--- Best Choice ---
Champion 200988 - Best-Rated

Comparsion Table
Model | Start/Run Wattage | Noise Level | Inverter | Start Type | Editor’s Rating |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
WEN 56380i Check Price |
3800/3400 | 57 dBA | Electric Start, Recoil Start | 9.0 | |
Champion 200988 Check Price |
4500/3500 | 61 dBA | Electric Start, Recoil Start | 8.9 | |
Westinghouse iGen4500 Check Price |
4500/3700 | 52 dBA | Electric Start, Recoil Start, Remote Start | 8.7 | |
WEN GN400i Check Price |
4000/3500 | - | Recoil Start | 8.5 | |
Champion 100554 Check Price |
4375/3500 | 68 dBA | Electric Start, Remote Start | 8.2 | |
WEN 56475 Check Price |
4750/3750 | 67 dBA | Electric Start, Recoil Start | 8.2 | |
Champion 201052 Check Price |
4750/3800 | 68 dBA | Electric Start, Recoil Start | 8.0 | |
Westinghouse WGen3600 Check Price |
4650/3600 | 69 dBA | Recoil Start | 7.7 | |
DuroMax XP4000S Check Price |
4000/3300 | 69 dBA | Recoil Start | 7.6 | |
Briggs & Stratton S3500 (30736) Check Price |
4375/3500 | - | Recoil Start | 7.6 |
#1. 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.
This generator is great for RV, construction sites, power outages, home backup, camping, food truck, boat, fishing, and hunting. I used the WEN 56380i to power the air conditioner 15,000 BTU (2000 watts), lighting (150 watts), refrigerator (600 watts), TV (150 watts), and phone charger, all at the same time.
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.
What is in the Package?
Included: small tool kit (screwdriver, spark plug wrench, and 2 combination wrenches) funnel cup, funnel tube, manual, warranty card. The generator is shipped without oil and gasoline.
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 56380i, like most inverter generators, comes with the standard 12V DC output with an independent circuit protector. It also provides two 20-amp 120V AC outlets and a 3-prong RV Ready TT-30R outlet. There is a circuit breaker that will shut the power off in the event of an overload. This is good for saving your appliances and electronics.
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.
My Noise Test
- Idle speed, 23 ft., eco mode off: 71 dBA
- Idle speed, 23 ft., eco mode on: 59 dBA
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).
Specifications
- Starting Wattage: 3800
- Running Wattage: 3400
- RV Ready Outlet: Yes
- Noise Level from 23 ft.: 57 dBA
- Inverter: yes
- Start Type:  Electric Start, Recoil Start
- Fuel Type:  Gasoline
- CARB Compliant: yes
Our grades
Pros
- Electric start
- RV ready
- Feature two USB outlets
- Digital Display (comsumption, output, voltage, frequency, runtime)
- Very quiet
- Fuel-efficient engine
- Easy to maintain
- Wheel kit
- Good design
- Parallel Compatibility
- ECO mode - maximizes fuel ecomomy
Cons
- Relatively heavy
- Small plastic wheels
- Customer service complaints
- Flimsy build spark plug to
#2. Champion 200988 - Quiet 4,500-Watt Portable Inverter Generator
Introducing the New Champion Dual Fuel Generator, model 200988. This one's an enclosed inverter generator with an electric start. It's 4,500 watts starting (up to 37.5 Amps) and then 3,500 running watts (up to 26.3 Amps). It's got the Champion branded engine (model R210N-VP, four-stroke, 212cc). Run-on regular unleaded gasoline (I always run 91 non-oxy) or propane.
Note that when operating on propane, the running power is 3,150 watts.
What is in the Package?
Included: engine oil, USB adapter, spark plug wrench, propane (LPG) hose (8 ft.), oil funnel, screwdriver, combination wrench, wheel kit, manual, warranty card. The generator is shipped without gasoline and propane.
