We have written a very detailed article on the quietest portable generators based on size, weight, decibel levels, budget, and fuel economy. These quietest inverter generators are extremely popular on the market, which is why we are reviewing them.
If you are looking for more details, kindly visit our website.
We tested over 18 quiet inverter generators, talked to 67 campers and RV guys, and interviewed 7 employees who are currently working in different generator manufacturing companies to gather information for this article.
Portable generators are revolutionary machines for camping, RV, and tailgating. They provide affordable and clean power in the event of a blackout and run tools and appliances for your camper and RVs. We just have to forget that they are very loud.
The reason manufacturers are hell-bent on making the best quiet portable generators is that nobody wants to operate a noisy generator to get an earful from their neighbors.
After seeing the struggles of many outdoor enthusiasts, I and my team have written this highly researched article covering the top 7 quietest portable generators on the market currently.
The best quiet generator should produce 50 to 60dB of noise even under 50% load. The inverter technology should automatically adjust the engine speed to save fuel and reduce noise.
A quiet generator should also be portable and lightweight for RVs and camping. Some extra features like low oil shutoff, overload alarm, parallel connection, CO sensor, electric start, a good number of running watts, and several different outlets should also be present in it.
Without waiting, check out the comparison table first;
FEATURES & SPECS
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HONDA EUIS has been one of the most fuel-efficient and quietest inverter generators on the market for years now.
With the success of the HONDA EUi which might be the best quiet generator, the manufacturers quickly introduced the Honda EUis with running watts and peak watts.
I picked this one because it is not far from HONDA EUi in terms of quietness, and it is more powerful than that.
Honda generators are designed to produce a lot less noise compared to the competition in a similar power output range
This machine features an advanced patented eco-throttle system inverter technology. This technology precisely adjusts the power output according to the demand to save fuel and make less noise.
HONDA EUIS&#;s built quality is excellent, the runtime is high, it is reliable, and the power output has less harmonic distortion (less than 3%) which means the power is safe for sensitive devices like cellphones, cameras, computers, and laptops.
Though it is a pretty heavy machine weighing 144 pounds, the dimensions make it pretty compact and portable. It just lacks a wheel, it would have been so helpful to move it around.
HONDA EUIS portable generator produces 53 to 54dB from 40 feet away at 100 %load. I have conducted the test myself. If you want to see the results, check out HONDA EUIS&#;s full detailed review.
It is parallel capable. You can connect two identical HONDA EUIS together to double the power output, or two generators of the same brand to double the power output of the lesser model.
This ultra-quiet generator also comes with an overload alarm, output indicator, and oil alert. The outlets are a 20amp outlet, a 30amp 125V locking household outlet, and a 12V DC outlet to charge automotive batteries.
I also conducted a load test and runtime test. I gave it a load of my microwave, AC, lights, and some other things. The total output power I got was running watts. The overload alarm didn&#;t go ON.
I ran it on a full tank at 95% load. It ran for 7 hours and 40 minutes. Then on 25% load, it ran for 20+ hours. You can check the full results here.
HONDA EUIS is one of the most fuel-economical portable generators I have ever seen.
It is a very quiet, portable, powerful, reliable, and quality generator, but pretty expensive as well.
FEATURES & SPECS
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Westinghouse iGen is one of the lightest and quietest generators from the Westinghouse brand. It starts effortlessly with one try and a simple turn of a knob.
The thing that makes Westinghouse iGen special is the running watts packed in a tiny weight that is lightweight. It is almost a perfect camping and RV generator.
The eco-efficient mode automatically adjusts the engine speed according to the power demand to save fuel and reduce noise.
Westinghouse iGen has 2 5V USB ports for charging cellphones and other modern devices. Don&#;t worry about the power surge, this machine generates a cleaner sine wave with less than 3% harmonic distortion.
The main selling point of this portable inverter generator is the suitcase-like design. For campers and RV owners, saving space is a concern, and Westinghouse iGen doesn&#;t occupy any space at all.
Everyone wants an ultra-quiet generator, and this generator is an ideal choice for people searching for a quieter unit. I conducted some noise tests from 5 feet away under no load, and from 20 feet away under 80% load.
Eco mode on, this portable inverter generator is extremely quiet. To see the full results of our test, read the detailed review of Westinghouse iGen .
I did load and runtime tests as well. On efficiency mode, I gave it a total load of watts of one motor-driven, and some other appliances. It lasted for 9 hours on a full tank.
Before the overload alarm went ON, I managed to get a total power output of running watts and peak watts. At 25% load, it lasted for 12 hours and 10 minutes.
