2024 : Honda EU2200i Review – Whisper QUIET Inverter Generator

NOTE : At some point in 2021 Honda updated their EU2200i model and added a very important feature — a built-in carbon monoxide monitoring system. Carbon monoxide is an odorless gas produced by generators and can kill people if used indoors. I applaud Honda for adding this essential feature to their flagship inverter generator. The model is named : Honda EU2200iTAG (see photo above). The original model is : Honda EU2200is

---

Hello, Honda EU2200i / Updated with CO Sensor

Honda EU2200i is the evolution of the discontinued Eu2000is. It can power a range of things, such as : microwave, power tools, refrigerators, hair dryer, computer, garage door opener, small air conditioners and more. Few people can argue about the quality of the EU2200i BUT —

The bigger question is : Can you afford it in 2023? This pandemic has forced a lot of people to think about twice (or three times) before spending their money. Luckily, there are many excellent inverter generators on the market that are much cheaper than a Honda generator. We review some great inverters for you to consider.

My advice is to stick within your budget, but there’s no denying the advanced design of this 2200W Honda generator gives it an edge over other brands, but not as much as you might think. Just know, there are comparable options as generator prices become more competitive. A few Honda EU2200i specs :

• Noise Level : 57 dB at 100% load / 48 dB at 25% load) : Yes, it’s quiet.
• 3 year warranty
• Runs for 3.1 hours at 100% load (8.1 hours at 25% load)

Below, current prices of Honda vs Competitive Inverter Generators…

---

---

For an equally good alternative, I would consider the 2200W Yamaha EF2200iS — a 2200 watt inverter generator released in 2019 — or the ► Newly released Westinghouse WH3700iXLTc (3700w / 3000w). More power, and cheaper. This is an excellent generator, and a good example of what you can buy for less money in 2023.

---

Best Alternative to Honda — Westinghouse iGen2200

Exceptional inverter generator. Costs about half the price of Honda.

Due to the pandemic there’s a shortage on a lot of products as the supply chain has slowed down coupled with a lot of people buying things to ensure their independence and prepare for whatever happens. Also, the massive snow and ice storm that has blanketed over 25 states in the US has further dwindled generator supplies. I recommend this Westinghouse generator if you want an affordable alternative to Honda. It’s definitely worth buying. Westinghouse has been in business since 1886 so I think they know what they’re doing. Read our full review to find out more.

Sometimes you have to buy what’s in stock. Ultimately, there’s little separating Honda from other generator brands. Over the past couple years major generator brands have made massive strides in creating high quality inverter generators. Nowadays, battery power stations are beginning to surpass inverter generators in terms of practicality, such as the ECOFLOW Delta PRO Max, which include the massive YETI X 6000X model, which can power your full size refrigerator for 2 days. Yup, that’s correct. Times are changing.

---

---

Double your Power : Honda EU2200i

Consider purchasing the complete parallel kit, which includes 1x EU2200i + companion generator, and parallel cable.

Is A Honda Generator Worth it?

Beyond the specs you can read below, it’s important to think about your long-term expectations when buying a generator, from any brand. Is it something you just need for the short-term, or will only use once-in-while, or will you be using it on a regular basis, for your business, maybe a food truck, camping, hunting, fishing — backup power when the lights go out at 4am. What’s your intended use?

Inverter generators are not cheap, especially a Honda. They cost a lot because of how its engineered from the inside out; the things you don’t see. The precision of the parts and in how they fit together, as a whole. I talked about this in another article for the Honda EU7000iS, a 7000W inverter from Honda. People buy Honda’s because of their reliability. It’s that simple. Not to mention, Honda makes the quietest generators money can buy. Noise matters. A traditional gas generator can drive you nuts because of the noise. You’ll barely notice a Honda generator running. They’re quieter than the sound of normal conversation. Trust me, noise levels matter and I doubt you’ll regret the extra cost over the long-run.

I’m a big fan of Honda as I recently purchased a 2019 CRV Touring — after doing weeks of research and test driving a wide range of cars. I bought a Honda because I know it will last me for decades, not years, and the maintenance will be minimal. I wanted a car that retained its value over time. If in a couple years you decide to sell a Honda — car, motorcyle, or generator; I promise that you’ll be able to find a buyer in a heartbeat. Think about the long-term, not just how much you can save today.