This inverter generator can run up to 14 hours on a full tank of gas (2.3 gal.) and up to 21 hours on a 20-pound propane tank at 1/4 load. The noise level is 61 decibels, which is quite a bit quieter than open frame models. My primary use for this one is for camping. So even the difference of about five or six decibels can be pretty significant, especially when you're out in the woods or you're somewhere where you might have some neighbors camping not too far from you.
My Noise Test
- Idle speed, 23 ft., eco mode on: 59 dBA
- Idle speed, 23 ft., eco mode off: 62.5 dBA
- Full load, 23 ft., eco mode off: 72 dBA
Of course, for camping, portability is a big issue. And I'm already a little bit concerned at the 103-pound weight of this thing. But I don't think you can get a 4,500 watt or 3,500-watt generator that weighs much less than 100 pounds. So I'm going to have to just deal with it, and I'm sure that that won't be a problem.
This unit is great for RV, events, camping, tailgate, construction site, power outage, food truck, and home backup. I used the Champion 200988 to power the Refrigerator (700 watts), Space Heater (1,500 watts), Pressure Cooker (800 watts), Home Security System (15 watts), TV (150 watts), Set Top Box (20 watts), laptop charger (70 watts) and Wi-Fi router (15 watts), all at the same time.
Also, at the front of the generator, you have this flip-up carry handle. It's got an aluminum handle, not just plastic. This thing wheels around very easily, and it's super easy to do one-handed. There are all also two handles on the top here. These are powder coated. They just feel super robust.
It comes with:
- Two NEMA 5-20R Duplex Outlets
- One NEMA TT-30R RV Outlet
- One 12-volt DC Outlet
- One Parallel Port
Verified Customer Review
I bought this portable generator specifically to use with the camper. And I went with the dual fuel because I liked the idea of not hauling around raw gas. If we take a long trip, I don't want to have a container with gasoline sloshing around in the back of the truck. So I think that if I throw a couple of bottles of propane in the back, it'll transport easily. I like the idea of running it on propane because it doesn't spoil. So that's why I bought this model.
Specifications
- Starting Wattage: 4500
- Running Wattage: 3500
- RV Ready Outlet: Yes
- Noise Level from 23 ft.: 61 dBA
- Inverter: yes
- Start Type:  Electric Start, Recoil Start
- Fuel Type:  Gasoline, Propane
- CARB Compliant: yes
Our grades
Pros
- Dual fuel (gasoline & propane)
- Fuel efficient engine
- Electric start
- Small size for a 4500 Watt generator
- Parallel Ready
- Very simple and easy to prep for use
- Wheel kit
- RV ready outlet
- AC and DC outlets
- Included: oil, USB adapter, funnel, spark plug wrench, propane hose, screwdriver
- Very quiet for its size
Cons
- Decent weight (103 lbs)
- Small plastic wheels
- Poor quality control
#3. 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.
What Appliances Can Be Connected?
This generator can power the following common applications (not all applications can be powered simultaneously):
- Incandescent Lights
- Refrigerator/Freezer (900 watts)
- Electric kettle (2,000 watts)
- Coffee Maker (1,200 watts)
- Toaster (1,000 watts)
- Induction Hob (2,000 watts)
- Microwave Oven (1,200 watts)
- Air Conditioner (2,500 watts)
- Space Heater (2,000 watts)
- Sump Pump or Water Pump (1,000 watts)
- TV, Laptop, Game Console, Desktop Computer, Home Sound System, Projector
- Tablets and Mobile Devices
- and more…
This generator has two 20-amp regular house receptacles (NEMA 5-20R). It has a 30-amp RV plug (NEMA TT-30R) already installed, as well as a handy USB socket for charging portable electronics such as cell phones and laptops.
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.
Noise test
Load | Distance | ECO MODE | Noise level |
---|---|---|---|
Idle speed | 23 ft. | off | 58 dBA |
1 ft. | on | 79.5 dBA | |
23 ft. | on | 56 dBA | |
1/5 load (750 watts) | 23 ft. | on | 60 dBA |
1/2 load (1750 watts) | 23 ft. | on | 61 dBA |
Full load | 23 ft. | off | 72 dBA |
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.
