Best Inverter Generators of 2024 | See Our Top Picks & Expert Reviews

In this modern age, it is of utmost importance to have power all the time. You can’t afford any downtime, especially if you are working from home. To have a continuous electrical supply to your house in case of a power outage or natural disaster, these little inverter generators are essential power equipment.

They are small in size and lightweight, which means you can even carry them along for a picnic or at the camping site easily. Besides, they are extremely quiet in operation, which means they won’t make any significant noise.

If you are planning to buy an inverter generator, then it may turn out to be a cumbersome task because there are plenty of brands and models available with different power ratings. So, to help you make a better choice for your needs, we have listed down the best inverter generator on the market.

Note

There are two types of inverter generators: Open frame and Close frame.

The open-frame inverter generators are cheaper and offer high power output (as high as 8000 watts) but on the other hand, they are slightly noisy and bulkier than the close-frame inverter generators. So if you have a limited budget for an inverter generator then you can choose the open-frame inverter generator.

Best Inverter Generators 2024

1. Champion 200953 4250-Watt Open Frame Inverter Generator

Without any delay, I would like to start the recommendation list of the best inverter generator brand in the market, Champion. Being one of the highest-selling brands in the market led to its innovative tools like this wonderful Champion 200953.

A globally favorite convenient generator known for its reliability and portability with an impeccable performance rate.

The story starts with the enormously strong 4-stroke 224cc OHV engine; the potent engine grants 4250 starting watts and 3500 running watts to empower the appliances.

But the whole inverter technology part fascinates the most; The means of inverter technology is to produce clean power with a total harmonic distortion of less than 3% making it safe for sensitive appliances.

The inverter generator technique is an asset for runtime too. The 2.3-gallon unbreakable fuel tank of Champion 200953 gives up to 14 hours of runtime while working at half load.

And that’s not it; Champion 200953 also has fuel efficiency, which lets 1 gallon filled tank work for up to 11 hours at quarter load, something that doesn’t come with others.

Inspired by the convenience factor, Champion 200953 is inspired by a 50% quieter and 20% lighter approach. Breaking the heavy power generator tool, Champion 200953 comes in a sleek and modern designed body with a compact outer structure and the least weight of 90, making transporting possible in the easiest way.

The ergonomic handle is complimentary for taking for outdoor usages like camping and tailgating.

Also, the generator is designed to be parallel-ready, which means I get to increase the efficiency of my generator by attaching it with up to two 2800 watts inverters, which obviously I brought separately.

Champion 200953 is definitely an advanced feature-packed power generator that includes safety measures like Overload protection, low oil auto shut, and a USDA-approved spark arrestor. Also, don’t forget its three easy starting mechanisms, recoil, electric and remote initiation.

There is a similar model of this variant, which you can check here.

Why should you buy Champion 200953?

Thus, Champion 200953 is an excellent choice for someone in need of a portable and reliable power source. Investing in its sleek design, clean power production, and fuel efficiency factor makes it the best inverter generator for homeowners.

2. Champion 100520 8750-Watt DH Series Open Frame Inverter

You might also know the fact that when it comes to building an outstanding inverter generator that delivers lifespan-worthy power, There is nothing more trusted than Champion.

From the expert wings of the brand, Champion 100520 came out in the spotlight with a surprisingly high build, versatility, and never-seen performance range, All at an astonishingly competitive price.

The Champion 100520 Inverter Generator is equipped with 4 strokes 420cc engine and 8750 starting watts and 7500 running watts capacity, providing ample power to run essential appliances such as refrigerators, freezers, and even heavy-duty power tools.

But the inverter technology approaches a clean, stable power with harmonic distortion for sensitive electronics.

Another exciting and impressive feature of the Champion 100520 Inverter Generator is its fuel efficiency. Naturally, the generator is configured with the strongest tank capable of carrying 4.2-gallon fuel, giving 10.5 hours of runtime at 50% workload.

Having said that, the engine of the generator is CARB-compliant and EPA certified, which makes it eco-friendly to use.

