Purchasing a portable inverter generator can add some class to your lifestyle. Some of the benefits include freedom of movement, flexibility, low noise, and adventure, especially when you need power in the backcountry. From tailgating parties to camping, home backup power, an inverter generator can serve you as an efficient, quiet, and dependable source of energy.
Of course, you are here to find the best quiet portable inverter generator for your needs, and below we have reviewed the 10 top-rated models to consider.
Further down, we have summarized the important factors to consider when selecting an inverter generator. So let’s dive right in:
[latat_table table_id=’9457’/]
Top 10 Quiet Portable Inverter Generator Reviews
1. Honda EU2200i 2200-Watt 120-Volt Super Quiet Portable Inverter Generator
The Honda EU2200i 2200-Watt 120-Volt is one of the most popular models on the market and arguably the best inverter portable generator.
This can run a wide range of appliances, making it great for portable use at home, job site, camping, and more.
The generator is incredibly quiet since it runs at 48 to 57dBA, which is less noise than a normal conversation, meaning you won’t have issues with your neighbors, colleagues, or friends sharing your RV.
Moreover, there’s an option of adding an extra EU2200i generator for additional power, thanks to the availability of an optional cable. This can be life-saving when you have power-hungry appliances.
Thanks to Honda’s Eco-Throttle system, this model offers exceptional fuel efficiency. It runs anywhere from 4 to 9 hours on one full tank, depending on the load. This makes it great for long-time applications or overnight power.
Integral to this inverter generator is the Oil Alerts system that shields the machine for outdoors.
If the oil gets dangerously low, the power equipment will turn off. It also has a circuit protection mechanism to prevent overloading when it’s running.
This quiet generator is a pull start kind that is easy to start and maintain. Overall, this Honda inverter generator offers stable, clean power in a compact package, at an amazing price.
2. Rainier R2200i Super Quiet Portable Power Station Outdoor Inverter Generator
Rainier is another famous brand in the inverter generator industry and the Rainier R2200i is one of their affordable offerings.
If you compare its 2200W peak output plus features to its price, then you will find it’s surely a reasonably priced model.
This machine generates 1800 watts of base power and 2200 surge watts from a 70cc 4-stroke engine.
Powered by gasoline, the machine has a 1.3-gallon fuel tank which offers up to 13 hours of run time. This makes it an ideal choice for running any appliance overnight.
It comes with a recoil start feature and while, an electric one would have been better, the one present is incredibly easy to start.
There’s also the eco-mode feature that helps the machine conserve fuel for maximum efficiency.
Of course, this model is pretty quiet as it runs at just 52dBA. Let’s not forget it provides clean power output, which is crucial for powering sensitive appliances and other electronic devices.
In addition, the inverter generators come with nifty features such as overload protection, low oil sensors, and various output ports including one 12V DC port, a grounding port, and 2 x 120V receptacles.
The unit weighs 44 pounds, which is on the lighter side of portable generators, and it even has a top handle for easy lifting.
Last but certainly not least, it has certifications from EPA and CARB regarding safety, meaning it’s perfect to use anywhere. You also get a 3-year warranty for peace of mind.
3. WEN 56203i Super Quiet 2000-Watt Portable Inverter Generator
WEN creates reliable pocket-friendly inverter generators and the 56203i Super Quiet 2000-Watt is a great example.
This machine offers 2000 watts of surge power and levels out at 1700 watts for safe charging of sensitive devices such as tablets, phones, TVs, PCs, and more.
Extremely quiet for its class at only 51dBA at 25% load, this model operates is less quiet than a normal conversation according to the US Department of Health and Human Services.
It’s the perfect thing to take to a tailgating or campsite party, giving you the power of a large, noisy machine, though none of the size or sound.
A great feature of this model is the eco mode, which automatically adjusts fuel consumption for efficient operation.
With 1 gallon of fuel, it operates continuously for 7 hours at 50% load. There’s even a fuel shutoff feature that increases the machine’s lifespan by consuming the remaining fuel in the carburetor before shutting down the unit.
