--- Best Choice ---
WEN 56235i - Best-Rated

Comparsion Table
Model | Start/Run Wattage | Noise Level | Start Type | Editor’s Rating |
---|---|---|---|---|
Honda EU3000IS Check Price |
3000/2800 | 50 dBA | Electric Start, Recoil Start | 8.6 |
WEN 56235i Check Price |
2350/1900 | 51 dBA | Recoil Start | 8.7 |
Westinghouse iGen2500 Check Price |
2500/2200 | 52 dBA | Recoil Start | 8.3 |
Generac GP2500i Check Price |
2500/2200 | - | Recoil Start | 8.3 |
Champion 75537i Check Price |
3100/2800 | 58 dBA | Electric Start, Remote Start | 7.9 |
Yamaha EF2400iSHC Check Price |
2400/2000 | 53 dBA | Recoil Start | 7.8 |
#1. Honda EU3000IS 3,000 Watt Inverter Generator - Customer Choice
This inverter generator has the longest run time so far at an amazing 20-hours on a full tank of gasoline. And just like the others on this list, it delivers clean energy continually thanks to its inverter technology. This means running your computer and other sensitive electronics on it is okay.
What is in the Package?
Included: generator, manual, warranty card. The generator is shipped without oil, gasoline, wrenches, and screwdrivers.
The easy-to-understand control panel has a low-oil lamp and an overload alarm. This is an electric start model, so you don't have to worry about cranking it. It has a parallel outlet so you can run it parallel to another unit.
Features:
- With 2800 Running Watts/3000 Starting Watts, it powers fridges, freezers, microwaves, fans, lights, TVs, and other home appliances.
- The Honda Inverter Generator comes with an enclosed motor, which produces only 49-57 decibels of sound. It enables it to power your home without creating a lot of noise.
- It runs 19.6 hours using a single tank, which ensures you save on your fuel costs.
- The model comes with two 120V 20A (NEMA 5-20R) household outlets, and 120V 30A (NEMA L5-30R) RV-ready outlet.
- It has an overhead valve engine which produces reliable and consistent power.
- Another feature of this inverter generator is the Eco-Throttle mechanism that enables it to have a super-efficient operation.
- A generous warranty: this model comes with a 3-year limited warranty that will protect your investment.
- It’s compact and portable, which means it is ideal for outdoor events such as camping.
Noise Test
- Idle speed, 10 ft., eco mode on: 66 dBA
- Idle speed, 23 ft., eco mode on: 59 dBA
- Idle speed, 30 ft., eco mode on: 55 dBA
- Idle speed, 40 ft., eco mode on: 54 dBA
- Full load, 40 ft., eco mode on: 56 dBA
It weighs 130.7-pounds wet making it on the heavy side. It has two handles on either side for two people to carry it. It doesn't come with wheels as standard. Instead, you have to buy them as a separate kit.
The generator will automatically shut off if it's not in a well-ventilated area, and the CO2 concentration may be dangerous. An advanced carbon monoxide detection system, CO-MINDER, is responsible for this.
Specifications
- Starting Wattage: 3000
- Running Wattage: 2800
- RV Ready Outlet: Yes
- Noise Level from 23 ft.: 50 dBA
- Inverter: yes
- Start Type:  Electric Start, Recoil Start
- Fuel Type:  Gasoline
- CARB Compliant: yes
Our grades
Pros
- Electric start
- High run time
- Clean power
- Provides 2,800 watts continuously and can surge up to 3,000 watts
- Quiet for its power
- Parallel compatibility
- CO-MINDER (continuously monitors carbon monoxide levels)
- It keeps run robust and last long time
- EPA and CARB compliant
Cons
- Heavy (130lbs)
- Lacks wheels this reduces the comfort of mobility
- One of the most expensive models on the market
- The narrow curved oil spout makes adding oil difficult
- No remote start
#2. WEN 56235i 1900 Rated Watts Lightweight & Portable Generator
So, this is the WEN 56235i. The “i” stands for the inverter. It produces 2,350 starting watts and 1,900 running watts. This gasoline generator is easy to carry and very compact. If weight or space is an issue, then a generator like this one is for you.
What is in the Package?
Included: spark plug wrench, screwdriver, combination wrench (8mm & 10mm), oil funnel, manual, warranty card. The generator is shipped without oil and gasoline.