With the economy fuel efficiency, the 2.9 gallons in the tank can empower your tools for up to 17 hours at quarter load; fascinating, right?

Like other responsible generators, Champion 100520 also gets safety features included, such as overload protection, low-oil automatic shut off, and a shark arrestor for keeping both the generator and appliances safe.

The generator also comes with a low oil shut-off sensor and a quick drain oil tube for easy and convenient oil replacement.

You can amplify Champion 100520 powerful through the parallel capability; all you need to do is link two Champion 100520 inverter generators together, and voila.

The Champion 100520 got an attractive body with a compact smaller step print, a foldaway handle, a lesser weight of 155 pounds, and never flat tires to add a solid factor in maneuverability.

The generator can be started with just a single push button with an electric start mechanism.

Why should you buy Champion 100520?

I mean, what’s not to like? A versatile source of portable power followed by a compact design makes it a great choice for outdoor enthusiasts or homeowners.

The extended hours in runtime and clean power slate are complimentary, so just go for it.

3. WEN GN400i RV-Ready 4000-Watt Open Frame Inverter Generator

Moving on to the next best brand in the whole power backup generator world, another highly popular brand WEN makes exceptionally great powerful generators; WEN GN400i is one of their unparalleled works.

Consumed with the potential to make a difference, this WEN GN400i is best for powering small appliances or tools at home.

Let’s start with the power; WEN GN400i can work its magic by giving 4000 surge watts and 3500 running watts power for essential appliances.

You can easily put your sensitive equipment in front because WEN GN400i is designed to maintain a streak of clean and safe power through its inverter technology.

The powerful four-stroke 212cc OHV engine is behind this excellency. I usually magnify the generator power to double when needed in heavy outages by linking it to another 4000-watt inverter generator through a parallel ready concept.

The performance improves when the WEN GN400i high-technology control panel with indicator light strike-out approach effortlessly handles.

The generator also includes an interesting eco-mode, one that allows a motor to adjust the fuel consumption in order to save fuel. This is a fruitful asset to WEN GN400i runtime for extending the period.

Thanks to its advanced inverter technology, this generator can run for up to 7 hours on just 1.85 gallons of fuel. That’s enough to power your essential appliances and electronics for a day without needing to refuel.

Rest, the WEN GN400i follows all the security measures and approved environment-friendly laws and comes with a compact and lightweight design weighing at least 66 pounds only.

Why should you buy the WEN GN400i?

There is a lot to say; WEN GN400i is considered the greatest and best budget-friendly inverter generator option in power; Equipped with immense versatility and the least weight, the generator makes space for efficient power for home-based appliances.

4. Champion 200988 4500-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Inverter Generator

 

Okay, I don’t know if I will ever get over with the reliable and user-friendly service of the brand Champion; Because this here is another example of my love for the brand’s unrivaled efficiency.

Champion 200988 is best known for effortless portability and reliability, but there is more to it. The ideal Champion 200988 is incredibly versatile supporting dual fuel technology, quieter, and is the best option for residential purposes.

Champion 200988 is a real game-changing piece of equipment that is designed for conjuring 4500 starting watts and 3150 running watts power for indoor and outdoor events.

Coming to my expectations, Champion 200988 finds a way to pour clean safes and steady power through all the sensitive appliances, like the perfect inverter generator, and prevent them from getting damaged.

The Champion 200988 is designed with the strongest, fuel-efficient 212cc OHV engine and a solid fuel tank that supports up to 2.3 gallons of fuel. Once the fuel tank is filled, the generator can work for 14 hours straight on gas and up to 22 hours with propane before needing refueling.

Champion has tried its best to keep the bar favorable to convenience, which is why it has the advanced intelligauge that lets you have a peak over monitor voltage, operating hours, and other real-time updates.

The fully assembled body of the Champion 200988 has the least 97-pound weight, ergonomic handles, and never-flat tires to make it roam around and store effortlessly.

Also, to minimize the physical effort, Champion 200988 features an electric start backed up with traditional recoiling.

