I did not realize there is a tax free weekend on certain emergency supplies this weekend, among those things that qualify are generators under $3000.

TX Comptrollers link to Tax Free Sale

Since the outdoor board knows stuff, what generators under $3000 are worth buying?

I don't have a specific use in mind, but always good to have back up power. For example, harbor freight sells a 9500 watt inverter for $2299.99 and you can connect two in parallel. No idea as to their quality. I do know that Honda's are considered the gold standard by many. Would appreciate any feedback on any worth having under $3K. Thanks in advance.

I prefer a couple smaller ones that are easier to move around but can be combined for big needs. I have 2 from northern tool that are about 2k watts that have worked well. Might pick up another this weekend.

There are a ton of people that swear by the Predator generators. I don't have personal experience with them but the Hondas are pretty much gold standard but for 1/4 of the price, I think most folks are fine with the Predator.

I've got a Westinghouse as my main house back that is trifuel. I've only run it on natural gas and just for checking capacity on the house, but zero complaints thus far.

I shopped around a few years back and ended up buying 2 of these. For the money/features/wattage they were good deals.
They served me well for what I needed.

https://www.basspro.com/p/cabelas-outdoorsman-series-11250w-9000w-rv-ready-dual-fuel-portable-generator-with-electric-start-and-co-shield