The Best Portable Inverter Generator Reviews for 2022
An inverter generator is one of the safest backup emergency powers that can power your sensitive electronic appliances. It produces DC, (direct current) and converts it to AC (alternating current), which is electrical energy, per engine rotation. Moreover, its engine speed often varies, depending on the electrical demand of the appliance.
In addition, the best portable inverter generator is usually lightweight, energy efficient, quiet during operation, has a clean power with easy maintenance and servicing. Apart from home use, you can take a road trip or camp with it.
Therefore, if you are looking for one, you can start your shopping using some of the tips and guides in this post. They are all within a reasonable budget and from top reputable companies. So be familiarized and make a pick, in accordance with your needs.
Best Product - Our Top 3 Picks
Honda EU2000I
MOST POPULAR
PRICE: $$$
Yamaha EF2000iSv2
EDITOR'S CHOICE
PRICE: $$$
Rated #1 by Hovement.com
Champion 75531i
PREMIUM PRODUCT
PRICE: $$$
Read More: Best Propane Generator Reviews
Why Should You Trust Us?
If you are in the shop for a portable inverter generator, then you are on the right website for an informative review about some of its top six. This is because our research and writing team has compiled a list of the best of all, from renowned world companies that is Honda, Yamaha, Champion, Westinghouse, and Pulsar.
Moreover, this optional list of machinery is highly durable and effective. Besides, anyone can operate them no prior experience is needed. You just have to be acquainted with the user manual, from basics to technical know-how.
Therefore, do not be hesitant when it comes to opting for any one of them. This is because you will be dealing with the best only. Nevertheless, we give you options to narrow your choice within your budget.
Top Inverter Generator Brands
Honda
Honda power equipment is one of the most reputable and renowned machinery company that deliver only durable, strong and effective tools.
Honda portable inverter generators are usually within 1000 to 7000 watts and have a super quiet operation system. Moreover, they are portable and multi-purpose. You can use them for home back up, RV powering, camping, tailgating and so much more.
Besides, they are always the number one choice of machinery, for the rental and construction industry
Yamaha
Yamaha is a highly recommendable company to buy power equipment, as it has loads of selections that can power varied types of appliances. They are highly valued due to their ease of portability, fuel-efficiency, and quiet operation.
Champion
Champion is another top equipment manufacturing company that combines innovation with versatility, to give you the perfect inverter generator for your home, projects, and RV. It usually produces portable generators within 1,200-12,000 watts.
Westinghouse
Westinghouse can power anything, from any location, due to their ease in portability and high efficiency when it comes to fuel consumption. You can rely on its models to safely power up electronic appliances.
Pulsar
Pulsar is one of the leading companies when it comes to the manufacture of portable generators, be it for a home back up or a job site. It is highly reliable, with clean power making it safe for all sorts of appliances.
Moreover, its products have a straightforward 3-year warranty, on all mechanical parts. You just have to register the equipment within 30 days after purchase, no hassles.
1. Champion 3500-Watt RV Ready Digital Hybrid Portable Inverter Generator with Quiet Technology
This RV ready inverter generator is the best option for all your sensitive appliances. It has two 120V 20A with clean power, which is less than 3% THD. Moreover, it has a 12V DC outlet with a versatile dual USB adapter. You also get convenient battery charging cables, if your purchase it.
This power machine has an optional parallel ready feature you can use to maximize its power output. You can connect up to two inverters or a digital hybrid of up to 2800 watt or higher using this option.
QUICK SUMMARY
In addition, it comes fully assembled and has a unique mechanical design that reduces its weight capacity by up to 20%. It weighs 81.6lbs and comes with built-in side handles that hold the entire unit together, protecting it from damage, in case it falls.
REVIEW & TESTS
- Features
- Efficiency
- Maintenance
This portable power generator has a quick touch panel that gives you easy access to its controls, hassle-free. This allows you to make the correct settings for optimal performance.
It also features a recoil start feature and a cold start Technology that ensures you get a clean and easy start even in cold climates. In addition, its 244cc engine produces 3500 running watt and a starting watt of 4000, ideal for tailgating and RVs.
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WHAT WE DIDN'T LIKE
2. Yamaha EF3000iSEB 3000 Watts Gas Powered
At 68 pounds, this gas-powered generatordelivers a maximum output of electrical power without compromising on its ease of portability. Besides, its maximum watt AC output is 3000 while its rated watt AC output is 2800.
