7 Best 2000 Watt Generator Reviews 2024 – Extremely Portable
The best 2000-watt generator comes in handy when camping or traveling in an RV. It should be compact and lightweight, silent, easy to carry around, fuel-efficient, and powerful enough to run a few essential appliances.
Some extra features like low-oil shutoff, overload light, CO-MINDER, and fuel gauges are also welcomed if the price is not high.
That being said, the generator we want should not only be limited to camping and outdoor usage, but it should also provide backup power in case of power outages and emergencies.
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Best 2000 Watt Generators
I and my team tested 27 2000-watt inverter generators, interviewed over 54 campers, RV owners, and domestic people, and talked to over 18 mechanics and technicians.
We shortlisted the top 7 best 2000-watt generators on our list to save you the trouble of going through hundreds of inverter generators.
Apart from HONDA EU2200i, all products on our list are budget-friendly and reliable. I have personally used all five generators in my home and while camping.
Read all the reviews carefully, and ask a question in the comment box if you have any. Without waiting further, let’s check out our comparison table.
Comparison Chart of the Top 2000 Watt Generators of 2024
1. Honda EU2200i 2200 watt Inverter Generator
FEATURES & SPECS
Honda EU2200i 2200W is one of the most popular and powerful 2000-watt generators in the market. This inverter generator is an ultra-durable beast with a longer lifespan compared to its competitors.
The original Honda EU2000i was replaced by Honda EU2200i 2200W with 200-watt extra power, but the construction and reliability are pretty much the same. Even the noise levels are the same.
I can safely say that Honda EU2200i is the best 2000-watt generator in terms of reliability and durability.
Although this model has a shorter runtime of 8.1 hours at 25% load, the fuel tank is 0.95 gallons. That is why it is considered a portable inverter generator for campers. The fuel-eating efficiency is incredible though.
So much like other Honda models, you will not get anything extra in the package, not even the oil. I wish they could provide some goodies for the price.
There is an outlet that will allow you to charge 12v car batteries and other small 12v appliances, but you can’t car jump your battery off of this generator keep that in mind.
I also like the rubber ramp beneath the oil plug to drain the dropping oil without creating a mess.
So Honda EU2200i 2200W inverter generator has a co-minder whose job is to stop the generator when carbon monoxide levels are too high. I tested that feature by putting the generator in the back of my truck.
After 15 seconds, the generator stopped because it sensed a higher concentration of CO. This is a cool safety feature.
I have seen people sitting close to the generator in a confined space without any concern. CO is a dangerous poisonous gas. Thanks, Honda for the co-minder.
I did some tests of my own.
Noise levels: 54dB from 24 feet away on ECO MODE. With ECO OFF, 63 to 64 dB from a similar distance.
After giving it some load of my trailer, 1.8KW and 122V was the peak that I got ON ECO MODE. It ran my 15K AC unit which is also cool. The noise levels were also in control and the generator seemed to run smoothly.
Honda EU2200i 2200W is on par with WEN 56225i and Briggs and Stratton 2200. It might even beat them in the long run.
So overall, besides its huge energy production capacity, Honda EU2200i 2200W runs smoothly, it is quiet, easy to operate, easy to carry around, portable and compact, and lightweight.
The only downside is the lack of an electrical push start. I would have loved to see one for the price we are paying. Other than that, Honda EU2200i 2200W is an absolute beast of a 2000-watt inverter generator.
Here is the full review of Honda EU2200i 2200W
2. WEN 56200i 2000W Inverter Generator
FEATURES & SPECS
The lightweight, compact, portable, modern-looking WEN 56200i 2000W generator has an amazing form factor which was its biggest selling point in 2021.
A lot of people I know are using WEN 56200i 2000W for the sake of portability and its packs a lot of power in that small body. It is almost an ideal unit for bush camping and travel trailers.
Yes, it is one of the cheapest 2000-watt inverter generators out there but at the same time, it performs like a champ and a lot of people are purchasing it. WEN 56200i 2000W also has a USB port to charge your cellphone.
The front panel is clean and easy to use, and the whole design is likable and convenient.
I always test the noise levels first before passing further comments. I did the same with WEN 56200i 2000W as well, and the results are:
ECO MODE: 70dB from 1 foot away, and 55dB from 15 feet away.
