Table of Contents
Last updated: November, 2023
So you are looking for a super quiet generator for camping, RV, or emergency home backup power supply.
There are plenty of generators, but which is the quietest generator on the market?
Below you can find our selection 10 quietest generators currently being for sale.
Check out our reviews below to read more about these units.
Top 10 Quietest Generators Compared
| Generator | Noise Level (25% Load) | Running / Starting Watts | Weight | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 1. Our Pick: WEN 56200i | 51 dB | 1600 W / 2000 W | 48 lbs | Check Price |
 | Honda EU2200i | 49 dB | 1800 W / 2200 W | 40 lbs | Check Price |
 | 3. Yamaha EF2000iSv2 | 51.5 dB | 1600 W / 2000 W | 44.1 lbs | Check Price |
 | 4. Generac iQ2000 | 53 dB | 1600 W / 2000 W | 46.2 lbs | Check Price |
 | 5. Westinghouse iGen 1200 | 52 dB | 1000 W / 1200 W | 35 lbs | Check Price |
 | 6. Champion 75537i | 58 dB | 2800 W / 3100 W | 96.6 lbs | Check Price |
 | 7. Yamaha EF2400iSHC | 53 dB | 2000 W / 2400 W | 75 lbs | Check Price |
 | 8. Westinghouse WH2000iXLT | 52 dB | 1800 W / 2200 W | 43 lbs | Check Price |
 | 9. Honda EU3000iS | 49 dB | 2800 W / 3000 W | 130 lbs | Check Price |
 | 10. Smarter Tools STAP-2000iQ | 51 dB | 1600 W / 2000 W | 47 lbs | Check Price |
| Generator | Noise Level (25% Load) | Running / Starting Watts | Weight | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| | 1. Our Pick: WEN 56200i | 51 dB | 1600 W / 2000 W | 48 lbs | Check Price |
| | Honda EU2200i | 49 dB | 1800 W / 2200 W | 40 lbs | Check Price |
| | 3. Yamaha EF2000iSv2 | 51.5 dB | 1600 W / 2000 W | 44.1 lbs | Check Price |
| | 4. Generac iQ2000 | 53 dB | 1600 W / 2000 W | 46.2 lbs | Check Price |
| | 5. Westinghouse iGen 1200 | 52 dB | 1000 W / 1200 W | 35 lbs | Check Price |
| | 6. Champion 75537i | 58 dB | 2800 W / 3100 W | 96.6 lbs | Check Price |
| | 7. Yamaha EF2400iSHC | 53 dB | 2000 W / 2400 W | 75 lbs | Check Price |
| | 8. Westinghouse WH2000iXLT | 52 dB | 1800 W / 2200 W | 43 lbs | Check Price |
| | 9. Honda EU3000iS | 49 dB | 2800 W / 3000 W | 130 lbs | Check Price |
| | 10. Smarter Tools STAP-2000iQ | 51 dB | 1600 W / 2000 W | 47 lbs | Check Price |
1. WEN 56200i
WEN 56200i is one of the top rated inverter generators currently on sale. It operates very quietly and is similar to an everyday conversation. It makes clean energy that is free of voltage drops and spikes. It emits much less noise than conventional generators and ranks high among other inverter generators.
This unit generates 1600 running and 2000 surge watts of power output.
The 79.7 cc 4-stroke OHV engine functions at a super quiet 51 decibels at a 25 % load. This is quieter than a window air conditioner or a normal conversation between two people. That makes it a good choice for situations when you clearly want to keep your generator as quiet as possible such as tailgating, camping or hunting.
Invented to emulate a pure sine wave, this generator confines total harmonic distortion to below 0.3% at no load and below 1.2% at full load. That makes it safe to operate vulnerable electronics, including tablets, monitors, cell phones, and laptops.
The design makes this quiet generator very light to carry too.
WEN 56200i is also a very fuel-efficient generator.
The 1-gallon tank can run for up to 6 hours at 50 % load, which is an excellent result compared to most of the other generators in the market.
