Whether your home blacks out from a storm or you're going camping, stay powered up with an inverter generator.
Our editors and experts handpick every product we feature. We may earn a commission from your purchases.Learn more.
What Is the Best Bang for Your Buck Inverter Generator to Run Your Home? Check Out These Models
Updated on Oct. 15, 2024
Inverter generators are a great way to bring electricity to your home away from home when heading on a camping trip. They also prove useful during power outages caused by storms. While operating a generator seems straightforward, choosing the right one requires careful thought.
For campers, inverter generators provide portable power for RVs, handheld electronics and appliances, and they can supply energy to your home.
“I prefer inverter generators over standard ones for residential use due to their cleaner power output and quieter operation,” says Scot Rounds, a seasoned expert with 20 years of experience in the construction industry. “Inverter generators produce a pure sine wave, similar to household electricity, while standard generators output a square wave, which can damage sensitive electronics. Inverter generators also feature mufflers and sound enclosures, making them run more quietly.”
Best Overall Inverter Generator
Westinghouse 4,500-Watt Inverter Generator
Pros:
- Has a carbon monoxide (CO) sensor
- Less than 3% total harmonic distortion (THD)
- Has an electric start
Cons:
- Weighs 105.8 pounds
Our best overall pick is the Westinghouse 4,500-watt inverter generator. It’s able to run up to 18 hours on a 3.4-gallon tank with dual fuel technology. With its low oil shutdown, fuel is conserved for efficient usage, so you’re always able to get the most out of your generator. The electric start button makes it overly easy to crank up the power and turn it off, which reaches up to 260 feet away. If the electric remote ever were to have issues, there is a recoil option to start the generator.
“I was looking for a generator to run my travel trailer and came across this generator. I’m so glad I chose this one! It’s very quiet (for a generator!) and is so easy to start. It is a little over 100 pounds, but my husband and I can easily pick it up to carry it and lift into our truck bed,” shares Sharon L. Hauht, a verified purchaser.
Best Budget Inverter Generator
Westinghouse 2,200-Watt Inverter Generator
Pros:
- Won't break the bank
- Only weighs 46 pounds
- Provides a 12-hour run time
Cons:
- Doesn't have wheels
If you need a wallet-friendly option that won’t leave you hanging, the Westinghouse 2,200-watt inverter generator can be your go-to. With its long run time of 12 hours, you can use this generator for residential or camping uses. Packing 120 volts and 2,200 watts, this inverter generator has a powerful engine and four outlets to connect to your devices or electrical panel. It runs on gas and can hold 1.14 gallons at a time. Plus, it’s a “super-quiet” generator, which means you don’t have to worry about interrupted sleep.
“We lost power a week after I received this inverter. It took less than five minutes to run an extension cord from the inverter to the sump pump, and two pulls to start it for the first time. It works great, and is extremely quiet, so the neighbors won’t be mad when I’m running it!” writes five-star reviewer, Joseph M.
Best Inverter Generator for RVs
Champion Power Equipment 4,500-Watt Inverter Generator
Pros:
- Has two outlets and three USB adapters
- Has a 14-hour run time
- Includes two wheels
Cons:
- Parallel kit sold separately
Going camping in an RV? Make sure you bring along this inverter generator from Champion Power Equipment. Said to be “RV-ready,” this generator contains 4,500 watts and 120 volts of power to keep your camping vehicle running smoothly. Compared to other inverter generators, this model has a longer run time than most, with up to 14 hours when the 2.3-gallon tank is full. Other notable features include its two outlets, three USB adapters, a side handle for easy transportation and its clean electricity (less than 3% THD).
“I’m just amazed at how well this generator works,” writes five-star reviewer, Alison Gordon. “It’s very easy to start, very easy to maintain, and it’s impressively quiet. We were able to run it overnight with no issue to keep the AC running in our camper. I didn’t have to get up in the night to refuel. I’m a fan!”
Best Inverter Generator for Home
DuroMax Dual Fuel Inverter Generator
Pros:
- Provides 9,000 watts of power
- Has a remote start feature
- Includes a wheel kit
Cons:
- Expensive
- Weighs 237 pounds
Experiencing blackouts is very inconvenient, but having the DuroMax Dual Fuel Inverter Generator keeps your home functioning during a storm. With its peak of 9,000 watts and 7,600 running watts, all of your home essentials can run for more than 10 hours, making a solid generator choice for your home.
