• Skip to main content
  • Skip to secondary menu
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to footer
  • Home
  • About Us
  • Privacy / Disclaimer
  • Contact Us
  • Contributing Writers
  • Site Directory

Chainsaw Journal

Expert Advice on the Modern Home, DIY, Power Tools & Outdoor Power Equipment to help you make intelligent buying decisions.

  • Generators
    • Portable Generators
    • Portable Power Stations
    • Inverter Generators / Quiet
    • Educational
  • Chainsaws
    • Cordless / Battery-Powered
    • Corded-Electric
    • Gas-Powered
    • Chainsaw Reviews
    • Education / How-to
  • Power Equipment
    • Log Splitters
    • Snow Blowers
    • Wood Chippers / Shredders
    • Portable Table Saw
    • Leaf Blowers
    • Lawn Mower
    • Miter Saws
    • Outdoor Cooking
  • Workshop Tools
    • Shop Heaters
    • Woodworking tools
    • Table Saws
    • Automotive
    • Air Compressors
  • Pools
    • Robotic Pool Cleaners
    • Pool Pumps
    • Pool Heaters
  • Indoor Home
    • Air Conditioners
    • Vacuum Cleaners
  • Informative
  • Kids
  • Blog
Home » Blog » 2023 Picks : Quietest Generator for Camping / Reviews

2023 Picks : Quietest Generator for Camping / Reviews

Last Updated: January 31, 2023 / at: 7:58 am

Quietest generator for camping
New Inverter Generator from Westinghouse. Quiet & Powerful. (Buy on Amazon)

Choosing the quietest generator for camping requires a few key pieces of information to help you make the right decision. All parks have specific rules and noise limitations that you must follow, or risk getting in trouble for breaking the noise limit. I’ll share with you the actual legal section you need to know. In short, a generator on a camp site needs to be quieter than 60 decibels from 50 feet as measured by the A-weighted scale, which is an official way to measure sound levels as heard by the human ear, not a mechanical device, which is obviously more sensitive to measuring sound. The last thing you want when camping is to annoy anyone camping near you, as well as yourself. A loud generator gets annoying fast, so it’s worth spending a little more money on a quieter generator.

Table of Contents —
  1. Two Inverters : Quietest Generators for Camping
    1. Dual-Fuel : Quietest Generators for Camping / Great Value
    2. Generator Noise Level / Official USA National Park Services
    3. Best Cheap (Inexpensive) : Quiet Camping Generators
    4. Honda EU2200i / Quietest Generator for Camping
    5. Silent Power Station : ECOFLOW Delta PRO

To reiterate, you need a generator with a noise level, under 60dB from 50 feet as heard by a human. In this article I recommend some excellent inverter generators in a variety of power sizes and budgets, and all generators satisfy your camping criteria for noise levels. In addition, I have some recommendations for powerful battery power station, which are near silent, other than the hum of the fan. Don’t worry, there’s a wide range of great models of the quietest generators for the money. I know, everyone automatically recommends a Honda inverter generator, but we all can’t afford to buy one, but it’s also on my list because Honda makes ultra-quiet generators, at double or triple the price of other inverter generators.

In 2023, you can find some excellent inverter generators that are both quiet and well-made, and some brands, like Generac, have models quieter than Honda, and are even more affordable. If you’re specifically looking for an RV generator, I recommend reading our dedicated article on that topic. Many of the generators in this article are RV ready, so you’ll find some great options here. If you own an RV you should get an inverter with a 30A outlet.


Two Inverters : Quietest Generators for Camping

Generac iQ3500

quietest generator for camping
Powerful, quiet, generator. Great for RV.
Buy on Amazon

Generac states that the iQ3500 is 5dB quieter than the Honda EU3000is, a 3000W inverter generator rated at 57dB at 100% load and 50dB at 25% load. This is based on 3rd party testing. If you need power this is one of the quietest generators for camping. It’s heavy at 109.1 lbs., so don’t expect to haul with you walking up a hill. Either way, excellent buy and it has a 30A outlet for your RV.