Alright, let’s look at the tech specs.

Tech Specs :

• Model : EU2200ITA
• Engine : Honda GXR120
• Displacement : 121cc
• AC Output : 120V 2200W max. (18.3A), 1800W rated (15A)
• Receptacles : 20A 125V Duplex
• DC Output : 12V, 100W (8.3A)
• Starting System : Recoil
• Fuel Tank Capacity : .95 gal
• Run Time per Tankful : 3.2hr @ rated load 8.1 hrs @ 1/4 load
• Dimensions : (L x W x H) 20.0″ x 11.4″ x 16.7″
• Noise Level : 57 dB(A) @ rated load 48 dB(A) @ 1/4 load specLink.
• Dry Weight : 46.5 lb.
• Residential Warranty : 3 Years
• Commercial Warranty : 3 Years

---

---

▶ Update (Sept 17, 2019) : Honda has rectified the recall as they are selling the EU2200i generator again. My recommendation is to contact the seller (retailer) before purchasing the generator to ensure that the unit you are buying is good; not affected by the recall, or has been fixed by Honda. Don’t buy a unit fixed by a third-party dealer. Make sure it’s been officially repaired by a Honda authorized dealer.

---

Honda EU2200i Recall Facts

If you didn’t know, Honda recalled the EU2200i in early 2019. The problem has been fixed, but it’s important that you’re aware of it.

This recall was for over 200,000 generators sold. A Honda spokesperson explains the problem as a manufacturing defect, and Davis Adams (Honda communications manager) says, “The screws used to assemble the fuel valve may loosen during use, allowing the valve to leak fuel.” Consequently, If gasoline or gasoline vapors leak, a fire or explosion could occur.

Serial Numbers Affected :

Models : Honda EU2200i, EU2200i Companion, EU2200i Camo,

• Starting Serial : EAMT-1000001 — to — Ending Serial : EAMT-1260796

Model : EB2200i

• Starting Serial : EAJT-1000001 — to — Ending Serial : EAJT-1005474

If you’ve already purchased any of these generators and it is within the affected ranges listed above and has not been previously repaired, stop using your generator until it has been repaired by an authorized Honda dealer.

Also, you can call the Honda Recall Line to speak with someone directly : (888) 888-3139

For additional information, visit the CPSC website on the official recall (US Consumer Product Safety Commission.

How to identify which generators have already been repaired :

---

Review — Honda EU2200i

Complete Buying Guide to the Honda EU2200i Inverter Generator — the new and improved successor to the classic Honda EU2000i.

Honda recently introduced their newest inverter generator, the Honda EU2200i. We simply had to investigate what lies underneath the exterior of this machine which looks almost identical to its predecessor, the Honda EU2000i. The older model has been extremely popular. Despite being among the most expensive inverter generators, the Honda EU range has won much acclaim.

---

Intro | Honda EU2200i Generator

There are many reasons for all the accolades for the previous EU2000i. There’s no denying that Honda is one of the leaders in the portable generator industry. As a company building every type of gas-powered engine from small generators and pumps to Formula One powerhouses, Honda has earned a reputation for building equipment that is exceptionally reliable, fuel efficient and more powerful than most others.

VIDEO | Learn All About the Honda EU2200i Inverter Generator

So it may seem like a tough call to improve on their existing inverter generators. But like all true innovators, Honda is relentless in their search for true perfection. This will always be an endless pursuit. New technology may seem to the best there is today, but it doesn’t take long before something better comes along. That’s what drives technology forward. So the question arises: what is the difference between the Honda EU2000i and the EU2200i?

The first, and most apparent different is the increase in power output. The model number is a dead giveaway in this respect. The older model had a peak power output of 2000W (1600W rated power or continuous output). The new Honda EU2200i produces 2200 watts of peak power with a rated continuous output of 1800W. This means the peak power has been increased by 10% and the rated power by 12.5%. That’s not much, but does give you a little extra to work with.

This alone, wouldn’t convince me that the new Honda EU2200i is much of an improvement on the EU2000i, which is a great inverter generator. But there are a lot of subtle differences that many won’t notice immediately. The Honda EU2200i is quieter, more fuel efficient and is hardly any heavier than the old model. Best of all, it costs basically the same.