What is in the Package?
Included: engine oil, oil funnel, spark plug wrench, battery float charger, remote control, wheel kit, manual and warranty card. The generator is shipped without gasoline.
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.
Another feature of this inverter generator is the «EFFICIENCY-MODE» mechanism that enables it to have a super-efficient operation (18 hours of run time on 3.4 gallons worth of fuel at 1/4-load and 15 hours at 1/2 load).
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.
Specifications
- Starting Wattage: 4500
- Running Wattage: 3700
- RV Ready Outlet: Yes
- Noise Level from 23 ft.: 52 dBA
- Inverter: yes
- Start Type:  Electric Start, Recoil Start, Remote Start
- Fuel Type:  Gasoline
- CARB Compliant: yes
Our grades
Pros
- High level of output
- Has the facility to control with remote control and button
- It is quieter when compared to many generators of this class
- Good fuel efficiency
- RV Ready
- Feature two USB outlets
- Parallel Compatibility
- Comes with a digital display
- Lightweight for its kind (98 pounds)
- Circuit breaker protection & Low Oil Shutdown
- Having Wheels to Move
Cons
- The material used to build this generator is not of high quality, therefore breaks easily
- The included spark plug is not very good
- Westinghouse customer service leaves a lot to be desired
- Some generators have choke problems
#4. WEN GN400i - Cheapest 4000 Watt Inverter Generator
One of the first things to look for with any portable generator is reliability. WEN is rightly regarded as one of the best manufacturers going, and their latest GN400i has plenty of points to recommend.
What is in the Package?
Included: spark plug wrench, combination wrench (8mm/10mm), oil funnel, high altitude kits, manual, warranty card. The generator is shipped without oil and gasoline.
Its 212cc recoil start engine provides 3,500 watts of continuous power and 4,000 surge power. This makes it big enough to power some larger appliances such as the fridge since it does have a good amount of surge power.
At 66 pounds, considering what you get from it, the WEN GN400i inverter generator is still good for portability. For those who want to power their RV or have a mega camping adventure planned, you can be sure it will do the job and more.
My Noise Test
- Idle speed, 23 ft., eco mode off: 68 dBA
- Idle speed, 23 ft., eco mode on: 66 dBA
- 3/4 load (2750 watts), 23 ft., eco mode on: 73 dBA
The Key Features of the GN400i model include:
- It is equipped with LED indicator lights along with the control panel which helps to show the system status.
- The inverter generator has electronic circuit breakers to protect against any overloads.
- It can reproduce an excellent AC sine wave which enables the electronic device to connect directly to the generator to last longer.
- It is also equipped with ECO-MODE which runs as much as 11 hours without refueling. It also automatically adjusts the engine speed depending on the load. In this case, the load dictates how the engine runs.
- 7 hours of run time on 1.85 gallons worth of fuel at 1/2-load capacity makes it very fuel-efficient.
- Lots of outlets: The model comes with two 120V 20A (NEMA 5-20R) household outlets, two 5V USB ports, and 120V 30A (NEMA TT-30R) RV-ready outlet. This gives users plenty of options.
- Most importantly, it has parallel operation ability. Inverter generators can synchronize their output waveform, so you can combine two similar generators and provide double the wattage.
Other features:
- 1.85-gallon fuel tank
- 120-volt operation
- Carry handles built right in
- EPA+CARB / 50 State Compliant
- 2-year limited warranty
Specifications
- Starting Wattage: 4000
- Running Wattage: 3500
- RV Ready Outlet: Yes
- Inverter: yes
- Start Type:  Recoil Start
- Fuel Type:  Gasoline
- CARB Compliant: yes
Our grades
Pros
- Very Cheap
- Small Oversize
- Fuel efficient
- RV ready
- Feature two USB outlets
- Parallel Compatibility
- Eco mode
- The most complete package
- Automatic shutdown technology
Cons
- Open frame
- Relatively heavy, no wheels
- Noise level is a bit more than its competitor models
- Bad customer service
- Recommended oil change every 25 hrs
#5. Champion 100554 - 3,500 Watt Generator Gasoline Generator for RV & Home Use
Champion is renowned for its high-performing power generation equipment. The Champion Ready Portable Generator has to be one of their most innovative products. Not only have exceeded an innovative design for a portable generator but they have surpassed the universal standard for performance excellence.