WEN 56200i comes equipped with one 5v USB port, one 12V DC receptacle, and two three-prong 120V receptacles.
The economy mode throttle allows the generator’s motor to adjust its fuel consumption automatically.
This feature prevents the unnecessary usage of gasoline.
This generator comes with a 2-year warranty that is backed by a nationwide network of expert service specialists and a friendly consumer helpline.
- Super quiet
- Lightweight – easy to carry with one hand
- Good value for money
- Easy to run
- No fuel valve
- Plastic Finishing
2. Honda EU2200i
Honda EU 2200I is the newer version of a popular Honda EU2000I portable inverter generator.
A lot of experts claim that these are some of the best and quietest generators ever made.
It maintains the same features which made its predecessor the desired choice.
The unbeatable original Honda Engine is one of them.
The main improvement is the higher running wattage – which increased from 1600 to 1800W.
It is one of the most popular inverter generators on the market and could be easily classified as one of the best models available.
The noise level and price remain the same as in the case of EU2000i, which is great. In my humble opinion, it is one of the best and quietest inverter generators on the market.
The noise level is only 49 decibels at 25 % load. That means the amount of noise this generator emits during regular operation is comparable to a lively conversation involving a few people.
EU2200I has got a powerful Honda GXR12o engine – a synonym of the best quality in the market of portable generators.
The fuel tank capacity is 0.95 gallons.
Depending on the load, the generator can run for up to 9 hours on one fuel tank.
This quiet portable inverter generator is compact, small, and capable of generating reliable, clean power. You can also use it in conjunction with another inverter generator to double the power.
Honda Oil Alerts system is in place to shield this power equipment for the outdoors. When the oil gets dangerously low, the generator will turn off. It has a circuit protection mechanism preventing the circuit from overloading during operation. This quiet generator is a pull start type that is easy to use and maintain.
Read more about this generator in my full Honda EU2200i review.
- Trusted brand
- Super quiet
- Original Honda engine
- Little maintenance required
- Reliable construction
- Easy to carry on
- High quality comes at a higher price. However, I honestly believe this generator is worth its price tag.
- No electric start
3. Yamaha EF2000iSv2
The Yamaha EF2000iSv2 Generator distributes the most electrical output without sacrificing portability.
It operates at 1600-watt rated AC output with a 2000-watt maximum AC output.
The noise level is only 51.5 decibels at 25% load, making it a quiet generator.
This is one of the silent generators that use inverter technology (not sure what an inverter generator is? I’ve explained it in detail in this article).
It can operate for up to 10.5 hours with no refueling. It is a very handy model that is easy to move and store.
The Yamaha EF2000iSV2 is not only a very quiet generator but also a very fuel-efficient one. It dispels heat efficiently, allowing for optimum fuel consumption. One of its highlights is a dual coil alternator stator that reduces the speed of the engine and cuts back on the amount of gas it burns.
It has a central, convenient control panel that permits the user to access all of the highlights at the push of a button. It is also effortless and quick to start because of an automatic decompression system that makes starting it easy.
My only real issue with this generator is its high price tag. But as they say – you get what you pay for, and this generator does not disappoint.
I have written an in-depth review of Yamaha EF2000iSv2 which you can read here.
- Original Yamaha engine
- Sturdy construction – can handle more adverse weather conditions
- Lightweight
- Automatic fuel shutoff
- Not cheap
4. Generac 6866 iQ2000
The Generac 6866 iQ2000 is probably my favorite among all Generac generators. I’ve actually decided to write an entire dedicated article about Generac IQ2000. I explain there in detail what I like and dislike about this model.
While I’ve been under the impression that this prominent American manufacturer has not invested much in adopting the new technologies in their generators, IQ2000 clearly contradicts this. It is undoubtedly an excellent hi-tech offering.
It is indeed quiet and clean.
While it’s not the quietest portable generator money can get, it is still relatively noiseless.
It is also very easy to use. The interface is simple and straightforward. You can easily find most of the vital settings as well as the fuel level readout, on the dashboard.
In addition you can easily open the engine compartment and fuel cap. That makes refueling or repairing the generator quick, easy, and relatively clean.
