Top 10 Best Inverter Generator | Reviews & Guides
The time has come to consider the best inverter generator on the market with a reliable portable power source if you’re looking for one.
Lightweight, easy to use and virtually silent, an inverter generator represents the ideal substitute for your source of energy during 2021 and beyond. Not only are they powerful in the event of a blackout, but they’ re also safe.
The best inverter generators work the same way, but individual models vary in price, features and productivity.
This guide will help you choose the best models. In this section, we’ll review, evaluate, and compare the best inverter generators with efficient performance and low-noise operation suitable for caravanning, camping, and home use.
The A-iPower SUA2000iV ultra-quiet inverter generator is ideal for frequent travellers and those who want to trade mobility for low power.
With 2,000 watts of starting power and 1,600 watts of running power, the Sua 2000 features a 79 cc engine and is very simple and easy to start.
Weighing only 46 kg, this portable power source can be taken anywhere. It also features a digital LED display, so you know when you need to refuel.
Easily power a variety of devices including smartphones, TV, radios, mini-fridges, fans, lamps, or kitchen appliances like blenders, coffee makers and more.
It is equipped with A-iPower low idle technology, which slows down the speed and allows the generator to run for a longer time avoiding being without power when you need it.
Features:
- Running Watts : 1600
- Starting Watts : 2000
- CARB certified : Yes
- Displacement : 79cc
- Tank Capacity : 1 Gallon
- Run Time : Up to 7 Hours at 50% Load
- Noise Level : 58 decibels at 50% load
- Weight : 46 lbs
- Warranty : 2-year residential warranty
With the P2200 engine from Briggs and Stratton, you can avoid missing the finer thing at night while camping. Whether you’re grilling or working on a construction site, the P2200 will run smoothly (and quietly).
In contrast to other Briggs and Stratton products, however, this is a quality engine. Some units last longer than others, some don’t last for years, but you can be sure Briggs & Stratton is doing everything they can to hold you to the warranty where it is 24 months for this case.
With its advanced inverter technology, the P2200 delivers a consistent 1700W of power and has less harmonic distortion than other inverters. What’s more, the power output can be adjusted according to the load, saving fuel and allowing the P2200 be used longer with greater efficacy.
It features a start-up output of 2,200 W and a run-up output of 1,700 W. The unit weighs 54 kg, and thanks to its handy H-shaped handle, it can easily be carried by one or two people if necessary. It also has a dedicated parallel port, so you can connect an additional PowerSmart portable inverter generator for more power.
Features:
- Running Watts : 1700
- Starting Watts : 2200
- CARB certified : Yes
- Displacement : 110cc
- Tank Capacity : 1 Gallon
- Outlets : two 120V, one 12V DC, and a dual USB adapter
- Run Time : 8 hours on a full tank
- Noise Level : 59 decibels at 25% load
- Weight : 54 lbs
- Warranty : 2-year residential warranty
The Briggs & Stratton 30675 Q6500 inverter generator has wheels that make it portable. This is however generates a lot of power. It has a capacity of 6500 watts and is a very reliable source of emergency power for the home. Although It seems very quiet considering the power it produces, but in practical it is a little noisier than the other units on this list. It won’t bother the neighbors, but it is slightly louder than the average refrigerator.
This generator can run for 14 hours at 1/4 load. This is slightly longer than most of the other generators we tested, and the 1/4 load on this generator is still a bit high. Not surprisingly, you get more power for a longer period of time than with other generators.
However, you have to sacrifice a lot to get it. Not only are they heavier than other products, but they are also more expensive. They are significantly more expensive than many of the other generators on this list. The only real plus is the higher power output.
Features:
- Running Watts : 1700
- Surge Wattage : 2200
- Noise Level : 59 dB at 1/4 load
- Displacement : 110cc
- Fuel tank : 1 gallon
- Run time : 8 hours at 25% load
- Outlets : (2) 120V household outlets, (1) 12V-5A DC outlet with USB adapter
- Dimensions : 21 x 12.5 x 17.35 inches
- Weight : 54.6 lbs
- Warranty : 2 year
Champion Power Equipment 100520 is the newest addition to the Digital Hybrid inverter generators. The open frame design is more economical, efficient and requires less maintenance.
The 420cc variable speed engine has a steel housing to withstand harsh outdoor conditions. Its starting power is 8750 watts and its operating power is 7000 watts. The dimensions are identical to those of an inverter generator.
