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Your Guide to Home Heating and Cooling Systems

Best Inverter Generator For Home, RV, and Camping Use (2022)

Last Updated on February 7, 2022

Inverter generators can be a great source of power for off-the-grid solutions such as camping, tailgating, and in emergencies. The main difference between an inverter and a different kind of generator is that an inverter provides a clean current that poses no risk of damage to your electronic devices.

There are many factors to consider when purchasing a generator, and perhaps the most important one is power. It’s essential to calculate the wattage you need, especially if you have some appliances that require a higher starting wattage. Operating noise and affordability are two more factors most people look for when selecting a generator.

Luckily, these inverter generators are mostly portable and versatile, so you can find the perfect one for your home or camping.

Table of Contents

SPECS

Best Choice

Wen 56200i

Check Price

PROS

Quiet Operation
Clean Energy
Eco-mode feature

SPECS

Noise Level: 53 dB
Weight: 50 lbs
Surge Watts: 2000
Rated Watts: 1600

Champion 3400-Watt

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PROS

Electric Start
Quick Touch Panel
Ultra-Quiet Operation

SPECS

Noise Level: 59dBA
Starting Watts: 3400
Running Watts: 3100
Dual Fuel

Westinghouse iGen2200

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PROS

Extremely Quiet
Extremely Fuel Efficient
Parallel Capable

SPECS

Noise Level: 52dBA
Surge Watts: 2200
Running Watts: 1800
Weighs: 46 Lbs

Champion 3100 Watt

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PROS

Economy Mode
Ultra-Quiet Operation
Quick Touch Panel

SPECS

Noise Level: 58dBA
3100 Starting Watts
2800 Running Watts
Fuel Tank: 1.6 Gal

Yamaha EF2000iSv2

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PROS

Super-quiet muffler
Smart Throttle
CARB Compliant

SPECS

Noise Level: 51.5dBA
Surge Watts: 2000
Running Watts: 1600
Inverter system with PWM control

9 Best Inverter Generator Reviews

1. WEN 56200i Super Quiet – Best 2000 Watt Inverter Generator

The Wen 56200i Super Quiet 2000-watt generator is a high-quality inverter that provides clean, consistent power for your electronic devices. It has a starting power of 2000 watts and a running power of 1,600 watts, which is more than enough to power a fridge or some lights.

For more power, two WEN 56200i units can be linked in parallel. Since it uses the same engine as the Yamaha 2000is, it can be linked together with that generator as well.

This product is light and easily transportable. Its fuel capacity is 1 gallon and can run for 9.4 hours at a quarter-load and 6 hours at a half-load. It has two 120V AV outlets, a DC outlet, and a USB port for added convenience. It’s also considerably more affordable than other generators of the same quality. For more power, try the larger WEN 56380i Super Quiet 3800-Watt portable generator.

Specs:

Surge Wattage: 2000W
Running Wattage: 1600W
Dimensions: 18″ x 11″ x 18″
Runtime: 9.4 hours at quarter-load

Pros

Very quiet operation
EPA- and CARB-compliant
Provides clean direct power suitable for personal electronics
Has 3 120V receptacles and a USB port

Cons

Plastic finish is not the highest quality

Who Should Get This? The Wen 56200i is great for anyone looking for a cost-effective alternative to big brand name products without compromising on quality, noise, and fuel efficiency.

2. Champion 3400-Watt Inverter Generator – Best for Home Backup

This portable inverter generator is unique in that it can run on gas or propane, which can be very useful in camping or survival situations. It also delivers a lot of power, allowing users to run multiple appliances and lights.

It has a starting power of 3400 watts and running power of 3100 watts, and at a quarter-load, can run 7.5 hours on gas or 14.5 hours on propane. It is also parallel capable, allowing you to connect two generators for twice the power.

Considering its dual fuel capability and high-power output, this inverter generator is still very portable and easy to transport. It also provides excellent value for money, putting out much more power than similarly priced inverter generators. It is high quality and well-built and generates consistent power for multiple electronic devices and appliances. Its panel features two AC outlets, a DC outlet, and a 3oA outlet.

Specs:

Surge Wattage: 3400W
Running Wattage: 3100W
Dimensions: 25.1″ x 17.3″ x 18.3″
Runtime: 7.5 hours with gas, 14.5 hours with propane at quarter-load

Pros

Uses dual fuel technology for use with gas or propane
Optimized for RV use with 30A circuit
Durable quality construction
Provides high start up and running

Cons

Does not have remote start feature

Who Should Get This? This generator is a good option for those who want the dual-fuel capability, as the Champion lasts more than half a day on one can of propane.

3. Westinghouse iGen2200 – Best Inverter Generator for Camping

The Westinghouse iGen2200 inverter generator is a high-quality American-made product that lasts you for many years. Its high reliability and well-built engine are some of the main reasons to buy this generator. It has a 1.2-gallon fuel tank and can run for 12 hours at a quarter load.