The included wheel kit makes it easy to cart this 237-pound generator around your home or campsite. Its dual-fuel technology allows you to use propane or gas, and it has an automatic shutoff that kicks in when the oil gets low. Another high-quality feature is the LCD screen that shows hours run and load level.
Best Inverter Generator for Sustainability
Wen 3,800-Watt Inverter Generator
Pros:
- Produces clean power
- Has an automatic fuel shutoff
- Has an Eco Mode switch
Cons:
- Weighs 99.2 pounds
This inverter generator from Wen knows how to conserve fuel and energy, which is what you will need when you take this generator camping. For its compact size, this generator produces 3,800 watts and 120 volts of power for your RV or tailgating needs. Thanks to its automatic fuel shutoff, this generator conserves gas by using what’s left in the carburetor before shutting off to maximize its lifespan. There’s also a fuel display on the generator, so you can always see when you’re starting to run low. This clean energy generator prevents damage from occurring when used to power smart devices and laptops.
“I bought this for my travel trailer and have zero complaints about how it runs. Extremely quiet. I’ve told everyone I know about this unit and now I’m telling you. Great machine for the price,” shares rgentry, a verified purchaser.
Best Portable Inverter Generator
Champion Power Equipment Open Frame Inverter Generator
Pros:
- Has two wheels and foldable handle Wheels for easy moving
- 50% quieter than regular generators
- Has a low-oil shutoff sensor
Cons:
- On the expensive side
The Champion Power Equipment Open Frame Inverter Generator makes staying powered simple for camping trips, worksites or home use. Thanks to innovative technology that minimizes noise, it’s 50% quieter and 20% lighter than traditional generators with the same wattage.
Equipped with two large side wheels and a foldable handle, it’s easy to move around. Running on oil, the generator includes a sensor that alerts you when its 1.2-quart tank is low, ensuring you’re always aware when it’s time for a refill.
Types of Inverter Generators
Inverter generators come in various sizes, each designed for specific uses. Some are ideal for handheld devices, while others can power larger systems like RVs. “The size generator really depends on how many devices you need to power or if you have larger appliances,” says Tim Hodnicki, a 30-year veteran electrician. A generator with 5,000 to 7,500 watts is necessary for most homes to run essential appliances like refrigerators, air conditioners, lights and sump pumps. If you need to power more or larger appliances, a generator with higher wattage might be required.
Regardless of the type of inverter generator you select, always place it in an open, well-ventilated area—at least 20 feet away from your home. This precaution ensures harmful carbon monoxide (CO) emissions don’t accumulate, protecting your household from potential CO poisoning.
- Compact Inverter Generators are ideal for charging small devices like phones, producing about 1,000 watts.
- Small Inverter Generators are great for camping or fishing trips, providing 1,500 to 2,500 watts of power.
- Medium Inverter Generators are suitable for RVs and campers, offering 2,500 to 5,000 watts.
- Large Inverter Generators are best for home use during blackouts. They produce more than 5,000 watts and can power essential appliances.
What to Consider When Buying an Inverter Generator
When shopping for an inverter generator, it’s crucial to assess your specific needs before purchasing. Power output is the key factor—ensure the generator can handle the demands of your devices and appliances.
A smaller, portable option is suitable for powering small items like a toaster or slow cooker while camping. However, a much larger generator is required if you need to power an entire RV, camper, or home. Additionally, regular maintenance is important for extending the generator’s lifespan and efficiency, so be prepared to keep up with upkeep to ensure optimal performance.
Power
When calculating the total wattage of appliances and devices you plan to run simultaneously, ensure the generator can handle both their starting and running wattage. A 30-amp (3,600-watt, 120-volt) inverter generator can power an AC unit but likely won’t support much beyond that. If you need to power your whole house in an emergency—including AC, lights and a refrigerator—you’ll need a generator capable of producing closer to 10,000 watts or more.
Efficiency
“When it comes to inverters versus standard generators, the main tradeoff is efficiency versus cost,” says Luis Montes, a 15-year veteran of the gas and electric industries. Standard generators are cheaper but much less efficient than inverters, consuming significantly more fuel to deliver the same power. Inverter generators, on the other hand, can run longer because they burn fuel more slowly. In fact, inverters can be up to 40% more efficient than standard generators operating on the same fuel and power output.
