Harbor Freight’s Predator generators are a dependable choice among contractors in the country. They can be relied on for jobsites and outdoor activities, as well as during power outages of course. Those who need more power should consider the biggest portable generators in the lineup, the Predator 9000 and the Predator 8750. Here’s how these two gas-powered generators compare.
The Predator 8750 is a portable generator with a 420cc / 13 HP air-cooled OHV engine and electric start with recoil backup. Get up to 12 hours of runtime at 50% capacity.
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Predator Generator 9000 vs 8750 Comparison Chart
| Model | Predator 9000 | Predator 8750 |
 | | |
| Price | Check Price at Amazon | Check Price at Amazon |
| Engine | 420 cc OHV 4-stroke | 420 cc OHV 4-stroke |
| Starting System | Recoil, Electric | Recoil, Electric |
| Starting Watts | 9,000 W | 8,750 W |
| Running Watts | 7,250 W | 7,000 W |
| Output Voltage | 120/250 VAC, 12 VDC | 120/250 VAC, 12 VDC |
| Fuel | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Fuel Tank Size | 8 gallons | 6.6 gallons |
| Run Time | 13 hours at 50% load | 12 hours at 50% load |
| Consumption | 0.62 gallons per hour | 0.55 gallons per hour |
| Outlets | 1 x GFCI, 6 x AC, 1 x DC | 1 x GFCI, 6 x AC, 1 x DC |
| AVR | Yes | Yes |
| Fuel Gauge | Yes | Yes |
| Low Oil | Yes | Yes |
| Noise | 76 dBA | 76 dBA |
| Dimensions | 26.9″ x 22″ x 22.8″ | 26.9″ x 22″ x 22.8″ |
| Weight | 194 lbs | 183 lbs |
Engine and Power
The Predator 9000 offers more starting and running power than the Predator 8750.
The same 420cc (13 hp) air-cooled OHV engine can be found on the Predator 9000 and 8750 generators. However, the Predator 9000 sports a larger fuel tank and slightly increased fuel consumption to allow it to provide a higher starting wattage of 9,000 W and running wattage of 7,250 W compared to the Predator 8750’s 8,750 W and 7,000 W respectively.
The Predator 9000 carries an 8-gallon gasoline tank while the Predator 8750 only has room for 6.6 gallons, so you can get a longer run time on the former, too. At 50% load, the Predator 9000 can deliver 120/240 V for up to 13 hours while the Predator 8750 lasts 12 hours. That does mean that you’ll need more fuel for the Predator 9000 since it consumes unleaded gasoline at a rate of 0.62 gallons per hour to the 0.55 gallons per hour of the Predator 8750.
Both Predator 9000 and 8750 have fuel gauges so you can check how much fuel is left in the tank. They also have low oil indicators and a low oil shutdown feature for safe usage.
Portability
The Predator 8750 is slightly lighter than the Predator 9000.
Technically, both Predator 9000 and 8750 are considered portable generators since they can indeed be moved. However, at 194 lbs. and 183 lbs., respectively, they’re not exactly easy to move about. At home you’ll likely want to place your generator in a shed or a covered area where it can be kept shielded from the sun and rain, and where its emissions won’t bother you and neighbors alike.
The Predator Generator 9000 is ideal for power emergencies, outdoor recreation, job sites and more. 9,000 starting and 7,250 running watts, with up to 13 hours runtime at 50% load.
Thankfully, both of these generators can be fitted into a generator wheel kit so you can pull them out of storage easily when needed. They’re mounted on 8-inch flat-free tires with an adjustable steel handle covered with a slip-resistant padding. The open frame design allows them to be raised above ground level and makes them ideal for outdoor use.
The Predator 9000 and 8750 generators can be started with an electric starter or with a pull-start (recoil) mechanism as backup. The battery is not included in either product though, but it’ll make them much more convenient to start. Once running, both engines produce an average noise rating of 76 dBA, which is comparable to that of traditional vacuum cleaners.
Features
The Predator 9000 and 8750 generators have the same outlets and features.
On the control panels of the Predator 9000 and 8750 generators are several outlets:
- (4) 120V duplex outlets, 3 prong
- (1) 120V twist lock outlet, 3 prong
- (1) 120V/240V twist lock outlet, 4 prong
- (1) 12V DC outlet
Both Harbor Freight generators also have overload protection via UL listed circuit breakers. They have spark arrestors to prevent the emission of combustible or ignitable materials, which is critical for forest fire prevention. They’re EPA-approved and CARB-compliant so they can be used anywhere in the US.
Verdict
The Predator 8750 offers better value than the Predator 9000.
The Predator Generator 9000 is ideal for power emergencies, outdoor recreation, job sites and more. 9,000 starting and 7,250 running watts, with up to 13 hours runtime at 50% load.
The Predator 8750 is a portable generator with a 420cc / 13 HP air-cooled OHV engine and electric start with recoil backup. Get up to 12 hours of runtime at 50% capacity.
Most homes that would like a backup portable generator for power outages will likely find the Predator 8750 to be sufficient in keeping the lights on for an extended period of time. It costs less than its bigger brother and guzzles up less fuel too, while providing comparable wattage. You also get the same number of outlets as well as all of the safety features, and with the wheel kit, it will be easy to store and take out as the need arises.
Contractors who require more power for the tools they need on the job will appreciate the extra juice that the Predator 9000 provides. Ensuring that there’s wattage to spare in busy worksites can result in better productivity and safety.
FAQs
Yes, Predator generators make for reliable portable generators for worksites as well as decent backup power for outages.
Harbor Freight manufactures the Predator line of generators along with other low-cost power tools and equipment.
Most homes should find a 9,000-watt portable generator sufficient to run essential appliances and lighting, including a refrigerator, furnace, and sump pump. However, homes with central air conditioning might require a standby generator instead to run it in addition to other equipment.
This largely depends on the particular Predator generator model as well as how much wattage you’re consuming. As an example, the Predator 9000 and 8750 will last for 13 and 12 hours, respectively, at 50% load.