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Portable generators are vital during power outages and can be useful in remote areas, and inverter generators are among the best in terms of efficiency.
Like traditional models, inverter generators come in a variety of sizes and capacities, but they use a computer-controlled inverter to provide available power when needed. This makes them lighter, quieter and more efficient than traditional open-frame generators, which supply a certain amount of energy regardless of current demand.
Inverters are still a relatively new generator on the market, so we wanted to test the best-selling models before recommending them to our readers. Bob Vila’s testing team tested several name-brand inverter generators at home to see how they performed.
Read on to find out how these generators compare to traditional models and how they performed in our real-world testing. Our top models vary in power and purpose, and they all deserve a place in our lineup of the best inverter generators.
We researched over 25 different brands and models of inverter generators before selecting a few of the best options to test. When compiling this list, we considered brands like Champion and Honda as they are highly respected in the generator industry. However, if the machines of small companies such as Wen and Ryobi have good functionality and high customer satisfaction, we will not automatically eliminate them.
For practical testing, we assembled the generator, lubricated it with oil and operated it according to the manufacturer’s instructions. We try to maximize the performance of each generator by using an online power calculator to estimate how many units can be connected. We deal with power tools, appliances, heaters, mini air conditioners, etc. and pay attention to how generators are used and the noise they make when running.
After testing, we evaluate each inverter generator according to the evaluation criteria. We rated them on ease of use, noise level, power, portability, and cost.
A note about noise levels: Many generators are naturally loud. Therefore, we have rated the noise level of each generator as expected according to the manufacturer’s specifications and at a reasonable level given the power of the machine. If a sound is louder than expected, we will give it a lower rating. If it’s quieter, we rate it higher.
The following inverter generators represent some of the best generators available today. Each product deserves its place by performing well in our real-life tests. No matter your power needs, there is sure to be a generator on this list that will meet your needs.
The Westinghouse iGen4500 inverter generator is a high-tech, high-performance model. It offers a variety of power ports, including one 30A, two 20A, and two USB. In our testing, we used it to charge our digital devices as well as power the devices in our travel trailer. The iGen4500 comes with a 3.4 gallon gas tank that can last up to 18 hours. Being an inverter generator, it only burns the fuel needed to power the appliance or tool it is connected to. This makes it more environmentally friendly than non-inverter models, which burn fuel at a set rate regardless of power consumption.
However, since it weighed almost 105 pounds without fuel, we found it difficult for one person to move it in and out of the truck bed. Everything is easy to set up on site: add oil, fill the tank and get down to business. While this would make a great emergency generator, its quiet and efficient operation makes it a top choice for camping, camping, and remote power applications.
The Pulsar 2200W Inverter Generator is an excellent choice for powering small tools and equipment at home or on the job site. The generator runs on gasoline or propane and is available with up to 1800 watts of gas or 1600 watts of propane. In our testing, we found the initial setup of the generator to be easy, with the exception of the first refueling. The fill port is located under the side panel and we had to remove it to access it. Unscrewing the panel is easy, but it will require some movement to completely remove it. After this, refilling it with the supplied Pulsar brand oil is a simple matter. The manual engine start is activated with just a few presses, providing 2200 W of starting power (on petrol).
To test the functionality of the generator, we ran multiple heat guns and hair dryers simultaneously, using different combinations of high and low settings to test the generator under different loads. We found that the generator easily handled the required power, but the sound it produced seemed to exceed the advertised 59 decibels, which is conversational level. The Pulsar is a little louder, more like a vacuum, although that’s what we’d expect from a generator of this size. Despite the minor audio issues, we like this generator for smaller tasks like small DIY projects and powering some household appliances during power outages.
When it comes to clean electricity, inverter generators provide stable current without voltage surges or sags. However, not all inverters are “clean” in terms of their impact on air quality. The Generac iQ3500 inverter generator combines the best of both worlds. The California Air Resources Board (CARB) compliant inverter generator safely and quietly powers sensitive electronic equipment while consuming less fuel and emitting fewer emissions. It features a lockable 30-amp outlet, a 20-amp duplex outlet, and two USB ports to power a variety of tools and appliances.
