Are you in search of the ideal portable generator to enhance your camping experience? Look no further! We have meticulously researched and tested numerous generators suitable for camping and are eager to share our top recommendations with you. Whether you need to power essential devices or make your campsite more comfortable, these generators have got you covered.
In this article, we’ve handpicked four generators that meet specific criteria: they are relatively lightweight, quiet, have stabilized voltage, and offer power outputs between 2000 and 2200 watts. Why these particular parameters, you might ask? The answer is simple: we want to avoid straining our backs lifting heavy equipment during our camping trips. Additionally, at a campsite, we typically don’t have a high number of power-hungry electrical devices, and we may have neighbors who could become annoyed by a noisy generator.
Selecting the right generator can be an overwhelming task, but fear not. Our comprehensive guide to portable generators for camping delves into the various features and factors to consider when choosing the perfect generator for your needs. We discuss power output, fuel efficiency, noise levels, portability, and more, so you can make an informed decision.
To ensure a fair comparison between the generators, we evaluated them based on the following Key Features:
- Inverter Technology: Provides clean and stable power output. This makes using sensitive electronic devices such as smartphones, laptops, and cameras safe.
- Smart Throttle: Smart Throttle feature adjusts the engine speed based on the load, resulting in better fuel efficiency and reduced noise levels. This makes the generator quieter and more eco-friendly.
- Power Output: Maximum output watts refer to the peak power a generator can produce for a short period of time, while continuous output watts indicate the stable power level a generator can maintain over an extended duration. It is essential to consider both values to ensure the generator can handle your devices’ initial startup requirements and sustain their ongoing power needs.
- Fuel Efficiency: Amount of fuel consumed to produce a specific amount of power at a given load. The generator’s fuel consumption is directly related to the power output and the load it is operating under. Generator fuel efficiency is a crucial factor to consider.
- Parallel Functionality: Allows you to connect two compatible generators together, effectively doubling their power output. This feature is handy for situations that require more power than a single generator can provide or for backup purposes when one generator fails.
- Dry Weight: Refers to the weight of a generator without any fuel, oil, or other fluids in it
- Noise Level: The noise level is measured in decibels (dB) using a sound level meter, which is a device designed to accurately capture and quantify sound levels. The measurement is typically taken at a standard distance from the generator, often 7 meters (23 feet) away, to provide a consistent comparison between different models.
- Overload warning alert: An overload warning lamp is a feature on some generators that alerts users when the generator is operating beyond its safe capacity. This indicator light illuminates when the power demand exceeds the generator’s maximum output, helping to prevent damage to the generator and connected devices and ensuring safe operation.
- Low oil shut off: Shutting the engine off when low oil is detected. This system helps to prevent engine damage due to insufficient lubrication, ensuring the longevity and optimal performance of the generator.
- Fuel level gauge: Knowing the fuel level in advance allows for better planning and helps avoid the inconvenience of running out of fuel unexpectedly.
- Non-fuse circuit breaker system: Safety feature in generators that helps protect the unit and connected devices from electrical overloads and short circuits. Instead of using traditional fuses, which need replacement after blowing, this system utilizes resettable breakers. In the event of an overload, the breaker will trip, cutting off the power supply and preventing damage to the generator and connected devices. To restore power, users simply need to reset the breaker, making it a convenient and efficient safety measure for camping and outdoor use.
- Transport and Carry: The handle type can significantly impact the user’s comfort and convenience when carrying or moving the generator, especially during camping trips and other outdoor activities.
- Oil changes and maintenance: This can sometimes be a bit challenging, especially for those unfamiliar with the process. Accessing specific components might require disassembling parts of the generator, and some models might not have the most user-friendly design for maintenance tasks.
In this introduction, we’ll briefly highlight some of the best portable generators for camping that we found to be both reliable and efficient. Our top picks include:
- Yamaha EF2000iST
- Honda EU2200i
- Westinghouse iGen2200
- Champion Power Equipment 2000-Watt
Our research and insights will help you find the perfect generator to elevate your next camping adventure!
A Quick Note Before Diving into the Details
Before we delve into the pros and cons of each generator, it’s important to mention that the advantages and disadvantages listed are relative to all four models. This means that if certain pros or cons are shared among all the generators, they won’t be included in the individual pros and cons sections. Keep this in mind as you review each generator’s strengths and weaknesses, as it will provide a better understanding of how they compare and contrast with one another.
Yamaha EF2000iST
The Yamaha EF2000iST is a top-quality inverter generator known for its performance, durability, and compact design. Delivering 2000 peak watts and 1600 running watts, it’s ideal for camping trips, tailgating events, and as a backup power source for homes. With its advanced features, fuel efficiency, and quiet operation, the Yamaha EF2000iST has become a go-to choice for those seeking a reliable and powerful generator for their outdoor and emergency power needs.
Key Features
Inverter Technology: Yes
Smart Throttle: Included
Power Output: Maximum output of 2000 watts, with a continuous output of 1600 watts.
Fuel Efficiency: It can run up to 10.5 hours at 25% load on a single tank of gasoline.
Parallel Functionality: Parallel function cable is sold separately.
Dry Weight: 46lbs
Noise Level: 51.5 dBA at 25% load.
Dimensions (L x W x H): 19.3″ x 11″ x 17.9″
Overload warning alert: included
Low oil shut off: included
Fuel level gauge: Included
Non-fuse circuit breaker system: included
Transport and Carry: Suitcase-style handle that makes it easy to carry around.
