Most of us are quite familiar with the traditional generator that helps to power your home, worksite, etc. in the case of a power outage. The more recent entrant into the generator market is the inverter generator. The inverter generator essentially works by transforming the AC voltage produced by it to a DC voltage, which is then converted back to clean and smooth AC power. This process occurs with the aid of the inverter generator’s state-of-the-art circuit system. Typically, inverter generators are smaller, more compact, lighter and quieter than the traditional generators.
In-Depth Reviews of 8 Best 2000-Watt Generators
| Generator Reviews | Max Continuous Running Watts | Max Starting Watts | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Honda EU2000i | 1600 | 2000 | Check Price |
| Wen 56200i | 1600 | 2000 | Check Price |
| Yamaha EF2000iV2 | 1600 | 2000 | Check Price |
| Hyundai HY2000si | 2000 | 2200 | Check Price |
| Powerhouse PH2100PRi | 2000 | 2100 | Check Price |
| Atima SD2000i | 1600 | 2000 | Check Price |
| Generac 6719 IX Series | 2000 | 2200 | Check Price |
| Honda EU2000IC Companion | 1600 | 2000 | Check Price |
Honda EU2000i Generator: the Best 2000-Watt Inverter Generator
The Honda EU2000i Generator is the top generator in the 2000-watt inverter generator category. This is an extremely reliable and powerful generator having a large engine and can handle a large load capacity and bigger start-up loads without tripping.
The Honda EU2000i Generator delivers a runtime of around 8 hours at 25% load capacity. The generator has an eco-throttle feature that adjusts the speed of the engine according to the load, which enables the unit to be fuel efficient.
The Honda EU2000i Generator is quite lightweight, the ergonomic shape of the unit and the handle on the top makes the unit very easy and convenient to carry around. The Honda EU2000i Generator is probably the lightest generator on the list. And, if you want more power, then you can connect 2 Honda generators in parallel.
Honda has the largest network of service centers, so you can get your generator fixed very easily, even if something does go wrong and this is especially useful if you are RV-ing around the country or camping outdoors. The Honda EU2000i Generator offers excellent reliability and is a great generator to buy.
Features of the Honda EU2000i Generator
- 2000-watt surge power and 1600-watt continuous power.
- 98.5cc engine.
- Eco-throttle.
- Weight: 45 lbs.
- Gives 8.1 hours runtime on 1-gallon gas.
- Comes with a 3-year warranty.
- Can be connected in parallel for more power.
- Very quiet when running.
- Honda has a very wide network that makes it easy to service or repair the generator in case of a problem.
- Portable, lightweight and very convenient to carry.
- According to some users, the unit is quite noisy compared to other models.
- Pricier than other generator models in this category.
Wen 56200i Generator: Best Inexpensive Inverter Generator
If you’re on a tight budget and are looking to buy a value for money generator, then the Wen 56200i Inverter Generator is a definitely good option to consider. Compared to other models on our list, the Wen 56200i Generator is considerably cheaper. This feature-packed generator is reliable too and is a suitable rival for most of the expensive models in this category.
The Wen 56200i Inverter Generator delivers a runtime of 6 hours at 1/4th load capacity. The size of the Wen 56200i Generator is a bit small, which may not be the best in terms of fuel efficiency. The generator also features the eco mode for fuel savings. The generator unit’s ergonomic shape and light weight make it very easy to carry around. The generator also has a 5-volt USB charger.
You can connect 2 Wen 56200i Generators in parallel if you require more power by means of a parallel connection kit (has to be purchased separately). So, if you’re looking for an inverter generator that gives you good performance, reliability and is a value-for-money buy, then the Wen 56200i Inverter Generator is definitely a fantastic choice.
Features of the Wen 56200i Inverter Generator
- 2000-watt surge power and 1600-watt continuous power.
- 79.7cc OHV, 4-stroke engine.
- Weight: 48 lbs.
- Output: 2 120-volt 60 Hz ports, 5-volts USB port and 12-volt DC port.
- CARB and EPA III compliant.
- Comes with a 2-year warranty.
- Quiet operation that can be compared to a normal human conversation as per the US Department of Health and Human Services.
- Excellent budget buy.
- Can be connected in parallel for extra power.
