The Best Budget Inverter Generator For 2024
By, Katie FinnUpdated
Our Top Picks
1. Best Overall: Champion Power Equipment 200961 Inverter Generator
Get all the performance of your gas or diesel engine, with a Champion Power Equipment inverter generator that weighs in at an ultralight 39 pounds. With up to 11.5 hours of run time on gasoline, 1665 running watts, and up to 34 hours on propane, you can get power no matter what the weather conditions are. Read Review
2. Best For The Price: WEN 56225i Inverter Generator
WEN 56225i Inverter Generator is extremely quiet and produces clean power to safely operate and prevent damage to sensitive electronics such as phones, tablets, televisions, and computers. With 53 dB operation, the generator produces just barely enough noise for a healthy night's rest. Read Review
3. Best Powerful: Honda 664240 EU2200i Portable Inverter Generator
Honda's EU2200i is the most powerful portable inverter generator that you can take anywhere. It has an output of 5,100 watts to keep your home running with power, and it's easy to transport and store. The Honda EU2200i is a powerful, lightweight generator that will keep your family safe and sound. Read Review
4. Best Compatible: Champion Power Equipment 200988Dual Inverter Generator
The Champion Dual Fuel Generator is a powerful, inverter-style generator featuring a 212cc engine that runs on gasoline or propane. It has digital gauges to help monitor voltage, frequency, and operating hours with ease. With included digital manual and maintenance instructions, this unit is easy to use and well-suited for any type of load. Read Review
5. Best Easy To Use: WEN 56380i Super Quiet Inverter Generator
Generate more power for your electronic devices with less noise and a cleaner power source with WEN 56380i Super Quiet Inverter Generator. The inverter generator produces clean power to prevent damage to sensitive electronics such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops. It is extremely quiet operation minimizes noise, with low fuel consumption of up to 24 hours of run time on a full tank. Read Review
If you are in the market for a portable generator, you will come across many options. A portable generator is an all-in-one power source that can be used to power appliances and electronics while camping or at other outdoor activities. It is easy to carry, light in weight, and can be used without any hassle.
However, not every portable generator is designed equally. Some are designed with low-quality materials and others have subpar performance ratings. It is important that you do your research before purchasing any generator because not all generators are created equal. That’s why we decided to write this article on the best budget inverter generators available today in order to help you make an informed decision when it comes to buying one for your needs.
We think the best budget inverter generator available now is Champion Power Equipment 200961 Inverter Generator. If you were wanting another option, you can check the WEN 56225i Inverter Generator as an alternative. You may relax knowing that its quality is also good per what we researched.
RELATED: We've researched the 10 smallest power generators of 2024 and compiled a guide to help you make the right choice for your needs.
Our Top Picks
Weighing on ultralight 39 pounds Runtime for up to 11.5 hours Have the built-in carrying handle makes transport a cinch
Spark plug was fouled black residue when use
DUAL FUEL: Operate your 2500-watt portable generator right out of the box on either gasoline or propane, plus at only 39 pounds, this inverter is one of the lightest 2500-watt inverters in the industry
PARALLEL READY: The optional, sold-separately clip-on parallel kit enables this inverter to connect with another 2500-watt Champion inverter to double your output power. GFCI Outlets : No
CHAMPION SUPPORT: Includes 3-year limited warranty with FREE lifetime technical support from dedicated experts
CLEAN POWER: Includes two covered 120V 20A household outlets with clean electricity (less than 3% THD), a 12V automotive-style outlet, plus a handy dual port USB adapter
QUIET OPERATION: With an ultra-quiet 53 dBA from 23 feet, enjoy 2500 starting watts, 1850 running watts and up to 11.5 hours run time on gasoline, and 1665 running watts and up to 34 hours on propane
Provides clean energy and without all the noise When eco-mode switch, will save maximum energy Low-oil sensor eliminates guesswork and facilitates maintenance
Haven't a grounded plug from the manufacturer
Extremely quiet 53 dB operation comparable to the sound of a normal conversation according to the US Department of Health and Human Services
Includes two three-prong 15A 120V receptacles, two 5V USB ports, an oil access panel, and a two-year warranty
Dimensions: 19" x 11.5" x 18.2" | Weight: 48.5 lbs.Dimensions: 19" x 11.5" x 18.2" | Weight: 48.5 lbs
EPA III and CARB-Compliant 79.7cc 4-Stroke OHV engine produces 2250 surge watts and 1800 rated watts
Produces clean power to safely operate and prevent damage to sensitive electronics such as phones, tablets, televisions and computers
Fuel shutoff maximizes the generator’s lifespan by using up the remaining fuel in the carburetor before shutting down
HONDA MY GENERATOR APP + BLUETOOTH CAPABILITY - Honda's exclusive My Generator smartphone app offers remote generator operation and monitoring with impressive performance. The app includes wireless start/stop, operation monitoring.
CO-MINDER - Advanced Carbon Monoxide Detection System. CO-MINDER continuously monitors carbon monoxide (CO) levels. It automatically shuts down the generator before detected CO levels near the generator become dangerously high.