And I keep using this beauty in my residential area because the first Champion 200988 is secured with safety measures, covers multiple outlets, and produces minimal sound with a 61 dB rate.

Why should you buy Champion 200988?

Overall, Champion 200988 is a top-of-the-line product to go; This inverter generator has literally everything: reliable, clean, and efficient power to high-duty appliances. It’s definitely a great investment.

5. WEN 56200i 2000-Watt Gas-Powered Portable Inverter Generator

If you know or have worked with the inverter generator before, you might be aware that WEN comes under the most appreciated and interesting brand choices for power tools in the market.

The real reason behind this is their unique approach of curating highly reliable generators at affordable prices, like this exceptionally cute WEN 56200i generator for residential usage.

The WEN 56200i is destined to produce clean and reliable power limiting total harmonic distortion to under 0.3%, so yeah, a safe path for vulnerable electronics like laptops or phones; This is the beauty of inverter technology.

The gas-powered WEN 56200i can empower your basic tool with its 2000 surge watts and 1600 rated watts of power.

The generator is designed with the supreme 79.7cc four-stroke less maintenance OV engine. The primary duty of the engine is to produce power, but at an extremely quieter range of precisely 53 decibels sound rate.

Then comes the runtime; the generator can run up to 6 hours on just one gallon of gas, but the fuel efficiency technique adds extra hour figures in its runtime.

The innovative and modern approach of WEN GN400i offers a lot of great features making it a top choice inverter generator for homeowners.

For instance, WEN 56200i can literally double its power by linking with two WEN inverters with a parallel kit. You can buy this parallel kit separately if you need extra power.

Much likely carrying a small box, WEN 56200i also addresses comfortable carrying and handling. The compact body and least 48-pound weight are nothing to move the generator from one site to another.

In terms of controls, WEN 56200i has this super advanced but striking control panel with all the essential security measures too.

Why should you buy WEN 56200i?

WEN 56200i is a true gem for someone who wouldn’t want to spend a lot and need an efficient backup source for regular purposes. The sleek and compact generator packs a punch with advanced inverter technology and loads of functions, so why not try it?

6. Westinghouse 4500 Watt Super Quiet Dual Fuel Inverter Generator

And moving to the more power and high-price segment, I have here this wondrous high-end inverter generator brand called Westinghouse.

Now they literally cover one of the most premium generators with the utmost technology and potential, but I have got a decent power provider, a compact and user-friendly option Westinghouse iGen4500DF with a budget-friendly approach.

Finally, with the Westinghouse iGen4500DF, no more worries about empowering precious laptops with generators. The helpful hand of advanced inverter technology ensures the power output is clean and stable with low THD.

But that doesn’t mean this generator has limited power. iGen4500DF also has a peak power output of 4500 watts with 3700 rated watts.

The generator gives freedom to choose your own fuel with dual fuel technology, but keeping the economy minimal, it plays the master card of fuel efficiency.

Being a popular inverter generator for residential, it has its own charm, for instance, the accompaniment of 4 stroke premium engine and the configuration of a 3.4-gallon fuel tank assuring 18 hours of runtime at half load.

Things get more comfortable when you get to know that iGen4500DF can be initiated for operating with just a push of a button or via remote accessing with the included key fob.

Also, the body of the generator has the engraving of an informative LED Data center that allows a glance over the remaining runtime, power output, and voltage output.

Above all, the iGen4500DF doesn’t come with a tacky, heavy design either; the compact body with at least 100 or something pounds favors the high portability factor.

I trust iGen4500DF blindly because it is also equipped with some remarkable safety features like overload protection, low oil shutdown, and spark arrest. And the noise rate at 52 dB is an asset for the home user.

Why should you buy Westinghouse iGen4500DF?

Why not? Westinghouse iGen4500DF is one highly advanced and versatile power solution with supreme performance, reliability, and ease of usage. The digital intelligence, economy friendly, is added to its charm; you have to try this exception.