It’s also easy to start, usually requiring only one firm yank to get the engine purring.
This quiet portable generator is perfect for you if you’re someone on the move who will value mobility and convenience over raw power output.
It’s great for outdoor events and tailgating parties but can also work as a home backup.
This is because it’s easy to store and can be pulled out for personal use or in case of emergencies.
- Powerbar is a nice feature – it shows you exactly how much percentage of maximum wattage you use
- Cheaper than some of its main competitors
- Easy to start
- There are quieter generators in the same wattage range
5. Westinghouse iGen1200
Westinghouse is probably my favorite of all American companies making portable generators. Pretty much every single generator they make, such as Wgen7500 or WH2000iXLT are truly top-notch quality. They also cost less than Honda or Yamaha generators while having the same functionalities and solid design.
Westinghouse IGen1200 is currently the smallest quiet portable generator Westinghouse has got on offer. Weighing only 35 lbs, it is an excellent choice for campers.
It produces only 52 dB at 25% load. That makes it one of the quietest generators in the market.
Depending on the load, it can run up to 10 hours on a single refueling.
This modern generator runs at 1000 watts which is enough to power portable electronic devices, camping lights etc. On the other hand, you won’t be able to use it with an AC or portable heating.
A great thing about iGen1200 is its compatibility with another Westinghouse inverter generator mentioned in this guide – WH2000iXLT. You can connect them to increase the total wattage using the dedicated parallel cord sold separately by the manufacturer.
One final strong point is the price. For example, Amazon is currently selling this generator for more than twice as cheap as Honda. (last updated: 2nd of July 2019). A real bargain if you ask me.
Overall, it’s a lovely lightweight, quiet inverter generator. Comes highly recommended for campers and anyone else looking for a small portable generator.
- Very quiet
- Lightweight
- Trusted American manufacturer
- Great value for money
- 1000 watts is not enough to run any major electrical appliance
6. Champion Power Equipment 75537i
Champion Power Equipment 75537i immediately stands out compared to other inverter generators reviewed by us thanks to its higher wattage.
3100 starting watts is indeed quite an impressive offering for an inverter generator. This generator does a good job in filling the market gap between the typical inverter generators (which lack sufficient wattage to power larger appliances) and conventional portable generators (which are bulkier and certainly noisier).
Bear in mind, though, that the 75537i owes the increased performance to its larger and heavier engine. You won’t find it as easy to carry from one place to another as 2000-watt inverters.
Thankfully, this model has built-in wheels, making the logistics much less gruesome.
The only minor downside is that this is not an optimal solution for muddy terrain. Since there is little space between the wheels and the body of the generator, debris can easily get trapped in between. However, this is not a significant nuisance.
I particularly like this generator’s good runtime and fuel efficiency.
It can provide you with up to 8 hours of run time at 25% load. The Economy Mode Control Switch is at the control panel, which will automatically lower the engine when not in use.
While it is overall a relatively quiet unit, it can become much louder at heavier loads. That’s where this particular portable inverter generator loses to some of its competitors, such as Yamaha EF2400iSHC.
The generator runs very quietly and has good runtime and fuel efficiency.
It is fully EPA / CARB compliant. Though you may realize that this model will at times, run loudly under heavier loads, the noise level is still perfectly acceptable. It is one of the quietest portable generators out there.
Overall this is a highly rated unit and possibly the quietest generator in this wattage range.
If you want to learn more about this generator, check out my detailed review article of Champion 75537i. You will also find out there why I especially recommend it for the RV owners.
- High-quality design
- RV ready
- Quiet for its size
- High wattage
- Remote Start
- CARB compliant
- The wheels are a bit too small and too close to the body
- It could be slightly quieter at heavier loads
- No fuel gauge
7. Yamaha EF2400ISHC
Yamaha EF2400iSHC inverter generator is one of the best and quietest generators money can buy. It has a heightened motor starting ability and an enhanced air conditioner starting capability.
This quiet generator comes with a fuel consumption management system that regulates the engine’s speed to match the load.
