Home Heating Heroes
Some of the links below are affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, we earn a commission if you click through and purchase. Learn more
Your Guide to Home Heating and Cooling Systems
Menu
5 Best 3000 Watt Inverter Generators: Comparison Reviews 2020
For people you love to get away camping in their RV, you know the importance of a high-quality generator for making your trip more comfortable and enjoyable. However, many generators lack the power or fuel efficiency to run your appliances, air conditioning, and lights without putting a significant drain on the motor.
A 3000 watt inverter generator is the best way to enjoy the modern conveniences of home while out in the wilderness. Unlike other high-powered generators, 3000 watt models are designed to be compact and lightweight for better portability. The inverter technology allows the generator to moderate its output depending on your needs rather than running continuously on full power, making it a quieter, more eco-friendly way to power your camping trip.
Top Reasons to Buy:
- Ultra-quiet operation at only 59 dBA
- User-friendly Quick Touch panel and electric start switch
- Ideal for sensitive electronics
- 3-year limited warranty and free lifetime tech support
Key Features:
- Cold Start technology
- Dual fuel operation with safety fuel selector switch
- Standard 30A RV outlet setup
- 192cc 1.6-gallon 4-stroke engine
The Champion 3400 Watt Dual Fuel generator excels in every area of performance and finds the perfect balance of versatility and convenience. Whisper quiet with a long-lasting 14.5-hour continuous operation, as well as a reliable, efficient dual fuel system – there is simply no better 3000 watt generator on the market.
If you are heading out on a family camping trip, Champion has developed the ideal RV-ready solution for your energy needs. Don’t wait, buy the Champion 3400 Watt Dual Fuel generator.
t
t
PROS
SPECS
Best Choice
Champion 3400-Watt
PROS
-
Dual Fuel
-
RV Ready
-
Ultra-Quiet Operation
SPECS
-
Noise level: 59dba
-
7.5hrs Run Time
-
3400 Starting watts
-
3-Position Ignition Switch
t
Champion 75531i
PROS
-
Low Oil Shut-Off
-
Recoil Start
-
Built-In Carrying Handles
SPECS
-
Noise Level: 58dBA
-
Oil Capacity: 0.6qt
-
Fuel Tank: 1.6gal
-
Run time:8 hrs at 25% Load
t
Honda EU3000IS1A
PROS
-
Super quiet
-
Fuel efficient
-
Advanced inverter technology
SPECS
-
Noise Level: 49 - 58dBA
-
20-Hrs Run Time
-
Running Watts: 3000
-
Weight: 131 lbs
t
Briggs & Stratton P3000
PROS
-
RV Ready
-
Easy-to-Transport
-
StatStation LCD Display
SPECS
-
Running Amps: 21.7
-
10-Hr Run Time
-
Parallel Ready
-
Weight: 85 lbs
t
Sportsman GEN4000DF
PROS
-
Lightweight
-
Dual fuel system
-
Strong running power output
SPECS
-
7.0hp 4-stroke OHV engine
-
4000 Starting watts
-
3500 Running watts
-
3.6-gal. Gas Tank
5 Best 3000-Watt Inverter Generators - Reviews
1. Champion 3400-Watt 3000 Watt Inverter Generator – Best Overall
Dual fuel generators offer better flexibility and reliability than generators running on only gas or propane. The Champion 3400 Watt Dual Fuel Inverter generator takes dual fuel technology to the next level by providing users with additional safety features and improved fuel efficiency.
The unit features an 0.6-quart oil tank and a low-oil sensor to ensure the motor runs smoothly, while the 1.6-gallon gas tank provides up to 7.5 hours of use at a quarter load or 14.5 hours when used with propane. While this isn’t the biggest tank on the market, it offers the right balance between lightweight portability and long-lasting operation.
The Champion 3400 Watt Dual Fuel generator has an RV-ready set up, so there is no need to purchase additional adaptors. It also has a parallel compatible outlet to hook up to another Champion generator for added power.
Specs:
-
192cc 4-stroke single-cylinder engine
-
3400 starting watts, 3100 running watts
-
Recoil, electric, and remote starts
-
3-year limited warranty
Pros
-
59 dBA noise output won’t disturb neighbors
-
CARB- and EPA-certified
-
Clean power output at less than 3% THD
-
Parallel kit compatible
-
Flexible dual fuel operation
Cons
-
Battery power can reduce if not operated during the off-season
-
No extended tank capacity
Who Should Get This?
This dual fuel RV-ready inverter model is the best choice for any regular camper who needs a quiet, powerful portable generator at an affordable price.
2. Champion 75531i 3100-Watt Inverter Generator – Best for the Money
For an affordable generator that can still power all your necessary RV appliances, you can’t beat the Champion 75531i 3100 Watt Inverter. The 171cc engine produces 2800 running watts and 3100 surge watts, and the 1.6-gallon unleaded gasoline tank will provide you with up to 8 hours of energy at a quarter-load. It also features an Economy Control Switch to reduce the engine capacity when not in use and minimize wear and tear.