So, while the Honda EU2200i looks almost identical to the EU2000i, it’s different in many ways. In reviewing the new generator, I’ll point out where the improvements lie.

✓ Recommended : For your travel trailer or RV, I recommend running two in parallel, so if you’re considering this generator buy the complete parallel kit, containing everything you need and saving yourself a little money :  Honda EU22000i + EU2200ic : Companion Parallel Combo Kit

Features Overview:

• EU2200i delivers 10% more power than the EU2000i – enabling you to power more of what you need, in the same lightweight, compact package. Whether it’s an extra refrigerator at home, a larger saw on your construction site, a larger TV at your tailgate party, the EU2200i gives you the power to get more done.
• The EU2200i can operate a wide variety of appliances, such as : Microwave, refrigerators, hair dryer, small AC units, and much more. Designed for portable use at home, camping, on the jobsite, or much more.
• Honda EU2200i operates at 48 to 57 dBA : Less noise than a normal conversation. Great for camping (won’t disturb your neighbors), supplemental RV power and any other activity that requires quiet operation.
• Powered by the Honda GXR120 Commercial Series engine. Exceptionally quiet, smooth, fuel-efficient performance in a small, lightweight package. At 121cc, the GXR120 is at the top of its class. Originally developed for heavy duty construction equipment. Durable and reliable.
• Double your power by running two in parallel : Connect it to the Honda EU2000ic Companion generator for additional power. Optional cable sold separately. Get up to 4400 watts of power.
  • Note : The companion generator has a 30A outlet, making it the perfect setup for your travel trailer or RV. The companion generator model is : Honda EU2200ic (“c” for companion).
• Eco-Throttle System : Runs 3.2 to 8.1 hours on a single tank, depending on the load. This makes it the ideal choice for overnight power, or long-time applications.
• Inverter technology : Stable, clean power. Produces power that is as reliable (and cleaner) as the power you get from your outlets at home.
• Automatic mechanical decompressor system significantly reduces the amount of force needed to start the engine.
• Less than 47 pounds.
• Large oil filler opening, longer spout, and larger oil drain gutter make for easier and cleaner oil changes.
• 12v – 8.3A unregulated DC output : Use when charging 12-volt automotive type batteries. (Requires an optional charging cord.)
• Oil Alert : Protects the generator by shutting the engine off when low oil is detected.
• 3 year residential and commercial warranty

✓ View or download the MANUAL and the PARALLEL KIT GUIDELINES for the Honda EU2200i.

---

More Power Without using More Gas

The Honda GX100, 98.5cc engine has been replaced with the Honda GXR120, 121cc engine. This gives the EU2200i the extra horsepower needed to deliver more power, whilst placing less strain on the engine. An improved stator helps make it all the more efficient. What’s truly remarkable about the improved GXR120 engine is that the extra power doesn’t come at any extra cost in terms of fuel consumption.

The new generator has the same 0.95 gallon gas tank as the old one and has exactly the same runtime at the rated load – 8.1 hours at 25% load and 3.4 hours at its maximum rated load of 1800W. So, if you were to run the same load on both generators, you’ll get roughly 10% more runtime from a tank of gas, using the Honda EU2200i. This is a CARB certified engine with very impressive emission levels.

VIDEO |  Honda EU2200i  — See it in Action

It comes with a 3 year residential and commercial warranty.

---

Redefining the term quiet generator

The previous small Honda was renowned as being a quiet machine. It seems almost unbelievable then, that the more powerful EU2200i is even quieter. The EU2000i had a noise level ranging between 53 and 59dBA, depending on the power being used. Because the GXR120 engine is so much more advanced, they’ve produced an engine with 20% more power than the GX100 and it runs even quieter. The Honda EU2200i has an incredibly low noise level of 48 – 57dBA. That is, quite literally, whisper quiet – a normal speaking voice is about 65dBA.

Double your Power : Connect with the Honda EU2200i Companion

Improved Inverter

The Honda EU2200i has the same user functions that were found on the old inverter. So it has an Eco-throttle that controls the RPM according to the load demand. This lowers the noise levels when less power is being used, improves fuel efficiency and prolongs engine life. The EU2200i also has parallel connectivity (EU2200i Companion). This allows you to double the power output to 4400W peak power when using two generators connected in parallel. So, on the surface, things don’t seem to have changed. But if we look deeper into the engineering inside the new inverter, things have changed.