Two premium features that set it apart include a large LCD display showing power output and fuel level, as well as a push-button ignition switch. The 20A duplex outlet provides more flexibility when powering high voltage tools and appliances compared to the 15A alternatives on other inverter generators. We used it to power two 1500W heaters simultaneously for over an hour without tripping the circuit breaker. To test a 30 amp outlet, we used a three-conductor service cord for portable table saws, miter saws, and routers. Everything works smoothly and just like connecting to a store wall.
The iQ3500 has many advantages, but ease of transport is not one of them. Without wheels, it weighs 109.1 pounds. However, it remains one of the most popular devices due to its ease of start-up, quiet operation and the convenience of using electricity.
The Ryobi 2300W gas generator was a pleasure to test. From unboxing to startup, it takes less than 10 minutes, and the app guides the user through the entire process, displaying the same readings as the machine’s LED panel. During testing, we hooked up several work lights and used a variety of power tools, including a circular saw, reciprocating saw, jigsaw, hammer drill, and sander. The Ryobi lagged a little when we tried to run the table saw and couldn’t get enough juice into the heated T-shirt press, but otherwise it met our needs. We love the convenience of being able to monitor the status of the Ryobi while sitting comfortably indoors. We were able to turn off the generator from the app but not start it, which is probably a smart idea from a security perspective.
The Ryobi is relatively quiet: 57 decibels at 10 feet, and we could easily talk without raising our voices. This small generator is a great choice for craft festivals and excursions. It won’t power every appliance on the job site or in your home, but it’s great for low-power use.
Even though the Champion Power Equipment 2000W generator is one of the more compact inverters we’ve tested, it performed very well. It is dual fuel capable which means we can run on gasoline or propane. This makes it very versatile when one type of fuel is preferred. The Champion can generate up to 2000 watts of burst power at startup and stabilize to 1700 watts when running on gas. It has two standard outlets and a 12V automotive style port. The generator has a smaller fuel tank capacity of 1.05 gallons but can run for 11.5 hours at 25% load. By connecting a 20-pound propane tank and pulling the same load, you can run for up to 34 hours.
During testing, we used Champion to run a variety of devices, including a coffee machine and a blender. However, when we tried to run all the projects at the same time, the machine overloaded, tripping the circuit breaker and shutting it down. Of course, this will happen to any generator if it is overloaded.
One of the great things about this dual fuel generator is that it runs very quietly. The manufacturer claims that it produces only 53 decibels of noise, which we found to be true in our tests. It’s also relatively light for a dual-fuel model at 39 pounds, but it won’t run during a power outage. However, it can power some devices and charge electronics without making any noise.
We tested the Wen DF250i 2500W Dual Fuel Generator by connecting it to a variety of small electronic devices, including a circular saw and a shop light. Because the circular saw requires a lot of power (1500 watts) to start, the machine stalls briefly before accelerating, but then remains stable. For low energy projects, we run the generator in ECO mode, which adjusts fuel consumption based on load size. The generator varies speed, and because it doesn’t produce more power than needed, it can run longer.
At 18.2 inches tall, 11.5 inches wide, 19 inches long, and weighs 48.5 pounds, the Wen is portable and designed for low power needs. It runs on propane or natural gas and has two USB ports and two standard household outlets. It’s ideal for holding multiple cell phones, a TV, and flashlights at a campsite, or can power a small worksite. We tested the generator at just over 5,000 feet. Although the manufacturer recommends installing the Altitude Kit (sold separately) when using the machine at altitudes above 3,000 feet, we tested without the kit without any problems.
The Honda EU2200i inverter generator uses a 121cc Honda GXR120 commercial series engine. cm with manual starter. It generates 120 Volts; operates up to 1800 W (15 A) and 2200 W peak; Its 0.95 gallon air tank provides up to 3.2 hours of battery life at maximum pumping output and up to 8.1 hours of battery life at 25% output load. This compact and quiet generator is convenient for tailgating, camping, and other remote needs.
Honda’s lightweight and compact design makes it easy to carry. The top handle and shape of the suitcase are ideal for one-handed carrying. It weighs about 48 pounds and we didn’t want to carry it around all day, but we carried it from the barn to the truck without any problems. A scroll wheel would be a great addition. Frequent users may want to purchase a folding cart for easier mobility.