I was using non-ethanol fuel the whole time. You can the full results here.
I can easily compare Westinghouse iGen inverter generator with HONDA EUi in terms of power output, portability, durability, weight, and maintenance. Honda generators are slightly quieter but much more expensive than Westinghouse.
So if you are looking for a quiet portable generator for camping, RV, or tailgating that can support a small AC, fridge, heater, and other small appliances, Westinghouse iGen is 100% recommended.
This might be the best quiet generator.
FEATURES & SPECS
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DuroMax XPiH is one of if not the most modern dual-fuel portable inverter generators on the market. It is loaded with features. It has a massive runtime on gasoline and on a 20-pound propane tank.
This machine doesn&#;t only allow for a 120V output but is packed with running watts on gasoline and running watts on propane. It is also parallel capable if you need a bit of extra power.
DuroMax XPiH is an extremely compact and lightweight generator that is rated at 52dB on 25% load. This makes it perfect for tailgating and camping which is why its sale is increasing day by day.
The built quality is rigid and really good. It comes with a nice set of wheels. The customer service is also excellent.
So out of the box, this quiet inverter generator comes with a wrench, spark plug tool, a funnel, a screwdriver, its parallel cable, and an adapter (30amp RV). Comes with everything you need.
Features of DuroMax XPiH portable generator.
I conducted a noise test from 22 feet away with ECO mode off at no load. I got about 58dB. On ECO MODE, again from 22 feet away, I got 54 to 55dB.
In real-time, the noise that it makes is not that pungent. I don&#;t know why it was reading at 54dB. It should have been less. So I can safely say it is one of the quietest inverter generators.
I also conducted a load test on gas and propane. Firstly, I tried to get over running watts by powering a -watt light system.
I am not surprised, because one of my buddies works in DuroMax Company and he told me about its performance.
After the load test, I conducted a runtime test.
DuroMax XPiH dual-fuel portable inverter generator is an ideal outdoor generator with super runtime, decent power output, noiseless performance, and compact dimensions. You will have all these features at a budget-friendly price.
Check out our guide about the top-rated food truck generators
FEATURES & SPECS
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WEN i is one of the quietest portable generators on the market that is very popular among campers and RV owners.
This is a compact and modern-looking inverter generator with an amazing form factor. It packs a lot of power in a tiny body, and it has a USB port to charge cellphones and similar gadgets.
The inverter technology in this generator produces a pure sine wave with less than 3% harmonic distortion under no load and 1.2% harmonic distortion under full load.
I have personally charged my cellphone and laptop using the USB port. It is perfectly safe for power-sensitive appliances.
One of the main selling points of the WEN i portable generator is its design. It is very tiny and portable, the design makes it easy to carry around.
It is virtually noiseless if it is kept away from the camp. On ECO-MODE, from 15 feet away, the noise it makes is 55 dB.
Without ECO-MODE, from 15 feet away, I received 58dB during my noise test.
I also conducted load and runtime tests. For the load test, I gave it 750 watts and slowly increased the load to watts. WEN i was running fine, with no overload alarm.
I also ran my BTU AC on it without any problem. Later I pushed to check if it could cross running watts, and it did. The maximum I got was running watts before the overload alarm went ON.
I was running only one motor-drive appliance because it consume a lot of starting watts.
Its fuel efficiency is amazing. The 1-gallon tank gave me 6 hours and 21 minutes at 50% load. The Eco-throttle mode adjusts the engine speed according to the power demand to save fuel and reduce noise.
The only problem I see is the mess I create whenever I try to change the oil. A small rubber ramp under the oil plug will drain the oil away from the generator.
Other than that, the WEN i portable inverter generator is ideal for tailgating and camping. It doesn&#;t create any noise and it is easily one of the quietest inverter generators.
FEATURES & SPECS
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Champion W uses open-frame quiet technology is reduce as much noise as possible. It is almost 50% lighter and close to 2% quieter than a traditional champion W generator.
Champion W portable generator is specially designed for RVs, tailgating, and homes where neighbors can&#;t tolerate noise. It might not be one of the quietest portable generators on the market but is a quiet generator for the house.
It packs a whopping running watts in a small body. The power it generates is clean and safe with less than 35% harmonic distortion, it is a cost-effective power solution.
It is a bit lighter than I expected but it is still heavy, it is not the easiest thing to move around, I was expecting a wheel kit.
Let&#;s talk about some of the features of this generator.
