The 7 Best Inverter Generators of 2025
At a Glance: Best Inverter Generators of 2022
Model | Warranty | Running Watts | Time | Noise | Fuel | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
DuroMax XP2300iH | 3 Year | 1800W | 13h | 52 dB(A) | Gas, Propane | Read More |
Westinghouse iGen2500c | 3 Year | 2200W | 12h | 52 dB(A) | Gas | Read More |
WEN 56235iX | 2 Year | 2350W | 11h | 51 dB(A) | Gas | Read More |
WEN 56400IX | 3 Year | 4000W | 17h | 57 dB(A) | Gas | Read More |
Generac GP2200I | 2 Year | 1700W | 10.75h | * | Gas | Read More |
Honda EU2200i | 3 Year | 1800W | 8.1h | 57 dB(A) | Gas | Read More |
Briggs & Stratton P4500 | 3 Year | 3700W | 14h | * | Gas | Read More |
* Not specified by manufacturer
Table of Contents
How Does an Inverter Generator Work?
Things to Consider When Buying an Inverter Generator
Reviewed: 7 Best Inverter Generators of 2022
1. Editors Choice
2. Best Value
3. Best Dual Fuel Portable Inverter Generator
4. Best Single Fuel Portable Inverter Generator
5. Best Inverter Generator with CO Protection
6. Our Pick Premium Inverter Generator
7. Best Fuel Saving Large Portable Generator
Final Thoughts
What You Need to Know About Inverter Generators
Electricity is a must-have in today’s world, be it for campground lighting or indoor heating. In most cases, its accessibility can be as simple as plugging in your appliances in your home’s sockets. But what to do when you are camping in the backcountry or experiencing a blackout?
Generators are perhaps the most convenient solution for emergency and portable power. Whether you need to power your outdoor lights or run your RV refrigerator, firing up a generator is often the way to go.
Inverter generators tower above standard generators and portable power stations for a couple of reasons. Whereas portable power stations are constrained to the battery capacity and charging time, the running time in inverter generators can be extended with a quick fuel refill.
Unlike standard generators, inverter generators run quieter, cleaner, and more efficiently. Additionally, these types of generators produce a stable power output perfect for running electronics with sensitive circuitry.
How Does an Inverter Generator Work?
Standard generators have two main components – an internal combustion engine and an alternator. The engine burns gasoline or propane to convert the chemical energy into kinetic energy. The alternator, which comprises a stator and a rotor, converts the rotational mechanical energy into electric power.
The generator takes advantage of Michael Faraday’s electromagnetic induction principle, which states that electric currents can be induced by moving an electric conductor (like copper windings) through a static magnetic field.
In this case, the rotor is the rotating part while the stator is the stationary part comprising many copper windings.
Conventional generators need to maintain a constant engine speed normally 3600 rpm to generate the required electric current. Any fluctuations in engine speed would alter the frequency of the power output.
An inverter generator converts the AC power produced by the alternator into DC and then changes it back to a cleaner AC voltage. This technology means that the generator can run at slower speeds while still providing consistent and reliable AC output for your electronics.
Put simply, an inverter generator converts rotating mechanical energy into stable electrical power.
Things to Consider When Buying an Inverter Generator
The best inverter generator is one that provides the best mix of desired features. When choosing the right inverter generator for you, you need to evaluate each pick based on the factors discussed below. Remember, brand names and pricing rarely tell the full story in terms of the overall performance of any given inverter generator.
Fuel Type
Generators with inverters primarily use gasoline, propane, or both types of fuel in their engines.
Gasoline is a more reliable source of energy for extremely cold climates since the regulators on LPG tanks tend to freeze over. Additionally, gas is readily available in most locations and it provides more power per unit than propane.
On the other hand, propane burns cleaner and more efficiently compared to gasoline. The latter emits more carbon dioxide and leaves more carbon deposits in the engine. Propane is easier to store and its capacity only depends on how big of a tank you can carry.
Ultimately, the best inverter generator should be a dual-fuel one to get you the best of both worlds.
Power Output
How much power do you need to produce? A quick method to determine your power requirements is to sum up the power consumption of all your appliances and power tools. Ideally, you want to operate the generator at 80% load for optimal longevity and performance, so multiply the total wattage by a factor of 1.2 or 1.25.
The resulting wattage should determine which inverter generator to go for. A higher wattage is always preferable but might mean having to deal with a bulky and heavy unit. A generator rated at least 3000 watts should suffice for running most household appliances or even camping lights.