The machine includes three-prong 120V receptacles, 2 x 5V USB ports, and one 12V DC receptacle.
Weighing a mere 39 pounds, this model is probably the lightest of inverter generators, thus easy to transport and store.
To sum it up, this portable generator combines clean energy and user efficiency, while additionally remaining small and light. A 2-year warranty will guard your purchase should you find any defects in workmanship.
4. Westinghouse WH2200iXLT Super Quiet Portable Inverter Generator
The Westinghouse WH2200iXLT is a gasoline-powered compact generator that delivers an impressive 2,200 watts at peak power and 1,800 watts at standard output.
Designed with plenty of cutting-edge, innovative features, this inverter generator will power your most sensitive gadgets such as laptops and phone chargers without compromising their safety. That’s because it produces power with under 3% total harmonic distortion.
The machine is perfect for a wide range of situations, especially where steady, quiet, and clean power is most wanted.
It weighs around 43 pounds, around the same size as a heavy suitcase, and comes with a carrying handle for easy carrying.
This portable inverter generator has also been designed to be fuel-efficient. It offers an impressive runtime of 13 hours at 25% load on a 1.3-gallon tank.
Moreover, there’s an “efficiency mode” that reduces engine speed as the load is shed to help further cut on fuel consumption.
Sometimes the base power may not be enough and in such a case, the WH2200iXLT allows parallel connection with another machine of its kind to provide an incredible 3,600 watts of power.
In terms of noise, this one is pretty quiet, producing 52dB at 25% load. It won’t interfere with conversations or become a nuisance to your neighbors.
All in all, the Westinghouse WH2200iXLT is a portable, reliable, and fuel-efficient machine that’s available at an affordable price. It also comes with a 3-year warranty for peace of mind.
5. Westinghouse iGen4500 Super Quiet Portable Inverter Generator
Yet another one from Westinghouse, the iGen4500 model is one of the best portable inverter generators out there.
As the name suggests, this inverter generator is ultra-quiet as it operates at 53dB, which is even quieter than a normal conversation.
The machine boasts a heavy-duty construction that protects it from regular wear and tear during use and traveling.
Apart from a solid design, it additionally has an extendable handle and rugged tires that never go flat, allowing you to conveniently move it on all kinds of surfaces be it around the home, campsite, backyard, or jobsite.
It uses gas and provides efficient fuel consumption with prolonged running time, with up to 26 hours on 25% load and up to 12 hours on a 50% load with 3.5 gallons of fuel.
The machine produces 3700 running watts and 4500 peak watts, which is a superior amount to meet all kinds of power requirements.
This makes it great as back power in case of power outages or as a tag-alone power alternative.
There’s a LED display that shows power output, fuel level, voltage, and the remaining power, while an RV-ready outlet (TT-30R) makes it simple to plug in your RV.
Of course, the iGen4500 is compact and portable with an integrated telescopic handle plus two top carrying handles for hassle-free transportation.
Westinghouse also offers a 3-year warranty for this machine along with service and technical support.
Whether you want to use to power your household electrical items or for your recreational activities, you can never go wrong with the iGen4500.
6. Generac GP3000i Super Quiet Inverter Generator
An economical solution for recreational activities, the Generac GP3000i Super Quiet Inverter Generator is the perfect size for camping, tailgating, and power tool use.
The machine is powered by a 149cc OHV 4-stroke engine and delivers 120V. It uses gasoline and provides a peak wattage of 3000W and a running wattage of 2300W.
Furthermore, the parallel capable model can be connected to a second compatible unit to increase the power. However, the iQ3500 parallel kit is not included.
The starting mechanism is based on a traditional pull-start mechanism, and it features Generac’s PowerDial™ - a simple to use dial with 3 operation settings.
The machine runs up to 5.8 hours on a full tank with fuel consumption of about 0.18 gallons per hour.
Its fuel capacity is 1.06 gallons, which tells of its lower runtime than some other units. The machine produces a clean sine wave, with less than 3% harmonic distortion, allowing sensitive electronics to be fully plugged in the 3 AC outlets.