Normal mode: 74dB from 1 foot away, and 58dB from 15 feet away.
Note: There wasn’t any extra noise in my backyard.
Now the load test. I started the load at 750W and then increased it to 1500W in ECO mode. WEN 56200i 2000W was doing fine without any change in the noise levels.
Later, I tried to run my 5000BTU AC unit, and the generator ran it with no problem at all. You might not want to run other appliances along with the AC if your generator is rated at 2000 surge watts like WEN 56200i 2000W.
The form factor of this 2000-watt generator is excellent. I see superb value for money and then some more.
The only problem I have is the lack of a little rubber ramp beneath the oil plug. It creates a total mess and leaves a puddle of oil underneath the generator.
If they can just improve that little feature in the same range, I think WEN 56200i 2000W will be one of the absolute best 2000-watt generators on the entire market.
Its suitcase-style design makes it super portable and popular among campers and outdoor enthusiasts.
3. A-iPower SUA2000iv 2000 Watt Generator for RV
FEATURES & SPECS
A-iPower SUA2000iv is a compact, portable, and lightweight inverter generator that is made for camping and outdoor activities.
It is so lightweight and compact that it can easily fit in small spaces.
The starting power is 2000 watts and the running power is 1600 watts, we will test that in a bit.
It comes in a budget which is also great compared to ultra-expensive Honda generators.
It has a dual-fuel variant (A-iPower SUA2000iD) which is slightly expensive but the rest of the features are pretty much the same.
I am reviewing the gasoline model (A-iPower SUA2000iv) because I own this one and I haven’t used the duel-fuel variant yet.
In the box, I received a manual, a quick start guide, a funnel, a couple of tools, and the generator itself. No oil.
First of all, I put 0.4 quarts of oil in it. There was no mess which is a good sign. There is a rubber ramp beneath the oil plug to safely drain the residual oil.
Despite being a budget model, it only took 1 try to start. Pretty cool right?
As I do with my other new generators, I plugged a 1500-watt heater into it. First at a low setting, a medium setting, and then a high setting. A-iPower SUA2000iv worked flawlessly.
There weren’t any changes in the noise levels but there was a slight kick to it when I switched to a high setting.
So the noise levels at 3 feet are 73 on ECO mode, and 80+ at full load. It is darn loud from a close distance. Even from a certain distance, this thing is a bit louder than other 2000-watt generators.
Let’s make it simple. Slow idle (50%) from 20 feet away the noise levels were 65dB which is huge in the world of sound. So the spec mentioned in the advertisement is not true. From 21 feet at 75% load, I got 68dB at fast idle. This spec is true.
The Max wattage I got was 2057 watts at full load which is pretty good. The running time is also good. You will get 8+ hours at 25% to 40% load easily. The 1.1-gallon tank is rated 4 hours at 100% so you do the math.
If you are going to use it for RV, boat, or camping, I would suggest using it 80+ feet away from the next camper because it is louder than most 2000-watt generators which is understandable considering the price tag.
4. Westinghouse iGen2200 2000-watt Inverter Generator
FEATURES & SPECS
Westinghouse iGen2200 is another lightweight, compact, powerful, and portable 2000-watt generator entry on our list.
This generator is not equipped with an energy-saving mode because the engine automatically adjusts its speed according to the need.
This feature allows this model to run for 12 hours+ on at 25% load.
Westinghouse iGen2200 is extremely popular because it is mostly used as a camping, and backup generator.
So one thing I would like to mention is this generator is super smooth and efficient, but it is not as quiet as a HONDA which is understandable considering the price tag. So let’s get that out of the way first.
Out of the box, you will get the generator, a couple of tools, an instructional manual, a funnel, and a measured oil bottle.
Maintenance is really easy like other models on our list, you will find the spark plug on the top underneath a removable cover, and there are three LED lights indicating oil levels, overload, and output ready. Just the basic stuff, nothing funny.
You can use the 2 USB ports to charge your connect your laptop or mobile phone, the inverter system will protect and provide clean power to your devices, but I am always skeptical so I am not going to use it.
Now the noise test.
