Best inverter generators (2026)

An inverter generator makes power that makers describe as clean enough for electronics, and the small ones are light and quieter than an open-frame generator. This page compares 41 of them, from compact 2,200 to 2,800-watt models of about 40 to 55 lb to wheeled home backup inverters with a 240V outlet for a transfer switch. Every figure is the maker's or the retailer listing's, read on the date in each card's notes: running and starting watts on gasoline, fuel, the carbon monoxide feature under the maker's own name where the listing gives one (Honda's CO-MINDER, Generac's COsense, Champion's CO Shield, WEN's CO Watchdog, DuroMax's CO Alert, or a listed CO Sensor), listed noise and weight. We haven't run these ourselves.

By Tom Calder · Updated November 8, 2026 · 41 products, 39 of 41 price-tracked

Inverter generators compared for US households

Our picks by size

Best inverter for the fridge and more 4.5

Photo: Amazon

Champion 4500W Dual Fuel

3,500 W · 4,500 W · Gasoline or propane · 99.2 lb

Running a fridge, furnace fan and lights at once

ResearchedRead our review →What it runs →

$999 at Amazon

as of Nov 8, 2026, 5:17 PM ET · Details

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.

In stock

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Best light inverter for the essentials 4.5

Photo: Amazon

Honda EU2200i

1,800 W · 2,200 W · Gasoline · 47.4 lb

The benchmark quiet inverter generator

ResearchedRead our review →What it runs →

$1,199 at Amazon

as of Nov 8, 2026, 5:17 PM ET · Details

In stock

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Best inverter for home backup 4.0

Champion 201239

5,500 W · 7,250 W · Gasoline · 111.6 lb · CO Shield

Smaller homes wanting inverter power and an RV outlet

ResearchedWhat it runs →

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Best big inverter 4.2

Champion 201407

9,000 W · 11,000 W · Gasoline · 200 lb · CO Shield · 64 dBA at 23 ft

Home backup through a transfer switch

ResearchedWhat it runs →

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Not sure what size you need? Tick what you'd run and see the wattsOpen the calculator →