COMMERCIAL GRADE RELIABILITY - The EU2200i is powered by the Honda GXR120 Commercial Series engine. At 121cc, the GXR120 is at the top of its class - ensuring the EU2200 always produces the power you need to get the job done.
LIGHTWEIGHT AND COMPACT - Weighing just over 47 pounds, the EU2200i is incredibly lightweight and portable. Thanks to Honda's inverter technology, it's easy to transport and store.
MORE POWER. SAME LEGENDARY QUALITY. - The EU2200i delivers 10% more power than the previous EU2000i - enabling you to power more of what you need, in the same lightweight, compact package. The EU2200i gives you the power to get more done.
CLEAN POWER: RV Ready with a 120V 30A RV, plus two 120V 20A household outlets with clean electricity (less than 3% THD) and 12V DC outlet with dual USB adapter
DUAL FUEL: Operate your 4500-watt portable generator right out of the box on either gasoline or propane, plus the unit holds 0.6-quarts of oil (10W-30 oil included) and has a low oil shut-off sensor
ELECTRIC START: Battery included, plus Quick Touch Panel allows you to access all your controls in one spot
CHAMPION SUPPORT: Includes 3-year limited warranty with FREE lifetime technical support from dedicated experts
QUIET OPERATION: 61 dBA is perfect for RVs, tailgating, your next project or backup power for your home, featuring 4500 starting watts and 3500 running watts with up to 14 hours run time on gasoline
Produces clean power to prevent damage to sensitive electronics such as smart phones, tablets and laptops
Extremely quiet operation minimizes noise;, EPA III and CARB Compliant
Includes two three-prong 120V receptacles, one AC 120V NEMA TT-30R RV receptacle, one 12V DC receptacle, two 5V USB ports, a digital load and fuel display, and a two-year warranty
Fuel shutoff maximizes the generator’s lifespan by using up the remaining fuel in the carburetor before shutting down
212cc 4-stroke OHV engine produces 3800 surge watts and 3400 rated watts with a half-load runtime of up to 8.5 hours
Dimensions: 23.2" L x 18" W x 20.1" H | Weight: 99.2 lb.Dimensions: 23.2" L x 18" W x 20.1" H | Weight: 99.2 lb
Ideal for Tailgating, Camping, and Small 120V Appliances
Recoil start, low oil shut-off, and AVR
Stable sine WAVE for powering sensitive electronics
(2) AC 120V 13A outlets, (1) 12V 8A Cigarette outlet, and (1) 5V USB port
2300 peak watts/1800 running watts
Fuel shutoff maximizes the generator’s lifespan by using up the remaining fuel in the carburetor before shutting down
Designed to mirror a pure sine wave, this generator limits total harmonic distortion to under 0.3 percent at no load and under 1.2 percent at full load, making it safe to run laptops, cellphones, monitors, tablets and other sensitive electronics.
Produces 2350 surge watts and 1900 rated watts of clean power for safe charging of sensitive electronics (phones, tablets, televisions, computers, etc.)
Extremely quiet operation comparable to the sound of a normal conversation according to the US Department of Health and Human Services
Maximize fuel economy by engaging the eco-mode switch. This allows the generator's engine to automatically adjust its fuel consumption as items are plugged into and unplugged from the panel, preventing the unnecessary usage of gasoline.
Our 79cc 4-stroke OHV engine operates at an extremely quiet 51 decibels at quarter load, quieter than a window air conditioner or the average conversation.
Includes two three-prong 120V receptacles, one 12V DC receptacle, two 5V USB ports, and a two-year warranty
Ultralight body weighs in at a mere 39 pounds for easy transport and storage
Built In Handle Easy mobility; carry with one hand
Steady Power - Our technology makes safe, clean power for your electronics
Easy Start - Start/Stop/Choke dial makes starting quick and easy
Parallel ready - connect two inverters together for twice the power (parallel kit sold separately)
Powerful 79cc OHV 4-Stroke engine provides an abundant power supply yet runs at a super quiet operation of only 52 decibels
Light weight and compact at only 48 pounds, making your tailgate or camping experience as smooth as possible
Equipped with a low oil alert light and low oil automatic shutdown, helping keep your generator performing year after year
Complete with A-iPower’s “Low idle” technology for an extended run time of 4 hours at 100% load and 7 hours at 50% load
Produces 2,000 starting watts with 1,600 running watts of clean and safe power for sensitive electronics such as phones, televisions, laptops, and other electronics
【Power Panel】Includes low oil alarm, overload alarm,Co warning light and output indicator features “Eco mode” for conserving energy and maximum fuel efficiency ，120V/20A outlets and one5V / 1A outlets , one 5V / 2.1A outlets ,parallel ready.
【Ultralight and Small Size】At only 25.3pounds, GM1200i is one of the lightest 1000w inverter in this industry. The sturdy handle makes it easy to carry for long distance.
