Inverter generators are the smaller, cleaner, and quieter siblings of traditional portable generators. If you're looking to go camping, tailgating, or backup sensitive electronic devices around the house, then you should consider an inverter generator.
I've been living and breathing generators for decades, and I know that choosing one can be confusing. So, I've made my picks for the best inverter generators of 2024 to get you on the right track. You can check out my process for evaluating generators below.
| Best Inverter Generator | Best Small Inverter Generator | Best Large Inverter Generator | Best Camp Generator | Best Dual Fuel Inverter Generator | Best Tailgate Generator |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| | | | | | |
Inverter generators are portable generators designed for cleaner power, quiet performance, and higher efficiency. Of these, the Honda EU7000is is the most versatile. Providing 7,000 starting watts, you can use it for anything from camping to RVs, to even basic home backup during an emergency. No matter what you use it for, you'll barely hear its 52-60 decibels of volume. Plus, its Eco Throttle system provides outstanding fuel efficiency-up to 18 hours of runtime at 25% load.
What's special about the EU7000is versus other inverter generators is its multiple plug types. It has two 5-20R receptacles for common appliances and an L5-30R and L14-30R for larger items, including connection to a manual transfer switch or convenience cord.
It is worth emphasizing this generator's compatibility with the "My Generator" app from Honda. Using this wireless app, you can remotely start the generator and monitor power output, oil life, engine hours, and more. The app will also send you reminders for mandatory generator maintenance like oil changes.
The generator will automatically shut down if it detects too much CO buildup, helping to reduce the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. Finally, a wheel kit and folding handle make it easy to transport. Overall, this time-tested generator will live up to and exceed your expectations for years to come.
| Power |
| -Gasoline: 5,500 running/ 7,000 starting watts |
| Usability |
| -Backs up basic home appliances, RVs, outdoor events -Runs up to 18 hours at 25% load with Eco Throttle -CO detection/shutdown technology -WiFi & Bluetooth capability -Low oil alert -Push-button electric start -Wheel kit & folding handle |
| Versatility |
| -2 NEMA 5-20R outlets -1 L5-30R -1 L14-30R twist-lock outlet |
| Overall Value |
| Worth the premium price due to its high wattage that doesn't compromise on noise or clean power |
Weighing only 39 pounds, this tiny Champion portable inverter generator will be your friend in the great outdoors. Portable power on your campsite, picnic, or fishing trip will become an afterthought because, unlike many larger generators, the Champion 201183 is something you can bring with barely any physical effort.
Although you won't be powering a ton with this generator's 2,500 starting and 1,850 running watts, that's not why you're buying it. This is the best small inverter generator for those who only want to power the basics on their outdoor trip.
At 53 decibels, you'll get extremely quiet performance, and its cold start technology will make it easier to get going on a frosty morning. If you really want more power, you have the option to buy a second one and parallel (connect) the two.
Other notable features include carbon monoxide detection and shutoff technology, a low oil sensor, and the ability to run in economy mode, which will get you 11 hours of runtime at 25% load. Lastly, it's one of the least expensive quality generators out there, so I'd highly recommend it if you're looking for something small.
| Power |
| Gasoline: 1,850 running/2,500 starting watts LP: 1,665 running/1,800 starting watts |
| Usability |
| -Weighs less than 40 pounds -Includes carrying handle -Economy mode provides 11 hrs. runtime at 25% load -Simple start dial -Cold start tech -CO detection/shutdown technology |
| Versatility |
| -Dual-fuel capability for gas & propane -Can be paralleled with a second unit |
| Overall Value |
| Very affordable generator for backup of small items |
For an inverter generator that doesn’t compromise, I highly recommend the Westinghouse iGen11000DFc.
First, let’s talk power. Alone, this unit provides 9,000 running watts and 11,000 starting watts using gasoline, which is impressive. Amazingly, you can double that by connecting it to a second iGen11000DFc. Now we’re talking about 18,000 running watts of power! Plus, it has an Eco Mode that adjusts engine RPM based on generator load to save fuel.
That amount of power makes this unit great for everything from RVs, to emergency backup, to food trucks. It’ll run up to 12 hours at 50% load, and you can even start it remotely from up to 109 yards away. A 14-50R 50-amp plug lets you get maximum power from this generator, although 5-20R and L14-30R plugs are also included.
The Westinghouse iGen11000DFc is surrounded by a noise-canceling double-insulated enclosure that reduces its noise to 64 dB. Safety features include carbon monoxide (CO) and low oil sensors that shut the unit down if there are unsafe CO levels or not enough oil in the engine. The telescoping handle and 10-inch wheels make it easy to move.