By utilizing new magnet technology, Honda has been able to produce a more efficient inverter that’s hardly any heavier than the less powerful older version. So, even with a larger, more powerful engine, alternator and inverter, the Honda EU2200i weighs only 46.5 LBS. Compared to 45.6 LBS for the EU2000i, there’s less than a pound weight difference. I doubt anyone would really notice that the Honda EU2200i is any heavier.

Attention to Detail

Even in areas where we would hardly notice, the engineers at Honda have left no stone unturned. Servicing the Honda EU2200i has been simplified. Oil changes are now much easier with a larger oil filler opening that has a longer spout. There is less chance of spilling when draining the oil, thanks to a larger oil drain gutter. They’ve fitted a fuel shutoff valve so you can run the carburetor dry before storing. They’ve even simplified the start-up procedure by marking all the controls used to start the generator in gray.

Improved Durability

They’ve worked on the ventilation to provide better cooling for the inverter, making it even more reliable and robust. To prevent the recoil starter from gouging into the plastic housing, a metal insert has been fitted to the recoil starter area. The guys at Honda have obviously taken the trouble to look into every area where users have found the previous model lacking and sought to improve on their initial design with simple but effective solutions.

The Basics remain the same

Where improvements were needed, Honda have done a sterling job in upgrading the new Honda EU2200i. At the same time, they’ve kept what works. The control panel has remained unchanged. So you have the familiar layout with all the same outlets – a duplex 125V, 20A outlet providing two standard household receptacles and an 8.3A, 12V battery charging outlet. There are all the normal indicator lights with a warning for overload and for low oil shutoff. The same circuit breaker protection is a given. If GFCI protection is important to you, this is available on the EB2200i model. There’s even a Honda EU2200i Camo model with camouflage detailing for those who want it.

---

Conclusion | Should you Buy the Honda EU2200i?

With all these upgrades, I find it incredible that Honda has kept the price of the EU2200i basically the same as the old model. This is quite refreshing since the EU2000i was already one of the most expensive 2000W inverter generators. Only now, you’re getting a 2200W inverter generator with improved fuel consumption and superior durability (as if Honda weren’t already the winners in this regard). The Honda EU2200i is also quieter and easier to maintain. So the bottom line is that you’re getting a whole lot more without paying extra for it. All this makes the Honda EU2200i a much better investment.

You’re paying for legendary Honda reliability and a superb 3-year warranty, along with the backup of an experienced team. Yet you’re not paying any more than you did for an improved inverter generator that many have considered to be the best before the upgrades. The only question that remains is what will Honda come up with next? Is the Honda EU2200i perfection, or is there even more that can be improved? It will be interesting to see what the future holds. Inevitably, new technology will come along that will improve on what is the best by today’s standards. Until then, the Honda EU2200i is, in my opinion, the best that modern technology (and innovative thinking) has to offer.

— Well, besides another Honda. For the ultimate inverter generator, look no further than the impeccable Honda EU7000is. As far as generators go, it’s a masterpiece. Read our full review.

Read the original press release.

---

Champion 100692 / A cheaper alternative to Honda

---

Cheaper Alternatives to the Honda EU2200i

As much as the Honda EU2200i is about as close to perfection as one could hope to find, it is on pricey side of things. So while many of us might really want an inverter generator of this caliber, it could well be out of your price range. There are others who may feel that it’s not warranted to spend that much on a generator that isn’t going to be used all that often.

So for those who are looking for a more affordable 2000 – 3000W inverter generator, we’re going to be reviewing three, much cheaper options. These are high quality machines. Perhaps not in the same league as the Honda EU2200i, but very competent inverter generators none the less. They provide most of the same features as the Honda EU2000i but aren’t as tough and may not always be as user friendly when it comes to quick and easy servicing.

---

Review / Briggs & Stratton P2200 / Discontinued

Running Time : up to 8.0 hours at 25% Load, 59 dB, 54 lbs. Includes a dedicated parallel outlet lets you connect to another PowerSmart Series (Model : P2200 or P3000 Briggs & Stratton generator). Excellent consumer-grade inverter generator.