So Champion W portable generator has advanced quiet technology to suppress as much noise as possible for a -watt generator. I conducted a noise test of my own from 23 feet at 25% load.
The result I got was 63 to 64dB which is excellent for a -watt generator. It is perfect for situations where you don&#;t want to disturb your neighbors.
I also did some load and runtime tests. I gave it around 30% load of my RV in intervals. It lasted for 17 hours and 3 minutes on a 2.9 gal tank.
Though I was using non-ethanol fuel, Champion W&#;s fuel economy is fantastic.
So overall I would say Champion W is an excellent portable generator that can be used for residential purposes as well. It is super quiet, highly portable, and powerful, the built quality is good, and it saves a lot of fuel on Eco-mode.
FEATURES & SPECS
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Despite being a super small and budget-friendly inverter generator, Briggs & Stratton P is very powerful and extremely quiet even under 100% load. Easily one of the quietest portable generators
The built quality is excellent. The entire frame is made of matt-finished hard plastic with carrying handles on the top and rubber legs at the bottom. Carrying handles makes it easier to carry around. Trust me these small details matter.
Briggs & Stratton P has a computer-maintained 111cc engine that maintains clean, consistent, and fuel-efficient power thats also quiet.
It is like the Eco-mode, but more efficient. The computer-modulated engine will adjust the load according to the power demand to save fuel.
It is not as quiet as a HONDA or a champion generator, but it offers running watts at a cheaper price which is above the typical -watt rating, and a lot of people purchase this unit for camping, so I put it on my list.
One thing I would like to mention is the 20amp plugs generate 14.7 amps. So just be careful before plugging in any device that consumes more than 14 amps.
I get it that Briggs & Stratton made it that way to make it as much as noiseless as possible, but 14.7 amps!? Well just remember it is not full 20amp outlets.
Before I conducted the noise test, I turned ON the quiet mode when I was only charging my cellphone, and using my laptop. The generator didn&#;t make any noise, it was virtually noiseless.
So from 25 feet away at 30% load, I got about 57 to 59dB which is very quiet. When you turn OFF the quiet technology mode, it gets a bit louder but nothing significant.
For the load test. I gave it about load and it worked OK without really getting loud. I also crossed the running watts just for a moment but the overload alarm quickly went ON. It works fine for the power tools as well.
Don&#;t run AC and microwave together. It only gives 14.7amps output. That is the reason my cousin purchased a P to make a parallel connection.
I ran it on a full tank for about 25% load and it lasted for 8 hours. The fuel efficiency of the Briggs & Stratton P portable generator is excellent.
So overall Briggs & Stratton P inverter generator is quiet, it is nice and small, easy to carry, it generates safe power, and the fuel economy is really good, but it only generates 14.7amps which is a bummer.
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I am putting Westinghouse iGen on this quietest inverter generator list because it is one of the highest-sold portable generators in history.
Though it is not as quiet as a -watt camping generator, it is silent enough and powerful enough to put it on this list.
Its super quiet portable inverter engine produces running watts in that compact and portable body.
The power is absolutely clean with less than 3% harmonic distortion so that we can charge our cellphones, laptops, and other sensitive devices.
Westinghouse iGen is RV-ready with a 30amp travel trailer plug, it has 120V 20amp household plugs, USB ports, and a parallel connection port.
The remote control they provide works from a distance of 200+ feet away, it also includes a plug to trickle charge your battery.
Westinghouse iGen is a bit heavy compared to other quiet portable generators on this list which makes it a bit too heavy for camping.
But,
The suitcase-style design makes it easier to carry and move and besides, it is super quiet which is why I am recommending it.
The super quiet inverter technology of Westinghouse iGen doesn&#;t produce much noise even under high load, but I conducted a noise test anyway.
From a distance of 15 feet away under efficiency mode with 50% load, I was getting 60 to 61dB.
You will be using your generator at least 40 to 50 feet away from the camp or RV, so don&#;t expect much noise.
You can check the full noise test results in our detailed review of iGen .
I also conducted a load test. I powered my AC, heater, microwave, and some small devices. The power output I got was watts, 119V, and 30.43amps. I pushed it too, I got running watts for a moment before the overload light went ON.
I also got a full 18-hour runtime on the full tank as the advertisement claimed. Westinghouse iGen is a pretty fuel-efficient generator.
So overall Westinghouse iGen super quiet inverter generator is incredible even under high load. It works perfectly for camping, RVs, and homes. I often use it as an emergency backup power source, because it is a quiet generator for the house.
