Considering that there are electromagnetic, mechanical and thermal constraints that determine the design of high-speed electrical machines, the criteria that lead to adequate selection of the machine are established in this work. Moreover, taking into account the current state of technology, the critical values in the ratio (output power)/(rotation speed), are presented. The paper focuses on the high-speed synchronous generators, especially in permanent magnet generators, inductor alternators and flux switching alternators, emphasizing their constructive fundamentals and their advantages and disadvantages. The analysis is completed with a critical assessment that classifies them according to previously defined requirements. Although the decision of the final choice is largely determined by the application of interest, it can be said that, in general, synchronous generators with permanent magnets in the rotor are the best option.