For parallel connection you’ll need : Briggs & Stratton 6278 — Parallel Cable Connector Kit

Features :

• 1,700 running watts and 2,200 starting watts
• Produces smoother power for sensitive electronics such as laptops, phones and gaming systems.
• Quiet Power Technology : Automatically adjusts the engine speed further reducing noise, fuel consumption and emissions.
• Control panel includes three outlets (one DC and two household) and a USB adapter, offering enough flexibility to power an extensive combination of lights, music, TVs, crock-pots, blenders, personal electronics and more.
• PowerSmart inverter generator technology automatically adjusts the engine speed to protect sensitive electronics like smart phones, tablets and laptops.
• A dedicated parallel outlet lets you connect to another PowerSmart Series P2200 or P3000 generator to create an even stronger power source.
• A lightweight design and quiet generator operation makes this the best backup power solution for tailgating, camping, outdoor recreation and emergency power.
• 59dB operating volume, it’s quieter than a normal conversation, so it blends into the background of social situations.
• H-handle design lets one person easily move the light generator when needed, or also allows two people to conveniently share the load.

Overview

For as long as I can remember, the name Briggs & Stratton has always been associated with affordable quality. In recent times, the company have done a lot to make their generators more robust and reliable. While I wouldn’t go so far as to say the Briggs & Stratton as hardy a beast the Honda EU2200i, it’s not all that far behind. It’s certainly a lot cheaper and that makes it one of the best in its price range. Some may say it’s the best inverter generator for what you’re paying. The Briggs & Stratton Power Smart series has been around for about two years now and these generators have done a lot to bring the brand up to current trends. They are designed to be quiet, lightweight, portable inverter generators that can compete with any of big names in the business.

Expand your Power : Connect to either the P2200 or the P3000

The Briggs & Stratton 110cc engine is a good unit and starts easily in cold weather. This is one of the recent improvements the company has made – better engines. It’s fitted with a Super Lo-Tone muffler and a sound insulated housing, like most inverter generators. This gives the Briggs & Stratton P2200 a very acceptable noise level of 59dBA, though I don’t think this reading is at the full power output. It is louder than the Honda EU2200i, but then just about any generator will be.

In terms of peak power output, the Briggs & Stratton P2200 perfectly matches the Honda EU2200i at 2200W, but is slightly lacking in its continuous rated power output – 1700W compared to the Honda’s 1800W. This is not a significant difference, so we can say they are very much the same regarding usable watts. Where the Briggs & Stratton doesn’t compare too favorably is in its fuel consumption. This generator has a 1-gallon gas tank and will give you 6.5 hours runtime from a tank at 25% of its rated load. This is a far cry from the 8.1 hours that you’ll get from the Honda which has a slightly smaller 0.95 gallon tank.

VIDEO | Learn more about the Briggs & Stratton P2200

Its thirstiness is probably the biggest drawback to this generator. It’s also a bit heavier than Honda (and many others) at 54LBS. Fortunately the Briggs & Stratton P2200 is one of the few generators of this size to include wheels. So, even though it’s not too heavy to carry, you have the option of wheeling the generator around – provided it’s on a reasonably flat surface with no gravel. The handle is also designed to make it easy for two people carry the generator comfortably.

The Briggs & Stratton has a great inverter with low HD, safe for use with all electronic devices. The inverter has all the mod cons and this includes parallel connectivity. It has the usual outlets that one would find on a generator of this size: two standard 120V household outlets and a 12V DC outlet. They’ve included a USB adapter for charging cell phones and tablets.  The P2200 has a fuel gauge and is compatible with the StatStation system. This is a wireless data display and info logger that’s sold separately. It allows you to access information like running hours, output wattage and voltage, all of which helps you monitor performance and keep track of service intervals.

When it comes down to it, the Briggs & Stratton P2200 offers exceptional value for money. It’s a very practical portable inverter generator with a good power output for its size. It holds up well to normal use. That would be for people who use it a few times a year for camping trips and the occasional power outage. Under these conditions, you should get many years of good service from the Briggs & Stratton. It is covered by a 2-year consumer warranty or a 90-day commercial warranty.