The best features of this generator are its 39-pound weight and operating noise. The noise level is rated at 51 dB at 23 feet away. My noise test: idle speed, 23 ft., eco mode on - 52.5 dBA.
This inverter generator can run up to 10.5 hours at 1/4 load (500 watts) and up to 5.7 hours at 1/2 load (1000 watts). And speaking of throttle, you've got some throttle control with ECO switch. When you put the eco switch on, what that does is the generator drops down to only create as much energy as you need.
The WEN 56235i has two 120V/20-amp (NEMA 5-20R) outlets that are capable of powering single-phase 60 Hz loads. It also includes one 12V/8.3-amp DC outlet for charging batteries. Its USB ports allow you to charge many of the popular devices, such as smartphones and tablets.
Great for camping, tailgate, hunting, power outage, construction site, boat, party, fishing, and recreation. I used the WEN 56235i to power lights (100 watts), furnace fan (75 watts), water pump (80 watts), electric blanket (200 watts), microwave (900 watts), TV (150 watts), game console (200 watts), and a mini-fridge (100 watts), all at the same time.
The only thing I can't run with this generator is my air conditioner, which starts at about 3,000 Watts and runs at about 2000 Watts. For most of the time, this generator is going to cover my camping needs.
Now let's say I went camping someplace hotter. We have deserts in the Southern part of our state, and I very much might want to run my air conditioner in those where it can get up to 115 degrees. If you get a generator like this, it's relatively inexpensive to scale up. So what you do is you pick up the second one of these, and at the cost of being $400 per generator for this jet, it's very affordable. You get a second one, now you're up to $800 and what they call a parallel connection kit.
Expert Advice
As far as the advice I can give anybody with a generator, definitely follow the manual. Don't just buy and say, "Yeah, this will be ready whenever wintertime comes or when the storm comes, I'll know it's going to work". It may not. So make sure you run your generator the way it's supposed to, according to the manual. On this one, I must run this thing once a month for 30 minutes.
Also, when you first buy it, you will run it for 16-20 hours to make sure it will be reliable and there for you.
Specifications
- Starting Wattage: 2350
- Running Wattage: 1900
- RV Ready Outlet: Yes
- Noise Level from 23 ft.: 51 dBA
- Inverter: yes
- Start Type:  Recoil Start
- Fuel Type:  Gasoline
- CARB Compliant: yes
Our grades
Pros
- Inexpensive
- Parallel Compatibility
- Very lightweight and compact
- Relatively quiet operation
- Fuel efficient
- Economy Mode
- Great for powering tools and necessities
- Feature two USB outlets
- Able to charge batteries
Cons
- No electric start
- Poor customer service
- No ground wire included
- Eco mode does not work well at high loads
#3. Westinghouse iGen2500 - Portable Inverter Generator
The Westinghouse iGen2500 is one of its kind generators; it has been designed to allow ultra-quiet operation, this makes it the best choice for light residential, camping, and tailgating needs.
The generator has the ability to handle up to 2200 watts running continues this is enough power to power most home appliances, also to increase the power, another Westinghouse iGen2500 can be parallel connected to enable more equipment usage. With its 98cc OHV 4 stroke engine, it can produce 2500 watts of surge power.
What is in the Package?
Included: engine oil (SAE 10W-30, 0.37 quart), oil funnel, spark plug wrench, screwdriver, manual, and warranty card. The generator is shipped without gasoline.
Why Westinghouse iGen2500
Easy portability: due to its lightweight of about 46.3 pounds and its compact design, it makes the best power solution for camping, outdoor, and tailgating, also it is a built-in carrying handle for easy carrying.
Economical fuel usage: to reduce fuel usage, Westinghouse iGen2500 has an efficiency mode that reduces engine speed as the load is shed. With only a 0.98-gallon tank, it can run for 10 hours.
Parallel compatibility: to allow maximum power production for your needs, Westinghouse iGen2500 has been designed to allow a parallel combination of two inverter generators.
Starting up this generator, in general, should be easy for most people. It should only take a single easy pull to get it going.
The Westinghouse iGen2500 is a relatively quiet device that people should not consider overly distracting or bothersome. They advertise 52 decibels at 23 feet.