With the efficiency mode ON from about 5 feet away, I was getting around 65dB, and with mode OFF, 68 to 69 dB (A).
From about 20 feet away, I was getting close to 58dB, and under load, 70 dB (A).
Later, I gave it 1406 watts of my heater from 5 feet away, I was getting 75 dB (A).
So overall it was quiet enough to utilize for camping. It wasn’t silent enough like HONDA but it wasn’t too loud.
When the generator runs under the power-saving mode, there isn’t much noise honestly.
I can 100% recommend this generator if you are looking for silent models. The noise it makes is different and thinner, it doesn’t hurt your ears guys.
So overall, unlike other cheap models, the Westinghouse iGen2200 inverter generator doesn’t consume gas unnecessarily, it is lightweight and compact, very easy to use, the body is durable, it has a long lifespan (confirm), and most importantly, it is affordable.
Here is the full review of westinghouse iGen2200
5. NEXPOW YH2200i Portable Inverter Generator
FEATURES & SPECS
I recently purchased the NEXPOW 2250 Portable Inverter Generator, and I must say it has exceeded my expectations in several key areas.
This compact and powerful generator is a game-changer for anyone in need of a reliable and super-lightweight machine. The unboxing experience was decent. The user manual is clean, and everything is written in great detail. I got a funnel, a screwdriver, a spark plug wrench, and the generator itself.
Portability:
The NEXPOW 2250 is genuinely portable. It weighs just 42 pounds, and the built-in handle makes it easy to carry around.
I found it perfect for camping trips, outdoor events, and as a backup power source for my home during occasional power outages though I have only tested it for a little while for this review only.
The NEXPOW 2250 is equipped with a 79cc OHV engine, delivering 1800 running watts and 2250 peak watts of power.
It operates at a noise level of just 52 decibels which we will test later. The inverter technology ensures stable and clean power output, perfect for sensitive electronics like laptops, smartphones, and televisions.
I have tested it and harmonic distortion is less than 3% which is to be expected after reading online reviews. It comes with two 120V AC outlets, one 12V DC outlet, and two USB ports for versatile power options.
User-Friendly Ergonomic Design:
One of the standout features of this generator is its user-friendly design. It is super portable, and easy to start, thanks to the pull-start mechanism, and it usually fires up on the first or second pull.
The control panel is well laid out, with clear markings for each outlet and a convenient digital display showing important information like fuel level and run-time remaining.
Performance:
I’ve used this generator to power various appliances and devices, including a refrigerator, lights, and a small air conditioner. It handled these loads with ease, and I didn’t experience any voltage fluctuations or power surges. The clean power output is especially reassuring when using sensitive electronics.
Fuel Efficiency/Runtime Test:
One of the impressive aspects of this generator is its fuel efficiency. With a 1-gallon fuel tank, it can run for up to 6 hours and 14 minutes at 50% load on eco- mode.
I also tested it on 25% load and it ran for 10.2 hours on the first try, and 10.31 hours on the second try. 10/10 from me for the fuel efficiency. I would prefer 92 octane-rating fuel. It is cleaner and burns efficiently. Just like any gas engine, you would need to turn the choke ON in the cold weather.
Whether you’re using it for outdoor activities or as a backup power source, this generator won’t disappoint. I’ve been thoroughly satisfied with its performance and recommend it without hesitation.
Noise Test:
I conducted a noise test to assess the sound levels produced by the NEXPOW
Using a sound level meter positioned at a distance of 7 feet from the
generator, here are the results:
- Idle Noise: just 52 decibels. This is quieter than normal conversation and makes it suitable for use in noise-sensitive environments like campgrounds.
- 50% Load: With a 50% load (approximately 900 watts), the generator registered a noise level of 56 decibels. This is still relatively quiet and won’t cause much disturbance
- 75% Load: Under a 75% load (around 1350 watts), the generator reached a noise level of 62 decibels.
Overall, the NEXPOW 2250’s noise levels are well within acceptable limits for its power output, making it a considerate choice for both recreational and emergency use.
There were complaints that NEXPOW generator blogs down before even reaching 1700 running watts. Maybe there were a few generators shipped by the company which is not a good thing for the manufacturer’s image.