It automatically prevents low-oil engine damage, thereby avoiding expensive repairs and reducing downtime.
This unit offers easy portability, quiet operation, increased reliability, and improved efficiency. It will operate most 13,500 BTU convection/microwave ovens, RV air conditioners, and the largest blow dryer.
Yamaha generators have the lengthiest emission engine resilience ratings declared by the California Air Resources Board and the Environmental Protection Agency.
This model has an aluminum die-cast frame, other weight-saving measures, and an aluminum TCI rotor.
Weighing 75 lbs is certainly not the lightest inverter generator you can get. However, carrying it around without significant struggles is still easy.
That’s also one consequence of larger fuel tank capacity that makes it possible for this generator to run for the whole night even on higher load.
- At 2400 surge watts, it offers more power than many other inverter generators
- Easy to use, no technical knowledge required
- Great both for work and leisure outdoor use
- No remote start
- Could be slightly cheaper
8. Westinghouse WH2000iXLT
Westinghouse WH2000iXLT is a quiet portable generator that comes up with a Westinghouse 4-stroke 79cc OHV engine.
This generator surges at 2000 watts, which is typical for most of inverter generators of this size.
Fuel efficiency is a massive advantage of this unit.
It has an economic mode to keep its consumption at minimum levels.
The generator’s control panel has got user-friendly color-coded touchpoints. It’s a handy design feature that makes it super easy to operate even if it is the first generator you’ve ever used.
It also has an automatic low oil shutdown that automatically stops the generator to prevent damage.
You can use it with sensitive electronics because it has less than 3 % total harmonic distortion or THD. This quiet generator has run time at 25% load of 22 hours and a run time at 50% load of 13 hours.
This is one of the quietest portable generators out there.
It is easy to carry and offers efficient, clean power for all of your recreational needs. If you want to learn more about this generator, I wrote this detailed review to tell you more about it.
- Really quiet operation at 52dB
- 43 lbs weight – easy to carry
- 15 hours run time at 50% load
- Cheaper than Honda or Yamaha
- Economy Mode
- Automatic low oil shutdown mechanism
- No fuel gauge
9. Honda EU3000iS
Most of the quietest inverter generators in the market have one major shortcoming – they are usually rated at between 1600 and 2000 running watts. While this is enough to power one major appliance or a few portable electronic devices for camping, this is certainly not enough to run an RV air conditioner and anything else.
That’s where Honda EU3000iS comes into play with its 2800 rated watts. As for now, it is one of the most potent inverter generators you can find. You could run a 15,000 BTU AC smoothly with it and still have enough extra wattage to power a few more portable gadgets.
Honda EU3000iS is also a quiet generator. At 25% load, its noise levels do not exceed 50 dB. Even at 50% load, the noise level is around 58 dB which is still quieter than two people having a lively chat. This generator is, therefore, fully approved to be used at most of RV campsites (which usually only permit generators running below 65 decibels).
The generator fuel tank capacity is 3.4 gallons – pretty big for a 3000-watt generator.
Just as I have described in my detailed review of Honda EU3000iS, the downside of this generator is that it is quite bulky and heavy. To make moving it around less gruesome, you need to purchase the dedicated frame and a wheel kit separately. I believe Honda should have included those accessories in the kit at this price level.
On the plus side, like other Honda inverter generators, EU3000iS is equipped with parallel capability. That means you can connect two EU3000iS and double your total output up to a whopping 5600 watts.
To summarize, EU3000iS is one of the sturdiest and quietest generators money can buy.
I particularly recommend it for RV enthusiasts. However, those who need a reliable backup power source will also like this generator.
If you need a solid 3000 watt generator, you can’t go wrong with the Honda.
- Quiet for its size
- Heavy-duty steel frame
- Original Honda engine
- High power output
- A bit heavy
- Accessories like wheel kit have to be purchased separately
10. Smarter Tools STAP-2000iQ
Smarter Tools STAP-2000iQ is a quiet portable generator with a Yamaha MZ80 engine. It is fully EPA and CARB-compliant. Sinewave technology makes this generator appropriate for running sensitive electronics like laptop computers.