Noise Test
Load | Distance | ECO MODE | Noise level |
---|---|---|---|
Idle speed | 0 ft. | ON | 82 dBA |
23 ft. | 59 dBA | ||
30 ft. | 57 dBA | ||
50 ft. | 54 dBA | ||
1,500-watt | 0 ft. | 90 dBA | |
23 ft. | 68 dBA | ||
30 ft. | 66 dBA | ||
50 ft. | 62 dBA |
Clean power: our equipment safety is paramount. This generator produces clean power with less than 3% distortion, which means all our sensitive electronics, such as TVs, laptops, and smartphones, can be connected. Also has 2 USB ports for easy charging of our gargets.
Comes with an LED data center: this unit is designed with a rotating digital display that enables easy monitoring of fuel level, power output, remaining run time, and voltage output.
It is pocket-friendly and quieter compared to others; get the value of your money. Westinghouse iGen2500 comes with a 3 Year Warranty and Lifetime Technical Support.
Specifications
- Starting Wattage: 2500
- Running Wattage: 2200
- Noise Level from 23 ft.: 52 dBA
- Inverter: yes
- Start Type:  Recoil Start
- Fuel Type:  Gasoline
- CARB Compliant: CARB Compliant
Our grades
Pros
- Impressive power of about 2,500 surge watts
- It is small, compact, and lightweight; easy to carry as any portable inverter generator should be
- Its CARB compliant therefore can be used in many regions
- Fuel Efficiency Mode
- Low oil automatic shutdown this protect the engine
- Parallel Compatibility
- LED data center
- Comes with 2 USB ports this enables easy powering of electronics such as phones
Cons
- The start cord breaks easily, many customers have lamented of experiencing this when trying to start the generator
- With its much praise on the fuel gauge, many users stated that the gauge does not work properly, leaving them with no option but to check the fuel manually
- Despite its low price, many users felt it would be ideal if this unit had an electrical start button instead of a manual recoil system to get the engine running
#4. Generac GP2500i - Portable Inverter Generator 2,200 Rated Watts
Are you looking for a portable generator for your home power? Look no more Generac GP2500i is now available to sort out your entire power problem. It’s ideal for your power need because it’s small and lightweight for one person to move, considering has only 48 lbs. GP2500i inverter generator produces 2,500 starting watts and 2,200 running watts.
What is in the Package?
Included: engine oil, oil funnel, spark plug wrench, battery charging cables, manual, and warranty card. The generator is shipped without gasoline.
Why prefer Generac GP2500i
Easy portability: due to its lightweight design, it makes the best power solution for camping, outdoor, and tailgating.
Parallel compatibility: to double the watt produced, GP2500i has been designed to allow a parallel connection of two generators.
Clean power: for our home electronic safety, this generator produces clean power with less than 3% THD this means all our sensitive electronics are safe when using its power.
California residents only buy GP2500i inverter generator that is CARB-compliant. More so, this device can be easily maintained, and it has a real gas-containing additive to ensure it is always kept fresh.
This inverter generator is equipped with ECONOMY MODE to regulate noise, save fuel and ensure that sensitive electronics save power.
Noise Test
- Idle speed, 23 ft., eco mode on: 59 dBA
- Idle speed, 23 ft., eco mode off: 63 dBA
- 1,500-watt load, 23 ft., eco mode off: 71 dBA
The oil shutdown protection is very low. This protects the engine from any chemical and physical damage.
It is equipped with LED indicator lights along with the control panel, which helps to show the system's status.
This unit includes two 120V 20A (NEMA 5-20R) household outlets, one 12 VDC outlet, and two 5V 2.1A USB outlets.
The Generac GP2500i will offer more power for less price. It comes with a three-year warranty and free lifetime technical support.
Specifications
- Starting Wattage: 2500
- Running Wattage: 2200
- Inverter: yes
- Start Type:  Recoil Start
- Fuel Type:  Gasoline
- CARB Compliant: CARB Compliant
Our grades
Pros
- With its clear control panel it is easier to monitor its internal functioning, no need to stops it’s running to check its parts
- This unit designed to automatically adjust its speed to make only the amount of energy needed this increases fuel efficiency while limiting exhaust emissions and reducing the noise level during operation
- Comes with 2 USB ports this enables easy powering of electronics such as phones
- It is super quiet when operating
- It is very reliable
Cons
- Despite its low price, many users felt it would be ideal if this unit had an electrical start button instead of a manual recoil system to get the engine running
- Increase in noise level when running at a full load
- Relatively low run time
#5. Champion 2800 Watt Quiet Inverter Generator with Electric and Remote Start
Champion 3100-Watt RV is go to, ready portable Inverter Generator and is must have appliance every home should have. It is designed to deliver over 23 Amps which can run on single 30 amp outlet or be shared on double 20 outlets. Its peak power is 3100 watts while running watts is 2800 this simply means this generator can run most tools and devices in case of power outrage.