It also provides clean power to sensitive appliances and equipment. It is suitable for continuous use during outdoor activities such as camping and grilling. It is also a backup power source for appliances in case of electricity cuts.
The “Eco” mode is more energy efficient and quieter than conventional generators. It is also CARB compliant. Weight 155 lbs. Portable with a folding handle and an 8-inch anti-stick strap. It can be rolled up, but requires two people to lift it.
Features:
- Running watts : 7000 W
- Starting watts : 8750 W
- Capacity : 4.2 gal
- Run Time : 10.5 hrs @ 25% Load
- Noise Level : 72 dBA @ 25% Load:
- THD : < 3%
- Dimensions : 26.6 x 25.6 x 23.7 in
- Weight : 149 lbs
- Warranty : 3 years
A lot of people browse the internet trying to find the most suitable portable inverter generators. A common mistake when buying a generator online is to assume that you can choose a larger capacity generator that meets all your needs.
It can meet all your electricity needs, but it takes up a lot of space. If you choose a smaller system, you need to consider your energy needs.
However, Champion offers an efficient solution. The new Champion 100692 ultra-portable generator is a compact and very lightweight inverter generator suitable for use in caravans and other outdoor locations, such as campsites and mobile homes.
Weighing only 39.5 lbs, the Champion 100692 is one of the lightest generators on the market with a power rating of 1500-2500 W. This is one of the quietest generator in its class, with a minimum noise level of 53 dBA.
Champion has always dominated the US generator market and is now becoming a major player competing with competitors such as Briggs and Westinghouse.
The Champion 100692 has a 79cc engine and a 1.1 gallon capacity fuel tank. It has a maximum power output of 2,000 watts and an idle power of 1,700 watts. The THD (total harmonic distortion) of the energy generated is less than 3%, which is enough to charge small electrical devices such as laptops, cell phones and batteries without damaging them.
Features:
- Starting Watts : 2000W
- Running Watts : 1700W
- Engine Size : 79cc
- Noise Level : 53 dBA
- Start Type : Recoil
- Fuel tank : 1.1 gal.
- Outlets : (1) 120V 20A Duplex (5-20R); (1) 12V DC Automotive
- Dimensions : 17.3 x 11.5 x 17.3 in
- Weight : 39.5 lbs
- Warranty : 3 years
The Craftsman 3000i is one of the few high-quality inverter generators on the market.
However, inverter generators are not always efficient and can be expensive. Yet the Craftsman 3000i portable generator is more affordable, has a higher output and delivers clean and reliable electricity. The affordable Craftsman 3000i inverter generator is completely portable, meets the needs of most users and is becoming increasingly popular with campers and homeowners. In this post, we will show you how this very popular generator became a success.
Anyone looking for a decent quality inverter generator comes up against two problems: having only a few inverter generators with a power output of more than 2000 watts, and even a low-power inverter-generator model is priced at up to $1000. By the time you are looking for a 3000 watt unit that has enough power to run a caravan’s air conditioner, you will find the price skyrocketing. This is why the Craftsman 3000i is the first choice for many. At 2000 watts, its price is nearly the same as the Honda EU2200i, but its maximum output is 3000 watts and its operating capacity is 2300 watts.
With that being said, consider the Craftsman 3000i if you are looking for a reliable inverter generator for your caravan, home or truck – you won’t find a better price for a quality 3000 watt inverter generator.
Features:
- Wattage : 3000 watts
- Power boost : Provides 50% more starting capacity
- Parallel ready : allows you to connect two inverters together for twice the power
- Eco mode : uses less fuel and produces less sound
- Clean power : Safe, clean power for your sensitive tools and electronics
- Easy start : a start / stop / choke dial makes starting quick and easy
- Dimensions : 22.2 x 13.3 x 18.4 inches
- Weight : 24.23 Pounds
If you buy a Pulsar G450RN 4500 W inverter generator, you don’t have to worry about the generator being started manually in the event of a power failure. With the touch of a button on the remote control, it allows you to ignite the emergency lights and set off all your appliances.
The Pulsar G450RN has a 3.4 litre fuel tank and a 224cc engine with 15 hours of run time at half load, 3700 watts in running mode and 4500 watts in peak power.
“The Pulsar G450RN doesn’t have exceptional features, but it’s surprisingly powerful for its price.
It can run for 15 hours on a half charge and has a noise level of only 63 decibels. It also has an electric start and a telescopic handle.