Other ports include a Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R), 120V 30A (L5-30R) receptacle, 2 DC outlets, and 2 x 5V USB ports for charging mobile devices.
Weighing in at 59.5 pounds, this generator may sound heavy compared to some others, though its convenient handle makes it a breeze to move. Other nice additions include oil level indicator and overload protection.
7. Pulsar G2319N 2,300W Portable Gas-Powered Quiet Inverter Generator
The Pulsar G2319N 2 is the ultimate choice for optimal portability and clean power. It comes with a single-cylinder 4-stroke, OHV engine that produces 2300 peak watts and 1800 running watts of power.
The machine runs relatively quiet at 59dB of sound, making it almost silent from just 10ft away. Of course, some models above are a lot more silent than this Pulsar G2319N 2.
The machine comes parallel ready, allowing two of its kind in tandem to double the power. This is possible via a supplied adaptor, which helps you eliminate the need for a much larger unit.
The suitcase design of this generator makes it incredibly easy to transport, and considering it weighs just 47 pounds, it offers you the freedom to take it anywhere.
In terms of runtime, this unit can operate for 6 hours at half load with a full tank. It consumes about 0.2 gallons per hour due to its 1.18-gallon fuel tank.
Along with easy to use and conveniently located controls, the unit comes with a ground connection port, a 12V DC outlet, 2 x AC 120V outlets, one 5V DC USB outlet, and both AC and DC circuit breakers.
A low oil sensor lets you know when the tank is almost running empty, while an overload indicator shows when things are beyond limits.
Overall, this portable inverter generator is perfect for tailgating and camping, as well as for use with power tools around the home.
8. Generac 6866 iQ2000 Super Quiet Gas Powered Inverter Generator
Generac no doubt makes a wide range of portable generators and the Generac 6866 iQ2000 Super Quiet Gas Powered Inverter Generator is no doubt another great example.
This quiet generator provides a decent amount of power in the form of 1600 watts running and 2000 watts surge power.
At this range, the machine is perfect for charging sensitive electronic gadgets such as laptops, DSLR cameras, drones, and mobile phones.
Weighing just over 46lbs, the generator is pretty lightweight enough to transport in one hand, with a U-shaped handle in the center making the task possible.
The noise level is around 53dB from a distance of 20ft on the standard mode and probably higher on its Turbo mode. There’s also Economy mode, which is the most quiet.
Thanks to its larger fuel tank of just over 1 gallon, the generator runs for up to 7.7 hours at 25% load and up to 5.7 hours at half load.
There’s a clear LED display for monitoring aspects such as power output and fuel level, while EasyStart technology allows you to switch easily between 3 different modes.
However, this model doesn’t have a DC outlet and a USB port. You do get a parallel kit for doubling the power, though.
All in all, this model is ideal for outdoor activities such as camping in small groups or in-house power supply for a few hours.
9. Briggs-Stratton-30545-PowerSmart-3000-Watt
The Briggs-Stratton-30545-PowerSmart-3000-Watt is packed with state-of-the-art features that make it a popular choice on the market.
This model can be used by anyone thanks to its easy to use recoil start system as well as a single power control knob. User-friendly control is placed at the front of this model with simple labels so you know exactly what features this model has.
This inverter generator has 7 outlets that let you power just about any type of gadgets and appliances. You get a 12V DC outlet, USB outlet, 4 x 120V AC outlets, and a 120V 30 amp outlet with an RV adapter for your travel vehicle.
There’s even a covered plug for parallel connection for you to add another 30545 unit and double the power.
A telescopic handle plus never-flat tires make it easy to move the generator, while a 1.5-gallon tank delivers up to 10 hours runtime at a 25% load.
The noise level is rated at 58 dB at 25% load and this quieter than a normal conversation from at 23ft. Lastly, Briggs & Stratton offers a 2-year domestic warranty and a 1-year commercial warranty against defective materials or poor workmanship.
10. Champion-3400-Watt-Portable-Inverter-Generator
This Champion-3400-Watt-Portable-Inverter-Generator is a dual-fuel type as it can use either gasoline or propane.
