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

Comparsion Table
Model | Start/Run Wattage | Noise Level | Inverter | Start Type | Editor’s Rating |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
WEN 56235i Check Price |
2350/1900 | 51 dBA | Recoil Start | 8.7 | |
WEN GN400i Check Price |
4000/3500 | 0 dBA | Recoil Start | 8.5 | |
Westinghouse WGen6000 Check Price |
7500/6000 | 72 dBA | Electric Start, Recoil Start | 8.3 | |
A-iPower SUA12000E Check Price |
12000/9000 | 78 dBA | Electric Start, Recoil Start | 8.3 | |
WEN 56380i Check Price |
3800/3400 | 57 dBA | Electric Start, Recoil Start | 9.0 | |
PowerSmart PS50 Check Price |
1000/900 | 49 dBA | Recoil Start | 7.9 | |
Champion 100891 Check Price |
9375/7500 | 74 dBA | Electric Start, Recoil Start | 8.1 | |
Pulsar PG5250B Check Price |
5250/4250 | 72 dBA | Recoil Start | 7.8 | |
DuroMax XP4000S Check Price |
4000/3300 | 69 dBA | Recoil Start | 7.6 | |
Sportsman GEN2000 Check Price |
2000/1400 | 65 dBA | Recoil Start | 6.8 |
#1. 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
#2. 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
#3. Westinghouse WGen6000 Portable Generator 6,000 Running Watts/7,500 Peak Watts
If you live in a part of town that is prone to be affected by natural disasters which might end up having a toll on electricity supply, the Westinghouse WGen6000 is a generator you should consider purchasing.
Westinghouse WGen6000 is a portable generator that is powered by gas and features an electric start. The fact that this generator features an electric start button implies that it can be started very effortlessly. You do not have to have a young person around before you can make use of it.
The Westinghouse WGen6000 generator is a power source that you can depend on to run for up to 18 hours as long as it's gas tank is full. This, therefore, makes it a generator set that you can rely upon for power when there is an emergency.
The Westinghouse WGen600 can be assembled very easily, there will be no point getting an expert to help you assemble this generator set as it comes with an instruction manual which you can rely upon to help you get started.
In addition to being easy to set up, this generator comes with lots of safety features. It has a feature that makes it shut down when it lacks the right amount of oil. This means you can be sure that your generator will not be damaged if you make the mistake of not putting the right amount of oil into it.
While the many features that come with this generator can go a long way to help you get the best out of its use, there is some more. The Westinghouse WGen6000 has a guarantee of three years and comes with the much-needed customer support.
Specifications
- Starting Wattage: 7500
- Running Wattage: 6000
- Noise Level from 23 ft.: 72 dBA
- Inverter: no
- Start Type:  Electric Start, Recoil Start
- Fuel Type:  Gasoline
- CARB Compliant: CARB Compliant
Our grades
Pros
- It has a guarantee of three years
- It has good fuel efficiency
- Amazing customer service
- Reliable and Durable
- Inexpensive
Cons
- Its battery does not hold a charge for long
- It is heavy
- A little too loud
#4. A-iPower SUA12000E - 12,000 Watt Generator with Weels and Electric Start
Have you ever thought of owning a portable generator? A-IPower SUA12000E is there for you; with its electric start of 12000 starting watts and 9000 running watts makes a perfect general for back-up power for homes during the outage and for construction sites.
Equipped with a keyless one Touch electric start button, it allows effortless startup of the generator. For a safety measure, it comes with GFCI Outlets which provide additional protection and safety under damp condition.
Why you should purchase A-IPower SUA12000E
- Fuel efficiency: with 50% load it can run up to 9 hours thanks to 7.0 gallon, large heavy duty all steel constructed fuel tank;
- Easy mobility: thanks to its never-flat wheels and lighter weight;
- Electric shock protected: with its wires concealed in the cord provide cover, it eliminates injury through electoral shock;
- Durable: it has rigid steel frame, therefore can withstand variety environmental condition.
Conclusion
It is pocket-friendly and mobile compared to others; get the value of your money.
Warranty
A-IPower SUA12000E is two years warranted.