It features an extra quiet muffler with a USFS-approved spark arrestor.
This custom-designed spark arrestor does a great job of preventing stray sparks from damaging the generator.
It can operate in conjunction with another AP-2000iQ to provide you with twice as much power – 3200 running watts in total.
As we’ve already mentioned, the generator is equipped with the original Yamaha engine. That is one of the most trusted inverter generator engines on the market, and you can rest assured it will last for a long.
It is easy to use and lightweight. It has many handy features such as a self-venting gas cap, LED indicator lights, easy access oil fill door, USB charging outlet, and a fuel gauge.
This nice quiet generator is the perfect source of power outdoors. Some extra features include a fuel petcock and a twelve-volt charging outlet.
- Very silent – only 51dB
- Yamaha engine
- Parallel Capability
- Simple Set Up and Maintenance
- CARB compliant
- Struggles visibly at peak output
- A bit too small to run larger appliances
Why having a very quiet generator is a must?
Noise Regulations
Your HOA or city may have an ordinance for the noise limit that a piece of equipment or anything can emit on your property. As a general rule, the limit is 75 decibels. Anything above that sound level may get you a warning or a fine. Prolonged noise at a level higher than 75 decibels can also give a big headache to you and everyone around. (source: nps.gov)
Many campsites and RV parks are even more strict about noise levels. The general rule for most of them is that portable power generators operating above 65 dB are not permitted.
If you are not close to your neighbors, you might not have those restraints. It may be only about keeping your home comfortable so that you can rest at night. However, a noisy generator can make sleeping very difficult if you need a portable power supply that will run at night. If you chose a quiet generator in the range of 50 decibels, then depending on its location, you may avoid listening to its constant noise.
Camping & RV
Camping and RV are some of the most common situations which require a quiet generator. It can provide the anonymity, peace, and tranquility you desire so much in the wild. Nothing takes the fun out of a camping trip more than having to yell to be heard. Running a loud RV generator in the middle of the night at an otherwise whisper-quiet campsite is also just plain rude, isn’t it?
Fuel Efficiency
Another important factor is fuel efficiency. If a generator consumes a lot of fuel, you may want to consider another unit. Otherwise, you will waste much money and energy packing additional gas. Fortunately, a super quiet generator such as the Honda EU2200i implements advanced technologies that adjust its fuel consumption to the actual needs. In this scenario, you won’t have to worry too much about wasting gas.
Fuel type is also an important thing. Generally speaking, running a generator on propane is cheaper than gasoline. If you want to save quite a lot of money on fuel, consider getting a dual-fuel generator. Solar generators are also a decent solution for those looking for a 100% eco-friendly and noiseless fuel type generator.
Things to Consider When Buying A Quiet Generator
Before purchasing the quietest generator, think about what kind of setting you will use. That will also determine how silent a generator has to be. Sometimes, you might realize that you can get a slightly louder model but get much more wattage power. In other circumstances, you will have to accept less wattage in exchange for a lower noise level.
Power vs. Noise Levels – What Is Your Priority?
A person who is looking for a quiet inverter generator to power a large-sized outdoor stall will probably tolerate a higher noise level in exchange for more disposable power available.
On the other hand, a busker performing on an electric guitar will steer towards a smaller quiet generator that won’t hinder his performance with their noise. Even purchasing a solar generator can be a viable option in such a case.
Conversely, higher decibel levels won’t be a big issue in the busy construction site environment. But then the same generators can prove a real nuisance for homeowners or when used during a camping trip.
Image source: yamahamotorsports.com
The next thing you need to do is determine power needs. Decide how much electricity you need to operate the necessary items. If you are looking for a generator to use as a home backup power solution for hardwired appliances, you will also need to purchase a transfer switch to power the circuits in your house.
However, a transfer switch is not necessary if you only want to plug several devices directly to a generator. Just make sure you get the right extension cord.
Your budget, power needs and convenience will all play a significant role in choosing a quiet generator to meet your needs. For most of users, the most recommended choice is inverter generators. Most of them are silent compared to a conventional “contractor-type” generator.