Westinghouse iGen2200

quietest generator for camping
Inexpensive, compact generator.
Buy on Amazon

Excellent camping that is both inexpensive and quiet, as low as 52 dB, depending on how much load you put on it. It’s a great budget inverter generator that most people can afford. Westinghouse makes great value generators and this 2200W model has very high customer satisfaction ratings. It’s also lightweight at only 46.3 lbs. It’s does NOT have a 30A outlet like the Generac.



Dual-Fuel : Quietest Generators for Camping / Great Value

Champion 200961

quietest generator for camping
Ultra-lightweight dual fuel.
Buy on Amazon

The Champion 200961 is quite a bargain considering it’s a dual-fuel inverter generator, which means it runs on gas or propane. This is great for camping as propane is easier to store and carry. Also, it’s rated at a quiet 53 dB from 23 feet. And, it’s extremely lightweight at only 39 lbs.

One of the quietest lightweight camping generators for the money.

  • Cold Start Technology
  • Gas : 2500W / 1850W
  • Gas : Runs up to 11.5 hrs. at 25% load
  • Propane (20 lb. tank) : 2500W / 1665W
  • Propane : Runs up to 34 hrs. at 25% load
  • Parallel Ready
  • Less than 3% Total Harmonic Distortion

Westinghouse iGen4500DFc

quietest generator for camping
Powerful. Carbon Monoxide Monitoring.
Buy on Amazon

The Westinghouse iGen4500DFc is a new model for 2023, as they’ve updated this design with a carbon monoxide monitoring system, which is well worth the extra money as it might just save your life. This is an exceptional dual-fuel inverter, and it’s RV ready with a 30A outlet.

  • Gas : 4500W /4050W  
  • Gas : Runs up to 18 hours at 25% load
  • Propane : 3700W / 3330W
  • Runs up to 22 hrs. at 25% load
  • As quiet as 52 dBA
  • Double-insulated acoustic enclosure, asymmetrical cooling fans, and low tone mufflers to reduce operating noise
  • Carbon Monoxide (CO) Shutdown
  • Telescoping handle


Generator Noise Level / Official USA National Park Services

2.12 Audio disturbances.

(a) The following are prohibited:

(1) Operating motorized equipment or machinery such as an electric generating plant, motor vehicle, motorized toy, or an audio device, such as a radio, television set, tape deck or musical instrument, in a manner: (i) That exceeds a noise level of 60 decibels measured on the A-weighted scale at 50 feet; or, if below that level, nevertheless; (ii) makes noise which is unreasonable, considering the nature and purpose of the actor’s conduct, location, time of day or night, purpose for which the area was established, impact on park users, and other factors that would govern the conduct of a reasonably prudent person under the circumstances.

(2) In developed areas, operating a power saw, except pursuant to the terms and conditions of a permit.

(3) In nondeveloped areas, operating any type of portable motor or engine, or device powered by a portable motor or engine, except pursuant to the terms and conditions of a permit. This paragraph does not apply to vessels in areas where motor boating is allowed.

(4) Operating a public address system, except in connection with a public gathering or special event for which a permit has been issued pursuant to 2.50 or 2.51.

(b) Violation of the terms and conditions of a permit issued in accordance with section is prohibited and may result in the suspension or revocation of the permit.

Read official Parks document from National Park Services

Best Cheap (Inexpensive) : Quiet Camping Generators

Both of these inverter generators are as inexpensive as you’ll find while still being a quiet and reliable product. There’s no point in buying a no-name brand generator that you can’t depend on while camping. Both of these models have a long history of reliability and customers satisfaction. I’d never recommend a generator I wouldn’t buy myself.

WEN 56235i / Affordable

WEN 56235i : Quietest budget generator for camping
Lightweight and affordable.
Buy on Amazon

WEN has created a winner with this 56235i quiet camping inverter generator. It’s been a consistent top-seller with a very high customer satisfaction average. There’s nothing fancy here. It does have a very low Total Harmonic Distortion at only 1.2%, meaning it produces very clean power. Overall, an excellent buy in 2023.