What is in the Package?
Included: remote key fob, oil funnel, wheel kit, battery, manual, and warranty card. The generator is shipped without gasoline and oil.
This 3500-Watt RV Ready Generator has a 208cc Champion engine with an electric start plus a battery that features Intelligauge for outrage backup all your RV power needs. In fact, it has enough watts to power an RV air conditioner. It easy to start features are stress-free when it comes to starting the generator in cold weather. Even the push-button start includes a battery for added coverage.
What Appliances Can Be Connected?
This generator is great for RV, home backup, construction sites, and emergencies. The Champion 100554 can power the following common applications (not all applications can be powered simultaneously):
- Refrigerator (800-1,200 watts)
- Electric kettle (1,000-2,000 watts)
- Coffee Maker (1,400 watts)
- Dishwasher (1,500 watts)
- Electric Pressure Cooker (800-1,200 watts)
- Electric stove (3,000 watts)
- Microwave Oven (1,500 watts)
- Electric Iron (1,500 watts)
- Hair Blow Dryer (1,000-2,000 watts)
- Washing Machine (1,000 watts)
- Air Conditioner (1,500-3,000 watts)
- Water Pump (1,500 watts)
- RV water heater (1,400 watts)
- and more…
Another great feature the Champion Ready Portable Generator has to offer is a wireless starter that will actually start or stop from up to 80 feet away. A great feature when the outdoors elements are extreme such as freezing cold temperatures or tornado-type winds.
This generator is also EPA certified and CARB compliant. In addition, you can purchase with the utmost confidence. Champion Support provides you with a 3-year limited warranty and FREE lifetime technical support.
With a 4375 starting watt and 3500 running watts, you will enjoy up to 12 hours of run time on a full tank of gas (4.7 gal.). It also has a Volt Guard built-in surge protector to prevent overloads and to keep your devices and appliances safe. And with a noise level of 68 dBA from 23 feet, the sound will be no louder than an air conditioning unit at 50 feet or heavy traffic at 300 feet. Moreover, the innovative Intelligauge will monitor frequency, voltage, and operating hours. Plus, with the foldaway easy-grip handle and wheel kit with a forever inflated tire, you can simply move your generator where it is needed.
Specifications
- Starting Wattage: 4375
- Running Wattage: 3500
- RV Ready Outlet: Yes
- Noise Level from 23 ft.: 68 dBA
- Inverter: no
- Start Type:  Electric Start, Remote Start
- Fuel Type:  Gasoline
- CARB Compliant: CARB Compliant
Our grades
Pros
- High run time
- 3 types of outlets (NEMA: 5-20R, TT-30R, L5-30R)
- Wireless Remote Start up to 80 feet away
- Reliable and Durable
- Wheel kit
- Cold Start Technology for easy starts in cold weather
- Ease of use
- RV ready
- Volt Guard technology
- LED readout (It shows 4 features: frequency, all run time, running time for the session, volts)
Cons
- Moderately loud
- Portability is an issue
- No ground wire included
- It’s a bit heavy
- Poor quality control
#6. WEN 56475 Gasoline Powered Generator with Electric Start
Are you looking for a cheap and portable generator? WEN 56475 is readily available in the market to ensure all your power problems are sorted out. You may be asking yourself why WEN 56475, its best preferred due to the fact that at half load this generator will give you power for at least 11 hours. When running continues it has an ability to produce 3750 watts while the starting wattage is at 4750 watts, this is enough power to run almost every electronic at home or office.
Why WEN 56475 4750 Watt
Durable: this unit is long lasting its designed with a feature which allow low oil shutdown.