It also runs quietly, making it great for camping and RV use. For added power, this generator can be linked in parallel with another by using the Westinghouse Inverter Generator Parallel Cord.

This fuel-efficient inverter generator has two 5V USB ports allowing users to plug in personal electronic devices directly. It also has two 120V AC outlets, with a circuit breaker and overload reset. It is easy to move and quite compact, weighing only 33 pounds. The Westinghouse iGen2200 also comes in camo finish, as well as a 2500-watt mode for those looking for a larger unit.

Specs:

Surge Wattage: 2200W
Running Wattage: 1800W
Dimensions: 19.69” x 11.22” x 17.91”
Runtime: 12 hours at quarter-load

Pros

Has 2 5V USB ports for convenience
Runs for nearly 12 hours at quarter capacity on a full tank
More affordable than similar competitors
Has low operating noise

Cons

Does not have a fuel gauge

Who Should Get This? Users seeking a high-quality American-made product that performs reliably and consistently can enjoy this unit. Additionally, its two USB ports are convenient for some people.

4. Champion 75537i 3100 Watt Inverter Generator – Best for RV

The Champion 75537i 3100-Watt inverter generator is a great RV ready option, but for providing the extra power. Its starting wattage of 3,100 and running wattage of 2800 allows users to power their RV and additional appliances such as a fridge or cooler. It can run for about 8 hours at a quarter-load and stays relatively quiet, even at half-load, only getting a little noisy as it runs near capacity.

One of the greatest features of this generator is its remote start capability, allowing you to start and stop your generator from about 80 feet away. Since it features a bigger and more powerful engine, this generator may be more challenging to carry around as easily but has a foldable carry handle and wheels for easy transportation. It meets CARB and EPA health and safety requirements and comes with free technical support from its team of trained experts.

Specs:

Surge Wattage: 3100W
Running Wattage: 2800W
Dimensions: 25.1” x 17.3” x 18.3”
Runtime: 8 hours at quarter-load

Pros

Highest quality power with Pulse Width Modulation (PWM)
Can be connected in parallel with Twin Tech cable
Smart Throttle improves gas economy
Quiet operation noise

Cons

Can be cost-prohibitive for some

Who Should Get This? The Champion 75537i is ideal for those seeking the convenience of a higher power generator to power an RV or multiple appliances and the ability to remote start.

5. Yamaha EF2000iSv2 – Best Quiet Inverter Generator

This is one of the most popular inverter generators on the market today. One of the smallest and quietest available, the Yamaha EF2000iSV2 weighs only 44 pounds, making it a great easy-to-transport companion for camping, tailgating, or emergencies. It uses Smart Throttle technology, which optimizes gas economy and keeps it running quietly, and Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) to provide clean and consistent power.

The Yamaha EF2000iSV2 has a starting power of 2000 watts and a running power of 1600 watts. It also includes an overload breaker to assure that you don’t damage any of your electronics or the generator.

Two of these Yamaha generators can be daisy-chained together with a Twin Tech cable to produce enough power to run 30A appliances. It can also be connected to the WEN 56200i. It also features 2 120V AC outlets and a 12V DC outlet for added convenience.

Specs:

Surge Wattage: 2000W
Running Wattage: 1600W
Dimensions: 19.3” x 11” x 17.9”
Runtime: 10.5 hours at quarter-load

Pros

Highest quality power with Pulse Width Modulation (PWM)
Can be connected in parallel with Twin Tech cable
Smart Throttle improves gas economy
Quiet operation noise

Cons

Can be cost-prohibitive for some

Who Should Get This? This generator is recommended for those looking for the highest quality and most technology-packed portable unit and don’t mind paying the extra price for it.

6. Generac 6866 iQ2000 Super Quiet Inverter Generator

The Generac 6866 iQ2000 is an excellent inverter generator option for those seeking maximum flexibility when it comes to fuel management. It has 3 operational modes: Economy, Standard, and Turbo, with each providing more power or less noise.

This level of control can be helpful when the generator is not being run at capacity, allowing a prolonged gas economy. It even features a runtime meter, letting you know how much time you have left on your current settings and load. It has a starting power of 2000 watts and a running power of 1600 watts.

On a full tank, this Generac generator can last almost 8 hours at a quarter-load and nearly 6 at a half-load. It can also be connected to another unit via its parallel kit for extra power. This generator runs quietly on low loads but can get louder at its near capacity.

Specs:

Surge Wattage: 2000W
Running Wattage: 1600W
Dimensions: 20” x 12.6” x 16.9”
Runtime: 7.7 hours at quarter-load

Pros

Three modes of operation manage gas economy and reduce noise
Supports parallel operation with similar unit
Features electronic fuel gauge and display

Cons

Can be quite noisy with higher loads

Who Should Get This? This generator is a good choice for those who would rather be able to control its running power and noise using different modes of operation.