This power machine has a super-quiet muffler, with a noise level of 53 dBA / 60 dBA for a ¼ rated to a rated load respectively. Moreover, it can run for up to 19 hrs on its full gas tank of 3.4 Gallons, at a ¼ rated load.
QUICK SUMMARY
It is easier to start due to the presence of auto-decompression and auto warm-up features that reduces compression level for a quick start and increases the speed of the engine during cold starts, respectively.
In addition, it has some safety features like an oil watch warning system that can prevent damages on the engine, due to low oil. Its electrical overload breaker also protects the generator from malfunctioning, in case of an overload. Likewise, you can easily see the fuel level via the fuel gauge, for a quick refill.
It has two 120V AC outlets and one DC outlet. Besides, it is CARB compliant.
REVIEW & TESTS
- Features
- Efficiency
- Warranty
This unit comes with a 3-year warranty on parts. Moreover, it has a good number of professional repairing facilities worldwide. Therefore, if it malfunctions you can just try to locate one within your area. Nonetheless, it is easy to maintain and service.
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WHAT WE DIDN'T LIKE
3. Champion 3400-Watt Dual Fuel (RV Ready)
This stackable inverter generator can be useful during emergency operations. It can power up various items in an RV as well as charge your phone, provide back up for a microwave, TV, conditioners, furnace, and stoves.
It has a very powerful pull recoil start and a Cold Start Tech that guarantees an efficient and quick start, especially during a cold weather.
Moreover, it features 3060 starting watt and a running watt of 2790 . Besides, it has two 120V 20A power outlets with clean electricity for household items, less than 3% THD. On the same note, it has a 12V DC outlet.
QUICK SUMMARY
Its smart economy mode usually eases its functionality by reducing the electrical load, prolonging the engine life, economizing on its fuel as well as allowing for a quiet operation.
This portable generator comes with a convenient built-in carry handle that enhances its portability. It weighs only 48.5 lb.
REVIEW & TESTS
- Features
- Efficiency
- Warranty
This Champion model features low oil auto-shut off sensor system and an overload protection that protects it and the device plugged in it from power damages.
It has a parallel capability that you can use to maximize and double on power output, up to 30 amps, by stacking a similar model on its top or bottom.
WHAT WE LIKED
WHAT WE DIDN'T LIKE
4. Westinghouse iGen2500
This model of the Westinghouse is much lighter with a compact design that allows for easier storage as well as portability. At only, 93lbs it comes with convenient wheels and an extendable handle on its bottom, you can use to transport it.
It features two USB ports, a 120VAC 20A household duplex outlet as well as 120V 30A TT-30R recreational vehicle receptacle.
QUICK SUMMARY
It can safely power up computers, laptops, mobile phones, kitchen appliances and other electronic appliances. Moreover, it is the perfect fit for tailgating, camping, DIY projects, home and work use. It is rated at 2200 watts and has a peak of 2500 watts at <3% THD.
Moreover, its powerful engine can easily adjust to meet the power/electrical demand of the load placed on it, the generator. This increases its efficiency when it comes to fuel consumption. It also lowers the exhaust emissions.
This power machine has some useful features for enhanced performance and safety. These are an overload and output ready indicator as well as a low oil indicator light. Besides, it is safe for use in forests and parks.
REVIEW & TESTS
- Features
- Efficiency
- Warranty
This power generator comes with a 3-year LIMITED warranty plus a Westinghouse nationwide support and service network. You can use its user manual when it comes to keeping up with its regular maintenance and servicing.
WHAT WE LIKED
WHAT WE DIDN'T LIKE
5. Honda EU3000IS1A 3000Watt Super Quiet Gasoline Powered
This product does not come cheap but is worthy, as it has a powerful engine that can safely handle small appliances and larger loads of 1000W plus. It can power up, laptops, Xbox, TV/DVD player, freezer, coffee pot, satellite, and a microwave.
Moreover, it is highly portable, weighing only 45.6lbs. Its dimensions are 11.4 by 20.1 by 16.7 inches. Besides, it is gasoline powered and can be carried anywhere, for a camping or road trip and even to a construction site.
QUICK SUMMARY
Besides, it is easy to use you just turn on its side knob and pull the cord quickly. It can take a while to get used to pulling the cord. Nevertheless, it is generally a user-friendly device and anyone can handle it.