The simple output configuration of the 15A, 120V duplex outlet allows it to be used like any household outlet without fear of overloading. In one project, we turned on a portable table saw and miter saw, and then turned on the refrigerator (separate) for a few hours to see how it responded. Everything is going smoothly. Since it doesn’t have USB ports, you’ll need a network hub or power strip to charge the device or power small electronics.
Buy a Honda Inverter Generator from Amazon, Lowe’s, The Home Depot or Northern Tool + Equipment.
Inverter generators are different from the open traditional generators that most people are familiar with. While both use fuel (gasoline, diesel, or propane), open generators use an alternator to provide useful power to homes, campers, and jobs. The following information will help you narrow down your choices and find the best generator with the power, portability, and convenience you need.
Power is a key factor when choosing any generator. Inverter generators, like open generators, come in different capacities. The higher the power rating, the higher the power output. Higher wattage usually means larger, more expensive equipment, so here’s a guide to choosing the right size for every need:
A compact, portable generator can power a radio or small refrigerator. However, there is often less flexibility when connecting other lower power models. Remember, an inverter generator only provides the power you need. If not pulled, it produces no power, making this generator a cleaner source of energy.
Inverter generators typically use gasoline as their fuel source, but dual-fuel generators can also run on propane. This is a great advantage as it allows vehicle owners to select the fuel used depending on their needs such as power output requirements, availability of fuel in the region and the types of fuel currently available.
Inverter generators have a separate fuel tank with capacities ranging from 2 to over 10 gallons. The larger the generator’s fuel tank, the longer it will provide gasoline power. However, the size of the generator has also increased.
Fuel capacity does not affect how much propane the generator can use. Propane gas is stored under pressure in a tank, which is connected to the generator through a hose and pressure regulator for direct fuel flow.
This ignition method is much simpler than using a cord, but requires electricity to be stored in a generator. If you make an alternator error, such as not charging the internal battery, you will not be able to use the electric starter.
Purchasing a group of generators from the same brand often allows for paralleling, also known as load sharing. This means that one generator can be connected to another using a specific brand of kit. This safely combines their capacities to produce more power.
In addition, having two generators provides protection against failure if one of the generators stops working. Still capable of generating electricity, just with less power. Load sharing can be a cheaper way to generate enough power to run your entire home or power all the devices in your RV at the same time.
The most significant difference between inverters and open generators is the noise level they produce.
To better understand generator noise output, consider these common sounds and their equivalent operating levels in decibels:
Inverter generators also use sensors to detect power consumption, thus handling smaller loads and creating lower noise levels. Neighbors at your home or campground will appreciate purchasing a quiet generator rather than a noisy open-top generator.
Some buyers should consider the physical size and weight. As the name suggests, suitcase inverter generators are top-handle units that can be lifted with one hand and are easy to carry as they are typically lightweight, ranging from 40 to 50 pounds. The downside is that the power output of these devices is usually 2200 watts or less.
Wheeled units have more power (more than 3000 W), but they are larger and heavier. Installing these portable generators in the back of a truck or the trunk of a camper is a more challenging task. Therefore, it may be easier to use one of these units as a home generator.
Some users may be concerned about the weight of a larger, more powerful device. Therefore, some portable inverter generators have wheels and handles to make them easier to transport to your desired location.
Wheel kits are also sold separately as an addition to the generator or as a replacement for older wheel kits. Either way, having a set of wheels will make transporting your heavy-duty portable generator much easier.
Looking for more information about inverter generators? Let’s look at the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about this particular type of generator.
An inverter takes the DC power produced by a gas or propane generator and converts it into AC power for your home appliances.
Inverter generators do not use an alternator like typical open frame models, which requires the engine to work harder and generate more heat. Therefore, the inverter generator motor runs quieter. Manufacturers can also encase them in plastic housings for better noise control without the risk of overheating.
In general, inverter generators are easier to use, more efficient, and can provide safer power to electronic devices. For these reasons alone, many users may find them useful. To protect your investment, it’s also worth purchasing a generator cover.
Most inverter generators work seamlessly with modern refrigerators, requiring a maximum of 1000 watts to start.
Bob Vila is an American handyman since 1979. As the host of beloved and groundbreaking television series such as This Old House and Bob Vera Comes Home Again, he gained widespread popularity and became synonymous with DIY home improvement.
Post time: May-16-2024