---

Gas consumption chart for the reviewed generators

Generator / Kilowatt-Hours per Gallon

1. WEN 56310i-RV / 5.68
2. Westinghouse iPro2500 / 5.5
3. Honda EU2200i  / 3.84
4. Briggs & Stratton P2200 / 2.76

I’ve listed the generators with the best consumption at the top (the WEN 56310i) down to the highest fuel consumption at the bottom, the Briggs & Stratton P2200. As you can see, the Briggs & Stratton uses about twice as much fuel for every kilowatt of electricity it generates when compared to the WEN. When you’re considering your long-term running costs, this is an important factor.

So, in terms of economy, the WEN 56310i-RV is the undisputed champion. It competes well too on every other level. When we look at noise levels, we also need to remember that this is a larger generator and won’t be as quiet as the smaller machines. Even so, the WEN fares incredibly well. At 25% load, its rated noise level is 57dBA. I reckon it would climb to around 65dBA or a little more at the full rated load. Comparing its weight, the WEN is actually as good as any of the others. Sure, 81.4 LBS is heavier than the smaller generators. Though if you take into account that the WEN engine is almost twice the size of that used to power the Honda EU2200i (which weighs 46.5 LBS), they’re pretty evenly matched when comparing pound per horsepower. To make the extra weight more manageable, it’s fitted with two wheels at the back. But, like the Briggs & Stratton, these wheels are not intended for rough terrain.

The WEN 56310i-RV is designed with the RV owner in mind and therefore has a 120V 30A RV-style twist-lock outlet along with the standard 120V 20A household sockets that you’ll find on the smaller inverter generators. It also has a 12V battery charging outlet and 2 X 5V USB outlets. All the warning lights and overload protection is there. It also has low fuel and low oil shutoff.

For RV owners, this might well be the ideal solution for your power supply needs. The WEN 56310i-RV is probably the most economical inverter generator in this very popular market. Not only is it priced to be very affordable, you’ll be saving on fuel costs for years to come. WEN build quality and reliability is one of the best when looking at the general consumer options that are currently available. It’s a brand that many have come to respect and they offer a 2-year warranty on this generator.

---

The Final Word

I would like to conclude this article by offering some consumer advice that could make it easier to choose between the four generators that have been reviewed.

I’ll start with the WEN 56310i-RV as it is in a different category because of the higher power output. This is one of the best inverter generators for RV users and can be equally great as a backup emergency power supply for your home or for jobsite use. The WEN is outstanding in terms of fuel efficiency and that is a major benefit. When you’re looking at long term dependability, dealership service is important and the WEN brand is well-represented throughout North America. You are assured of service, technical support, and spare parts for the lifetime of the generator.

Comparing the remaining three generators requires a bit more insight. They are all great little machines and their lightweight and compact design makes them ideal for transporting. They are perfect for camping trips, tailgating and providing electricity for the basics during an outage. With the exception of the Westinghouse iPro2500, all the generators in this review can be connected in parallel, meaning that you can increase your power output at any time. Take a little time and look at each of the 2000W – 2500W generators in more detail as it may make difference as to how you view them.

The Briggs & Stratton P2200 is likely to be cheapest of the three (depending on where you buy it). This is probably the biggest advantage. However, the high fuel consumption will make it more expensive to use. Briggs & Stratton machines are everywhere and it won’t be difficult to find a certified service agent anywhere in the US and most other parts of the world. While this is a great quality inverter generator, I don’t feel that it quite matches the Honda or Westinghouse in terms of rugged build. Though, for its lower price, the Briggs & Stratton is certainly worth considering.

On the face of things, the Westinghouse iPro2500 appears to be the best value for money. It delivers more power than the other two small inverter generators and has better fuel consumption. It’s also a tough machine, probably equal to the Honda. If it were just about the generator itself, I’d definitely rank the Westinghouse as the best of the bunch because of the value it offers at a very reasonable price. But it’s not quite that simple. If we look at dealership support, Westinghouse basically doesn’t have any.

Many generator owners are up to doing their own service and basic repairs. Most workshops that deal in generators and lawnmowers will be able to service Westinghouse generators. So, for the most part, a lack of walk in service may not be a problem. Though, if you need spare parts for any Westinghouse generator, you’ll need to order them directly. This could mean a lengthy waiting period for delivery. The same will apply to warranty follow up, you won’t be able to drive to your nearest dealership, like you can with the other generators. You’ll need to ship it to Westinghouse and then wait for them to ship it back to you. This can be a bind. Perhaps, as the Westinghouse brand becomes more popular, we will see dealerships emerging around the country. But, as things stand at the moment, this is a bit of a problem.