How is the Noise Produced by a Generator Calculated?
One of the best questions to ask is: how much noise does a generator make? We use decibels (dB) to measure the intensity of a sound. 0 decibels is the quietest sound that a healthy human ear can hear. Everything from there increases by 3 decibels, representing a doubling of acoustic power or sound intensity. The human ear has the extraordinary ability to manage a vast range of sound levels. We use a logarithmic scale to communicate levels of sound in a meaningful way that is more convenient. We call it the decibel scale.
How many decibels do various activities and devices emit? Source: https://www.pca.state.mn.us/air/noise-pollution
The comparative loudness we observe is a biased psychological occurrence that we cannot objectively gauge. Most of us identify one sound as twice as noisy as another when they are only about 10 decibels apart. For example, a 60 dB AC will sound twice as loud as a 50 dB refrigerator. However, the 10 dB difference signifies a tenfold increase in the intensity of the sound.
A 70 dB dishwasher will sound about four times as noisy as a 50 dB refrigerator. However, in terms of audio intensity, the noise it creates is 100 times as forceful! Also, the noise levels of generators can be different from the values specified by the manufacturers, depending on the load. A generator advertised as the quietest portable generator can, in reality, be much noisier when running at a higher capacity.
Any noise that is above 85db can lead to a loss of hearing. Exposure to 8 hours of sound at 90 decibels can damage your ears. Any exposure to noise above 140 dB will cause immediate damage and physical pain (source: nidcd.nih.gov).
Other Important Considerations
Some more things to take into account include servicing, setup, design features, and finally – the price.
You should ask yourself:
- Does the generator come with a maintenance bundle or a warranty?
- Does it include a funnel, wheels, quality oil, and a power cord?
- What is the fuel tank capacity, and how long can it run continuously?
You will also have to set your budget. The best and quietest generator will set you back around a thousand dollars. That is another point at which you should calculate again how much wattage you need. In most cases, the more you need, the higher the price tag.
Frequently Asked Questions about Quiet Generators
What size generator do I need?
You first need to determine which devices you want to run. Then you should add their combined wattage and see if it’s below the total wattage of the generator.
Use our handy calculator to figure out how much wattage you need.
IMPORTANT: make sure you compare both starting and running wattage! Starting watts (also called “surge watts) determine how much energy a device consumes right after you turn it on. For many appliances, such as, e.g. microwave ovens, those two figures are the same. Others, however, can have drastic differences.
For example, a typical 10,000 BTU air conditioner will require approx. 2200 starting watts and 1500 running watts. That means you can safely use a quiet portable generator like Yamaha EF2000ISv2 or Wen 56200i to power it.
However, you won’t be able to power anything else.
In all cases – check your application’s exact wattage, as these may vary between manufacturers. You can usually find this information printed on the device tag.
Can I power a whole house in an emergency using one of those quiet generators?
No, it is not possible.
Most of the quiet generators have a maximum running wattage of no more than 4000 watts, which is not enough to provide electricity for the whole house.
The Westinghouse WGen7500 runs at 7500 watts and is still reasonably quiet (especially if you put it in an enclosure). It is probably as close as it gets to be a viable portable emergency power supply for a household.
However, the most critical question you should ask yourself is – do you need ALL OF your household appliances to work during a hurricane? Or perhaps just a few CRUCIAL ones such as refrigerators or medical equipment?
If you need to power only the most essential devices, the quiet portable generators mentioned in this guide will do their job just fine. Champion 75537i is one such generator. It has 3100 running watts, which is enough to power a refrigerator, a set of lights, and a furnace fan.
How loud is a 74 dB generator?
74 decibels is the noise level comparable to an average vacuum cleaner. A portable generator running at this sound level can be quite a nuisance.
Are propane generators quieter?
Generally speaking, whether the portable generator uses gas or propane, the sound level doesn’t make much difference. What’s more important is the design. Eg. Champion Power Equipment 3400 watt propane generator is a very quiet unit. That’s because is a well-built RV generator. The fact that it can be run on propane is just a handy addition rather than something that makes this generator quieter.