It’s unlikely you’ll find a 3700W inverter generator with all these features in this price range on the market. Needless to say, this generator is CARB compliant.
What’s more, a satisfied customer who has operated up to 60 hours on this model without any problems says: “Its remote electric start is excellent and works very well even at 50 meters. With enough power for a 35-metre trailer, air conditioner, microwave, etc., it is easy to transport and store. It does not require as much storage space as it looks.”
Features:
- Peak Watts : 4500W
- Running Watts : 3700W
- Noise Level : 63 dB
- Max Runtime : up to 15 hours at half load
- Tank : 3.4-gallon
- Displacement : 224cc engine
- Dimensions : 27.5 x 21 x 23.5 inches
- Weight : 108 Pounds
Given the range of products on offer, it can sometimes be difficult to find the best portable inverter generator to suit your needs and budget. To make your search easier, we’ve included the Pulsar PG2000 portable gasoline generator in our list of the best inverter generators available.
For easy transportation, the PG2000 portable generator has a handle and weighs only 47 lbs.
The problem with conventional generators is their noise level. However, the Pulsar PG2000 portable gas generator with inverter operates at only 59 decibels of noise.
In addition, the Pulsar PG2000 portable gas generator, compared to other portable generators, is fitted with a circuit breaker mechanism to prevent overloading. If the circuit is overloaded, it automatically cuts power to all connected appliances and equipment.
This rugged portable generator has two 120-volt outlets, a USB port, a 12-volt cigarette lighter socket and a 1.18-liter fuel tank that provides 8 hours of non-stop operation on a 50 percent charge.
It can safely charge sensitive electronic devices such as mobile phones, tablets and laptops, as well as large household appliances such as fridges and televisions.
So, when you choose a Pulsar PG2000 portable inverter gas generator, the value you get against the money you spend is assured.
Features:
- Rated Wattage : 1600W
- Surge Wattage : 2000W
- Dimensions : 17.91 x 11.22 x 19.7 inches
- Displacement : 80cc
- Fuel Tank : 1.18 gallon
- Run Time : Up to 8 Hours on 50% Load
- Noise Level : 59dB
- Outlets : 2 120V Outlets, 1 12V Direct Connect 8A Outlet, 1 5V Direct Connect USB Outlet
- Weight : 40 pounds
- Warranty : 2 Year Limited
The WEN 56235i is one of the most popular inverter generators because of its portable design, low price and reliability. Producing 2350 and 1900 surge and rated watts of clean power respectively, this unit can easily power your computer, phone, TV and anything else you need every day!
The fuel tank holds 1 gallon of fuel and able to run about 10.5 hours at a quarter charge. The fuel shut-off system uses up all the fuel left in the carburetor before the engine shuts off.
This low harmonic distortion inverter-generator, 1.2% at full load, provides enough power for most small electronic devices and has three different outputs: two 120V, one DC outlets and two 5V USB ports.
In addition, you can use the WEN 56235i in all areas of the U.S, as it is both EPA and CARB compliant. While this portable generator is only 51 dB louder, it will make the average conversation sound louder.
In other words, if you’re looking for an inverter generator that you can easily take with you, the WEN 56235i ranks among the best. Overall, due to its lightweight, quiet, and good battery life we recommend WEN 56235i inverter generator for most situations.
Features:
- Running Watts : 1,900 watts
- Surge Watts : 2,350 watts
- Tank Size : 1 Gal
- Runtime : 10.5 hrs @ 1/4 load
- Displacement : 79.7 Cubic Centimeters
- Dimensions : 19 x 11.5 x 18.2 inches
- Noise level : 51 dB
- Weight : 39 lbs
As a portable inverter generator, the Westinghouse WH2200iXLT is actually a bit more efficient than the other generators we reviewed. It can run at 1800 nominal watts and 2200 pulse watts. This happens very rarely. However, for the general public, even a 300 watt increase in power can make a big difference. Still, this device is very efficient and can power any appliance in your home in the event of a power outage.
The volume of this device is only 52 decibels. This makes it very quiet and allows it to be used in almost any location. The power unit can keep running on one liter of fuel for a maximum of 13 hours. To help you conserve fuel, the generator features an economy mode that further reduces fuel consumption.
The parallel feature is also an important characteristic of this machine. Having two such units allow them to work together to increase the available power. For some, this feature is enough to offset the higher cost.