- Has a USB charging outlet.
- Power output not too high.
- Does not have wheels for easy movement.
Yamaha EF2000iV2 Inverter Generator: Good Value
If you’re looking for a generator which gives clean power at a very affordable price, then you can surely consider the Yamaha EF2000iV2 Inverter Generator. The generator can support appliances like refrigerators, air conditioners, etc. that draw more power as they start.
The generator offers a long runtime of around 10.5 hours on a single tank of gas and it is equipped with a smart throttle that regulates the speed of the engine on basis of the load, but at higher loads, the generator does not work in the eco mode. The Yamaha EF2000iV2 Inverter Generator is extremely quiet when in operation. The generator has two 120-volt outlets and a 12-volt charging outlet. The generator is equipped with a fuel gauge and a low-oil shutdown feature.
The Yamaha EF2000iV2 Inverter Generator is very reliable and is produced under strict Yamaha quality control guidelines and standards and what’s more, the customer support is excellent. The Yamaha EF2000iV2 Inverter Generator is an excellent buy, offering superior reliability and runtime.
Features of the Yamaha EF2000iV2 Inverter Generator
- 2000-watt surge power and 1600-watt continuous power.
- 51 decibels noise (@ 25% load).
- The 79cc engine delivers 10.5 hours runtime on a single tankful of gas.
- Inverter mechanism featuring PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) control.
- Weight: 44 lbs.
- Smart Throttle regulates engine speed according to load.
- Equipped with spark arrestor approved by USFS and a super silent muffler.
- CARB compliant.
- Very quiet operation.
- The economy fuel-saving mode is very efficient.
- Can be linked in parallel with another unit for more power.
- Has a fuel gauge.
- Uses a lot of oil.
- The generator is quite heavy.
Hyundai HY2000si Inverter Generator: Reliable Choice
If you’re looking for an inverter generator that is super-reliable and at the same time offers powerful performance, then the Hyundai HY2000si Inverter Generator is the best bet. The generator has a recoil manual start system, which is quite convenient and the 125cc engine provides 2000 watts of power and although it is compactly built, the generator packs quite a punch and can power many electronic appliances in your home — your refrigerator, computer, television, microwave, etc.
The generator gives around 5.5 hours of runtime at 50% load capacity. The Hyundai HY2000si Inverter Generator also has an eco-mode that helps to reduce the power according to the load, which helps to save fuel and also enables you to run the generator for a longer period of time.
The muffler and exhaust of the generator make the operation of the generator very quiet. The generator is fairly compact, lightweight and can be carried around quite easily. The Hyundai HY2000si Inverter Generator has features such as a circuit protector that protects it from overloads and the low-oil indicator alerts you when the generator requires refilling.
The generator has 2 120 volts AC outlets and 1 12-volt DC battery charging outlet. The Hyundai HY2000si Inverter Generator is an excellent generator not only for outdoor or camping use, it can be used to power your home during a power outage too.
Features of the Hyundai HY2000si Inverter Generator
- 2200-watt surge power and 2000-watt continuous power.
- 125cc, 3.5 HP 4-stroke 1-cylinder OHV engine that delivers 5.5 hours runtime at 50% load.
- Manual recoil start.
- Produces 64 decibels noise.
- Low oil indicator.
- Circuit breaker mechanism.
- Weight: 70.55 lbs.
- Comes with 2-year limited warranty for non-commercial and commercial users for labor and parts for the
- 1st year and only on parts for the 2nd year.
- Quiet operation.
- Fuel efficient.
- May be a bit heavy.
Powerhouse PH2100Pri Inverter Generator
This gas-fueled inverter generator is a compactly built generator that is excellent in terms of its sturdiness, performance and affordable price. The Powerhouse PH2100Pri Inverter Generator produces clean power that enables you to run your delicate electronic devices and appliances safely.
The 1.3-gallon fuel tank delivers a runtime of around 3.2 hours at full capacity and 7.9 hours at 1/4th load. The generator produces a sound of 66 decibels operating at full capacity. Although the build of the Powerhouse PH2100Pri Inverter Generator is quite compact, it is quite heavy in terms of the weight.
