Best Silent Generators for 2023

In this buyers guide, we’ll rank and provide overviews for the best quietest generators for sale in 2023.

What Specifications are Important When Choosing a Generator?

When you are looking to purchase a generator there are a number of things you should consider, such as how much power it produces. The amount of power you need to pull out of it will determine the physical size of the generator necessary to power all of your appliances and/or equipment. To do this, you may want to inspect anything you plan to use with your generator and calculate the wattage.

You do not want your generator sounding like a V8 engine, so the noise level is a big concern, especially in areas that have tough noise restriction guidelines or when you are caravanning/camping.

Other things you should be concerned about when looking into buying a generator is whether or not it is EPA and CARB compliant. Certain states don't even allow the sales of generators that aren't.

Inverter generators are the types of generators people are looking for when they are concerned about noise, but they are pricier than normal generators.

Inverter technology is relatively new to the power-generating arena. They pack more punch for their size than would a regular generator the same size. These generators use quieter engines, sound dampening technology, and special mufflers, which do a great job in decreasing the noise. However, that is not all. They process electricity far differently from the traditional generators.

Inverter generators are small and compact, which means that they do not have the large gas tanks that the average generators have. This makes run times shorter. Nevertheless, these inverter generators make up for their smaller tanks by way of greater fuel efficiency, which is always a plus in the end. Along with fewer emissions, inverter generators are able to adjust to the need of power and maintain an average of 3600 rpm no matter the load. At eight to 10 hours of run time and a 40 percent savings on fuel, the decreased fuel tank size actually brings you out on top.

We will go over the different generators in several categories to see which one comes out on top as the best. This will also answer the question: what is the quietest generator on the market?

Best Quiet Generators 2023 - Comparsion Table

See Also

• Best 1000 Watt Quiet Generators 2021
• Best Quiet Camping Generators

#1. Westinghouse iGen4500 3,700 Rated Watts with Remote Start

Are you looking for a super quiet generator? Look no more Westinghouse iGen4500 is a noise-free solution to your power needs in emergencies as well as outdoor activities. You can take it along anywhere you may require additional power. It can generate 4500 peak watts and 3700 running watts, which is a considerable amount to fulfill all kinds of power requirements, making it the perfect solution for backup power in case of power outages.

The Westinghouse Inverter Generator comes with an enclosed motor, which produces only 52-55 decibels (according to the manufacturer) of sound. It enables it to power your home without creating a lot of noise.

The Westinghouse iGen4500 is portable. It has two lifting handles, and it also has this one that comes out the front and two wheels, so this generator is easily carried and moved around once I take it off of the rack.

Best features of the Westinghouse iGen4500

Remote Start: this unit can be operated by a key fob, adding to the convenience of starting this generator from some distance away. It's very nice to be able to lay in bed in a campground where you have to shut your generators off at night to be able in the morning when quiet hours are over to start this generator without even getting up.

Clean power: our home electronic safety is paramount; this generator produces clean power with less than 3% distortion.

The item weighs 98 pounds fresh from the box, making it one of the most lightweight generators going for its output capacity.

Durable engine: it designed to shut down when the level of oil is too low and when there is overload this prevents the generator from damage which eventually increases longevity.

It's easy to combine a generator like this with another generator to get even more power and more output.

One of the nicest features of this generator is that it has a meter that tells me how much power I'm using, how much fuel is on board, what my output voltage is and how many hours I have remaining based on the current load of this generator. So how long it will run on the fuel that's in it.

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#2. WEN 56200i - Portable Inverter Generator with CARB

Are you looking for silent generator for your camping and hunting? Look no more WEN 56200i Portable Inverter Generator is available for your needs; this unit is equipped with a 4-stroke 79.7 cc engine that is extremely quiet when in operation. It has 2000 Watt peak power and continues 1600 Watt Rated Power. The good thing with this generator is that it produces clean power which we can use while powering our sensitive electronics.

