Pulsar PG1202S - 850/1200W Portable Generator
The Pulsar PG1202S is a compact and lightweight open frame generator with a rated wattage of 850 W and a starting wattage of 1,200 W. (Read full specs)
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Description
This handy, two-cycle generator provides enough portable power for those jobs around the house or when you are hunting, fishing, camping, tailgating or even out on a boat and does so without breaking your piggy bank. With 1200 peak watts of power, the PG1202S has two 120V and one 12V outlet and can operate for up to 8.5 hours on just 1.2 gallons of fuel mix with a quiet mode system that creates only 65 dB of noise.
Zoom on the Pulsar PG1202S
In a few words, the Pulsar PG1202S is a compact and lightweight portable generator perfectly suited for:
- Tailgating and campground aficionados with the desire of enjoying power anywhere they go
- Handcrafting enthusiasts who wish to work on-the-go
In the upcoming sections, you'll discover its power characteristics, the array of outlets it presents, its overall portability, and the additional features it possesses.
Power & Run Time
The Pulsar PG1202S
Pulsar PG1202S runs on gasoline, powered by a 72 cc (2.2 hp) Ducar 2-stroke engine, delivering 120V, boasting a running wattage of 850W alongside a starting wattage of 1,200W.
The generator features a traditional recoil pull-start mechanism. It is rated for a noise of 65 dBA (just slightly more noisy than a normal conversation).
With a full tank, the PG1202S can operate for around 8.5 hours at 50% load (fuel consumption around 0.13 GPH), thanks to its fuel capacity of 1.1 gallon.
Outlets
The control panel features 2 AC outlets as follows:
Moreover, it comes equipped with 1 DC outlet: there's a 12V 8A receptacle with which charging your batteries is made easy.
Portability
With dimensions of L14.6 x W12.4 x H12.4 in, the standard open frame design of the Pulsar PG1202S provides stability and easy maintenance access to components, as well as good air circulation. The design is ideal for rough environments and demanding outdoor use.
The PG1202S's weight, at just 37.5 lbs, makes it an ideal choice for those seeking a lightweight and portable generator. As it can be moved by a single person without much effort, the generator and its power can be enjoyed on-the-go. It can also be carried without effort with a featured handle, further improving its convenience.
Good to know: This unit ranks 3rd in our list of the 10 smallest portable generators.
Features
The PG1202S's control panel
When the generator is ready, you will be informed by the featured light indicator.
Regarding security, the generator comes with an overload protection (circuit breaker), providing peace of mind during operation.
Besides the classic documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab) to get you promptly started, the Pulsar PG1202S also comes with some accessories: tool kit and battery charging cables are included.
Product Videos
The Pulsar PG1202S versus other generators
The following charts are provided to give you an idea of how some of the key specs of the Pulsar PG1202S compare to generators of similar power (between 500 and 1500 W).
- At a weight of 37.5 pounds, the Pulsar PG1202S places in the expected weight range of the generators in the 500-1500 rated wattage range. If weight matters to you, one of the champions in this power range is the Sportsman GEN1000i with only 20.3 pounds.
- This generator, with its lowest noise level at 65 dBA, is noisier than most generators of comparable running wattage. If noise emissions are one of your priorities, you may be interested in the Honda EU1000i, one of the least noisy generators similarly powerful as this one, rated for 42 dBA.
- In terms of run time, the PG1202S surpasses similarly powerful devices, boasting one of the higher run times at around 8.5 hours. If prolonged run time is essential to your needs, you could consider the Champion 201285, which offers one of the highest autonomy among devices with similar power output, lasting around 10 hours.
- Though run time is a significant parameter, it's closely tied to the generator's fuel tank size. To get a comprehensive understanding, fuel efficiency must also be taken into account. With a fuel consumption rate around 0.13 GPH (gallon per hour) at 50% load, this generator is one of the more fuel-efficient models within the aforementioned wattage range. If minimizing fuel usage is one of your key priorities, the Pulsar PGD16iSCO is one of the most efficient devices with similar power output, with a gasoline consumption of only 0.09 gallons per hour.
Price comparison
As you can see from these interactive charts, when compared to other 500-1500W generators, the Pulsar PG1202S is on the cheap side of the price range.
It can therefore be a really good buy if you're looking to acquire a budget generator.
The bottom line
- Inexpensive
- High run time
- Fuel efficient
- Decent weight (37.5 lbs)
- No data center
- 1-year warranty
- Gas/oil mix required (2-cycle engine)
- On the noisy side (65 dBA)
Do you own the Pulsar PG1202S and agree (or disagree) with these strengths and weaknesses?
Let us know and write your own review.
Features and Specifications
| Inverter | No |
|---|---|
| Parallel capable | No |
| RV ready | No |
| Fuel | Gasoline |
| Engine | 72 cc Ducar 2-stroke |
| Starting system | Recoil |
| Warranty | 1 year |
| Voltage | AC: 120V 60 Hz, DC: 12V |
|---|---|
| Running watts | 850 W |
| Starting watts | 1,200 W |
| Running amps | 7.1 amps |
| Peak amps | 10 amps |
| Run time @50% load | 8.5 h |
| Run time @25% load | Unknown |
| GFCI outlets | No |
|---|---|
| Covered outlets | No |
| Automatic Voltage Regulation | No |
| AC outlets | 1x Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R) |
| DC outlets | 1x 12V 8A receptacle |
| Data center | No |
| Indicators | Output ready |
| Fuel tank | 1.1 gal |
| Fuel gauge | No |
| Weight | 37.5 lbs |
|---|---|
| Approx. dimensions (L x W x H) | 14.6 x 12.4 x 12.4 in |
| Noise (lower limit) | 65 dBA |
| THD | Unknown |
| Compliance | CARB, EPA |
| Security | Overload protection |
| Spark arrestor | No |
| Neutral | Floating |
| Accessories included | Tool kit and battery charging cables |
| Other model numbers | PG1202SA |
| UPC | 814726026530 |
We've taken extra care to research and verify each of the specifications above. That said, occasional mistakes or omissions are still possible. If you spot any missing or inaccurate information, feel free to suggest a correction so we can address it.
About Pulsar
Pulsar is a brand registered under the Pulsar Products inc., based in California, USA. The company offers a decent choice of air compressors, pressure washers and of course, generators – which range from 1,2 kW to 10 kW and include dual fuel and RV-Ready designs. Pulsar has several facilities scattered throughout the US, including two distribution centers – one in California and second in Illinois. However, the production of their products seems to be outsourced overseas, to the continent of Asia.
Warranty Information
The Pulsar PG1202S is covered under a warranty for up to 1 year. This warranty may be limited and may not cover all parts of the generator.
For more information about the warranty of Pulsar generators, please contact the Pulsar Customer Support: 1-866-591-8921.
Questions & Answers
What can it power?
| Item | Running Watts | Starting Watts | |
|---|---|---|---|
| At home | Refrigerator (energy star) | 192 | 1192 |
| Total | 192 W | 1192 W | |
| For camping | RV refrigerator | 180 | 600 |
| Blender | 400 | 850 | |
| Bug zapper | 80 | 80 | |
| Total | 660 W | 1110 W | |
| For work | Paint sprayer | 600 | 600 |
| Total | 600 W | 600 W |
How many amps does the 12v output. (Asked May 08, 2023)
The 12V output provides a current of up to 8A.
Couldn't find the right answer for you? Ask your own question.