Overall, this is as large as good inverter generators come, and you won’t regret your purchase.
| Power |
| -Gasoline: 9,000 running/11,000 starting watts -Propane: 8,100 running/10,000 starting watts |
| Usability |
| -Eco Mode saves fuel -Push button/remote start from 109 yds -Only 64 dB loud -Runs up to 12 hours at 50% load -CO sensor |
| Versatility |
| -Can parallel to a 2nd unit -Runs on gasoline or LP -5-20R, L14-30R, & 14-50R outlets |
| Overall Value |
| A powerful, versatile unit that can handle a wide breadth of applications at a fair price. |
Camping is a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of reality, but you don't necessarily want to give up all of life's conveniences. The Honda EU2200i portable generator gives you the power to fall back on when you're out in the wilderness.
Its 2,200 starting watts are all you'll really need when camping—enough to power some lights, a mini fridge, and other basic appliances. Its clean AC power makes it safe for powering electronics.
The main reason I recommend this unit for camping, though, is due to its stunningly quiet performance (53-62 decibels) and lightweight (less than 50 pounds!) construction. It's also equipped with Eco Throttle technology, a feature that optimizes engine speed and fuel consumption by only requiring the engine to run as fast as needed. Using this economy mode, you can run the generator for 7.5 hours on less than 1 gallon of fuel.
If you find yourself needing more power, you have the option of buying two EU2200i generators and running them together with a parallel cable. You can also buy a charging cord that offers the ability to charge 12-volt DC batteries. Other features I liked include wireless and Bluetooth controls, CO detection/shutoff, and low oil alert.
| Power |
| Gasoline: 1,800 running/2,200 starting watts |
| Usability |
| -Backs up light appliances & gadgets -Runs up to 7.5 hours on 0.95 gallons of fuel with Eco Throttle -Weighs only 46.3 Ibs -CO detection/shutdown technology -WiFi & Bluetooth capability -Low-oil alert |
| Versatility |
| -Easily transported for camping, tailgating, and other outdoor activities that require electricity -Can be paralleled with a second EU2200i for extra power |
| Overall Value |
| A great value for recreational use. Not for emergency backup |
For those wanting to leave their options open when RVing or enjoying other recreational activities, the dual-fuel Westinghouse iGen5000DF offers the flexibility you need. When using gasoline, this generator can produce 5,000 starting watts and 3,900 running watts. With propane, you'll get up to 4,500 starting watts and 3,500 running watts.
One of the special features I noticed is the built-in 30-amp RV receptacle, which lets you plug in your RV directly without needing to go through an adapter. That, along with the ability to parallel with another iGen5000DF for double the power, makes this unit stand out if you're looking to power your road trip.
Even if you're only looking for extra power on a picnic or outdoor gathering, the compact iGen5000DF is a great solution. It comes with an electric start and a wireless remote, can switch to efficiency mode to save energy, and is easy to move around with its telescopic handle and wheels (it weighs just over 100 pounds if you have to pick it up). Besides the RV receptacle mentioned above, you get a traditional 5-20R outlet for common appliances and two USB ports.
All these features, along with the common ones shared by all inverters—clean, quiet power—make this one of the most versatile units on the market. Personally, I always think dual-fuel units are worth it. With today's volatile energy environment, it's always good to have a fallback.
| Power |
| -Gasoline: 3,900 running/5,000 starting watts -LP: 3,500 running/4,500 starting watts |
| Usability |
| -Weighs just over 100 pounds -Telescoping handle & wheels simplify transport -Efficiency mode reduces fuel use -Runs up to 15 hrs. @ 50% load -Electric start/Wireless remote Low oil shutdown |
| Versatility |
| -Dual-fuel capability for gas & propane -Includes 30-amp RV receptacle, eliminating the need for an adaptor -Can be paralleled with a second unit for extra power |
| Overall Value |
| Great power & flexibility for an affordable price |
If you're looking for a clean, compact generator to power your next tailgating party, then I suggest looking no further than the Honda EU2200i. This little unit has great portability, fuel efficiency, and quiet performance—all features to look for when buying a tailgating generator.
You'll get 2,200 starting watts and 1,800 running watts, enough to power a TV, cooler, or other small appliances that will bring your tailgating party to the next level. Need more power? It's not a problem because this unit can be paralleled with a second EU2200i for double the wattage. Plus, at only 53 to 62 decibels, you won't hear this generator at all over the sounds of the game.
As far as lasting for the whole game, you should be fine. Eco Throttle™ technology allows the unit to run up to 7.5 hours on 0.95 gallons of fuel, meaning that, in theory, you can run it for back-to-back football games without worrying about refueling.
