I am thinking of buying a generator - mainly to use an emergency backup power supply (sump pump, keeping small, 9 cubic foot, well-stocked chest freezer cold if not freezing)

What should I be looking for? What features make up a "desirable" generator. For instance, is a 4 cycle engine preferable to a 2 cycle? Are certain brands of engines better than others - I hear people swear by Honda engines but are there any that are made equally well or those to stay away from? Any "Best Buy" models out there? How much overhead should I allow past the total wattage of my freezer?

From my perspective, weight of the unit is not really an issue. I do not need 240v output.

Thanks for any info