There is a huge gap in the market for a midsize generator that can operate silently for outdoor activities, and Westinghouse iGen has filled that gap for some time now.
The thing I don&#;t like is it creates a lot of mess when you change the oil, and almost 50% of the shipping Westinghouse iGen generators have this choke issue.
If the generator doesn&#;t start as it is supposed, then there are chances that the choke is not open entirely.
Behind the side panel, you would notice that the choke is halfway closed. The next thing is, to look for the cable that comes right from the carburetor and goes to the lower right side of the generator.
Open the front panel, don&#;t push it too hard. You will see a disconnected cable. It goes to the lower right side beneath the vent into a little black module.
The reason to look for the quietest portable generators is to avoid an earful from neighbors and to spend a quiet time without worrying about loud and unpleasant generator noise.
But, that doesn&#;t mean we ignore other factors like power output, portability, budget, fuel capacity, and overall convenience.
That is why we have gathered a list of things that should be considered when choosing the best quiet generator.
It is a no-brainer that the quietest portable generators mean less noise pollution.
A quiet suburb with conversation in a home is about 48 to 50 dBA.
We have talked about portable generators, and people often purchase portable generators for either camping, RV, or homes with zero tolerance to noise.
So look for anything between 50 to 65dB in your portable generator.
It depends on the user how much power output he/she wants. For a typical quiet portable generator, starting watts, and to running watts is a standard for camping, RV, and tailgating, but people often choose running watts generators like Westinghouse iGen.
A good way to know how much power output you need is to calculate the wattage of the appliances you want to run.
Watts = Amps x Volts
Always purchase a generator with a few extra hundred watts than your original need. Motor-driven appliances use more power output (starting watts) to overcome inertia before they settle down to their original power requirement.
I would suggest not going beyond running watts if you want a quiet portable generator. Beyond that, even inverter generators make some noise unless you are going for those expensive HONDA inverters.
At least 1 gal fuel capacity is a must even for an ultra-portable gasoline generator. Nobody wants to get up and fill the tank in the middle of the night.
The quietest portable generators are often fuel-efficient. If they are not, don&#;t purchase them.
I have only added those units to my list that are highly fuel-efficient. They mostly last for 6+ hours on 50% load which is a standard for inverters.
I would suggest looking for a generator that automatically adjusts the engine speed according to power requirements to save fuel and reduce noise like Westinghouse iGen , DuroMax XPiH, Champion W, and Briggs & Stratton P.
Nobody likes to carry around heavy machines. Everyone wants a portable and lightweight inverter generator that can power up most of the things that we want.
Generators over 100 pounds in weight are often noisy except for Westinghouse iGen. If you want a quiet unit, the size has to be compact, and it should be lightweight.
The quietest inverter generators are often lightweight and portable. For camping and RVs, saving space means a lot, so I would suggest looking for something portable, yet powerful like the generators I have mentioned in this list.
Anything between 40 to 60 pounds is fine.
We are living in the modern era, following features are needed in modern portable generators for convenience.
If you want to improve your camping trip in a remote location, look for something portable, lightweight, and less noisy. That generator can also be used as an emergency backup power source without disturbing the neighbors.
I would advise going for the quietest inverter generator that can at least run an AC in a remote location. Portability and noiseless performance are appreciable, but we also need some power to run some devices.
Fortunately, the 7 best quiet portable generators on our list are not only quiet, lightweight, compact, budget-friendly, and durable, but powerful and fuel-efficient as well.
What portable generator is the quietest?
HONDA EUi from our list is the quietest with noise levels ranging from 53 to 54dB from 40 feet away at 100 %load.
How many decibels is considered quiet for a generator?
Anything under 60dB is considered a quiet generator. The quietest portable generators should produce 50 to 60dB of noise.
Can a muffler reduce generator noise?
A muffler works as a noise suppressor. It reduces a great amount of noise. Nowadays generators have built-in mufflers to make it as quiet as possible for camping and stuff.
Alex Black
Alex Black is a seasoned electrical engineer with a remarkable 8-year track record specializing in appliances, generators, and transfer switches. With extensive hands-on experience in the field, Alex possesses a deep understanding of electrical systems and their intricate workings. Throughout their career, Alex has consistently demonstrated expertise in designing, troubleshooting, and maintaining various electrical appliances.
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Generators provide portable electricity for emergencies, on jobsites, or even camping trips, but finding a quiet generator can pose a challenge. We wanted to find out if generators advertised as being quiet really were, so we decided to test eight best-selling models. Our goal was to determine how noisy they were and whether they were easy to use and produced adequate power. Real-life testing gave us the answers we needed to recommend these generators.