7. Honda EU2200i 2200 Watt Inverter Generator

This is another excellent inverter generator that delivers consistent and clean power. It has a starting wattage of 2200 watts, making it a good option for those that need the extra start-up wattage for tools or other high-power items.

It runs at 1,800 watts, equivalent to a basic household circuit. It’s also compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry and transport. This model is an upgrade from the Honda EU2000i, providing a little more power for start up.

It is very fuel-efficient and also features the ability to connect two for a max wattage of 4,400 watts via parallel cables. On a full tank, these generators can run up to 9.6 hours at a quarter-load. These highly reliable generators are a little pricier, but Honda is a well-known brand backed by a 3-year warranty. For those interested in a high-quality product, the higher price tag may be worth it.

Specs:

Surge Wattage: 2200W
Running Wattage: 1800W
Dimensions: 16″ x 20″ x 11″
Runtime: 9.6 hours at quarter-load

Pros

Provides clean, quiet power
Works in parallel
Extremely fuel efficient
Does not require oil changes

Cons

A very limited run time of 5.5 hours

Who Should Get This? Perfect for those who live in areas that have short or intermittent power outages. This generator is also ideal for those looking for a low-maintenance option.

8. Briggs & Stratton P2200 PowerSmart Inverter Generator

The Briggs & Stratton P2200 is a great all-around generator that matches up to many of the big-name brands available. It is a high-quality product and has a lot of the same features as leading brands.

It has a starting wattage of 2200 watts, allowing you to power ACs or fridges, and an operating wattage of 1700 watts, almost equivalent to a household circuit. It can run eight hours on a quarter-load, comparable or better than others in its class. For more power, it has parallel capability.

This generator is easy to move and transport, letting you use it for a variety of situations. However, it runs a little louder than other similar units. If the 2,200 watts of power are not enough for you or your power needs, the Briggs & Stratton P3000 is a more powerful unit, allowing you to run an RV or appliances that need more wattage.

Specs:

Surge Wattage: 2200W
Running Wattage: 1700W
Product Dimensions: 22.40” x 14.40” x 19.90”
Runtime: 8 hours at quarter-load

Pros

Features easy to use front panel with outlets
Compact and easy to transport
Supports parallel operation
Run efficiently and consistently

Cons

Louder than comparably sized generators

Who Should Get This? This is a good generator for many purposes, but not all. This generator is recommended for those who use their generator infrequently or mostly to power smaller items.

9. Pulsar PG2000iSN Inverter Generator

The Pulsar PG2000iSN is a cost-efficient generator that performs well for basic use. It is high quality and can run for 8 hours at a quarter load. It has a starting power of 2000 watts and a running power of 1600 watts, making it great for smaller appliances or personal electronics.

It uses Stable Sine Wave Technology to deliver clean power that won’t damage your devices. Its panel features two AC 120V, one 12V DC, and one 5V DC USB outlet for convenience.

Since it’s a little smaller than others, it is a very quiet generator, unable to be heard from just 10 feet away, making it great for camping or other situations where noise can be an issue. Its suitcase design makes it easy to carry and transport.

For customers looking for a slightly larger model, the Pulsar G2319N 2,300W provides a little more power on start-up and operation.

Specs:

Surge Wattage: 2000W
Running Wattage: 1600W
Product Dimensions: 19.7” x 11.22” x 17.97”
Runtime: 8 hours at quarter-load

Pros

Stable Sine Wave Technology
Featuring 2 AC 120V, 1 12V DC, and 1 5V DC USB Outlet
Cannot be heard from 10 feet away
Suitcase design makes it easily portable

Cons

Customer support needs improvement

Who Should Get This? This generator is an excellent choice for those seeking a good quality, budget-friendly product that performs well for powering personal and lightweight electronics items. It’s also perfect for quiet camping.

Final Verdict

The Wen 56200i Super Quiet 2000-Watt inverter generator is a great all-around generator that provides a solidly constructed product for a good price, compared to competing brands. It uses a high-quality engine that runs efficiently and quietly.

This generator uses the same engine as the popular Yamaha EF2000is, and can be linked in parallel to one. However, the Wen 56200i delivers a comparable experience at a fraction of the price of the Yamaha.

Additionally, the WEN 56200i Super Quiet 2000 Watt is lightweight and easy to transport, making it great for tailgating, camping, or emergencies. It has a great design and an intuitive interface that is easy for anyone to use.

While many and all of these generators can provide you with the right kind of power you need for your camping trip, RV, tailgating experience, or an emergency, the best all-around option is the WEN 56200i Super Quiet 2000-Watt.

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