  • Lightweight : 39 lbs. / 79cc engine
  • Quiet : 51 dB at 25% load
  • Power : 2350W Start / 1900W Run
  • Fuel shutoff : Uses all fuel in carb before shuts off.
  • Outlets : 2x household 120V / 1x 12V DC receptacle / 2x 5V USB port

A-iPower SUA2000iV / 30A

Quietest budget generator for camping
Excellent value. Includes 30A outlet.
Buy on Amazon

Ai-Power is a relatively new brand that has built a solid reputation by offering quality products for little money. I’m always skeptical about new companies but Ai-Power has earned my trust. This quiet inverter generator is perfect for camping and costs under $400. Impressive.

  • 2000W Start / 1600W  Run
  • 58 decibels / 46 pounds
  • Low idle Mode
  • Outlets : 1x NEMA 120VAC 20A / 1x NEMA 120VAC 30A L5-30R Locking / 1x 12VDC 8.3A Adapter Plug
  • Read our detailed review of SUA2000iV

Ai-Power also has an inexpensive dual-fuel camping generator if you want versatility. / SUA2000iD

High Altitude Camping Generators

Most inverter generators will run less efficient if you plan on camping at altitudes over around 2000 feet. Many manufacturers offer a high altitude kit, depending on your make and model. If this sounds like you then do a search for your specific model plus “altitude kit.” to see if there’s one available. In the same way that humans need a base level of oxygen to breathe normally, it turns out that generators also require the right conditions for proper operation..



Yes, here it is, the timeless Honda 2200W inverter generator. As far as numbers go, it is the quietest camping generator, but it’s only by a few decibels, depending on what brand and model you’re comparing it to.

Honda EU2200i / Quietest Generator for Camping

Honda EU2200iTAG / EU2200iTC
If you can afford it, this is the quietest generator for camping.
Buy on Amazon

All you need to know that when this Honda 2200W generator is running at 100% it’s rated at only 57dB. A lot of brands aren’t specific when they give their decibel levels, which I find annoying. Sometimes the numbers manufacturers give are from a distance, usually from 23 feet, or the rating is based on the generator running at 25% load. When a manufacturer states that their generator is “as quiet as,” that means it’s based on a low load, usually 25% to 50%. Either way, Honda makes their decibel number very clear. It’s 48dB at 25% load.

You can read our indepth review of this versatile inverter generator, great for a myriad of applications, and camping is definitely one of the things it’s ideal for.

Features :

  • Power : 120V 2200W max. (18.3A), 1800W rated (15A)
  • CO-MINDER: Advanced Carbon Monoxide Detection System
  • Ultra Quiet : 57 dB at full load / 48 dB at 25% load
  • Honda My Generator app + Bluetooth capability : Remote generator operation and monitoring. Includes wireless stop, operation monitoring, and service reminders, utilizing Bluetooth connectivity
  • 121cc Honda GXR120 Engine / Commercial grade reliability
  • Easy Start : Honda’s automatic mechanical decompressor system significantly reduces the amount of force needed to start the engine.
  • Lightweight : 47.4 lb.
  • Runs up to 8.1 hrs on less than a gallon of fuel
  • Add a second EU2200i for additional power. Two identical models can be paralleled with an optional cable for up to 4400 watts of power.
  • A bigger oil filler opening, longer spout, and larger oil drain gutter
  • Fuel shutoff : Engine continues to run until the majority of the fuel in the carburetor is consumed
  • USDA-qualified spark arrestor/muffler
  • Two Models : EU2200ITAN (49 State), EU2200iTAG (California)

For the ultimate camping power backup is this powerful power station from ECOFLOW. It’s expensive, but has more power than most of the inverter generators in this article, and it’s fully expandable.


Silent Power Station : ECOFLOW Delta PRO

EF ECOFLOW DELTA Pro : Best Portable Power Station
The ultimate camping battery generator.
Buy on Amazon

Read our indepth review on this powerful and silent battery generator. It’s not cheap, but certainly more versatile than any gas generator. For starters, you can use this indoors and it’s virtually silent. Most people can’t afford this, which is why I’ve included this at the end of the article. You did come here looking for the quietest camping generator, and this is it.