Ahead, find out how each of the following models earned a spot on our list of the best quiet generators as well as some important considerations to keep in mind when shopping.
Photo: Debbie Wolfe for Bob VilaAs technology improves, generator manufacturers continue to tweak their products to make them quieter and more efficient. We researched more than 35 different generators before selecting several top-rated models for hands-on testing. We considered some of the best generator brands, but we also looked at customer satisfaction, power output, cost, and noise level.
We&#;ve tested more than 20 generators for various guides, and as a rule, they tend to be loud, with many sounding about as loud as gas-powered lawn equipment. The quietest portable generators are typically compact computer-controlled inverters with efficient motors, advanced mufflers, and adaptable power output. While a traditional generator runs at the same speed no matter what you plug into it, an inverter generator self-regulates, which prevents wasted energy, making them among the most efficient generators.
For this list, we focused on generators with inverter engines that run at 60 decibels (dB) or less. That is about the level of a normal conversation or a running dishwasher. We also looked at solar generators, which produce little to no noise at all.
Then, the real work began. Test team members assembled the models they were assigned, carefully followed the instructions for fueling and safety, and then powered up the generators and started testing. We plugged in a variety of tools, appliances, and other items while using an online wattage calculator to help us estimate the correct wattage for each model. We paid close attention to the amount of noise the generators produced, and we also assessed ease of use, power, portability, and overall value.
Products tested: 8
Hours spent testing: 83
Tests performed: 5
Average price: $798
These generators made our list by providing power for various needs without creating earsplitting noise. No matter your power needs, if you&#;re looking for a quiet way to generate electricity, one of these generators may very well fit the bill.
Photo: amazon.com
This Bob Vila Approved product carries our brand&#;s highest level of recommendation.
Bob Vila Approved recognizes the household and DIY products that impressed us most in our real-world testing and that exemplify core values of the Bob Vila brand, including craftsmanship, innovation, and value for the dollar. Winners of this designation come recommended by our professional review team and are personally approved by Bob Vila.
Our Ratings: Ease of Use 5/5; Noise 4/5; Portability 4/5; Power 5/5; Value 4/5
Product Specs
What We Like
What We Don&#;t Like
The Honda EUi inverter generator offers an excellent combination of portability, reliability, easy operation, and low noise, making it a great option for tailgating, camping, picnics, and other on-the-go outdoor events. Though it&#;s not a completely noiseless generator, its engine sound easily gets lost in the background. This inverter generator has a Honda GXR120 commercial series engine that delivers 120 volts and up to 2,200 peak watts and 1,800 running watts. A 125V-20A duplex outlet allows users to plug in two electrical cords, just like a wall outlet at home.
We used it to power a full-size refrigerator for 4 hours, burning about a half tank of gas. In another test, we plugged in a portable table saw and miter saw on a jobsite for a whole workday. The current was clean and consistent, and we didn&#;t trip the breaker once. We also added a USB hub to charge a and laptop.
This generator is compatible with the Honda My Generator mobile app for remote monitoring and is parallel ready for use with a second Honda EUi. (Connection kit is sold separately.) It also features a built-in carbon monoxide sensor and safety shutoff. Its molded plastic handle sits behind the fuel tank opening for balanced carrying despite its nearly 50-pound weight.
Our only complaint was that there was no built-in USB port, so we had to unplug a three-prong extension cord on a tool that draws nearly 10A to charge a device using less than 3A. Still, its mix of impressive features makes this quiet portable generator a great option in a variety of scenarios.
Get the Honda quiet generator at Amazon, Lowe&#;s, The Home Depot, or Northern Tool + Equipment.
Photo: amazon.com
Our Ratings: Ease of Use 4/5; Power 4.5/5; Portability 5/5; Noise 4/5; Value 4.5/5
Product Specs
What We Like
What We Don&#;t Like
The Pulsar -watt inverter generator is a great option for powering small tools and devices for up to 8 hours. With a 1.18-gallon fuel tank and the ability to run either gasoline or propane, the generator supplies up to 1,800 watts while running, peaking at 2,200 watts on startup.
Setup was a bit difficult at first. To access the oil fill port we had to remove a side panel, and doing so required some manual force. Once we were able to pop the panel off, getting the generator ready to start for the first time took only a couple of minutes. With just a couple of pulls on the recoil start, the engine came to life quickly.