Why WEN 56200i Portable Inverter Generator

Less fuel more power: at only 1 gallon this inverter generator ensures 4 hours power supply at full capacity while 6 hours at 50% load.

Easy portability: due to its lightweight design it makes the best power solution for camping, outdoor and tailgating.

Parallel compatibility: to allow maximum power production WEN 56200i is designed to allow a parallel connection of two generators.

Environmental friendly: it is designed with reduced emissions engine, approved by EPA and CARB, therefore, can be used legally in many parts of the world.

Durable: it designed to automatically shut down when the level of oil is too low this prevents the engine from damage.

Conclusion

If your budget is very tight WEN 56200i is the best option to opt to furthermore it produces clean power for your sensitive gadget with minimal noise production.

Warranty

Wen 56200i Portable Inverter Generator has a 2-year limited warranty.

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#3. Yamaha EF2000iSv2 Portable Inverter Generator

As we all know Yahama has been in the electronics industry for more than half-century, do we need to say it has faced the test of time? Yamaha EF2000iSv2 is gas powered, super fuel efficient and very lightweight which make the best ideal generator for camping and tailgating. When running continues it has an ability to produce 1600 watts while the starting wattage is at 2000 watts, at this rate, it’s possible to use it on most common home gadgets.

Why Yamaha EF2000iSv2

Easy portability: with a weight of about 44 pounds the lightweight can be attributed to the aluminum die-cast frame. Also has a top handle for easy carriage.

Easy fuel monitoring: it has a fuel gauge, this enables monitoring of fuel level which in turn prevent surprise shutdown due to low fuel.

Parallel compatibility: to allow maximum usage Yamaha EF2000iSv2 has been designed to allow a parallel connection of two generators.

Environmental friendly: it is designed with reduced emissions engine, approved by EPA and CARB, therefore, can be used legally in many parts of the world including California states.

Conclusion

Generator with an electric start is easy to start, get Yamaha EF2000iSv2 cut down on frustration during an emergency.

Warranty

This generators comes with a 3-year limited warranty that protects against any defect in material or workmanship.

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#4. 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.

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.

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.

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

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#5. Westinghouse iGen2200 Gasoline Generator with CARB

Westinghouse generators are a reliable brand renowned for their contribution towards the improvement of people’s lives with efficient power supply and Westinghouse iGen 2200 is not an exception. This thing has 1800 running watts, 2200 peak. It runs very quietly. They advertise 52 decibels. 60 decibels is a conversation at three feet. You should be able to talk to somebody else, standing a few feet from this thing, and not have to raise your voice.

It's lightweight. It only weighs about 46 pounds, so I can throw it on a shelf or even drag it up into the attic if I want to get it out of the way.

Now, this generator doesn't have any of the fancy features. You'll find generators in this segment that have app control, that has remote start, that has fuel gauges, that kind of thing. It is somewhat of a bare-bones model. But at that price, it's hard to beat. Most generators in this segment are in like the $450 to $500 range, sometimes stretching up to $600, $700. Finding this guy for $380 is kind of a steal.

The generator is a bold blue color with a removable panel on the right side for maintenance access. There's a small exhaust hole on the back and a pull starter on the left side. On the top, you'll find the fuel fill nozzle and cap that is surrounded by a rubberized drip catcher. Further back, there's an access panel for maintaining the spark plug. The control panel has three status LEDs in the top left for oil level, overload, and ready light.

Near the bottom, you have a switch for efficiency mode, which will use less fuel and create less noise when power requirements are low. There's a breaker switch to protect against faults in the line, as well as a reset button to re-enable power output after an overload. Finally, there's the ground lug to provide a path to ground for three-prong plugs.

This portable device delivers outstanding performances in emergencies like harsh weather, power outage, etc., and you can reliably operate it overnight without any fear of a power surge.

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#6. WEN 56380i Gasoline Inverter Generator with Electric Start

The WEN 56380i is made with an extremely reliable four-stroke 212cc engine. This engine is an OHV with a single cylinder that is air-cooled. You can expect 3,800 watts of surge power and 3,400 watts of continuous rated power. This kind of power allows you to run your power tools, microwave oven, air conditioner, heater, and full-size refrigerator (not at the same time). This is perfect for RV enthusiasts and sailors of the deep blue.