7. WEN 56380i 3800-Watt RV-Ready Portable Inverter Generator

The WEN 56380i has a sleek and modern design, plus the performance and fuel efficiency provide value for money.

The unit features a powerful 212 cc 4-stroke OHV engine, which runs on gasoline and produces 3800 peak watts and 3400 rated watts, and it is plenty of power for most of the appliances.

At this power generation rate, it provides a runtime of 8.5 hours on half load when the 2.2-gallon fuel tank is full. It is perfectly safe to power sensitive electronic equipment because this unit generates very clean electric power.

On top of that, the generator comes with a parallel operation mode to connect the two generators in parallel whenever you feel like the power supplied by one generator is not enough.

It’s also worth noting that the generator features an eco mode, which improves fuel efficiency when the generator is running on a load less than the full capacity. Switching to this mode is very simple; you just need to toggle the switch on the generator panel.

This generator is equipped with almost every outlet which you can think of. It has the 120 V 20 A duplex, a 12 V DC outlet, and USB charging points too.

Let me also mention that this inverter generator is RV-ready and comes with the 120V 30A twist lock outlet from where you can directly plug in the main power cord of the RV.

It comes with an integrated multimeter which is another feature that separates this generator from the rest of the competition, and it shows the power draw and fuel level with the help of LEDs.

Other than that, another LED display shows the voltage, frequency, and the remaining runtime.

Moreover, the WEN 56380i comes with the 2 years of limited warranty from the manufacturer for residential users.

8. Honda EU2200i 2200-Watt Super Quiet Portable Inverter Generator

Inverter generators are generally better than conventional generators, and so many of them are available in the market as well, but once in a while, there comes a product that deserves special attention; the Honda EU2200i is that product.

It’s an improvement over its predecessor Honda EU2000i, so how will it perform? Let’s see.

The generator features a 121cc Honda GXR120 commercial-series 4-stroke engine. It was first developed for heavy-duty construction equipment and uses gasoline, and it provides exceptional performance while generating very little noise.

Besides, the output power will have less than 3% harmonics, making it safe to power the sensitive electronic equipment directly.

Although it offers better performance, the fuel tank is quite small. It will store gasoline up to 0.95 gallons, which gives the generator a maximum run time of 3.2 hours at full load and 8.1 hours at a quarter load.

That being said, the generator is equipped with the Eco-throttle feature. When you turn this mode on, the generator improves the runtime and the fuel economy, and at the same time, the noise level is decreased.

The noise produced when the generator runs at a quarter load is 47 dBA, and at the full load, it is 57 dBA.

Moving on, the generator features an automatic mechanical decompression system, which reduces the amount of force needed to start the engine.

Same as its predecessor, this inverter generator features the same recoil starting method, and it works flawlessly. In most cases, a single pull is enough to bring the generator to life, and it starts quickly and easily.

The control panel has a variety of outlets to power most of the electrical appliances in the house.

With all things in place, this is a solid choice as the quietest inverter generator, and the company offers 3 years of warranty on the product.

Read our full review of the Honda EU2200i Generator

9. Champion 100263 Dual Fuel RV Ready Portable Inverter Generator

There are very few dual fuel generators available in the market that come with inverter technology, and Champion 100263 is one of them. It gives you more flexibility because you can run it on both gasoline and propane.

This best inverter generator features a powerful 4-stroke engine that works on both gasoline as well as on propane, which delivers 3400 starting watts and 3100 running watts.

While working with gasoline, the generator provides 7.5 hours of run time, whereas if the fuel is propane, then the run time increases to 14.5 hours.

Moving on, the noise generated by the unit is not much that you can’t stay around for even a minute. The noise level measured from the 23 feet distance is 59 dB thanks to its innovative quiet technology.

Talking about the cleanliness of the generated power, this generator has a THD rating of less than 3%, making it a suitable choice for powering up sensitive electronics.

Also, the generator is RV-ready with a power outlet of 120V and 30A, while for the household connection, the generator comes with two 120V 20A outlets and a 12V DC outlet with a dual USB adapter.

