I have a Firman dual fuel inverter generator that puts out 3500 watts. It’s quiet and small/portable. More than enough to power anything in your house. I might even set up a mini panel to be able to run a few circuits directly off the geny without having to plug things in. Only thing I can’t power is my heat pump but the nat gas back up furnace doesn’t require much juice at all.
In the meantime I run a couple of extension cords into the house to power our fridge and deep freezer. Charges any electronics and runs appliances like kettles and toasters.
Cost me like $600 Canadian a couple years ago @ Costco. Doubt it’s more expense in the US. I think I’ve only needed to use it 3 times for power outages in 2 years but still worth imo and a lot cheaper than a full blown Generac set up.