Features :

  • Ideal for outdoor camping, travel or home backup power.
  • Battery backup that can expand from 3.6kWh to 25kWh (with extra batteries)
  • 3600W Output :  Power up 4500W devices with X-Boost. Enough for heaters or window AC units.
  • 5 Ways to Charge : EV station, solar, wall outlets, using the Smart Outdoor Generator or via a car outlet. Combine methods to reach 6500W (with an extra battery). Faster than any other solar generator.
  • EV Charging Portable Power Station- Charge at over 35,000 level 2 EV stations across the U.S.
  • Ultra-Fast charge in under 1.7 hrs.
  • Get 6500+ full cycles to last for years.

Last Updated: January 31, 2023 at 7:58 AM / by Gio Sasso

Primary Sidebar

☄️ Home Emergency Backup

2023 Reviews : Best 9500 Watt Generators / New Models with CO Sensors

2023 Reviews : Best 9500 Watt Generators / New Models with CO Sensors

Last Update ► January 5, 2023

Look no further, above you will see the Westinghouse WGen9500c generator --- one of the best 9500 watt generators you can buy. Period!

🐶 Keep A Tidy Yard…

Reviews : Best Resin Shed in 2023? Backyard Storage, Big & Small

Reviews : Best Resin Shed in 2023? Backyard Storage, Big & Small

Last Update ► February 26, 2023

Resin backyard storage sheds are a great addition to any home or garden. Made from durable, weather-resistant materials, these sheds offer a convenient and secure way to store tools, equipment, and other outdoor essentials.

🐷 Editors’ Picks

🐱 The Future is Cordless

Best Cordless Chainsaw 2023 Buying Guide – Chainsaw Journal

Best Cordless Chainsaw 2023 Buying Guide – Chainsaw Journal

Last Update ► March 7, 2023

What's the best cordless chainsaw for 2023? If you're smart you'll take our advice and choose from our list of fantastic battery-powered chainsaws.

👂🏼 Quiet RV Power

2023 Picks : Best RV Generator | Quiet Inverter & Power Stations

2023 Picks : Best RV Generator | Quiet Inverter & Power Stations

Last Updated March 12, 2023

What's the best RV generator for you in 2023? Lucky for you, big brands offer some exceptional inverter generators in a wide range of power output and price points. So, don't worry, there's something here for everyone. I'm focusing on inverter generators because it's essential to have a quiet generator for your RV

🐭 Quiet Backup Power

2023 Reviews – Best Dual-Fuel Inverter Generator / Top Rated Models

2023 Reviews – Best Dual-Fuel Inverter Generator / Top Rated Models

Last Update ► March 23, 2023

Choosing the best dual-fuel inverter generator is a little more difficult today than it was only a year ago as many new, high-quality models have entered the market, & they're fantastic...

🌲 Firewood Facts…

2023 : How Much is a Cord of Wood? — & More Firewood Facts.

2023 : How Much is a Cord of Wood? — & More Firewood Facts.

Last Updated February 24, 2023

This article focuses on the always popular topic of firewood. It’s an essential thing for many people. Wood, we need it.

⚡️ Powerful Generators…

2023 Reviews : Best 12000 Watt Generators | New Top Rated Models

2023 Reviews : Best 12000 Watt Generators | New Top Rated Models

Last Updated January 23, 2023

What do you need it for and what's your budget? We take a deep dive and review many great 12000W generators.

🪑 The Craft of Wood Turning

Reviews – Best Wood Lathes from WEN, JET, Powermatic & More

Reviews – Best Wood Lathes from WEN, JET, Powermatic & More

Last Update ► March 21, 2023

There are some tools that separate the best from the rest. I consider a wood lathe to be one of these. A machine that shows you’re a true craftsman. If you’re interested in buying the best wood lathe, you have my greatest respect. Using these machines, you’re able to turn perfectly molded ornate pieces, cut precision holes for screwless joins, and a lot more.

🌟 Clean, Portable Power

2023 Reviews : Best Camping Generator & RV / Quiet Inverter & Battery Power

2023 Reviews : Best Camping Generator & RV / Quiet Inverter & Battery Power

Last Updated March 7, 2023

Generators come in a variety to types, which you may or may not be aware of. Everyone has different needs when it comes to choosing the best camping generator their needs. The question is how much power do you need? What's your budget? Are you looking for an inverter generator or a portable power station?