You know, sometimes you will find yourself in a situation where the power provided by the generator is not enough, but if you have these generators at your disposal, you can connect them in parallel to have the increased power output.

If we take a look at the features, then it comes with the low oil shut-off sensor, electric start with the 3-position ignition switch, and also the convenience of a touch panel to have access to all the controls in a single place.

In addition to the solid performance and durably built quality, the unit also comes with a 3-year limited warranty from the manufacturer, and let’s not forget the free lifetime technical support.

What is an Inverter Generator?

The generator is electromechanical equipment that generates electricity from the fuel poured inside it. Conventional generators work by burning fuel to generate electricity, but in recent years one more category of generators has come to light, which is the Inverter generator.

The inverter generators produce electricity that is extremely clean compared to electricity generated by conventional generators. This is due to their internal working mechanism, which gives these generators the name ‘Inverter generator’.

They can control their engine speed which gives them more quiet and efficient operation. Due to this they also have smaller fuel tanks which makes them more portable.

However, they cannot supply as much power as conventional generators due to the small fuel tank.

The inverter generators are eco-friendly because they are EPA-compliant and meet all the guidelines set by different regulatory bodies.

How does an Inverter Generator Work?

The first inverter generator was developed and introduced by Honda; it looked the same as conventional generators but was smaller, lightweight, efficient, and quiet in operation.

The inverter generators use the same working mechanism as conventional generators do up to some point. Inverter generators also feature an engine that works on fossil fuel, and single-phase AC electricity is generated, and AC electricity is converted into DC by a converter.

Now, this DC power is converted back to AC power as per the connected load with the use of an inverter, that’s why the name inverter generators. This AC energy will be very clean with a much less THD rating.

The control of the output voltage and frequency is done by the microprocessor, which means that the engine won’t have to run at a constant speed (3600 RPM). This electronic control of the output power is the reason behind all the advantages the Inverter generator offers.

Inverter Generator vs Conventional Generator: Which One Should You Buy?

Whether it is an inverter generator or a conventional generator both of them have some advantages and disadvantages over each other. So, let’s go over it and see for yourself which one suits your needs best.

The main and the most important difference between these two generators is the quality of the electricity generated. The electricity generated at the output terminal of a conventional generator will not be as clean as the electricity generated from the inverter generator.

Clean electricity is what makes the inverter generators so unique. That’s why you can directly connect the sensitive electronic equipment to the inverter generator, while you can’t do that with conventional generators.

Besides, most of the other appliances in the home can survive the power of the conventional generator.

Power generation: that’s the domain where the conventional generator beats the inverter generators, is due to several factors. Conventional generators provide more power than inverter generators.

Inverter generators don’t always run at full capacity, the speed of the engine is controlled by the connected load at the terminal which makes it more fuel-efficient and very quiet compared to conventional generators that always run at a full speed.

Because of this, they need more fuel than inverter generators, which is why they have larger fuel tanks and which makes them bulkier.

Due to fuel efficiency, the inverter generators will need small fuel tanks which is one of the reasons for the less power output of the inverter generators.

If we talk about the price point, then conventional generators are cheaper than inverter generators. The reason behind the high price of the inverter generators is their new technology which offers benefits like quiet operation, high fuel efficiency, and very clean power generation.

If you don’t have a large power requirement and if the price isn’t the concern then go with the inverter generator, for more powerful capabilities and lower price points go for the conventional generators.

Key Features of Inverter Generator

What is it that makes these inverter generators stand out? The answer is its unique features, which we have discussed below.

Very Quiet Operation

For recreational purposes or home use, the most annoying thing would be the sound of those open-frame generators that keep running for hours.

While on the other hand, inverter generators offer a much quieter performance. If we go into the specific, then if you get one of the best inverter generators, the noise level will stay between 50 to 60 dB. To put the number in context, this noise is comparable to the noise when two adults have a friendly chat.

As the power output increases, the noise from the inverter generators is bound to increase but it stays below a safe threshold of 65 dB.