Our test rig included a couple of heat guns and hair dryers running at the same time on different high and low settings to vary the load. We found the generator handled 1,800 watts as advertised but noise levels were higher. Pulsar states that this generator runs at approximately 60 dB, about the sound level of conversation, but to us, it sounded about as loud as a vacuum cleaner.
Even though it was a bit louder than we hoped, we found that this generator is a great option, particularly at this price point, for light-duty power needs such as small DIY projects and powering a couple of household appliances during an outage.
Get the Pulsar quiet generator at Amazon or Walmart.
Photo: amazon.com
Our Ratings: Ease of Use 4/5; Power 4/5; Portability 5/5; Noise 5/5; Value 5/5
Product Specs
What We Like
What We Don&#;t Like
The Maxoak Bluetti solar generator may not pack as much power as many of the other generators on this list, but in terms of a quiet, energy-efficient option for small appliances and devices, it&#;s a winner. It&#;s a virtually noiseless generator&#;emitting no sound when powering devices and appliances, and it measured only 43 dB when we charged via an AC outlet. This small generator weighs under 50 pounds and is just a bit bigger than a large briefcase at 19.4 inches long by 6.5 inches wide by 14.4 inches high. It has two AC outlets, one DC plug, and five USB ports, making it best suited for emergency use, portable power needs, or camping.
In testing, we used the Bluetti to run a mini fridge, corded stick vacuum, CPAP machine, and several other small appliances and cordless tool chargers. We even plugged it into a washing machine and were impressed that the generator had enough peak and running power to do a full cycle without tripping the overload protector. However, it was hard to tell how much of the battery the tests were using, as the Bluetti&#;s power status is displayed via a battery icon divided into five segments.
Having tested other solar generators that show an actual battery percentage, we found this pictorial representation confusing and less specific than we would have liked. Still, for 1,000 watts of power and two 200-watt foldable solar panels (with pass-through charging!), this portable silent generator is an excellent value that provides peace of mind for basic backup needs.
Get the Maxoak quiet generator at Amazon or Maxoak.
Photo: amazon.com
Our Ratings: Ease of Use 5/5; Noise 4/5; Portability 4/5; Power 4.5/5; Value 4.5/5
Product Specs
What We Like
What We Don&#;t Like
It&#;s hard to beat Westinghouse&#;s 4,500-watt iGen inverter for power output, versatility, and portability. This gasoline-only generator has a 3.4-gallon tank that can run up to 18 hours. It operates at just 52 dB(A), which is quieter than normal conversation. This was a significant upside for us as travel trailer owners because RV parks are notorious for looking down on earsplitting generators.
This quiet backup generator offers a variety of power ports, including a 30A outlet, two 20A outlets, and two USB ports. It&#;s not the most powerful model we tested, but it excelled in running grinders, saws, and the electric-based essentials in a travel trailer while also charging digital devices. It weighs nearly 105 pounds without fuel, so it was challenging (but worth the effort) for just one of us to lift it into and out of the truck bed. Setting it up was a snap&#;we added oil and filled the tank with gas, and we were in business. While this would be a great emergency generator, we think it&#;s one of the best quiet generators for camping, RV-ing, and remote powering.
Get the Westinghouse quiet generator at Amazon, Tractor Supply Co., or Walmart.
Photo: amazon.com
Our Ratings: Ease of Use 4/5; Power 4.5/5; Portability 3/5; Noise 4/5; Value 4.5/5
Product Specs
What We Like
What We Don&#;t Like
Although today&#;s quiet portable generators are much less intimidating than older equipment, their operation isn&#;t always as straightforward as it could be. With the Generac iQ, that&#;s not the case. It comes with a push-button starter, an easy-to-read LCD screen for monitoring power output and fuel level, and an abundance of electrical outlets.
Out of the box, the starter battery was depleted, so we pulled the recoil cord to start it. Because the product documents did not include noise ratings, we measured them with no load. In Eco mode at a distance of 5 feet, the engine noise registered 56 dB(A), and in normal mode, the reading was 61 dB(A). Even at the higher noise level, we could easily talk to one another without raising our voices. The LCD screen was easy to read and navigate. We especially appreciated the projected time left to operate on the remaining fuel level, given the current power output.
After charging the battery for an hour at idle, we shut the generator off and tried the push button. It worked perfectly. Available power outlets include a 20A duplex outlet, a 30A connection, and two USB ports. Thanks to the clean and consistent power, we had no qualms about charging our phones on the USB ports while we worked. RVers will want to take note that the 30A outlet is not &#;RV-ready.&#; The outlet on the iQ is a 120V L5-30R, so an adaptor will be needed to interface with a TT-30P power cord.
