Before starting with the differences, it is important to know what a generator is and how

it works. In simple words, generators and alternators are both mechanical devices that
convert mechanical energy to electrical energy. To learn more about them, visit the
following articles.

The Electric Generator

AC Generator

Difference between Alternator and Generator

Sl. Differentiating Alternator Generator

No. Property

1 Definition An alternator is a device that A generator is a mechanical

converts mechanical energy device which converts
into AC electrical energy. mechanical energy to either AC
or DC electrical energy.

2 Output Current An alternator always induces A generator can generate either

an alternating current. alternating or direct current.

3 Energy Efficiency Alternators are very efficient. Generators are considered less
efficient.

4 Output Alternators have a higher Generators have a lower output

output than generators. when compared with an
alternator.

5 Energy Alternators use only the Generators use all the energy
 Conservation required amount of energy that is produced, so they
and thus, it conserves more conserve less energy.
energy.

6 Polarization After Polarization is not required in Generators need to be polarized

Installation the case of alternators. after installation.

7 Magnetic Field The magnetic field is rotating In the case of a generator, the
inside the stator of an magnetic field is stationary or
alternator. fixed where the armature winding
spins.

8 Armature The armature of an alternator The armature of a generator is

Movement is stationary. rotating.

9 Input Supply The alternator takes input The generator takes the input
supply from the stator. supply from the rotor.

10 RPM (Rotation Per Alternators have a wide range Generators have a low range of
Minute) Range of RPM. RPM.

11 Voltage Generation Alternators produce voltage Generators produce voltage at all

only when needed. times.

12 Size Alternators are generally Generators are larger and require

smaller in size. more space to fit in.

13 Brush Efficiency The brushes of alternators The brushes of generators last

last longer. lesser when compared to an
alternator.

14 Charging of a Dead Alternators will never charge a A generator can be used for
Battery dead battery. charging a dead battery.

15 Uses Alternators are mainly used in Generators are widely used to

the automobile industry as a produce large-scale electricity.
charging system for the
battery.

These are the main differences between alternators and generators. These alternators
and generator differences are a bit in-depth to help the students get a complete idea
about them. These detailed and advanced comparisons can help the students to get
completely thorough with these respective topics.