High Fuel Efficiency

The working technology of inverter generators makes them highly fuel-efficient.

The speed of the engine will not be constant as conventional generators, it changes with the change in the load, if the load decreases the engine speed decreases and vice versa.

If the generator works at a constant speed, it will consume more fuel, but if it runs at a low speed when the power requirement is less, then the amount of fuel consumed will be less. The inbuilt microprocessor inside the generator monitors the load and decides the engine’s speed, which will consume fuel that will be enough to supply the load at the terminals.

Clean Electricity

The main reason for which inverter generators are known is their ability to generate very clean electricity that can directly be used to power modern electronics like laptops, mobile, and TVs.

This clean energy is possible to generate because of the inverter stage in its working mechanism. The inverter circuit in the last stage makes sure that the generated power has as minimum THD as possible. THD is used to represent the cleanliness of electricity. If it is high, then the power is not clean, and if it is low, then the output power is clean and consists of a pure sine wave instead of a modified sine wave.

Portability

The high fuel efficiency of the inverter generator means it will need less fuel to generate the same power as the conventional generator does. Due to less fuel requirement, the size of the fuel tank will reduce.

The small size tank means less weight and a compact size of the unit, making the inverter generators very portable and easy to carry for picnics or campsites.

Pre-Purchase Considerations

To select the best inverter generator, you will need to consider a few things, so you won’t regret it after buying. This will ensure that you don’t make the wrong choice.

First, Understand why you need an inverter generator in the first place. Do you want the generator during outdoor trips or picnics or do you want to power your house in case of an outage? Will you be moving it from one place to another place often or will it sit tight in one place?

When you identify your needs, you can calculate the power you will need for different things. When you know what size generator you need, you can narrow down your list of inverter generators.

Second, Now it’s time to decide what kind of generator you want; is it compact, or is it small? The small generators supply electricity ranging from 800 to 1,000 watts. With that power, you can run one or two appliances no more.

On the other hand, the small generators offer a little more power output, which is 1,600 to 2,000 watts, sufficient enough to power up a couple of appliances.

To run more appliances you may want to go for medium or large-size generators.

FAQs

Can I plug my Portable Inverter Generator into my household wiring?

Yes, you can but with the use of a proper transfer switch. If you connect the generator to your house without a transfer switch, then it may even turn out to be deadly for you as well as for others.

Sometimes the reason behind the power cut is because someone is working on the power lines that’s why they are unenergized, but if you connect the generator to the house directly then it may back feed the power to the main lines and can electrocute the person working.

The reverse can also happen if the power comes back and the generator is connected, then the house appliances or the generator or both will get damaged.

Can an Inverter Generator burn me or explode?

Yes, it is possible. After the operation of the generator, if you overfill the oil tank, then it is possible that it will overflow over the engine and may result in fire or explosion. So never fill the tank of a portable inverter generator full; always have some space so that fuel can expand.

Also, don’t pour fuel when the generator is in operation. Before pouring the fuel, make sure that the engine is cooled down. Many parts of the generator will be hot after the operation, so stay away from them.

What are the proper cords I should use for my Inverter Generator?

You must use the proper cables which are rated for outdoor use, so it doesn’t get damaged easily. Also, make sure that the wire used has an adequate gauge so that it doesn’t get overloaded. The overloaded cables can be dangerous, and they can create fire or damage the equipment.

It will be in your best interest if you don’t use the wires which have exposed wires or the one which has worn out shielding.

Can I use my Portable Inverter Generator indoors?

The generators use fossil fuels to generate electricity. Due to the burning of that fossil fuel, the generator emits exhaust, which contains carbon monoxide, a deadly poisonous gas that is odorless and colorless, which means you can’t predict its presence in the room.

That’s why it is recommended that you don’t run the generator in enclosed places. Always use them in outdoor areas where sufficient ventilation is possible to avoid accumulation.

Still, if you have to install the generator indoors, we suggest that you install the battery-operated CO2 detectors indoors.

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