It weighs 99-pounds wet making it on the heavy side. It has two handles on either side for two people to carry it. And it also comes with a nice handle so you could wheel it around with a couple of small plastic wheels, better than some that I've seen on the market.

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.

The ECO-MODE technology helps it conserve energy while keeping the noise level to about 57 dBA. That is pretty good for such a powerful machine. It is EPA and CARB compliant as well.

One cool feature of this generator is that you can connect two of them together to double your wattage. This is a 3,800-watt generator. So, by connecting two of them, you should be able to get 7,600 Watts.

Other features:

• Its 2.2-gallon gas tank is capable of running the generator for about 8.5 hours at half load.
• The generator is equipped with two USB ports (1-amp and 2.1-amp).

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#7. Champion Power Equipment 100692 2,000 Watt Review

Are you looking for clean power generating inverter? A Champion 2000-watt is all you need for all your sensitive gadgets, such as laptops and smartphones, while on camping or tailgating. Its peak power is 2000 watts while running watts is 1700 this simply means this generator can run most home gadgets during power outrage.

Why prefer Champion 100692

Easy portability: due to its lightweight design, it makes the best power solution for camping, outdoor, and tailgating. It is about 39.5lb. Also comes with a handle for easy transportation.

Parallel compatibility: to double the watt produced Champion 2000-watt has been designed to allow a parallel connection of two generators.

Economical to use: this unit is designed with smart Economy Mode, which ensures reduced electrical load hence noise when in operation.

Clean Power: this unit includes two 120V 20A (NEMA 5-20R) household outlets, with less than 3% THD its most ideal for our sensitive electronics. There is a second 12V outlet for charging at 8.3 amps.

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#8. Generac GP2500i - Portable Inverter Generator 2,200 Rated Watts

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.

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.

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#9. Honda EU3000IS 3,000 Watt Inverter Generator - Customer Choice

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.

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.

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#10. Westinghouse WGen7500 (7,500/9,500 Watts) Portable Generator

Are you looking portable generator that offers power packed and heavy-duty solution for your remote power requirements? Westinghouse WGen7500 is all you need; it comes in handy when you are looking for power while camping, partying in your backyard. It’s built with a powerful 420cc Westinghouse OHV engine, which is designed with dependability and durability.

Why prefer Westinghouse WGen7500

Remote Start: with remote start features remote start operated by a key fob; this adds conveniency to the user.

Durable engine: this unit is designed to shut down when the level of oil is too low this prevents the generator from damage which eventually increases longevity.

Easy portability: it comes with mounted wheels and handles which enable easy movement around.

Environmental friendly: it is designed with reduced emissions engine, approved by EPA, CSA and CARB, therefore, can be used legally in many parts of the world.

Dual fuel technology: this generator engine is designed to runs using gasoline or propane; hence, the user has the option of choice on the oil to use.

Conclusion

When it comes to the production of large power Westinghouse WGen7500 is all you need, cheap and durable. Considering quality think Westinghouse WGen7500.

Warranty

This Generator comes with a 3-Year Warranty and Lifetime Technical Support.

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Conclusion

When it comes to inverter generators the choices are vast and numerous. At the end of the day, it all depends on your budget and applications. If you are a fisherman or camper who only wants to go out in the wilderness every so often, then a generator like the PowerPro 56101.

Price means everything. Even though cheaper may seem better, the Honda generators seem to prove themselves through their warranty programs. For anyone who is a serious consumer, they know how important warranties are when buying expensive equipment. You may save some money buying the cheaper model, but when that warranty expires, either you will be looking at buying a new generator or spending a lot of money on repairs.

After going over all of the above models, it seems like the Honda in every sense comes out on top. For second place, I like the Yamaha inverter generators. Both companies have been proven to produce great equipment, and their generators are no different in that regards.