The best part about the Powerhouse PH2100Pri Inverter Generator is that it features an electric start and can also be started with the help of a remote from a distance of around 75 ft. The generator has features such as a low-oil indicator, a circuit breaker that restarts the engine in the case of an overload and the generator can be connected to another unit if you require more power. The generator is CSA, EPA, and CARB compliant, which makes it suitable for use outdoors.
Features of the Powerhouse PH2100Pri Inverter Generator
- 2100-watt surge power and 2000-watt continuous power.
- 125cc 4.35 HP vertical shaft, 4-stroke single cylinder OHC engine.
- 1.3-gallon tank delivers 3.2 hours runtime (@ full load) and 7.9 hours (@ 1/4th load).
- Constant and variable speeds.
- Equipped with automatic choke and fuel primer bulb.
- Noise level: 66 decibels.
- Weight: 80 lbs.
- CSA, EPA, and CARB compliant.
- Comes with a 2-year warranty (for consumers), 1-year commercial use warranty.
- Safe to use with sensitive electronic equipment.
- Features a key start and remote wireless start that can be operated from a distance of 75 ft.
- Affordable price.
- May be on the heavier side.
- May be noisier than other models.
Atima SD2000i Inverter Generator: Most Ergonomic Inverter Generator
The Atima SD2000i Inverter Generator is a fantastic generator ideal for use both outdoors for recreation or at your worksite or at home during a power outage or emergency. The generator is very lightweight, compactly built and very easy to use. The generator is very durable and is sure to last you for a very long time.
The ergonomic design of the Atima SD2000i Inverter Generator and its dual-usage has earned it the Red Star Design Award. The smart throttle feature of the generator adjusts the speed of the engine automatically depending on the load. This helps in enhancing the fuel efficiency and also makes the generator very quiet in its operation. If you want more power, then you can connect another unit of the generator in parallel.
So, if you’re looking for a sleek, reliable generator with superior features at a very affordable price, then without a doubt, the Atima SD2000i Inverter Generator is an excellent buy.
Features of the Atima SD2000i Inverter Generator
- 2000-watt surge power and 1600-watt continuous power.
- Equipped with a Yamaha 4-stroke engine.
- Provides a runtime of 10 hours at 1/4th load on 1-gallon of fuel.
- Weight: 48 lbs.
- Smart Throttle.
- Equipped with PWM or Pulse Width Modulation and advanced inverter technology.
- Comes with an owner’s manual, 12 volts battery charging cable, oil bottle, warranty card and plug sleeve.
- CARB and EPA compliant.
- Comes with a 2-year limited warranty.
- Smart Throttle helps to maximize fuel efficiency.
- Very quiet operation.
- Ergonomic design.
- Has won the Red Star Design Award for design and features.
- No cons
Generac 6719 IX Series Inverter Generator: Best Camping Inverter Generator
The Generac 6719 IX Series Inverter Generator goes the extra mile in making your life more comfortable due to the flexibility it offers irrespective of whatever you use it to power, whether it is to power your RV or while you’re out camping.
The Generac 6719 Inverter Generator produces clean power, which makes it very safe to use with your delicate electronic appliances and devices such as mobile phones, computers, laptops, game consoles, etc. The generator offers 4.7 hours of runtime at 50% load.
The generator features the FlexPower mode that helps to reduce noise as well as save fuel. The generator offers 2 power mode selections – the “High Mode”, which is suitable for large loads and also to recharge your batteries and the “Eco Mode”, which enables the generator to save fuel and makes its operation much quieter.
The Generac 6719 Inverter Generator comes with features such as overload protection, low-oil shut down, circuit breaker protected outlets and LED lights to indicate the status of the system. The generator is approved for use in national parks and this inexpensive generator is ideal for RV-ing, tailgating or camping outdoors. The lightweight and compact design also make the generator very easy and convenient to transport and carry around, which makes the Generac 6719 Inverter Generator the most “camping-friendly” generator.
Features of the Generac 6719 Inverter Generator
- 2200-watt surge power and 2000-watt continuous power.
- 126cc OHV engine that delivers 4.7 hours runtime at 50% capacity.
- Weight: 49.6 lbs.
- Flex Power feature helps in fuel conservation and minimize noise.
- Low-oil shutdown.
- LED lights indicate system status.
- Circuit breakers for overload protection.