Other factors to consider here include the runtime, fuel capacity, and operating noise levels.
Always ensure that the ideal inverter generator for your needs has a run time of at least 5 hours at 50% load. Else, you will be on a loop refilling the generator every hour or so. Moreover, its fuel capacity should be about 1 or 2 gallons for gas-powered generators.
Inverter generators are the best generators whenever noise levels are a concern. Most will operate well under 60 decibels, which is the expected noise level for a normal conversation. Further, some will include “Economy Mode” functionality for even quieter operations.
Ease Of Use
Granted, using a generator is not as easy or convenient as plugging into the mains but most of them are push-a-button easy to operate. Always opt for units with no-tool access panels, multiple outlets, an informative data center, and an electric start wherever possible.
Although an electric start is more convenient than a recoil cord ignition style, its dependence on a charged battery is not desirable.
Your pick might be the quietest inverter generator on the market but does it have adequate outlets to juice up all your appliances? Please note that the main focus here is on the types rather than the number of outlets.
The best inverter generator should come with a variety of 120 volts AC and 12 volts DC, which might include NEMA 5-20R, L14-30R, L5-30R, TT-30R, 14-50R, and sometimes, USB.
Lastly, if you fancy a unit that’s lightweight and portable then you can expect it to power only a few devices or appliances. Otherwise, inverter generators with a higher power output should come with wheels and multiple handles for easier transportation.
Good-To-Have Features
Generators not only pose fire hazards but also potential carbon monoxide poisoning. Fortunately, overload protection and carbon monoxide auto shutoff sensors are almost standard in most generators. Moreover, some models will have alerts and automatic shutdown sensors whenever the generator is low on oil preventing damage and wear.
Since inverter generators can be a little limited in terms of power output, some come with parallel compatibility to allow you to get the most power. This allows multiple inverter generators to be connected to increase their output.
Finally, an accompanying customer-friendly warranty policy is always a desired feature for your ideal inverter generator.
Reviewed: 7 Best Inverter Generators of 2025
What with the hundreds of brands, gimmicky features, and endless buying considerations, singling out the right inverter generator for your needs is ever an arduous task. We have done the bulk of the work for you by rounding up the best generators, testing them, and putting them against each other.
Below are our favorite picks for the best inverter generators in the market today:
1. Editor’s Choice Inverter generator
DuroMax XP2300iH
356 Reviews
The XP2300iH sets the bar high with its peak wattage of 2300 watts on gasoline and 2150 watts on propane. Although the generator weighs just over 50 pounds, the integrated top handle, telescoping handle, and wheel kit make it child’s play to move around.
The generator comes with an 80cc OHV 4-stroke engine that can be ignited using a pull-cord start. The engine keeps roaring at speeds of 3600 and 5300 rpm while still maintaining acceptable noise levels. The DuroMax XP2300iH runs very silently at only 52 decibels when set on “Eco” mode.
Additionally, it features multiple outlets including two 5-20R, one L5-30R, and two USB outlets (USB A & USB C).
Why You Should Buy This Generator: DuroMax XP2300iH provides a respectable runtime of about 7 hours at 50% load powered by a 1.1-gallon gas tank. It should be adequate for home and away usage to power your lights, AC, and a few other electronics at home. However, its weight and ignition style might not be a hit with some people.
Positives
Comes with handles and wheels for easier transportation
Has a dual-fuel system with on-demand switchovers
Includes a CO alert sensor and automatic shut-down
Offers great runtime and good fuel efficiency
Negatives
The recoil cord start might be too outdated for some
Slightly heavier and bulkier than comparable options
2. Best Value inverter generator:
Westinghouse iGen2500c
356 Reviews
The “c” in its name stands for the newly added carbon monoxide sensor, which was missing in its classic iGen2500 model. The generator comes with two AC (120V 5-20R) outlets and two DC (5V USB-A) outlets. That is plenty of outlets to make use of its 2500 peak watts and 2200 running watts capacity.
The iGen2500c weighs 47.4 pounds and comes with a nice grippy carrying handle to make it a lot easier to move over short distances.
This gas-only inverter generator will run for about 12 hours on its almost 1-gallon fuel tank. Furthermore, it operates super quietly at around 52 decibels thanks to its low tone mufflers, asymmetrical cooling fans, and double-insulated acoustic encasing.