Output Stability
“Inverters provide cleaner, more stable power, superior for sensitive electronics,” says Montes. He suggests that an inverter generator’s electrical output is as stable as household electricity. Standard generators, however, can experience power output spikes that pose risks to sensitive electronics, potentially causing overloads or damage. If you’re concerned about protecting your devices, an inverter generator is likely the best choice. You can also use surge protectors as an additional safeguard.
Size and Portability
When selecting an inverter generator, it’s crucial to consider size and weight, especially if you need portability. Inverter generators tend to be lighter and more portable than standard models. Many include wheels for added mobility. “I prefer wheeled models under 100 pounds for portability, particularly in the 2,000-3,500 watt range,” says Montes. Smaller generators are ideal for camping or running a single appliance, while larger inverters—designed for higher power output—are less portable but better suited for emergency home use, where they can remain stationary.
Remember that a generator’s size and weight are proportional to its power capabilities. The higher the wattage, the larger and heavier the generator. On average, inverter generators weigh less than 100 pounds, whereas standard generators can be significantly heavier, sometimes reaching hundreds of pounds.
Endurance and Runtime
Inverter generators have a clear advantage over standard models in terms of efficiency, including longer runtimes on a single tank of fuel. However, some inverter generators are more efficient than others, so it’s essential to review the manufacturer’s specifications for details on fuel consumption. Prioritize generators with extended run times to reduce the need for frequent refueling, especially during extended power outages.
It’s also important to remember that a generator’s endurance correlates directly with its power output. For example, a generator running at 50% load might last 14 hours, but that duration will significantly decrease if it operates near or at its maximum load.
Noise Level
Fuel Type
“Fuel efficiency is another important factor,” says Montes. “One project might save $100/month by switching to propane from gas.” When choosing between gasoline, propane or dual-fuel generators, consider availability and convenience. Propane generally costs less but can be harder to acquire. Gasoline is more expensive and fluctuates in price, but it’s more widely available.
Additional Features
“Bonus features like electric starts, low-oil alarms and outlets can be tailored to your equipment,” says Montes. These features might not be essential but can certainly influence your decision, especially if they enhance a model’s convenience.
Many inverter generators also come with crucial safety features. These include automatic shutoff when fuel is low, overload protection (similar to a home’s breaker) and carbon monoxide detection, which shuts the generator off if it detects excessive CO2 levels.
Why You Should Trust Us
Ashlyn Needham is a freelance writer and home decor expert with over six years of experience. She has created home-related content featured in The Spruce, HomeLight, Wayfair and Family Handyman. Ashlyn focuses on designing functional homes and inspires readers to do the same.
For this article, we consulted Tim Hodnicki, an electrician with 30 years of experience who currently serves as president of a top-rated electrical company in Easthampton, MA. We also spoke with Scott Rounds, CEO and president of Sunray Roofing and Solar, who brings over two decades of experience in the construction industry. His leadership blends innovation with sustainability.
Finally, we contacted Luis Montes, a 15-year veteran in the gas and electric industries. He is a structural engineer and heavy-duty equipment expert, currently serving as Chief Editor at Fortis HD, a company that simplifies the procurement of heavy equipment parts across America.
How We Found the Best Inverter Generators
To find the six best quiet and efficient inverter generators, we reviewed recommendations from industry professionals, focusing on key features such as run time, lifespan, and capability to power a home. We also explored maintenance tips to ensure reliability over time. After consulting with electricians to understand which features make an inverter generator truly stand out and gathering their personal recommendations, we turned to customer reviews to see what shoppers appreciated most about each product.
FAQ
What size inverter generator do I need for my RV?
When choosing an inverter generator for your RV, there are several factors to consider, such as the RV’s size, your power needs and how often you plan to use it. A 2,000- to 2,500-watt generator can handle most essentials, including lights and appliances, but not an air conditioner. To power an AC unit, you’ll need at least a 3,600-watt generator. Running everything simultaneously—like the AC, appliances and electronics—would require a larger generator, closer to 6,000 watts or more.
How quiet is an inverter generator compared to a standard generator?
Due to their smaller engines and more compact designs, inverter generators are significantly quieter than standard generators. A typical inverter generator produces around 60-65 dB, comparable to a normal conversation or background music. On the other hand, a standard generator with a larger fuel tank and engine may produce about 75 dB, similar to the noise level of a vacuum cleaner or window air conditioner.
Can an inverter generator run an air conditioner?
Yes, an inverter generator can run an air conditioner, provided the generator’s power output is sufficient. To handle the starting and running power needs of a standard RV air conditioner, you’ll need a generator rated at least 3,600 watts.