Additionally, it is the best for emergencies. It produces 53-59 decibels of noise, depending on how long you run it and has a power rating of 2,000W and 120V power outlets.
REVIEW & TESTS
- Features
- Efficiency
- Warranty
Honda usually makes some top quality products. This model has a very reliable engine that allows you to pair it with another similar unit, in order to increase the power output. You will just need to use a separate adapter.
WHAT WE LIKED
WHAT WE DIDN'T LIKE
6. Pulsar PG6000 6000W Peak 5000W Rated
This inverter generator has a versatile design that can operate up to three major electronic appliances at the same time. Moreover, it has two circuits, circuit breakers and seven different outlets you can use to your advantage to power up almost anything.
It has four convenient 120V outlets, one-120V twist-lock outlet, and one 120V/240V twist-lock outlet as well as a 12V DC output. Besides, its peak watt is 6000 and it is rated at 5000 watts.
QUICK SUMMARY
Additionally, it comes with an overload protection feature, which prevents any damages to it and the plugged-in appliance.
It weighs 181lbs and comes with No-flat wheels as well as two foldout handles for ease when it comes to portability. Besides, this device requires a bit of assembly, which is easy if you use the manual.
REVIEW & TESTS
- Features
- Efficiency
- Warranty
It features a fuel gauge you can use to see how far the oil has gone. Likewise, it has a low oil shut-off system for engine
Moreover, it also features an easier to read gas gauge as well as a unique3N1 digital meter that is volts, frequency and hours.
WHAT WE LIKED
WHAT WE DIDN'T LIKE
Things to Consider While Buying Portable Inverter Generator
Before buying any power generator, you should consider some of these factors, to be able to maximize its use.
Why Should You Choose Inverter Generator over Conventional Generator?
Inverter generators are often the best choice when compared to conventional generators. This is due to many reasonable comparisons that cover functionality, performance level as well as essential features and safety measures.
Here are some top reasons why you should always choose an inverter generator as opposed to a conventional generator.
Copyright: Westinghouse.com
I. Definition
Inverter Generator: They have a design that converts DC, direct current to AC, alternating current for safe operations of different and sensitive appliances. This means that it only produces electricity depending on the demand of the plugged-in appliance. This, in turn, reduces the fuel consumption as well as noise level.
Conventional Generators: The conventional generator is designed to create an alternating current, meaning they are only ideal for running an appliance with greater output over an extended period, producing loads of noise.
II. Size, Weight, and Portability
Inverter generators are typically small, measuring a few cubic feet with a weight range of 30-50 pounds. This means you can hike with them fit them in your RV, boat or car.
On the other hand, conventional generators are bulky and heavy to the point you cannot move them from one place to another without wheels and a substantial metal frame. They lack the convenient ease of portability found on its competitor.
III. Fuel Efficiency and Run-time
Conventional generators can accommodate sizeable fuel tanks that can run for a long time, supplying the needed power. Moreover, most run at 3,600 rpm, regardless of the load, you can only stop it by turning it OFF.
As for inverter generators, they cannot use big fuel tanks due to their compact design. As much as they run for a short time 8-10 hours, they are great at controlling and adjusting engine speed depending on the load. This means it can save on up to 40% of its fuel. In addition, they reduce the level of exhaust emission.
IV. Noise Level
Inverter generators usually have special mufflers, sound-dampening tech and quieter engines that make them run very quietly. You can sleep soundly even as it operates.
However, conventional generators often run at a constant speed and that results in a constant undesirable noise from it. Most have a noise level of 65-75 decibels.
V. Maximum Power Output and Quality
Conventional generators have a watt range of 500-50,000 while inverter generators have a small range of 1000-4000 watt.
As for quality output, inverter generators produce clean power by converting AC output to DC and back to AC. Conventional generators just supply AC directly to the load.
VI. Parallel Operation
Inverter generators have a parallel operational option, you can use for linking another identical unit to double the power supply. Conventional generators do not have this option.
VII. Price
Inverter generators are a bit pricey compared to conventional generators that have been around for a long time. However, they are the best as they operate quietly, are energy efficient, portable and can power sensitive home appliance.
Conclusion
There you have it, a list of some of the most recommendable generators in today’s market. They come from reputable companies in the power and machinery industry.
Therefore, rest assured you are only getting quality long-lasting power equipment, from this portable inverter generator reviews. Besides, they are all easy to operate and service, however, you can make use of its detailed instructional booklet.