Being an inverter generator, the speeds of its 98cc OHV 4-stroke engine can vary to ensure optimal fuel efficiency. However, the small 0.98-gallon gas tank might have you refilling it every few hours.
Why You Should Buy This Generator: iGen2500c has it all including load-sharing qualities, silent operation, and useful safety features. It is a minor improvement over its older but highly popular iGen2500 model. This inverter generator will be perfect for running your appliances at camp or temporarily powering your home during blackouts. However, we hope later alterations to this model will come with a larger gas tank.
Positives
Relatively lightweight and portable
Includes essential safety features such as CO sensors and automatic low oil shutdown
Comes with lots of outlets and a handy control panel
Operates very silently
Negatives
No electric start
Has a low-capacity gas tank
3. Best Dual Fuel Portable Inverter Generator:
WEN 56235iX
356 Reviews
The WEN 56235iX weighs a mere 39 pounds and operates at low noise levels within 51 decibels. This makes it the most lightweight and quietest inverter generator we have stumbled upon yet. Unlike its earlier model (56235i), this inverter generator comes with a CO sensor.
The generator has a fuel capacity of 1.1 gallons allowing for an impressive runtime of about 11 hours. Its 79cc OHV 4-stroke engine helps the generator to output 2350 peak watts and 1900 running watts. Plus, you can hook it up with a compatible model for even more power.
Furthermore, the 56235iX comes with three DC outlets and two AC outlets including one 12V 8A cigarette-lighter-style port, two 5V USB ports, and duplex 120V 20A 5-20R outlets. So, you can rest assured that all your electronics and devices will stay on for longer.
Besides being CARB-compliant and EPA-approved, the WEN 56235iX includes safety features such as a CO sensor, overload protection, low-oil alert, and a standard spark arrestor.
Why You Should Buy This Generator: The 56235iX is a quiet, highly portable inverter generator perfect for light to moderate duties. However, its budget-friendly pricing comes with compromises such as a missing data center and no electric start. That said, this generator is a solid option for running power tools and appliances at home, camp, or worksite.
Positives
Super lightweight and compact
Runs very quietly at around 51 decibels
Comes with a CO sensor
Affordable
Negatives
Powered only by gasoline
Comes with a standard recoil cord start
4. Best Single-fuel Portable Inverter Generator:
WEN 56400iX
356 Reviews
The 56400iX is designed for heavy-duty usage. This single-fuel inverter generator weighs almost a hundred pounds and comes in a sizable body measuring 23.2 inches long, 18 inches wide, and 20.1 inches. Its limited portability is slightly salvaged by the included two wheels and extendable handle.
The generators can produce up to 4000 surge watts and 3200 running watts while maintaining noise levels well below 60 decibels. Its 2.2-gallon gas tank and 212cc OHV 4-stroke engine bring up the runtime of the generator to a respectable 8.5 hours at 50% load.
The WEN 56400iX is considered RV-ready owing to its TT-30R receptacle. Additionally, it comes with duplex AC 5-20R outlets, two DC USB-A ports, and one cigarette lighter-style DC receptacle. This means you can run most household appliances and charge electronics such as smartphones, batteries, and tablets.
Overload protection, low-oil/low-fuel shutdowns, and carbon monoxide shutdown sensor are only to be expected in such a burly power generator. Beyond this, you will greatly enjoy the electric or recoil cord ignition style.
Why You Should Buy This Generator: The WEN 56400iX is the best generator for home, worksite, and recreational usage. The generator might be a bit heavy and bulky but its high peak wattage, multiple outlets, and other redeeming features more than make up for it. Remember, this model can also be bought as a dual-fuel unit or without the CO sensor.
Positives
Features all the standard safety features including a CO shutdown sensor
Comes with both types of starting systems
Fairly portable for its power output
Provides decent runtime and fuel efficiency
Negatives
It’s a single-fuel inverter generator
Heavy and bulky
Lacks a digital data center
5. Best Inverter Generator With CO Protection:
Generac GP2200i
356 Reviews
The Generac GP2200i is yet another gas-only unit with an impressive spec sheet and a compact body. While it is most comparable to the Honda EU2200i, this unit deserves its spot given its excellent pricing and incredible performance.
With a fuel capacity of 1.2 gallons, the generator can provide 2200 starting watts and 1700 running watts. Further, you can plug in several appliances and small devices thanks to its duplex AC 5-20R outlets and two DC ports.
