| Alternator | Generator |
|---|---|
| An Alternator is used to generate power on the small-scale requirement. | A Generator is used to generate electricity for large-scale requirements or supplies. |
| In Alternator, electricity is produced by spinning the magnetic field inside the windings of the copper wire. | A generator uses dynamo to convert mechanical energy to electrical energy. It works on the principle of electromagnetic induction. |
| Alternators use only the required amount of energy. So, they conserve more energy. | Generators use all the energy that is produced. So, they conserve less energy. |
| An alternator always induces an alternating current (AC). | A generator can generate either alternating (AC) or direct current (DC). |
| Alternators are considered very efficient. | Generators are considered less efficient. |
| It doesn't require polarization in the case of alternators. | Polarization is required after installation in the case of generators. |
| In Alternator, the magnetic field is rotating inside the stator. | In Generator, the magnetic field is stationary or fixed, and the armature winding spins. |
| The armature of an alternator is always stationary. | The armature of the Generator is rotating. |
| The Alternator receives the input supply from the stator. | The Generator receives the input supply from the rotor. |
| Alternators generate voltage only when needed. | Generators produce voltage at all times. |
| Alternators run on a high range of RPM. | Generators run on a high range of RPM. |
| Alternators are generally smaller in size. | Generators are generally larger and require more space to fit in. |
| Alternators can never charge a dead battery. | A generator can be used to charge a dead battery. |
| The brushes of alternators are long-lasting. | The brushes of generators are lesser long-lasting when compared to an alternator. |
| Alternators are mainly used in the automobile industry as a charging system for the battery. | Generators are mainly used to produce large-scale electricity. |