Oil change: Filling oil in the generator requires removing the side cover by unscrewing two screws. Washable foam air filter reduces maintenance costs.
Price: ~ $1,450
Pros
Fuel level gauge
Long-running time
Cons
Limited power output. With a maximum output of 2000 watts, the generator may not be sufficient for powering large appliances or multiple devices simultaneously.
Very expensive
Honda EU2200i
The Honda EU2200i is a highly regarded inverter generator praised for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and compact design. Providing 2200 peak watts and 1800 running watts, it’s an excellent choice for campers, and tailgaters, and as a backup power source for homes. Its user-friendly features, low noise level, and dependable performance make it a popular choice among outdoor enthusiasts and those in need of a trustworthy power supply.
Key Features
Inverter Technology: Yes
Smart Throttle: Included
Power Output: Maximum output of 2200 watts, with a continuous output of 1800 watts.
Fuel Efficiency: It can run up to 8.1 hours at 25% load on a single tank of gasoline.
Parallel Functionality: Parallel function cable is sold separately.
Dry Weight: 47.4lbs
Noise Level: 48 dBA at 25% load.
Dimensions (L x W x H): 20.0″ x 11.4″ x 16.7″
Overload warning alert: Included
Low oil shut off: included
Fuel level gauge: Missing
Non-fuse circuit breaker system: Included
Transport and Carry: Suitcase-style handle that makes it easy to carry around.
Oil change: Filling oil in the generator requires removing the side cover by unscrewing only one screw.
Price: ~ $1,400
Pros
Honda’s exclusive My Generator smartphone app offers remote generator operation and monitoring with impressive performance and unmatched convenience. The app includes wireless stop, operation monitoring, and service reminders, utilizing Bluetooth® connectivity.
Very quiet
Very easy to add oil
Cons
Lacks Fuel level gauge
Short runtime
Expensive
Westinghouse iGen2200
The Westinghouse iGen2200 is a compact and lightweight inverter generator known for its fuel efficiency, quiet operation, and reliable performance. It’s an ideal choice for campers, tailgaters, and those in need of backup power for their home. With its 2200 peak watts and 1800 running watts, it provides a stable and clean power supply for sensitive electronics and appliances.
Key Features
Inverter Technology: Yes
Smart Throttle: Included
Power Output: Maximum output of 2200 watts, with a continuous output of 1800 watts.
Fuel Efficiency: It can run up to 12 hours at 25% load on a single tank of gasoline.
Parallel Functionality: Parallel function cable is sold separately.
Dry Weight: 46.3lbs
Noise Level: 52 dBA at 25% load.
Dimensions (L x W x H): 19.8″ x 11.4″ x 17.9″
Overload warning alert: Included
Low oil shut off: Included
Fuel level gauge: Missing
Non-fuse circuit breaker system: Included
Transport and Carry: Suitcase-style handle that makes it easy to carry around.
Oil change: Filling oil in the generator requires removing the side cover by unscrewing two screws.
Price: ~ $530
Pros
Very long-running time
Very Good price
Cons
Lacks Fuel level gauge
Not very quiet
Champion Power Equipment 2000-Watt
The Champion Power Equipment 2000-Watt inverter generator is a popular choice among campers and outdoor enthusiasts for its performance, affordability, and compact design. Providing 2000 peak watts and 1700 running watts, it’s well-suited for camping trips, tailgating events, and as a backup power source for homes. With its user-friendly features, decent fuel efficiency, and relatively quiet operation, the Champion 2000-Watt generator offers a great balance of power and convenience for those seeking a reliable and budget-friendly option for their outdoor and emergency power needs.
Key Features
Inverter Technology: Yes
Smart Throttle: Included
Power Output: Maximum output of 2000 watts, with a continuous output of 1700 watts.
Fuel Efficiency: It can run up to 11.5 hours at 25% load on a single tank of gasoline.
Parallel Functionality: Parallel function kit is sold separately.
Dry Weight: 39.5lbs
Noise Level: 53 dBA at 25% load.
Dimensions (L x W x H): 17.3″ x 11.5″ x 17.7″
Overload warning alert: Included
Low oil shut off: No
Fuel level gauge: Missing
Non-fuse circuit breaker system: Included
Transport and Carry: Suitcase-style handle that makes it easy to carry around.
Oil change: Filling oil in this generator is a hassle-free process. To access the oil compartment, simply remove the side cover by releasing the two clips. There’s no need for a screwdriver, making it a very straightforward and convenient operation.
Price: ~ $540
Pros
Very Good price
Long-running time
Cons
Lacks Fuel level gauge
Noisy in relation to others
Final Thoughts
As the article’s title hints, these generators are the top contenders in the 2000 to the 2200-watt range. Whichever one you choose, you won’t be disappointed. Each one performs its duties reliably and is backed by a reputable brand. These generators are highly recommended options for overall performance, reliability, and customer satisfaction. They provide clean and stable power, which is crucial for sensitive electronics and appliances. Additionally, they boast quiet operation, making them suitable for camping or residential use without disturbing neighbors or wildlife.
Price: The Ultimate Tiebreaker in this Comparison
When it comes to price, there’s no doubt that it plays a significant role in this comparison. A Honda or Yamaha generator costs three times more than a Westinghouse or Champion. With the money saved, you could purchase two Westinghouse or Champion generators, including the necessary cable or kit to connect them in parallel for increased power output. This setup would enable you to power more devices simultaneously and even run an air conditioner with power to spare. So, if the budget is a top priority, more affordable options may be the way to go.