At 25% load, the GP2200i provides a runtime close to 11 hours with the 80cc OHV engine sipping about a tenth of a gallon each hour. Parallel compatibility is possible with this generator and the unit weighs a manageable 46.6 pounds.
Why You Should Buy This Generator: The Generac GP2200i is a small light-duty inverter generator best suited for keeping the lights on during a power outage or running a few appliances while camping. Given its economical pricing, bare essentials such as a quick recoil start, a good-capacity fuel tank, and several outlets are to be expected.
Positives
Comes with multiple outlets
Affordably priced
Compatible with parallel functionality
Sets up quickly and is easy to start
Negatives
Has no data center
Features a manual recoil-cord start
The surge/running wattage is lower than in the competition
No CO sensor or electric start
6. Our Pick Premium Inverter Generator :
Honda EU2200i
356 Reviews
The red Honda EU2200i is perhaps the most popular portable inverter generator around. Despite their most recent recall, this unit guarantees the best bang for your buck. It boasts 2200 surge watts and 1800 running watts, which is made possible by its capable 121cc Honda GXR120 engine.
On a full tank, it promises a runtime of up to 8.1 hours at 25% load while maintaining noise levels around 48 decibels. However, the EU2200i can get as loud as 57 decibels when operating at higher loads.
The generator also comes with safety features such as the CO Minder which alerts and shuts down the unit whenever it detects CO levels exceeding 800 parts per million. Additionally, it features overload protection and low-oil indicators and automatic shutdowns.
At almost double the price of comparable models, you’re pretty much paying for the Honda brand name. The Honda EU2200i only has two AC outlets, a low-capacity 0.95-gallon fuel tank, manual start-up, and a relatively low runtime.
On the plus side, it is perhaps the few portable generators that can be connected to your phone. The Honda My Generator App helps connect your unit and your smartphone via Bluetooth and can be used as an alternative data center. The mobile app also works to remote stop the generator whenever needed.
Why You Should Buy This Generator: If you are in the market for a reliable portable inverter generator, the industry-standard Honda EU2200i is worth the shot. However, be prepared to shell out a couple more bucks on this unit than other models and without most of the expected features.
Positives
Includes necessary safety features
Can be connected to an app to display relevant info and allow for remote stops
Allows for parallel load sharing with compatible units
Relatively compact and portable
Negatives
Costlier than most comparable models
Comes with only two AC outlets
7. Best Fuel-saving Large Portable Generator:
Briggs & Stratton P4500
356 Reviews
The Briggs & Stratton P4500 is a powerful inverter generator perfect for RV travelers, campers, and home usage. The generator is powered by a gas-only 224cc OHV 4-stroke engine that delivers a peak wattage of 4500 watts and 3700 running watts.
The P4500 is EPA and CARB compliant and comes with both a manual and an electric start system. Its 3.5-gallon fuel tank promises a run time of about 16 hours at 25% load while maintaining noise levels well below 60 decibels.
Despite its high power output, noise levels are muffled by the protective shell guards and variable engine speed functionality. Additionally, the unit comes with a carbon monoxide alert and shutdown system. It will even come to a stop whenever the oil levels in the generator are too low.
The P4500 scores highly on convenience by featuring a pull-start and an electric start with remote start capabilities. Plus, you can plug in as many appliances as possible thanks to its two duplex 5-20R, one TT-30R RV receptacle, and two DC USB-A ports.
Although the unit weighs a whopping 104 pounds, moving it around is made a little easier by its telescoping handle and two-wheel set.
Why You Should Buy This Generator: The Briggs & Stratton P4500 is a reliable inverter generator best suited for moderate to high power demands. While the unit might not be the most fuel efficient generator, it is more than capable of handling any loads you throw at it whether you’re using it at home, work or camp.
Positives
Rugged and dependable
Comes with a three-year limited warranty
Includes multiple outlets
Features a dual start-up system
Has a feature-rich Bluetooth mobile app
Negatives
Does not support load sharing
Too heavy and bulky for lightweight camping and light-duty functions
Final Thoughts
Whether you need to power your home in a blackout or run appliances at the campsite, you can’t go wrong with any of the best inverter generators of 2022 we’ve mentioned above. Additionally, we hope we’ve won you over to the benefits of using inverter generators, particularly for camping as an alternative to noisier and less fuel efficient conventional generators.