Specifications
- Starting Wattage: 12000
- Running Wattage: 9000
- Noise Level from 23 ft.: 78 dBA
- Inverter: no
- Start Type:  Electric Start, Recoil Start
- Fuel Type:  Gasoline
Our grades
Pros
- It built-in DC adapter plug can be used to charge the battery and with USB adapter to charge cellphone
- It is affordable for most people for it goes for $847.93 with the inclusion of waterproof cover and 15-Foot power cord
- It comes with 12v-14ah maintenance free battery
- It is an ideal power backup solution during outages
- Electric Start
- Decent Power
Cons
- Many potential in California States lamented they cannot get this unit to California, reason being that it none CARB complied, the maker should check this
- Smoke and noise is a matter of concern to many users they complained the noise level is a little bit high making the use uncomfortable
- It lack fuel gauge, the user had to stop using the unit to check the level of fuel this very inconveniencing to many user
#5. 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
#6. PowerSmart PS50 900 Rated Watts - The Cheapest Gasoline Generator
Due to different power requirements, a huge and powerful generator may not be of use or need always, therefore, PowerSmart designed PS50 to help those who need a specific and small amount of power may be for tailgating or camping, it's very ideal for such task due to its lightweight. It has the capability of producing 1000 peak watts and 900 running watts. This unit can handle most common equipment such as phones, laptop among others.
Great for a tailgate, camping, small construction jobs, and power outages. You can connect a freezer, mini-fridge, electric drill, lights, radio, camping equipment, pellet stove, small table saw, heater, stereo, television, and more.
This small, 39-pound inverter generator is EPA and CARB compliant, making it good to use in any national park or anywhere else. It has a two-stroke engine, which means the oil mixes with the gas. This is beneficial, as the user doesn't have to change the oil. Its 1.1-gallon gas tank is capable of running the generator for about five hours at half load.
The PowerSmart PS50 is ultralight and comes with a built-in handle for easy carrying. Four stands on the bottom of the generator help keep it steady as it runs. It has a single 5-20R 120V outlet providing a continuous output of 7.5 amps and a surge of 8.3 amps.
There is a second 12V outlet for charging at 8.3 amps at about 100-watts of charging capacity (charging cables included).
It is an average product that is sold at a reasonable price. It is ideal for camping and recreational activities. It is a crucial back up in case of a blackout.
Specifications
- Starting Wattage: 1000
- Running Wattage: 900
- RV Ready Outlet: Yes
- Noise Level from 23 ft.: 49 dBA
- Inverter: no
- Start Type:  Recoil Start
- Fuel Type:  Gasoline
- CARB Compliant: yes
Our grades
Pros
- The cheapest gasoline generator on the market
- Easy to adjust and repair
- Very compact and lightweight
- Relatively quiet operation
- Starts readily
- Great for small power tools and mobile devices
- Charging cables are included
- The low price for its quality is great
Cons
- It has a 2 stroke engine which uses oil/gas mixture as fuel
- No Load Meter (Wattmeter)
- The voltage may drop
- No USB sockets
- It offers only one 120V outlet
#7. Champion Power Equipment 100891 - 7500 Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator
Introducing Champion Power Equipment's 7,500-Watt dual fuel electric start generator. This unit can run on propane or gasoline straight out of the box. The convenient electric start makes it easy to get started wherever you need a reliable source of power - on the job around the house or for your next project.
What is in the Package?
Included: engine oil (37.2 fl. oz.; SAE 10W-30), oil funnel, wheel kit, propane (LPG) hose (6.5 ft.), manual, and warranty card. The generator is shipped without gasoline and tool kit.
Why Champion 100891 (7500 Watt)
Durability: the unit is built to last; it has a tubular steel frame.
Capacity: this unit can run on gasoline which gives an output of 7500 running watts, while when using propane will give 6750 running watts.
And with a 439-cc engine providing up to 7 500 running watts, this unit can power all your major household appliances during a power outage. It can produce both 120 and 240V, which makes it perfect for both commercial and residential applications.
What Appliances Can Be Connected?
This generator is great for a whole house, construction sites, food trucks, RVs, and emergencies. The Champion 100891 can power the following common applications (not all applications can be powered simultaneously):
- Electric Oven (2,000-5,000 watts)
- Electric kettle (2,000 watts)
- Dishwasher (1,500 watts)
- Microwave Oven (1,400 watts)
- Clothes Dryer (1,000-4,000 watts)
- Power Shower (7,000 watts)
- Washing Machine (1,000 watts)
- Hair Blow Dryer/Electric Iron (1,500 watts)
- Electric Boiler (6,500 watts)
- Home Air Conditioner (2,000-4,000 watts)
- Water Pump (2,000-6,000 watts)
- Sump Pump (3,000 watts)
- Electric Heater Fan/Space Heater (2,000 watts)
- Table Saw (2,000 watts)
- Bench Grinder (1,800 watts)
- Air Compressor 1.5 HP (2,200 watts)
- and more…
Lots of outlets: the model comes with four 120V 20A (NEMA 5-20R) household outlets, one 120V 30A Locking (NEMA L5-30R) outlet, and one 120/240 30A Locking (NEMA L14-30R). This gives users plenty of options.
The Intelligauge is a digital display that shows the generator's hours of use (run time for the current session and total run time), voltage, frequency, and output power.