In summary, the NEXPOW 2250 Portable Inverter Generator performed exceptionally well in both the noise test and load test, delivering quiet operation and reliable power output across various scenarios.
6. Champion 2000-watt Inverter Generator
FEATURES & SPECS
Champion is one of the most trusted generator manufacturing company in the World, and their Champion 2000 is a pretty solid 2000-watt inverter generator.
I am writing this review after using this unit for 16 months. I have also written a detailed review on champion 2000.
So basically I purchased this unit to run my 13500 BTU AC few other appliances when I am in my review outdoors. This bad boy hasn’t disappointed me yet.
So this model features cold start technology which was a lifesaver for me because I usually camp in cold areas.
The design is super solid. There are no loose ends. It got a nice carry handle which makes it portable. It is lightweight and portable as well. I never had problems moving it around.
It is parallel capable which also comes in handy if you have another champion inverter generator. You can double the power output.
Noise Test of Champion 2000 Inverter Generator:
After 16 months of use, I again conducted a noise test. The previous results were:
- 53dB from 23 feet away.
- 62 from 24 feet away on normal mode
- 72 dB from 24 feet at 96% load.
The results of my current noise test were:
- 52 from 24 feet away on eco mode at zero loads.
- 55 from 24 feet away on normal mode at zero loads.
- 65 from 25 feet away at normal mode at 50% load.
- 72 from 25 feet away at normal mode at 95% load.
Honestly, Champion 2000 is not loud at all. There are a lot of other campers in the area where I camp, and I have never had any noise complaints.
Load Test of Champion 2000 Generator
This thing runs my following appliances regularly:
- Coffee maker: 1740 watts
- Space heater: 1600 watts
- Lights, TV, and small things: 1500 watts
- Fridge: 450 watts
Last time it gave me about 1741 continuous watts during my load test.
I again conducted a load test after 16 months of usage, this time it gave me around 1739 continuous watts so no big difference.
Runtime test of Champion 2000
On 1.05 gallons of fuel, the results I took the last time were:
- 11.5 hours at 25% load
- 10 hours at 30% load
So I again conducted a runtime test and the results were:
- 11.5 hours at 25% load
- 10 hours at 31% load
Honestly, this inverter generator is very efficient. And the best thing is, that it generates less than 3% harmonic distortion. I have been able to run most sensitive appliances like MacBook PRO, Canon DSLR, and iPhone 12 without any problem
I honestly think you should buy this Champion 2000 inverter generator. It is well made, lightweight, very powerful, and highly fuel-efficient, and it hasn’t decreased its performance even after 16 months of usage.
7. Pulsar G2319N 2300 watt Inverter Generator
FEATURES & SPECS
Pulsar G2319N is an extremely lightweight, portable, reliable, and powerful inverter generator for tailgating, camping, and small 12V appliances.
Though it is not as popular as HONDA, Champion, or WEN, Pulsar G2319N does pack a lot of power in a small body and a lot of campers use this model for convenience and reliability brings to the table.
My first impressions were good, the build quality is top-notch, and everything is clean and in good shape. The front panel is neat with a couple of indicator lights, necessary outlets, an Eco mode switch, and a circuit breaker.
The real test of any generator is the noise levels, and how much load it can handle. First of all, the noise test.
So Pulsar G2319N is running at eco-mode under no load.
- At 20 feet, 60 to 61 dB (A).
- At 30 feet, 57 to 58 dB (A).
- At 50 feet, 53 to 54 dB (A).
Without load, the generator is not very loud. After giving it a load of 1500-watt heat gun.
- At 20 feet, 70 to 71 dB (A).
- At 30 feet, 68 to 69 dB (A).
- At 50 feet, 65 to 67 dB (A).
The voltage slowly builds to 120V, and the Amps were close to 13. You can compare these noise levels with other models on our list to get a rough idea of the noise.
I was able to stretch the load to 2250 peak watts by adding the rice cooker’s load. The generator was doing fine even when the overload light was ON. The noise levels were also fine and the generators weren’t vibrating wildly.
The overall aesthetics are also good, it takes 1 to 2 tries to start, I practically ran for 6 hours and a few minutes on half load on a full tank so that is also a good sign.