At 109.1 pounds, the Generac iQ is not lightweight, but it&#;s a small price to pay for its quiet operation, performance, and versatility.
Get the Generac quiet generator at Amazon, Tractor Supply Co., Walmart, or Generac.
Photo: amazon.com
Our Ratings: Ease of Use 4.5/5; Noise 4/5; Portability 4/5; Power 4/5; Value 5/5
Product Specs
What We Like
What We Don&#;t Like
Inverter generators are preferred for their clean voltage and quiet operation. But air quality also counts, which makes the CARB-compliant Craftsman 3,000-watt inverter generator a great option. While Craftsman doesn&#;t provide a spec for this generator&#;s noise level, we measured it from 5 feet away in Eco mode at 59 dB(A) and Normal mode at 61 dB(A). At these noise levels, it&#;s quiet enough for use in campgrounds and dense urban environments.
This inverter generator comes equipped with a 30A outlet suitable for powering an RV, which we did with the help of a plug adapter. However, operating at 50 percent electrical load, the relatively small 1-gallon gas tank is only enough to run 4.5 hours, which may not be enough to power an RV air conditioner through a hot night. We used the Craftsman to cool a 17-foot travel trailer from 85 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit in 1.5 hours, and it used a half tank of gas. Separately, we used it to power everything except the air conditioner (microwave, electrical outlets, and already cold refrigerator) for 1.5 hours of meal prep, eating, and cleanup. In the second scenario, it only used about a quarter tank of gas.
The Craftsman inverter generator also features two USB-A ports to support electronic devices and two ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI)-protected household-style three-prong outlets. With one person using those outlets to power a portable table saw and a 12-inch miter saw for intermittent cuts, the generator ran a full day on a single tank of gas.
With its low noise, low emissions, and compact portability, this quiet generator makes a good power source for a variety of off-grid applications.
Read our full review: Craftsman -Watt Inverter Generator
Get the Craftsman quiet generator at Amazon.
Photo: amazon.com
Our Ratings: Ease of Use 4.5/5; Noise 4/5; Portability 4/5; Power 5/5; Value 4/5
Product Specs
What We Like
What We Don&#;t Like
The Wen DF250i 2,500-watt is a quiet dual-fuel generator that runs on propane or gas. Switching it from gas to propane simply requires attaching a propane tank, and the machine changes automatically between the two fuel sources if one runs out. The Wen has two USB ports and two standard household outlets, which are adequate for powering a small jobsite or handling the needs of a campsite.
When we tested the generator with a circular saw that required significant power (1,500 watts), the machine bogged down briefly before ramping back up and holding steady. This didn&#;t happen when testing electronics with less significant power needs. Although the manufacturer suggests installing an altitude kit when using the machine at altitudes above 3,000 feet, we performed our testing without it at just over 5,000 feet and experienced no issues.
As far as noise goes, we found that it wasn&#;t difficult to carry on a conversation&#;even with the generator running just a few feet away.
Get the Wen quiet generator at Amazon, Walmart, Northern Tool + Equipment, or Wen.
Photo: homedepot.com
Our Ratings: Ease of Use 5/5; Noise 4/5; Portability 4/5; Power 4/5; Value 5/5
Product Specs
What We Like
What We Don&#;t Like
The Ryobi 2,300-watt gas generator was a pleasure to test. The app walked us through setup and then showed the same readings as the LED panel during operation. We liked the convenience of monitoring the generator&#;s status while sitting comfortably indoors and being able to turn it off using the app. You can&#;t start the machine that way, though, which is probably smart in terms of safety.
For our tests, we plugged in several work lights and various power tools, including a circular saw, reciprocating saw, jig saw, hammer drill, and sander. The Ryobi lagged a bit when we tried to run a table saw and didn&#;t provide enough juice for a heated T-shirt press, which draws high wattage. Otherwise, it met our needs. The generator is pretty quiet. We could talk easily over it without raising our voices.
While this little generator won&#;t power a jobsite or all the appliances in a home, it&#;s perfect for lower-power uses.
Get the Ryobi quiet generator at The Home Depot.
There are a variety of factors to consider when shopping for a quiet generator. In this section, we take a closer look at these factors to help you find a model that provides enough power and portability at the lowest decibel levels.
Wattage is typically the most critical factor to consider when buying a quiet generator. While generators have different wattage ratings, here&#;s an important point to remember: The higher the wattage rating, the higher the power output. Higher wattages usually mean larger, more expensive units (with the largest being standby generators), but quiet generators are usually compact and small, providing moderate power output for laptops, smartphones, and other small devices.