So, when it comes down to it, the Honda EU2200i has the advantage over all the others. Whether it’s worth paying so much extra for this generator, is question that no one can really answer. It will be a matter of personal preference. Honda generators have a long standing reputation for ultra-heavy-duty reliability. This has made them the number one choice for many contractors and farmers who rely heavily on generator power on a daily basis. No other generator manufacturer has a worldwide presence like Honda has. There isn’t a corner in the world where you can’t find a reliable service center for your Honda generator. So, in terms of dealership service, Honda is probably the best. So, like so many products, paying more for the best name in the business has its pros.

---

Review / WEN 56310i-RV / **NO Longer Available

 A Quiet 3100-Watt (RV-Ready) Portable Inverter Generator. CARB Compliant. Great inverter generator for a wide range of applications, especially if you have an RV.

Features:

• Extremely quiet operation minimizes noise; EPA III and CARB Compliant
• 212 cc 4-stroke OHV engine produces 3100 surge watts and 2800 rated watts
• Great for RVs, campgrounds, the country, tailgating and power outages
• Produces clean power to prevent damage to sensitive electronics such as smart phones, tablets and laptops.

Includes : two three-prong 120V receptacles, one AC 120V 30A RV plug, one 12V DC receptacle, two 5V USB ports and a two-year warranty

✓ View or download the MANUAL for the WEN 56310i-RV.

Overview

WEN is, to my mind, a real common sense brand. They build good basic quality machines that are very practical. Sort of like the Model-T Ford that revolutionized America all those years ago. Now, the WEN 56310i is a much larger inverter generator than the Briggs & Stratton P2200 or the Honda EU2200i. It costs considerably less than the Honda and a bit more than the Briggs & Stratton. But, keep in mind that the WEN has a peak power output of 3100W. So when it comes to buck per watt, the WEN is the best value for money. They also offer a smaller model with 2000W peak power output and this one is a little cheaper than the 2200W Briggs & Stratton.

With 3100W peak power and a rated load of 2800W, the WEN is the ideal portable inverter generator for a mid-sized RV. It can handle a 15,000 BTU air conditioner along with a few low-powered devices. I’d consider a generator of this size to be the entry level for the RV power supply market. Because of the inverter, the current remains completely safe for all electronic equipment even under full load. Like most other inverter generators, you’re able to double your power output by connecting a second WEN inverter generator in parallel.

The engine is a modern, astoundingly fuel-efficient 212cc, 4-stroke, OHV unit. It meets very high emission control standards and is CARB compliant. I’m going to place the fuel consumption into context here, by comparing the four generators in this review. The WEN emerges as an outright winner. From its 1.85 gallon gas tank, the WEN provides 7.5 hours of runtime at 50% of its rated load.

Now, it’s not easy to compare fuel efficiency with data presented in this fashion. The WEN has a higher wattage output and, therefore, a bigger engine. So it’s going to use more fuel. The size of the gas tanks between the various models vary and some rate run-time at 25% load, while others rate it at 50% or full load. So if we want to get an accurate picture, we need to convert these stats into kilowatt-hour per gallon. This the same as comparing different cars using miles per gallon. Basically, you want to get the most kilowatts from your generator for every gallon of gas. I’ve done the math and converted the run-time figures given for all four generators and listed them, rating the kilowatt-hours per gallon.

---

Westinghouse iPro2500 / **No Longer Available

2,500 Peak Watts, 2,200 Running Watts. Runs up to 10 hrs on 1 gallon of fuel. OSHA Compliant – Full Panel GFCI. Excellent inverter generator. Built to a high standard.