Weighing under 50 pounds, virtually anyone can move it, and it works with Honda's "My Generator" app, which can remotely start and stop the generator. The price is right too, for what you're getting. Personally, I wouldn't consider anything else for tailgating.
| Power |
| -Gasoline: 1,800 running/2,200 starting watts |
| Usability |
| -Backs up light appliances & gadgets -Runs up to 7.5 hours on 0.95 gallons of fuel with Eco Throttle -Weighs only 46.3 Ibs -CO detection/shutdown technology -WiFi & Bluetooth capability -Low-oil alert |
| Versatility |
| -Easily transported for camping, tailgating, and other outdoor activities that require electricity -Can be paralleled with a second EU2200i for extra power |
| Overall Value |
| A great value for recreational use. Not for emergency backup |
When recommending the top inverter generators, we take four features into account.
With inverter generators, the proof is in the power. We consider each generator's power potential for a given use, which involves looking at both surge and running wattage.
Surge wattage is the extra, temporary wattage a generator can produce to start electric motors. Running wattage is how much wattage the generator can produce long term. We also consider parallel capability or whether the inverter can be linked with another one to double the power.
Inverter generators are known for great features that make them a joy to use, no matter who you are. Wireless Bluetooth controls, carbon monoxide detection, low oil warnings, and energy-saving modes are all features that make the best inverter generators stand out from the pack. We also consider other ease-of-use features like size, weight, maintenance, and more. Anything you can think of that impacts the user experience is fair game to evaluate here.
A versatile inverter generator is one that can easily adapt to different scenarios and applications. One area we consider is whether it's dual fuel or can switch between running on gasoline and propane. This can come in handy if a hurricane has caused a local gasoline shortage because you can then switch to propane.
Power receptacles are another feature that could make or break a generator's versatility. Having a mixture of standard household outlets, where you can plug in a fridge or microwave, and heavier-duty locking outlets that can handle 240 volts is ideal. For example, a 50A 120/240V outlet on your generator lets you plug it into a manual transfer switch to power your electric panel.
We prioritize performance over price, so you won't necessarily find the cheapest inverter generators on our list. That's why, instead of evaluating a generator on price alone, we look at what you're getting for the price to arrive at an overall value rating.
Unlike traditional portable generators, inverters use a built-in computer to stabilize the power produced by the generator. We call this "cleaning up" the power because it prevents the surges in voltage and frequency variations common in traditional generators. This allows you to safely plug in sensitive electronic devices, like smartphones and computers, into the inverter without worrying about causing them damage.
Besides providing more stable power, portable inverter generators also operate more efficiently than traditional generators. They can adjust their engine speed depending on the power demand. For example, if you are only powering one item, the engine will run more slowly than if you needed to power two, which saves energy. Traditional generator engines run at one speed, no matter how much or how little power is needed.
Inverter generators also have a closed frame over the engine. The insulated frame muffles the engine sounds, which is why inverter generators are significantly quieter than traditional portable units. Watch the video below to see me conduct a noise test between the two. Also, learn more in our ultimate inverter generator guide.
Due to their generally lower power output, inverter generators aren't typically used for emergency home backup unless you're paralleling two of them or have a particularly high-wattage one. Instead, they're perfect for powering nearly any recreational hobby you can think of, including:
That's not to say you can't use them at all for home backup. You can absolutely use an inverter generator to power necessities during a power outage, and certain models can even connect to a manual transfer switch.
To parallel two generators means to connect them with cables for double the power output. Those generators are then said to be running "in parallel." Since inverter generators are usually less powerful than their open-frame counterparts, pairing two of them can help make up the gap.
However, you can't parallel any two generators. In many cases, you can only connect two generators of the same brand and model. If you are able to pair two different inverter generators, you need to make sure they have the same amperage and voltage. To learn more, you can read our guide on how to parallel two generators.
Jared has decades of technical experience working on generators, cars, and even helicopters. His interest began during childhood, as he watched his mechanical engineer father work on and design machines. These experiences inspired Jared to follow a related course.
He began his career attending the Universal Technical Institute, where he earned a degree in Automotive Technology. He also graduated with honors from the U.S. Army Aviation Center of Excellence as a helicopter technician.
Fusing his love of aircraft and generators, Jared spent time working with towable AGPU generators that are powered by jet engines. He is a certified Generac and Kohler installer and has been the electric generator expert at Power Equipment Direct for more than nine years.
When not around wires and alternators, Jared enjoys working on cars and 3D printing.