Those in the 1,000- to 1,600-watt range are great for camping and minor jobsite use, but not for home backup. For that, a minimum of 2,000 watts is recommended (to run an oven or large refrigerator), although 3,000 watts or more will be needed to run several items concurrently. Every electrical device has a label with the watts rating on it, which may help when deciding which generator to buy.
Quiet inverter generators typically use gasoline as a fuel source, and dual-fuel models can run on propane, too. This is a big advantage, as it allows you to choose fuel based on your specific needs, such as power output requirements, fuel availability in the area, and the fuel type available.
Inverter generators have an isolated gasoline tank with a fuel capacity that ranges from as small as 2 gallons to more than 10 gallons. The larger the generator fuel tank, the longer it will be able to provide gasoline-based power, but the size of the generator itself also increases.
Fuel capacity has no bearing on how much propane can be used with the generator (making propane generators worth a look for those who need versatility in these machines). Propane gas is stored under pressure in canisters, which attach to the generator with a hose and pressure regulator for direct fuel consumption.
Quiet inverter generators are less noisy than large or open-framed models, often in the 50- to 60-decibel range. To better understand generator noise output, here are some common comparable sounds:
The quietest inverter generators also use sensors to detect how much power they need to expend, throttling down for smaller loads and producing lower noise levels.
We&#;ve included one solar generator on our list, although solar generators function differently from traditional generators. A solar generator is basically a portable power station that can be charged via solar panels, though some can also charge via an electrical outlet. Solar generators don&#;t produce as much energy, but they&#;re completely silent, eco-friendly, and can be used when no gasoline or propane is available. (Note that, like the Maxoak Bluetti above, they may make a small amount of noise when charging via an AC outlet.)
Physical size and weight are also worth considering, particularly if you intend to regularly transport the generator. Since these units are meant to provide power where it is needed, small inverter generators are usually top-handled or side-handled units that can be picked up with one hand and carried with relative ease, as they&#;re typically around 40 to 60 pounds.
Heavier units weighing up to 100 pounds come with wheel kits to make portability easier. Both constructions are compact enough to bring to the campsite, stow in the car, or keep in the garage for when backup power is needed.
Quiet generators may be equipped with features that make their operation as convenient as possible. These include:
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions we get from shoppers who are looking for the best generators for their homes.
Q. What is considered quiet for a generator?A range of 50 to 60 decibels is considered quiet for a generator. Unlike many traditional generators, which operate at loud volumes, modern inverter models are much quieter.
Q. Why are inverter generators so quiet?Inverter generators don&#;t use alternators like typical open-framed models, which require the engine to work harder and produce more heat and noise. For that reason, inverter generator engines run more quietly. In addition, manufacturers can close them inside plastic housing for even better noise control without overheating.
Q. Do generators have to be maintained?Just like your car, a generator&#;s engine requires periodic maintenance. This includes routine oil changes, such as after 20 hours of use for a brand-new generator and every 100 hours of use afterward, cleaning the air filter after 100 hours of operation, and ensuring that it runs for 20 or 30 minutes at least once every 3 months. Manufacturer recommendations will vary given the machine.
Q. Can I leave my generator running overnight?It depends on the type of generator. A small portable generator may need a break from running after 8 to 12 hours (check your owner&#;s manual), while a standby generator is designed to run continuously if needed.
Operating a portable fuel-powered generator overnight may not be safe unless someone is awake to monitor it. While today&#;s manufacturers take precautions to make their generators as safe as possible, there is always a risk of fire if something flammable gets too near the generator. Additionally, fuel-powered generators produce carbon monoxide, a toxic gas that can be hazardous if inhaled. In addition to not running a generator overnight unmonitored, don&#;t run one in a basement, a garage, or any enclosed space. Always follow the manufacturer&#;s instructions for safe operation.
Mark Wolfe is a writer and product tester, focused on mechanical durability and user convenience. As a green industry veteran and an avid DIYer, he has gained valuable insight on choosing dependable power equipment, and avoiding poor-quality machinery.
Additional testing performed by Corey Foster, Austin Fracchia, Becky Helzer, Michelle Larson, and Zach Lazzari. The Bob Vila test team is made up of contractors, remodelers, home design enthusiasts, and freelancers from across the nation. Each member is dedicated to delivering high-quality product information to our readers so they can shop with confidence, knowing the products they purchase have been fully tested and vetted.
Additional research was provided by Bob Beacham and Glenda Taylor.
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