Easy portability: it comes with mounted wheels and fold-down handle this enable easy mobility of the unit.
Electric Start: a keyless electric start lets you turn on your generator at the press of a button.
Very safe: this unit has spark arrestor, a very vital part for those intending to use it in the forest.
Conclusion
Get yourself WEN 56475; get the value of your hard earned money.
Warranty
WEN 56475 4750-Watt Gasoline Powered Portable Generator has a 2-year limited warranty.
Specifications
- Starting Wattage: 4750
- Running Wattage: 3750
- RV Ready Outlet: Yes
- Noise Level from 23 ft.: 67 dBA
- Inverter: no
- Start Type:  Electric Start, Recoil Start
- Fuel Type:  Gasoline
- CARB Compliant: CARB Compliant
Our grades
Pros
- This unit has digital readout to help monitor maintenance intervals and oil changes
- The unit steel frame enclosure and an internal air-cooling system keep the engine cool, maximizing durability and engine longevity
- Good Price to Power Ratio
- RV ready
- Convenient electric start
Cons
- Many users of this unit have confessed to having a challenge with its starter, it's easily spoils while others claim that from the word go it does not function even when the unit is new. Also, the whole unit last for a short time before it stops producing power
- At 67 dBA this unit may not appropriate to the user in all occasion many customers have lamented that its vacuum cleaner noise like is very uncomfortable when used nearby
#7. Champion 201052 Dual Fuel (Gasoline+Propane) Generator
Champion - 201052 is a 3800 rated watt portable generator used as a backup or standby power source. It produces enough power for most appliances. Because of the dual-fuel source, this champion generator is very diversified in terms of usage. You can either use propane gas or just regular gasoline to power this generator.
What is in the Package?
Included: propane (LPG) hose (6.5 ft.), oil funnel, wheel kit, engine oil (20.3 fl. oz.; SAE 10W-30), manual, and warranty card. The generator is shipped without gasoline and a tool kit.
The generator is quite big, but you do not have to worry about how to start it because the electric push-button start makes things easier. And if the battery of the generator is low, well, you have to fall back to the use of the pull start. And for people who are concerned about the noise this generator produces, well, the generator creates so little sound that you'd almost think it's just a lawnmower.
The generator comes in handy and is portable enough for travel. It is recommended for both homes, offices, and RVs. The overall quality of the generator is quite perfect for your everyday use. It comes with a cooling system that prevents the generator from overheating. When looking at its mobility, the wheels make moving this large generator easy. In all, this generator is cost-effective and worth the price.
What Appliances Can Be Connected?
This generator is great for home backup, events, construction sites, RV, and food trucks. The Champion 201052 can power the following common applications (not all applications can be powered simultaneously):
- RV: lighting (50 watts), water pump (50 watts), water heater (1,400 watts), air conditioner 15,000 BTU (1,500 watts), refrigerator (600 watts)
- Home Kitchen: refrigerator (800 watts), electric pressure cooker (1,000 watts), microwave oven (1,400 watts), food blender (500 watts)
- Leisure and Recreation: lighting (100 watts), TV (250 watts), game console (200 watts), home sound system (300 watts), set-top box (30 watts), home air conditioner 12,000 BTU (1,300 watts), microwave oven (1,400 watts)
- Bathroom: lighting (40 watts), washing machine (1,000 watts), curling iron (300 watts), hair blow dryer (1,500 watts), bathroom towel heater (150 watts), electric shaver (40 watts), and more…
Specifications
- Starting Wattage: 4750
- Running Wattage: 3800
- RV Ready Outlet: Yes
- Noise Level from 23 ft.: 68 dBA
- Inverter: no
- Start Type:  Electric Start, Recoil Start
- Fuel Type:  Gasoline, Propane
- CARB Compliant: CARB Compliant
Our grades
Pros
- Its safety fuel selector switch comes in handy
- The generator can be started with both electric push button and pull starter
- The generator is built with cast iron making it very durable
- EPA certified and CARB compliant in 50 states
- The cold start technology makes it easy to start the generator in cold weather
- Its volt guard helps to protect against over voltage and under voltage
- RV ready
Cons
- When the oil is low, the generator shuts down automatically
- When using gasoline, you cannot open the fuel solenoid when the battery is low
- The Champion is loud enough to drown out normal conversation.