The inverter generator is ideal for camping, RVs, and domestic applications. It has enough backup supply during power outages and outdoor excursions using 3100 running watts and 3400 surge watts. It additionally features a Cold Start technology for a simple recoil start.
It arrives ready for travel with a 30A RV outlet with more than enough power to start and run a 15,000 BTU RV air conditioner.
The unit produces clean power with less than 3% THD, making it suitable for use with sensitive items such as PCs, laptops, and mobile phones. It produces 59dB at around 23ft, which is pretty quiet for such a powerful unit.
There are two 120V 20A plugs for powering small appliances, and there’s also an optional parallel kit that offers a quick connection with a similar unit to increase the power output.
In terms of runtime, it offers up to 7 ½ hours on a full tank of gas or 14 ½ hours on a 20-pound propane tank. A propane hose is included.
Overall, this inverter generator offers sufficient power to run several appliances or one large machine, though you will have to pay a premium to get one.
Buying Guide
During a power outage, a generator can be a life-saver until power is restored. A generator can ensure that your critical appliances such as refrigerator and air conditioners keep going. If you’re planning to purchase one, you need one you can rely on, at least for the longest time.
Now, for your sake to save time going through countless reviews to decide which unit to buy, we prepared this buyer guide with the key things that should impact your purchasing decision.
Why buy an inverter generator?
Inverter generators are perfect to use with sensitive electronics such as tablets, laptops, notebooks, mobile phones, and refrigerators. Since they are compact, possess small engines, and are smaller than conventional generators, they are really quiet.
Noise reduction also lies in the use of noise-absorbing materials in the construction of inverter units. Typical noise levels for an inverter generator range from a mere 45dB to a 56dB at half load, which is below normal conversation noise. This sound level is comfortable to use around the campsite where you want to enjoy the natural sounds or chat with friends.
Factors to consider when selecting the best quiet inverter portable generator
Where to use the generator
Think about how you need to use the generator by checking your power demands. Most inverter generators run in the 2000 – 3500 watts. This is more than enough to power a TV, refrigerator, freezer, and an AC, all at the same time.
That said, if you need a unit to use in the campsite and RV, a 2000 watt generator would be sufficient to charge portable electronics. If your RV includes a refrigerator, 12,000 BTU AC, as well as a few smaller appliances like coffee maker, then you may consider a 3,200-watt unit.
For complete home backup during a disaster, 4,000W or more would suffice. Portable inverter generators can also work in a job site to power small to medium size tools such as drills, portable heaters, rotary hammers, and chainsaws.
Noise level
We’ve already mentioned that inverter generators are quieter than traditional generators, but you may still need to select from the noise level threshold. Apart from that, you should know that most campgrounds and RV parks usually have particular noise regulations, hence the need for a quiet unit.
Some areas may ban generators all together and in such areas, even the whisper-quiet inverter portable generator can get you into trouble. Federal campsites usually allow for quiet units to operate during the day.
Parallel ability
If you think you need something more robust, you may need more than one portable generator to match your needs. This is where you’ll need parallel capability whereby you can connect two identical units to double up power output.
All the models reviewed above have this amazing feature. Just ensure that both inverter generators have the same wattage and should be the same models.
Clean energy
Not environmental friendliness but rather the quality of the steadiness of supplied power and the quality of the sine wave.
Inverter generators have less than 3% of Total Harmonic Distortion (THD), which is generally safer to use with modern “sensitive electronics” like laptops, smartphones, tablets, and more.
Price
When considering how much you have to pay for a portable inverter generator, factor in maintenance costs, fuel consumption, and expected lifespan.
Online pricing differs between websites and it fluctuates a lot too. If you spot a specific model of a quiet inverter generator, you may want to wait a few days and check the prices again.
Final conclusion
We hope our product reviews have been helpful and combined with our buying guide, a great resource in helping you choose the best quiet inverter portable generator.
The benefits of having a generator need no explanation, so we hope the next time a storm causes a blackout, your portable inverter will come in handy.
Best 2 Person Tents for Backpacking or Camping in 2021