- Comes with a 2-year warranty.
- Super-quiet operation.
- Lightweight, lighter than other models by 40%.
- Approved for use in National Parks.
- Not suitable for heavy-duty jobs and can run small appliances.
Honda EU2000IC Companion Inverter Generator
The Honda EU2000IC Companion Inverter Generator is quite an impressive generator in terms of its features, performance, and reliability. The generator delivers clean and smooth power that you can use for power in your home during an emergency, on the construction site or on an outdoor camping trip, etc. and you can run your appliances like microwaves, refrigerators, heaters, television, etc. and also your sensitive devices like your laptops, smartphones, etc.
The generator features the superior-technology of Honda’s 4-stroke engine and this enables the silent operation of the generator, which is not louder than a normal human conversation and that makes the Honda EU2000IC Companion Inverter Generator suitable for use outdoors or for powering your RV. The generator is compactly built and lightweight too, which makes it very portable and convenient to carry from one place to another.
If you want more power, you have the facility of connecting the generator to another unit for double the power. The generator has an automatic oil shutdown that prevents the engine from any damage by shutting down if the oil levels become very low. The Honda EU2000IC Companion Inverter Generator is sure to meet all your power needs and be ready for action anytime there’s a power failure.
Features of the Honda EU2000IC Companion Inverter Generator
- 2.8 HP engine.
- Delivers around 8.1 hours runtime on 1 tankful of gasoline.
- Weight: 46 lbs.
- Low-oil indicator, low-oil shutdown.
- CARB, EPA and ANSI compliant.
- Highly portable offering excellent flexibility.
- Very quiet when running.
- Inverter technology produces clean power for your sensitive devices.
- Some users found the generator to be noisy.
How an Inverter Generator Works
Here is a detailed process of how an inverter generator works. High-voltage AC current is produced by the inverter technology of the generator. This AC current cannot be used directly to power electronic devices or appliances. First, the raw electricity is converted into DC (direct current) and in the next step, the inverter module converts the DC into AC in sine waves rather than in block waves.
The current produced using inverter technology is clean and smooth without any spikes and is safe to run sensitive and delicate electronic appliances and devices such as mobile phones, laptops, game consoles, HD televisions, etc.
Advantages of an Inverter Generator Vis-à-Vis Traditional Generators
Inverter generators have several benefits when compared to their noisy traditional counterparts. Let us look at some of the advantages of inverter generators:
Fuel Efficiency
Inverter generators can adjust the speed of their engine automatically in a way that only the amount of power required to run the particular appliances being used at the particular time is produced. On the other hand, traditional generators run at a constant speed of 3600 RPM, whereas the inverter generators can run at a much slower RPM while providing the same quantity and quality of power. This can help in saving around 40% on fuel consumption, is cost effective and also helps to reduce emissions, which makes inverter generators very eco-friendly.
Clean Electricity Output
Inverter technology allows you to access the power that is quite similar to the power output that is got from the local utility and the quality of the electrical output is very high and this kind of clean power cannot be got by using a conventional generator.
Lightweight
Inverter generators have been designed and built for the convenience of the users and these generators are much more lightweight and compact compared to conventional generators, which makes it very easy to carry inverter generators wherever you want and makes transporting them very convenient.
Quiet Running
Conventional generators are quite unpopular due to their noisy operation, compared to which, the inverter generators are much quieter. The use of special material that dampens the sound, mufflers, etc. in inverter generators makes them quieter and also neighborhood-friendly.
Maintenance
Inverter generators do not require a lot of maintenance and upkeep like conventional generators, which require thorough cleaning and oil change every month. On the other hand, inverter generators only need a battery check once in a year.
Parallel Capacity
The best part about most inverter generators is that they offer the facility of doubling the power by linking two of the same kind of generators. The parallel capability allows users to link up 2 portable inverter generators in order to produce twice the amount of power that is generated by a large and bulky generator. However, this facility is not available when you’re using a conventional generator.
Thus, inverter generators have several advantages, the most important being their portability, compact and lightweight build and their ability to produce clean and smooth electric power that can be used to run your sensitive electronic appliances and devices. So, it’s a good idea to evaluate the various inverter generators we have discussed in our review and decide on the one that’s best for you.