| AC Generators | DC Generators |
| 1. AC generator is a mechanical device which converts mechanical energy into AC electrical power. | DC generator is a mechanical device which converts mechanical energy into DC electrical power. |
| 2. In an AC generator, the electrical current reverses direction periodically. | In a DC generator, the electrical current flows only in one direction. |
| 3. AC generator does not have commutators. | DC generators have commutators to make the current flow in one direction only. |
| 4. Ac generators have slip-rings. | DC generators have split-ring commutators. |