Features:

• 2,500 peak watts, 2,200 running watts
• Fuel efficient – 7.7 hrs on 1.0 gal of gas @25% load
• OSHA Compliant and perfect for job sites and a wide variety of tools
• Very quiet – Less noise than normal conversation volume
• Safe for electronics – Inverter Technology
• Lightweight – Under 49 lbs
• 3-Year Warranty
• Quiet and compact: the iPro2500 is the quietest OSHA-compliant inverter generator on the market specifically designed for contractors and industry professionals
• Safely powers sensitive electronics such as laptop computers, cell phones and more (2200 running watts and 2500 peak watts at less than 3% THD)
• Lightweight and compact design: the iPro2500 weighs 48 lbs. and features a built-in carry handle for easy transportation
• Features 2 USB ports (5-Volt DC) and a 120-Volt AC 20A GFCI household duplex outlet – safely powers sensitive electronics such as laptop computers, cell phones and more (2200 running watts and 2500 peak watts at less than 3% THD)
• Enhanced fuel efficiency – 30-50% more fuel efficient than a traditional generator
• Quiet operation: the iGen2500 utilizes a double-insulated acoustic enclosure, asymmetrical cooling fans and low tone mufflers to reduce operating noise

Overview

Westinghouse started manufacturing portable generators quite recently. About a year ago, I discovered the brand when I reviewed my first Westinghouse portable generator. At first, I had no clue who these guys were. I thought they might be some new, unexperienced company, trying to cash in on the lucrative portable generator market. Upon some further research, I found that nothing could be further from the truth.

The Westinghouse Electric company were responsible for constructing some of the first power stations in the United States. For more than a century this company has remained at the pinnacle of electrical engineering technology worldwide. So when they decided to start producing consumer products, they already had a wealth of experience in the power utility business. With all this knowledge, one may think that the Westinghouse engineering team is over-qualified to develop small portable generators. I feel that this is a good attribute. It’s kind of like having a NASCAR racing team build a go-cart for your kid. They may have to adapt to a smaller scale of doing things, but the final product is going to have an edge over the others. I believe that Westinghouse manufacture some of the best generators.

The reason Westinghouse generators are so cheap can be ascribed to the fact that they don’t have the reputation or market share that brands like Honda or Yamaha have. By all appearances, Westinghouse generators seem to match up to these two brands in terms of outstanding quality and superior engineering. Westinghouse portable generators haven’t been around as long as the others, so it’s yet to be proven whether they actually match up to the established brands. My guess is that they will prove to be among the top names in the business in the near future. Though, the fact that Westinghouse doesn’t have a big footprint in the consumer market does place them at a slight disadvantage. At the end of the article, I’ll discuss this when I give the final word on the four generators featured in this review.

So, having given my opinions on the brand, let’s take a look at what the Westinghouse iPro2500 has to offer. Powered by a very efficient 98cc, 4-stroke, OHV engine, the Westinghouse iPro2500 pumps out 2200 watts of continuous power and 2500W peak power. This gives it the edge over both the Briggs & Stratton P2200 and the Honda EU2200i in terms of output. If you look at the fuel consumption table above, you’ll see that it is also way better than the other two in this regard. You can expect 10-hours of runtime from the 1-gallon gas tank at 50% of its rated load.

In terms of rugged industrial-grade quality, I think it matches the Honda which is a brand known for building ultra-rugged machinery. This, along with its incredibly good fuel consumption, make the Westinghouse great value for money. It has a superb inverter with an economy switch which allows it run at lower revs when the power demand is reduced. This is common to all the generators in this review. The only difference is that the Westinghouse does not have parallel connectivity, so you can’t increase your output by adding another generator.

It has the same sleek sound-insulated housing as the other generators and this appears to be molded from very durable impact resistant plastic. Noise levels are quite reasonable. Not quite as good as the Honda, but a little better than the Briggs & Stratton. At 25% load, the Westinghouse iPro2500 produces a noise level of 52dBA, I wouldn’t think that it would exceed 60dBA at full load. It’s as portable as one could want, weighing only 48 LBS. It has the outlets to meet most of our needs, 2 X 120V household outlets and 2 X 5V USB outlets. I doesn’t have a 12V battery charging outlet, which is a little disappointing.

In my opinion, the Westinghouse iPro2500 is the best value for money. I say this because the industrial quality of its design and build seems to match the more expensive Honda in every way and you’ll be saving a lot on your gas bills over the years. It lacks parallel connection ports and a battery charging outlet but, for the rest, it is equal (and in some instances better) than all the rest. Proof of the Westinghouse commitment to quality is evident in their warranty: 3-years for residential use and 1-year for commercial use.

Read our full review of the Briggs & Stratton P2200.