Units that produce clean sine waves (harmonic disturbance less than 3%) are always preferred by campers. I will recommend this Pulsar G2319N inverter for campers. If you are planning to use it in your home, you can find better options like a Champion or HONDA model for the extra bit price.
What Will a 2000 Watt Generator Run?
In theory, a 2000-watt inverter generator should run the following appliances:
Obviously, you need to know the power consumption of each appliance before checking whether your generator can run multiple devices at the same time or not.
Having the right number of outlets is also important, you need to check that as well.
If you want to know whether a 2000-watt inverter generator can run RV AC Unit, air compressor, welder, heat pump, and a saw or not, check our full guide on what will a 2000-watt generator run.
How To Choose The Best 2000-Watt Generator
We had to narrow it down to the most important things to look for the best 2000-watt generator in 2024.
It was not an easy choice. We had to interview several campers, RV owners, and people who use generators in power outages. I and my team tested over 15 2000-watt generators and selected only 7.
You should consider the following factors before making a decision.
Size And Weight:
One of the most important factors in my opinion. From backup power to tailgating and camping, a single generator can be used for various purposes. Even if you are looking for a generator for your backyard, you will end up using it for other purposes and that is where portability and weight come into play.
The 2000-watt inverter generator should be under 50 pounds unless you have a spare set of hands and unlimited space in your trailer or truck.
I would suggest getting something compact like a suitcase. Those models are easy to carry and drag around. Most generators like Champion Power, Honda, WEN, and Pulsar on our list are like suitcases. A compact and portable generator is a lifesaver when you are outdoors.
Surge Watts, And Running Watts:
A 2000-watt generator means 2000 peak watts, the running watts would be lower than that. The reason they add a few extra hundred watts to the running watts is that a device with a motor needs to overcome inertia. Later, they settle down to their rated capacity.
I have added a few models above 2000 watts but the running watts for all of the units on the list is below 2000.
Don’t go below 1500 running watts. A 2000-watt peak-watt inverter should at least run a heat of 1500 watts.
Be sure to check the devices you are going to run and calculate the wattage.
Outlets:
A USB outlet, 120V 20A, and 120 30A are the basic types of outlets you would want in your generator.
A few extra outlets always come in handy like an outlet for trickle charging if your unit is using a battery.
A quality generator will provide multiple AC outlets, a DC outlet, and a few USB ports. This lets you power nearby devices.
Parallel Connection With Other Generators:
Sometimes we need some extra power than our rated mode; in such cases connecting two generators is a lifesaving option if both are parallel capable.
In that case, we can get double power (double the lower-rated one) to run anything we want.
Not every day do people connect two generators, only campers and people with power outgas need such an option.
So if you are living in an area where power outages are common and you need to run your AC or other heavy equipment, you should look for a generator with a parallel connection feature.
Low-Level Fuel Shut Off:
I fancy this feature, whenever there is low oil in the generator, it will automatically shut off. It prevents potential damage by friction.
Fuel Efficiency And Runtime:
A fuel-efficient generator means longer runtime and a quality engine. 7 to 8+ hours on half load is a very good number for 2000-watt inverter generators.
You would want to read reviews like this to know which generators eat less fuel to produce rated power.
Safety:
Look out for the models that come with EPA and CARB compliance, carbon monoxide sensors, and spark arrestors.
We don’t want our inverter generator to catch fire or release poisonous gasses.
Conclusion
In our 2000-watt generator review guide, we have tried to enlist the top 7 most popular 2000-watt generators which are not only lightweight and portable but powerful and reliable as well.
Set a budget estimate and your power requirement based on the devices you need to keep running, along with the other features, look out for the safest option as well.
Each model on our list has innovative technology which makes them ideal for power-sensitive equipment with harmonic disturbance of less than 3%. Each model is fuel-efficient as well.
If you disagree with our picks, comment below. We try to research as much as possible to provide honest and to-the-point reviews.
Thank you.
Alex Black is a seasoned electrical engineer with a remarkable 8-year track record specializing in appliances, generators, and transfer switches. With extensive hands-on experience in the field, Alex possesses a deep understanding of electrical systems and their intricate workings. Throughout their career, Alex has consistently demonstrated expertise in designing, troubleshooting, and maintaining various electrical appliances.