【Extremely Quiet,Fuel Efficient】 As Low as 58 dBA Noise Output with 25% loading at 23 feets, and up to 6.5 Hours of Run Time with 50% loading on a 0.66 Gallon Gas Tank – Features “Economy Mode” for Maximum Fuel Efficiency.
【GENMAX Support】: Includes 1-year warranty with FREE lifetime technical support from experts.
【CO Detect Shutdown】 Includes CO Detect shutdown sensor for Prevention of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning.
【Powerful Engine and Safe For Sensitive electronics 】The GENMAX 1200 Starting Watts Inverter Generator is powered by a 57cc 4- stroke OHV gas engine,with inverter technology produce 1200 Starting Watts/ 1000 Running Watts clean power (less than 3% THD), confidently connect your sensitive electronics such as TV, lights, fans, small power tools and more on camping trips, etc.
What to Look For in a best budget inverter generator?
You may know that shopping is one of the essential activities in a human being’s life. Selecting the best product will affect your daily life. However, which factors can make this purchase effective? If you are looking for best budget inverter generator for your demands, you will waste your time with incorrect data. But it would be best if you weren’t so nervous about that. We have a group of experts to research best budget inverter generator, and they’ve given reliable information.
There are lots of essential things you should keep in mind. On the other, just some of them are most focused. Here are the critical factors related to buying best budget inverter generator you may want:
Type
Size
Be aware that the clearance between your home and generator may be determined by local codes or model specifications. A small generator may require only 18 inches of clearance.
Wattage
However, this number does not represent the entire picture. Wattage is made up of three parts: power needed to turn on an appliance and power required to maintain it running. It also includes power necessary to sustain a power surge, which is when regular juice returns to normal and all appliances start to work again. Many appliances use more power for startup than their run energy consumption. You could overload your generator when you turn on appliances and other devices. If the generator can't provide enough power, it could overload. You need to know how many watts your generator can generate, depending on whether it is powering just one item or the whole house.
An increase in generator costs is generally associated with a higher wattage. Most people agree that it's better to have enough power than not to be able to run your fridge or keep cool by a fan.
Warranties
Certain warranties may also include travel expenses for technicians to visit the generator and fix it. However, this depends on which manufacturer you are using.
Fuel Source
The majority of portable generators run on gasoline and can generally keep fridges and lights running for several hours. These generators can't be relied upon for long-term power backups, such as when there is no electricity for several days.
Propane and natural gas are used more often for large home-standby generators. These fuels can be used for larger home standby generators as they are cleaner-burning and offer on-demand power.
Solar or battery-powered power sources are an alternative to traditional fuel-powered generators. These machines have different capabilities, and their run time can vary widely. However, they might be the best match for you if your power requirements are less than minimal. They are typically used for camping only, not home.
Automatic Start
FAQs
How Do You Safely Run A Home Generator?
A whole-home generator or standby generator must be connected to a switch. This disconnects your circuit panel and the electrical grid, allowing power to flow through the circuits from the generator.
You must manually start the power transfer for portable generators. These products have different safety requirements.
Can I Vent The Exhaust Out Of An Enclosed Area?
No. The generator should not be used in enclosed areas or homes. The portable generators can only be run outdoors where there is adequate ventilation. As with all gasoline engines exhaust, generators contain poisonous carbon monoxide.
What Regular Maintenance Should Be Performed On A Home Generator?
You should get basic maintenance information from the manufacturer of any generator that you buy. However, most generator models will work fine if you follow these guidelines.
Run the generator at least 30 minutes per month or perform a weekly self test
When storing a gasoline-powered generator, add fuel stabilizer.
Regular oil changes are a must for your generator.
Does The Portable Generator Need To Be Grounded?
Yes. It is important that the generator be correctly grounded in order to protect your safety. The generator must be grounded properly to avoid electrocution. Grounding is a subject matter that must be adhered to by all authorities, federal and state.
Can I Use The Generator During Inclement Weather?
Although you can use your generator in any weather or temperature, protect it from the elements whenever it is not being used to stop it from shorting out and rusting. It is not recommended to run the generator indoors.
Where Is The Best Place To Put Your Home Generator?
Natural gas generators do not produce as much fumes than natural gas ranges. Gasoline-powered generators can produce carbon monoxide exhaust fumes, which is why it's important to select the ideal location. These are the reasons why utility companies and local codes often have specific requirements for placement.
A generator should generally be located at least 5ft from any windows or doors. While some generators are able to be mounted as close as 18inches from the house, it is still important that the generator is at least 5ft away from any air intake areas on the property.
It is not advisable to use portable generators in an indoor environment, such as a garage. This type of generator is best placed outdoors, away from windows and doors.
Overall, the statistics we described here are not all of them. Instead, we always freshen it up continually as the data is updated and available. It would be best to remember things we mentioned above, including brand’s value, product’s value, product’s highlights, important specs, customer ratings & reviews.
Our readers, you guys, are always respected and treated with top priority so that you are supposed to receive the most up-to-date information on our site. You should feel free to contact us for support with the product’s problems. Thanks for reading, and we wish you a happy shopping.
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About Katie Finn