Why Champion 3100-Watt RV generator
It is easily portable; thanks to its smaller and lighter weight.
Its durable, it has iron casing, therefore, can withstand variety environmental condition.
It has wireless remote start, the Champion is fitted with a key fob which allows the user to start or stop it as far as 8o feet away. Is this not cool! Switching it on and off at the comfort of your sit.
It is quieter and more fuel efficient. Champion 3100-Watt RV generator is designed produces DC power which is converted to AC. The AC power is what is delivered to the equipment.
Warranty
Champion 3100-Watt generator comes with 3 years limited warranty. All electrical and mechanical components are covered for 3 years while 270 days for when on commercial and industrial use.
Conclusion
The Champion 3100-Watt though new and less popular when compared to likes of Yamaha and Honda is an inverter generator to watch in near future. Cost and power output is amazing. Feel the real experience of less noisy inverter generator, live peacefully.
Specifications
- Starting Wattage: 3100
- Running Wattage: 2800
- RV Ready Outlet: Yes
- Noise Level from 23 ft.: 58 dBA
- Inverter: yes
- Start Type:  Electric Start, Remote Start
- Fuel Type:  Gasoline
- CARB Compliant: CARB Compliant
Our grades
Pros
- It is fuel efficient, the Champion has economy mode switch which reduces the electrical load, therefore, better fuel use
- Reliable and Durable
- It is safer, this inverter produces clean power less than 3% THD, and therefore, all sensitive electronics can be operated
- It has a flip handle for easy transport
- RV Ready
- The inverter is easy to use
- Relatively quiet operation
Cons
- The ways the wheels are designed restrict the carrying angle
- It does not have a gas drain, it must be siphoned out
- A bit heavy
#6. Yamaha EF2400iSHC (2,000 Watt) - Quiet Inverter Generator with CARB
Yamaha just like any other old electronic manufacturer has faced the test of time. Yamaha EF2400iSHC inverter generator is heavy duty with an ability to produce 2400 watt, it is also easy to use and can be used in most large power consumption garget in our homes such as refrigerator and several small appliances with small wattage demand.
Why Yamaha EF2400iSHC
Durable engine: its features cast iron cylinder liner this ensures the engine last longer. Also, the casting is made of aluminum this ensures it’s not damaged due to rough manhandling.
Easy portability: with a weight of about 75 pounds it easily enables the easy carriage. This lightweight can be attributed to the aluminum die-cast frame.
Easy fuel monitoring: it has fuel gauge, this enables monitoring of fuel level which in turn prevent surprise shutdown due to low fuel.
Environmentally friendly: ranked highly by EPA and CARB for clean emission engine, it uses gas and not oil this meant minimum environmental pollution.
Conclusion
Cheap is expensive, this Yamaha EF2400iSHC is all you need for your power problem.
Warranty
Yamaha fully backs their generators with a 3-year limited warranty that protects against any defect in material or workmanship.
Specifications
- Starting Wattage: 2400
- Running Wattage: 2000
- Noise Level from 23 ft.: 53 dBA
- Inverter: yes
- Start Type:  Recoil Start
- Fuel Type:  Gasoline
- CARB Compliant: CARB Compliant
Our grades
Pros
- It's very quiet thank to the Smart Throttle features which automatically adjust engine speed to match the load
- It is small, lightweight therefore easy to carry
- It has the Oil Watch Warning System which helps prevent engine damage from low oil
- It can efficiently and safely run high-quality air conditioners and sensitive electronic gadgets
- It will run for at least 9 hours if the load is light before it requires refilling
- It operates quietly with a noise level rating of 53-58 DBA
- It has quality and solidly built engine, fuel lines, engine mounts, and fittings
Cons
- This generator model is expensive both online and in stores
- This can be picked up and moved to short distances this is not as light as many will expect
- Does not allow remote starting
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