🔥 Intelligent Pool Heaters

Review Guide − Best 400,000 BTU Pool Heater / NG + Propane

Review Guide − Best 400,000 BTU Pool Heater / NG + Propane

Last Update ► February 15, 2023

Back in 2020 I'm sure a lot of us wondered if we'd ever make it to 2023, and here we are. We made it! The world is slowly going back to normal and now we're looking to find a fast-heating and energy efficient, 400,000 BTU pool heater. Why?

🌍 Clean Energy Chainsaws

Guide to the Best Electric Chainsaws for 2023 — Expert Reviews

Guide to the Best Electric Chainsaws for 2023 — Expert Reviews

Last Updated February 6, 2023

You'll find a lot of differing opinions on what the best electric chainsaw is. The reason is because there is no right answer. I know, this might...

💨 Prepare for the Worst

2023 REVIEWS : Best Portable Power Station for CPAP / Top Picks

2023 REVIEWS : Best Portable Power Station for CPAP / Top Picks

Last Update ► February 14, 2023

What's the Best Portable Power Station for a CPAP? If you're using a CPAP machine at night the last thing you want to worry about is having the power go in the middle of the night ---

🪑 For Work or Play

Reviews – What’s the Best Table Saw Under $1000?

Reviews – What’s the Best Table Saw Under $1000?

Last Updated February 10, 2023

A good portable table saw can easily be had for under $1000, but you won't be able to find a quality cabinet saw for that amount. This guide will save you a lot of time.

🌿 Powerful String Trimmers

2023 Reviews – Best Commercial Weed Eater / PRO String Trimmers

2023 Reviews – Best Commercial Weed Eater / PRO String Trimmers

Last Update ► March 25, 2023

If you're interested in a true professional-grade cordless string trimmer then you need to seriously consider the Makita 40V model.

☄️Never Let the Power Die

Reviews— Best Dual Fuel Portable Generator / Gas & Inverters

Reviews— Best Dual Fuel Portable Generator / Gas & Inverters

Last Update ► February 12, 2023

What's the best dual-fuel portable generator in 2023? Well, like the answer to most questions in life, my answer is, "It depends."

🔥 Affordable Log Splitters

Reviews of the Best Log Splitters under $1000 for Winter 2023/23

Reviews of the Best Log Splitters under $1000 for Winter 2023/23

Last Updated March 21, 2023

A log splitter is the evolution of the axe in the same way that cars are the evolution of horse drawn carriages. If you use a lot of firewood in the winter then investing in a high quality log splitter is probably a wise choice.

🌒 Whisper-Quiet Clean Power

2023 Update : Westinghouse iGen4500 Review / iGen4500c CO Sensor

2023 Update : Westinghouse iGen4500 Review / iGen4500c CO Sensor

Last Update ► March 6, 2023

Well, the Westinghouse Electric Company built their first commercial electric power station in 1886 to supply Great Barrington, Massachusetts. Since then...

💎 The Most for your Money

2023 Reviews : Best Chainsaws for the Money  / Top Value Models

2023 Reviews : Best Chainsaws for the Money / Top Value Models

Last Update ► March 10, 2023

We have a chainsaw for a wide range of applications and budgets. I know the needs of consumers vary and there's no such thing as the "best" chainsaw for everybody. Whether you have a budget of under $100 or over $300 to buy a PRO-grade chainsaw, I have options for you to consider.

🔋 Compare New Explorer PRO

REVIEW — Jackery Explorer 1000 + PRO E1000 / Best Solar Power Station

REVIEW — Jackery Explorer 1000 + PRO E1000 / Best Solar Power Station

Last Update ► March 11, 2023

Welcome to my review of the the Jackery Explorer 1000. Jackery stands out as one of the best manufacturers of portable battery power stations and solar generators.

🍀 Shred Yard Debris

Reviews : Best Chipper/Shredder in 2023 — Gas & Electric

Reviews : Best Chipper/Shredder in 2023 — Gas & Electric

Last Updated February 22, 2023

What's the best chipper/shredder for 2023? Keeping your lawn neat, tidy and clean requires a lot of work and tools. A chipper/shredder is one of better ways to spend your money for your home, alongside of a generator, lawn mower and chainsaw.