Can I use a muffler to quiet a generator?
Yes, using a muffler to reduce further the noise levels produced by a portable generator is an option.
Some quiet generators mentioned in this guide, such as Yamaha EF2000iSv2, already have built-in mufflers, so purchasing one separately is unnecessary.
Not all types of small quiet generators will also work well with the external mufflers. You should check it before buying one, whether it will support an external muffler.
In any case, the best one size fits all solution is to get a dedicated enclosure. That is the most efficient way to quiet down a generator.
If you’re more a DIY type and want to save yourself a few bucks, you can build an enclosure yourself.
Are those generators quiet enough to use at official campgrounds?
If a specific campground has got it written on the list of its rules that no portable generators are allowed at all times – then nope, no matter how quiet yours is – you can’t use one there.
However, most of the federal campgrounds adhere to a general rule that portable generators below 59 decibels are allowed to operate during the so-called “non-quiet” times (usually before 10 PM).
You can also consider getting a portable solar power charger. Those portable generators are noiseless and powerful enough to provide electricity for smaller electronics such as laptops, cameras, phones, and camping lights.
In any case – check the individual rules of each campground and make sure you do whatever you can to minimize the disruption caused to your neighbors!
Yamaha and Honda are too expensive. Are there any good cheap alternatives?
Even though I believe both are worth their price and can be a perfect long term investment, I understand your hesitations. All in all, they are not cheap, and if you only plan to use your portable generator sporadically, you have all the reasons to doubt whether you should spend so much.
I would say WEN 56200i is the best low-cost alternative. It is super quiet, well built, and much cheaper than Honda’s generators.
It is one of the quietest generators on sale and the one I would personally buy if I didn’t want to go for a Honda. The fact that this is a portable generator made by a Chinese company shouldn’t deter you.
Although WEN lacks the reputation of Yamaha or Honda, it is an already well-established name in the industry.
Just check out the hundreds of 5-star reviews left by Amazon customers if you don’t believe me.
They make quality tools and electric devices for a fraction of the price of their American or Japanese competitors. Their generators are no exception.
These are other recommended cheap generators.
Do I need to ground a generator?
It certainly won’t harm to ground a generator to give yourself additional peace of mind.
However, in the case of modern inverter generators, this is not a necessity.
Hundreds of people use them without grounding, and so can you.
Are portable generators made in China any good?
It depends on the model, but generally speaking – yes.
Some of the more expensive models from manufacturers like Yamaha are assembled in Chinese factories.
Some portable generators made in China usually have engines that are either manufactured under Honda’s or Yamaha’s license.
One such example is Smarter Tools 2000iQ.
Therefore, you get the same kind of hardware but with a lesser price tag and probably a few minor elements of lower quality (e.g., plastic finishing here and there instead of iron coating, etc.).
How long will my portable generator last?
This depends on two factors.
First, some units are more fuel-efficient than others. That means they consume less gas, allowing them to last longer on a single refuel.
They achieve it thanks to various hi-tech solutions that adjust the engine work according to the current electricity consumption.
Second, it depends on how many devices you plug into a generator.
Most manufacturers advertise a portable generator’s run time at a 25% load. However, if you plug in an appliance that consumes nearly all available running wattage, the portable generator will run at almost 100% load and consume much more fuel.
To give you rough estimates – on average, you can expect a typical camping generator to last for 6-8 hours.
Are those portable generators suitable for indoor use?
No, this is not recommended and can be potentially dangerous.
Even though modern inverter generators produce the so-called “clean energy,” this does not mean they are clean enough to run in your room.
Clean energy only refers to the Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) they produced and how it affects the safety of sensitive electronics such as laptops. It has nothing to do with how they affect the human lungs. They still use the same fossil fuels, such as gasoline or diesel, and produce potentially toxic fumes.
While these are not a significant cause for concern outside, they can be poisonous when used indoors.
If, for whatever reason, you need a portable generator for indoor use, go for the portable solar generators. Those are 100% clean.