#8. Westinghouse WGen3600 - Portable Gasoline Generator for Home Standby & RV
The Westinghouse WGen3600 Portable Generator is a real powerhouse, with more than enough watts to power just about anything you need.
This generator provides more than enough power to run an off grid cabin, a tailgate party or your RV air conditioner and microwave. It will also provide your home with the essential backup power you need in case of a prolonged black out or natural disaster.
Why Westinghouse WGen3600 Portable Generator
This generator is easy to unbox, and comes “plug and play” with minimal assembly required. It has everything you need to get it up and running right away. The kit includes oil and an oil funnel, as well as a tool kit, and a detailed user's manual.
The 120v house receptacles, as well as 30 amp receptacles have weather proof rubber covers. It can run for up to 18 hours on just 4 gallons of gas. It has an easy to read gas gauge, as well as an automatic low oil shut off.
The 212cc engine is sturdy, with a cast iron sleeve.
The price isn't bad, for such a powerful generator.
Potential Problem
It's big and heavy, weighing in at 107 lbs. If you plan on using it camping, you may need two people to get into the truck. However, the wheels make it easy to move once you get it out on the ground.
If you intend to use this with an RV, it may not be suitable for a motorhome, due to limited storage. But it would be perfect for use with a toy hauler. It could also be used with a trailer, if you can transport it in the truck bed.
It's a 4 stroke engine, so it can be noisy. However, it's not as noisy as some 4 strokes.
Specifications
- Starting Wattage: 4650
- Running Wattage: 3600
- RV Ready Outlet: Yes
- Noise Level from 23 ft.: 69 dBA
- Inverter: no
- Start Type:  Recoil Start
- Fuel Type:  Gasoline
- CARB Compliant: CARB Compliant
Our grades
Pros
- Easy to install and operate
- Good fuel efficiency
- RV ready
- EPA certified and CARB compliant in 50 states
- Good price to power ratio
Cons
- It's big and heavy
- No push button electric start
- The noise level is a bit too high
#9. DuroMax XP4000S - Portable Gasoline Generator
Have you ever thought of a dependable portable generator for your power problem? DuroMax is all you need. The XP4000S is a light-duty generator with the capability of producing 4000 peak watt and 3,300 running watts. This unit can handle the most common equipment such as a refrigerator, home air conditioner among others.
We are living in the age of increased global warming DuroMax is complied with emissions standards, therefore be assured you are using environmentally friendly generators.
It's durable, it has a metal casing, therefore, can withstand rough manhandling.
This generator complies with California Air Resources Board CARB exhaust emission standards, which means it is environment friendly.
When in full tank you will enjoy 12 hours of uninterrupted power supply. Everything is made easy thank to oil funnel, spark plug wrench, toolset and owner’s manual accompanied this package.
Potential problem
With all those good things this generator comes with its own challenge, many users have confessed that it's very difficult to start. The handle that controls the choke is made of plastic which eventually reduces its durability.
If the generator does start it could mean that the gas may be too old therefore draining it and adding new gas would be the best idea. Still, if it takes longer to start you can clean the spark plug, and if this fails you need to change it completely.
Conclusion: It is pocket-friendly and is of high quality; get the value of your money.