🔥 Time to Split Firewood

Reviews – Best 22 to 30-Ton Log Splitters / New Top Rated Models

Reviews – Best 22 to 30-Ton Log Splitters / New Top Rated Models

Last Update ► March 11, 2023

Welcome! 2023 is a great year to buy a log splitter. New machines are here for us to discuss. The Swisher LS22E is one of the best 22-ton electric log splitters available today. You can see it above. It's a standout among the crowd of "me too" models. It's a 120V electric 22-ton splitter and works with any standard home outlet.

👩🏻‍🦰 Watch Out Trees!

2023 Review — Husqvarna 460 Rancher / Top Rated Gas Chainsaws

2023 Review — Husqvarna 460 Rancher / Top Rated Gas Chainsaws

Last Update ► March 16, 2023

The 460 Rancher is designed for homeowners, farmers and ranchers who have a need to fell large trees in a single cut (or two), to cut firewood or to harvest large timber.

🍂 Ergonomic Leaf Blower

2023 Reviews : Best Backpack Leaf Blower / Top Rated Models

2023 Reviews : Best Backpack Leaf Blower / Top Rated Models

Last Update ► March 4, 2023

I think you'll be surprised to learn that in 2023, reputable brands are making cordless backpack leaf blowers that are equal to, or more powerful than many gas backpack leaf blowers --- and they're cheaper.

🍰 Generator Sweet Spot

Reviews — Best 7500 Watt Generators for the Money / New Models

Reviews — Best 7500 Watt Generators for the Money / New Models

Last Update ► January 24, 2023

As far as value, you won't find a better overall generator than this WGen7500 series from Westinghouse. For starters, Westinghouse has been in business since 1886 so they know how to make generators, among other things. For 2023, this is the best 7500 watt generator for homeowners looking for emergency backup power.

💡 The Power of 3 Fuels

Reviews : Champion 100416 vs DuroMax HXT — Best Tri-Fuel Generator

Reviews : Champion 100416 vs DuroMax HXT — Best Tri-Fuel Generator

Last Update ► February 20, 2023

A tri-fuel generator is quite a novel concept. I’m sure not too many folks are aware they even exist. Hybrid generators have become common. Most of us know a bit about dual-fuel generators. These can run on propane or gasoline, making them very convenient. An obvious question, I’m sure many of you are asking has to be: What is a tri-fuel generator?

👷🏼 For DIY & Construction

Reviews : What’s the Best Jackhammer in 2023? Electric & Pneumatic

Reviews : What’s the Best Jackhammer in 2023? Electric & Pneumatic

Last Updated February 21, 2023

What's the Best Jackhammer for you? How much breaking force do you need? For work or for home? We cover a wide range of jackhammer's so you can choose the one that matches your needs (and budget)

🥾 Heavy-Duty Generators

Reviews : Best Jobsite Generators  — Buying Guide : OSHA / GFCI

Reviews : Best Jobsite Generators — Buying Guide : OSHA / GFCI

Last Updated March 1, 2023

2023 has been an incredible year for the portable generator market. The biggest brands have been releasing innovative new models at very competitive prices. The Champion PRO 100430 is a new commercial generator, packed with practical features you'll need if you're a contractor.

✨ Versatile Generator

2023 Reviews : Best 240 Volt Inverter Generators / New Models

2023 Reviews : Best 240 Volt Inverter Generators / New Models

Last Updated March 19, 2023

If you’re looking for a 240V inverter generator, it can be challenging. There simply aren’t too many on the market. This buying guide and review is the best place to begin your search for a 240V inverter generator.

Footer

DMCA.com Protection Status
  • Return to HOME
Do Not Sell My Personal Information

1199 Marinaside Crescent, Vancouver, Canada
T: 604/437/8033

© 2014–2023 • Chainsaw Journal • Affiliate Disclaimer • —Stay Strong

  • This site contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase with our product links we may receive a small commission at NO COST TO YOU.(Learn More)