A superior Westinghouse WH2200iXLT model is indeed an excellent choice for premium power and maximum portability. It has repeatedly proven itself during any power loss or failure. It has barely any drawbacks with this device, causing it to be desired even more.
Features:
- Starting Output : 2200 watts
- Running power : 1800 watts
- Power Outlets : two 120V 20A outlets and one 12V 8A outlet
- Noise Level : 52 dB
- Parallel Capable : Yes
- Fuel Tank : 1.3-gallon
- THD Rating : less than 3%
- Weight : 43 pounds
- Warranty : 3-year limited warranty
Best Inverter Generator: Buying Instructions
In some cases, you need a portable generator. Since you don’t want to be without power, it’s important to choose the right generator.
This can be a difficult decision. Several factors should be considered when choosing the right generator. Here are some of those factors that will help you choose the right model for your situation.
What is an inverter generator?
Although a regular portable generator and an inverter use the same equipment, they operate differently. The name “inverter” comes from the process that takes place when the generator is turned on. The device, controlled by a microprocessor, transforms the DC voltage into AC and then inverts it back into DC.
The result is a voltage output similar to a traditional portable generator but without the fluctuations and oscillations of traditional generators. When the current is inverted, a pure sine wave is produced. This reduces the risk of electric shock, protects equipment and provides a more stable power source.
How does the inverter work?
The motor of the portable generator produces alternating current (AC); the AC is converted to direct current (DC).
Here the inverter technology does its purpose.
It converts DC to AC with a nominal voltage of 120 V and a frequency of 60 Hz. This is the AC standard of the American National Grid.
The generator, therefore, produces the same alternating current as the socket does from the wall. This type of electricity is safe and can power all sensitive electronic devices.
It is cleaner and more stable than the alternating current produced by conventional generators.
Inverters vs Generators: what is the difference between them?
Basically, the difference between the two types of generators lies in the way they work. When the inverter is switched on, it regulates the current from the mains. Rather than a constant speed, the inverter constantly adjusts its speed.
With conventional generators, this is different, as they require a constant speed (usually 3000 rpm) to maintain a steady 120 V voltage and current. When the engine receives the required fuel injection (the most common power source), the engine and generator produce a constant current.
With conventional generators, small fluctuations in engine speed are noticeable. These fluctuations cause changes in the frequency of the power supply.
Another important difference is portability. Inverter generators are smaller, lighter and have wheels, which makes them easier to transport.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why are the best inverter generators so quiet?
Typically, inverter generators are designed without converters like traditional open-frame generators, allowing the engine to run at higher speeds generating more heat. This is why inverter generators are quieter. Producers can also mount them in plastic enclosures both to reduce noise and prevent overheating.
Can I use inverter generator to run a refrigerator?
This depends on the amount of power produced by the inverter generator. Some produce so little that you cannot use the refrigerator in them. Others produce much more and will cool your food perfectly.
Ultimately, everything is determined by the amount of energy the refrigerator needs and the output generated by the inverter generator.
What should I do if I need more than 3500 watts DC?
The advantage of an inverter generator is that when two or more generators of the same type are used in parallel, the available power can be doubled.
So if you need more power than one large inverter can provide, you can buy two at once. As much as 7000 watts can be used from a single outlet continuously.
Can I use inverter generators indoor?
Inverter generators use fossil fuels to produce electricity. Burning fossil fuels produces carbon monoxide – an odorless, colorless, poisonous gas that should not be used indoors.
It is therefore not recommended for indoor use. Always use outdoors with adequate ventilation to prevent contamination.
If you plan to install the generator indoors, we recommend using a battery powered carbon dioxide sensor.
Is it worth to use an inverter generator?
Inverter generators are generally easy to use, efficient and can safely power electronic devices. This is why many consumers find it worthwhile to purchase one.
Can a best inverter generator get wet?
If the inverter gets wet, the risk to you and the generator increases. If you plan to leave it outdoors in the rain, place it in a tent or protective cover to minimize impact and possible damage to the equipment.
Bottom Line
These energy-saving devices are a relatively new invention. They offer clean energy, energy efficiency and mobility. If you have sufficient funds, an inverter generator is the best choice in most cases. We have selected the best in class from a worldwide list.
By following our guides and blogs, knowing watts, volts and KVA, you can easily determine your current energy needs and find the features you are looking for. Finally, with this Guide, we hope you will be able to find the right model for your needs.
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