Ease of use: this generator is not complicated, it has an electric start, therefore, can be operated by any person.
Efficiency: It can run for up to 10 hours on just 7.7 gallons of gasoline at 50% load and up to 5.5 hours on a 20-pound propane tank.
With a low maintenance cost Champion 100891 generator is the best product to have in your office and home. Champion 7500-Watt dual fuel is three years warranted.
Specifications
- Starting Wattage: 9375
- Running Wattage: 7500
- RV Ready Outlet: Yes
- Noise Level from 23 ft.: 74 dBA
- Inverter: no
- Start Type:  Electric Start, Recoil Start
- Fuel Type:  Gasoline, Propane
- CARB Compliant: CARB Compliant
Our grades
Pros
- Powerful engine capable of producing up to 9,375 surge watts
- The user of this unit has more than one fuel option either gasoline or propane
- This generator has a wheel this enable easy mobility from one place to another
- To protect our sensitive electronics this unit comes with an inbuilt surge protector
- EPA certified and CARB compliant in 50 states
- It has an electric start
- Good warranty and customer service
- Comes with a digital display
- 240-volt outlet (NEMA L14-30R)
- Easy to maintain
- RV-ready
Cons
- Many users have confessed that this generator is heavy therefore limiting mobility from one point to another despite having wheels
- Makes a lot of noise
- Open frame
#8. Pulsar PG5250B Review - Best 4,000 Running Watts Dual Fuel Generator
The Pulsar PG5250B dual fuel portable generator is a device that can be relied upon to come in handy if a natural disaster which seizes power for a fairly short while takes place. Although you can rely on this device to be of help if there is a natural disaster, it can do a lot more. The Pulsar PG5250B generator can be used to stay out of the dark in outdoor events and also while you go camping.
This generator can run on two types of fuel. You can decide to power it with the use of liquid propane or with the use of gasoline. Although a portable generator, the Pulsar PG5250B generator can be trusted to conveniently power big electrical appliances.
The amazing thing about this generator is you can make use of whatever fuel source you so desire anytime you want. You can switch from one fuel source to another while the generator is on without it going off. This is pretty amazing, right?
The Pulsar PG520B has a long-lasting steel frame and sturdy wheel which make it very easy to move it around without the fear of anything getting spoilt.
So, if you reside in a part of town that is prone to natural disasters, this generator can go a long way in saving the day.
Specifications
- Starting Wattage: 5250
- Running Wattage: 4250
- RV Ready Outlet: Yes
- Noise Level from 23 ft.: 72 dBA
- Inverter: no
- Start Type:  Recoil Start
- Fuel Type:  Gasoline, Propane
Our grades
Pros
- This generator is very economical
- It can be put together very easily
- It is very inexpensive
- RV ready
- Dual fuel capability
- Reliable and Durable
Cons
- The noise level is a bit too high
- Sometimes there are issues with its electric start. When this happens, you might have to go through the pain of making use of its manual start
- The power that is produced by this generator is not absolutely clean
- Not CARB compliant
#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. Sportsman GEN2000 Portable Gasoline Generator
The Sportsman GEN2000 is a portable generator that can be used by people involved in tailgating parties, camping, and a lot of other activities that take place outdoors. When running on a 1.2 Gal. of gasoline, this generator can be trusted to run for up to nine hours when it is loaded about 50 percent. The implication of this is, it is expected to run for 4 and a half hours when fully loaded.
This generator was designed to power basic household appliances, as well as lots of power tools. Although built to be very efficient, to get the best out of the use of the Sportsman GEN2000, it is ideal to put in a good amount of oil when making use of it. Also, the oil that is put into it should be changed after the generator has been used for up to 20 hours.
That’s not all, If you purchase this generator but are not making use of it, to ensure that it remains in perfect condition when you finally need it again, it is important that you turn it on every month. After turning it on, ensure it runs for up to 5 minutes before turning it off. This way, its engine can stay in perfect condition.
Although the Sportsman GEN2000 was designed with people going for camping and other outdoor activities in mind, it can be used to do more than this. This generator can be trusted to provide a household with electricity when there is an emergency. When used in powering a house, this generator set can conveniently power multiple lights, a television set, a small fridge, and a microwave.
Specifications
- Starting Wattage: 2000
- Running Wattage: 1400
- Noise Level from 23 ft.: 65 dBA
- Inverter: no
- Start Type:  Recoil Start
- Fuel Type:  Gasoline
Our grades
Pros
- High-quality strength
- It has a guarantee of one year
- It keeps run robust and last long time
- It starts with the first or second pull
- Sufficient for small camping, tailgate parties or powering tools
- Relatively Cheap
Cons
- It cannot be moved around easily by just one person
- The noise level is a bit too high
- Not CARB-compliant
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