Specifications
- Starting Wattage: 4000
- Running Wattage: 3300
- RV Ready Outlet: Yes
- Noise Level from 23 ft.: 69 dBA
- Inverter: no
- Start Type:  Recoil Start
- Fuel Type:  Gasoline
- CARB Compliant: CARB Compliant
Our grades
Pros
- It is affordable for most people for it goes below $400
- East to maintain as it rarely breaks done thank to Low Oil Shutoff
- Decent power which can withstand most home equipment
- Good power to price ratio
- Very reliable
Cons
- The noise level is a bit too high
- Needs regular oil change
- Only 30-day replacement warranty and carry a full 1-year parts warranty
- Poor packing
#10. Briggs & Stratton 30736 - 3500 Watt Portable Generator with RV Outlet
Are you looking to power some of your tools or appliances? Better yet, looking for an affordable conventional generator that can power your RV’s 15,000 BTU air conditioner? Well, you might have to pay serious attention to the Briggs & Stratton 30736!
At a glance, this unit still is what you would consider a heavy piece of machinery. However, you might have an easier experience moving it around thanks to its set of never-flat tires. Let’s closely scrutinize why this unit might be the best buy at this price tag.
What is in the Package?
Here’s what the manufacturer includes in the packaging:
- Briggs & Stratton 30736 Conventional Generator
- Wheel Kit (never-flat tires)
- Maintenance Tool Kit
- User Manual
Operation & Ease of Use
For those that have yanked a standard recoil starter before, you yet again have to strap yourself for this one. You might want to keep in mind that the Briggs & Stratton 30736 doesn’t come with an electric start.
This unit’s control panel presents you with amazing functionality, and it isn’t overly complicated to use. The multi-featured control panel rocks three household outlets – (2) 120V/20A Duplex (NEMA 5-20R), (1) 120V/30A (NEMA TT-30R) – Locking RV outlet.
This unit is equipped with circuit breaker protection to safeguard it in the case you overload the outlets and an automated low-oil shut-off system.
Given, the Briggs & Stratton 30736 is not a lightweight generator. Even though it weighs about 115lbs, it’s technically movable. That being said, you might want to use special equipment for any attempts to manipulate and transport it. The good thing is that it rocks 7” never-flat tires to assist you when moving it around.
CO Guard technology: advanced carbon monoxide detection system. The generator will automatically shut off if it's not in a well-ventilated area, and the CO2 concentration may be dangerous.
Noise Level & Power
The Briggs & Stratton 30736 is fitted with a powerful 208cc, OHV engine for a power yield of about 3,500 running watts and 4,375 surge watts. All thanks to its Power Surge Alternator, this unit produces short power surges that can power up your huge motor-driven appliances.
With its 5-gallon fuel tank, you can expect this unit to present you with a run-time of about 14hrs at 50% Load before you have to refuel it. What’s good? The manufacturer found it wise to include a contemporary innovation to its engine’s design-build; the Overhead Valve Technology keeps the engine cooler for it to run longer.
It’s quite unfortunate that the Briggs & Stratton 30736 doesn’t have quiet functionality. Even though the manufacturer doesn’t specify this conventional generator’s noise level, they went out of their way to fit it with a Super Lo-Tone muffler in an attempt to reduce its noise generation.
Verdict: Should You Buy It?
All things considered, the Briggs & Stratton 30736 isn’t the generator you’d want to buy if you are looking for a unit that is small and stealthy. Then again, it’s a sturdy, powerful, and portable conventional generator that has an amazing run-time.
Bottom line, if you’re on the market looking for a huge fuel-efficient generator, just under $600, that packs the juice to power most, if not all, of your RV’s appliances – then, the Briggs & Stratton 30736 might be a good buy for you. In fact, the DuroMax XP5500EH is one of the other few models that have comparable levels of power for every dollar spent and functionality!
Specifications
- Starting Wattage: 4375
- Running Wattage: 3500
- RV Ready Outlet: Yes
- Inverter: no
- Start Type:  Recoil Start
- Fuel Type:  Gasoline
- CARB Compliant: no
Our grades
Pros
- Easy to assemble
- Impressive power of about 4,375 surge watts
- Overhead Valve Technology to keep its engine cool
- Great run-time
- Has a Super Lo-Tone muffle for noise reduction
- EPA certified
- CO Guard technology
- Circuit breaker & low-oil shut-off
Cons
- Not particularly silent in functionality
- Heavy
- Not CARB compliant
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