, neither of them will really take up less storage space.
- Weight: With a weight of 170.9 lbs, the GP5500 is slightly less heavy than the GP6500 (which weighs 172 lbs).
- Portability: Both products benefit from a wheel kit, which greatly enhances their maneuverability. Both offer a folding handle, which improves your grip when you wish to move them around.
Feature Comparison
- Starting System: Both devices can get running via a conventional pull-start mechanism.
- Outlets: The GP6500 and the GP5500 both offer 5 AC outlets. However, the GP6500 has the advantage of featuring GFCI outlets. In addition, it is worth noting that they can both produce either 120 or 240V. For more detailed information regarding all their respective receptacles, refer to the GP6500's and the GP5500's product pages.
- Data Center & Fuel Gauge: Each of these 2 portable generators is equipped with a data center allowing you to conveniently monitor some aspects of the power output. Besides that, these 2 products are fitted with a fuel gauge allowing to see their fuel level at a glance.
- Technology: The Generac GP6500 benefits from a welcomed additional security feature: its COsense® technology monitors carbon monoxide and automatically shuts off the generator if the ambient levels become unsafe.
TL;DR
Generac GP6500 | Generac GP5500 |
---|---|
![]() | ![]() |
|
|
Buy on Amazon (opens in a new tab) | $701.12 at Home Depot (opens in a new tab) |
Show all offers |