Although relatively lightweight at 85.5 lbs., this inverter is still too heavy to manually carry around, and its lack of telescopic handle makes it tricky to maneuver. Champion has attempted to correct this drawback by installing tough tires to improve portability, but with an engine that is substantially bigger than many other inverters, this is best used for powering your RV rather than lugging around a worksite.
Another standout feature is the convenient remote start key fob, so you won’t need to leave the campfire conversation to restart your generator.
Specs:
-
171cc motor
-
1.6-gallon unleaded gas tank
-
24.4” x 18.3” x 14.3” housing
-
Offers all standard home outlets including 20-amp duplex and 30-amp receptacle
-
Push-button circuit breaker
Pros
-
High-performance, yet affordable
-
Remote start
-
Fuel-efficient
-
Good run time
Cons
-
Lacks adequate portability features
Who Should Get This?
For the avid RV camper on a budget, there is no better inverter generator on the market. It offers all the features of a high-end model at a fraction of the price.
3. Honda EU3000IS1A 3000 Watt Inverter Generator
Honda is renowned for producing some of the best generators on the planet, and while they may come with a hefty price tag, for many RV campers and off-grid residents, the power is worth every penny.
This EPA- and CARB-compliant generator is Honda’s quietest model yet, emitting only 50dBA at a quarter-load – well below the noise level of general conversation – achieved due to the noise reduction casing and the Honda Eco-throttle.
What truly sets the EU3000IS1A apart from the rest is the astonishing 20-hour run time on a 3.4-gallon tank. The state-of-the-art inverter technology means cleaner, more efficient power output from the 196cc gas engine, making it ideal for running a huge variety of sensitive electronics without worrying about overload.
Specs:
-
3.4-gallon fuel tank capacity
-
131 lbs. overall weight
-
3000 watt running wattage
-
2800 watt surge wattage
-
20-hour run time
Pros
-
Ultra-quiet operation
-
Outstanding 20-hour run time
-
High running wattage output
-
Exceptional fuel efficiency
Cons
-
Higher price tag than other 3000Watt generators
-
The heavy weight and dimensions reduce portability
Who Should Get This?
The Honda EU3000IS1A 3000 Watt Electric Start Inverter is the ideal option for running your small off-grid home, or for a quiet power source that won’t bother the neighbors while RV camping.
4. Briggs & Stratton P3000 3000 Watt Inverter Generator
When it comes to buying a generator for RV camping, portability is key. The Briggs & Stratton P3000 Inverter has integrated several smart portable features into the casing along with a user-friendly intuitive design, which means almost anyone can operate it.
Weighing in at just 84 lbs. and featuring a telescoping handle and never-flat tires, this generator is built to go wherever you need it. The control panels have 4 120V household outlets, a USB port, and a 12V DC charger, as well as a port to connect an optional parallel kit for added power. The easy-to-read LED display lets you know how much power is being used and provides frequent maintenance reminders and engine alerts.
Specs:
-
2600 running watts and 3000 starting watts
-
1.5-gallon fuel tank capacity
-
58 dBA noise output using the Quiet Power Technology
-
2-year warranty
Pros
-
Easy to move from place to place
-
Simple control and outlet panel design
-
Parallel kit compatible
Cons
-
Not CARB-certified, so not allowed for use in California
-
More expensive than other inverters with a similar power output
Who Should Get This?
With its enhanced portability features and quiet operation, this inverter generator is ideal for people who love tailgating, camping, or any type of outdoor recreation.
5. Sportsman GEN4000DF 3000 Watt Inverter Generator
For an inverter generator that delivers big power at a small price point, the Sportsman GEN4000DF can’t be beaten. The 3.6-gallon fuel tank will give you 10 hours of continuous running power at a half load. However, if you don’t mind compromising on wattage, you can run the generator for 12 hours uninterrupted on a full tank of propane.
It operates at 69 dBA, which is noisy when compared with other inverters and may be disruptive at some campsites. It also does not come with a mobility kit, which limits where you can take the unit.
However, for the budget-friendly price, the Sportsman GEN4000DF offers the best fuel efficiency and clean energy available and comes with a 1-year backed warranty for peace of mind.
Specs:
-
7.0 HP 4-stroke OHV engine
-
3.6-gallon gas tank
-
4000 starting watts, 3500 running watts
-
4- 120V AC outlets, 1-12V DC outlet, 1-120V RV outlet
-
24.5” x 16.5” x 17” casing
Pros
-
Strong running power output
-
10-hour run time
-
Dual fuel system
-
Lightweight
Cons
-
Won’t operate at altitudes over 3000 ft.
-
Louder than other 3000 watt inverters
-
Not portable
Who Should Get This?
If you are on a limited budget but still need serious, long-lasting power output for your RV, construction site, or during a power outage, the Sportsman GEN4000DF is the right choice for you.
Best 3000 Watt Inverter Generator Overall
The Champion 3400 Watt Dual Fuel inverter generator finds the perfect balance between power, fuel efficiency, and portability. These features make this RV-ready unit the best choice on the market for the outdoor enthusiast.