The correct low-budget way to connect one of these is using an interlock kit:

https://www.se.com/us/en/product/HOMCGK2C/load-center-access...

You need the inlet, the kit, and a correctly sized breaker that is suitable for backfeeding.

Yes!

Not only is a mechanical interlock a code-compliant method to properly protect downstream line workers but it is also a simple and comprehensible component that costs very little and never breaks.

We have a whole-house generator connected to our main panel and I made a very deliberate decision not to add the complexity and fragility of an automatic transfer switch. The little metal tab will always work and nobody will ever be confused.

Unless it is installed properly, that is just as dangerous as the cord in the article, as long as you remember the "plug generator in last" rule.

In particular, both can kill hapless power company employees by unexpectedly backfeeding into downed parts of the grid, and they have similar carbon monoxide/fire hazard issues.

(Not that there is anything wrong with the product; I wish they were mandatory, so they'd reliably be inspected after installation!)

The actual chance of your generator backfeeding the grid is nigh nill. The issue is that all your neighbors are still connected. The moment your generator touches the grid it acts as pretty much a dead short.

Not saying it can't happen. The main one where it could is if the break is between your house and everybody else. But in the vast majority of situations you will instantly pop the dinky 15a breaker

I don't know what percentage of electrical work is inspected, but I would certainly not characterize it as "reliably". There are aisles full of electrical equipment sold at Home Depot and Lowes. The (vast?) majority of that is getting installed with no inspections.

My local code allows me to replace outlets without any permit/inspection. With toddlers around I've replaced a lot of outlets with modern safety outlets (have a shutter so you can't stick something in the hot slot).

I've done other electric work that has passed inspection.

Inspections are hard to avoid when you build a new house, or perform major renovations.

If the outlet were required at that point in time, there wouldn't be a temptation to improperly retrofit the outlet in later.

Most building codes (as adopted by the AHJs) do not require systems not part of the job to be brought up to current code if they met code at the time of install, are in good repair, and are not being significantly worked on. You can add an addition without converting all the old bedroom breakers to AFCI. (That represents a much higher safety risk than any generator inlet could possibly be.)

Well yeah, but if the addition (or your new EV, which might actually support working as a home backup battery) requires a new panel, then the port would be required.

On the other hand, generators are rapidly becoming obsolete, so this might be akin to requiring installation of upgraded coal shoots.