All 41 compared

Show

Generator	Running watts	Starting watts	Fuel	Weight	CO safety (maker's term)	Noise (as listed)	Price
1. Honda EU2200i Inverter Generator Best light inverter for the essentials 1,800 W · 2,200 W · Gasoline · 47.4 lb The benchmark quiet inverter generator 4.5	1,800 W	2,200 W	Gasoline	47.4 lb	—	—	$1,199 at Amazon as of Nov 8, 2026, 5:17 PM ET · Details Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product. In stockCheck price →
Our verdict Our verdictResearched The inverter generator other brands are measured against: quiet, fuel-efficient and clean enough power for electronics. Expensive for its output. Best for The benchmark quiet inverter generator Good Quiet and efficient Clean power for electronics Worth knowing Expensive per watt Gasoline only Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you want the most watts for the money. Read the full review →What it runs →
2. Champion 2500-Watt Dual Fuel Inverter Generator 1,850 W · 2,500 W · Gasoline or propane · 43.2 lb Runs on propane too 4.5	1,850 W	2,500 W	Gasoline or propane	43.2 lb	—	—	$575 at Amazon as of Nov 8, 2026, 5:17 PM ET · Details Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product. In stockCheck price →
Our verdict Our verdictResearched A quiet inverter generator that also runs on propane, which stores far longer than gasoline and is easy to buy before a storm. Good value. Best for Runs on propane too Good Dual fuel: gasoline or propane Propane hose included Worth knowing Less output on propane than gasoline is typical Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you'll only ever use gasoline. Read the full review →What it runs →
3. Champion 4500-Watt Electric Start Dual Fuel Inverter Generator Best inverter for the fridge and more 3,500 W · 4,500 W · Gasoline or propane · 99.2 lb Running a fridge, furnace fan and lights at once 4.5	3,500 W	4,500 W	Gasoline or propane	99.2 lb	—	—	$999 at Amazon as of Nov 8, 2026, 5:17 PM ET · Details Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product. In stockCheck price →
Our verdict Our verdictResearched 3,500 running watts is enough to run a fridge, a furnace fan, lights and chargers together, and it runs on gasoline or propane, so you can store fuel that doesn't go stale the way gasoline does. At nearly 100 lb it lives on its wheels, not in a car trunk. Best for Running a fridge, furnace fan and lights at once Good 3,500 running watts Gasoline or propane Electric start Worth knowing About 99 lb Output is usually lower on propane: check the listing Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you need to lift it into a vehicle: a 2,200 W class inverter is half the weight. Read the full review →What it runs →
4. Honda EU3000iS 3000-Watt Inverter Generator (EU3000IS1AN) with Electric Start and CO-MINDER 2,800 W · 3,000 W · Gasoline · CO-MINDER Long overnight runs with electric start 4.5	2,800 W	3,000 W	Gasoline	—	CO-MINDER	—	Check price →
Our verdict Our verdictResearched A 3,000-watt Honda inverter with electric start and a 3.4-gallon tank, listed at 6.9 to 19.6 hours depending on load. The listing says it suits furnaces, refrigerators and most 13,500 BTU RV air conditioners. CO-MINDER is Honda's carbon monoxide shutdown system. Best for Long overnight runs with electric start Good Electric start Long listed run time CO-MINDER shutdown Worth knowing Three outlets only 120V outlets only Listing says not available in California Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you live in California: the listing says it is not available there. What it runs →
5. Honda EU2200i Companion 2200-Watt Inverter Generator (EU2200ITAN5) with CO-MINDER 2,200 W · Gasoline · 53.6 lb · CO-MINDER Small 120V backup and camping with CO shutdown 4.5	—	2,200 W	Gasoline	53.6 lb	CO-MINDER	—	Check price →
Our verdict Our verdictResearched A 2,200-watt Honda inverter at 53.6 lb with two outlets and a 0.95-gallon tank. The listing gives up to 8.1 hours, load not stated. It has CO-MINDER, Honda's carbon monoxide shutdown. Best for Small 120V backup and camping with CO shutdown Good CO-MINDER shutdown 53.6 lb Honda GXR120 engine Worth knowing Short listed run time of 8.1 hours Small tank at 0.95 gallons Listing says not available in California Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you live in California: the listing says it is not available there. What it runs →
6. Honda EU3200i 3200-Watt Inverter Generator (EU3200IAN2) with CO-MINDER 3,200 W · Gasoline · 66.1 lb · CO-MINDER Mid-size 120V backup with CO shutdown 4.4	—	3,200 W	Gasoline	66.1 lb	CO-MINDER	—	Check price →
Our verdict Our verdictResearched A 3,200-watt Honda inverter at 66.1 lb, listed for furnaces, refrigerators and most 13,500 BTU RV air conditioners. It runs up to 8.6 hours on a 1.2-gallon tank, load not stated. CO-MINDER is the maker's carbon monoxide shutdown. Best for Mid-size 120V backup with CO shutdown Good CO-MINDER shutdown 66.1 lb for 3,200 watts LED display Worth knowing One outlet listed Short listed run time of 8.6 hours Listing says not available in California Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you live in California: the listing says it is not available there. What it runs →
7. Champion 201318 4,500-Watt RV Ready Portable Inverter Generator with CO Sensor 3,500 W · 4,500 W · Gasoline · 92.2 lb · CO Sensor · 61 dBA (distance not stated in the listing text) RV outlet and long run time on gas 4.3	3,500 W	4,500 W	Gasoline	92.2 lb	CO Sensor	61 dBA (distance not stated in the listing text)	Check price →
Our verdict Our verdictResearched A 4,500-watt Champion inverter with a 120V 29.2A RV outlet and a 20A household duplex. The listing gives up to 14 hours on 2.3 gallons of gasoline, load not stated, and 61 dBA. It lists a CO Sensor. Best for RV outlet and long run time on gas Good CO Sensor listed RV outlet plus 20A household duplex Parallel-ready with an optional kit Worth knowing 92.2 lb Recoil start only 120V outlets only, no 240V Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you need 240V for a transfer switch: it has 120V outlets only. What it runs →
8. Champion 201324 4,500-Watt Wireless Remote Start Portable Inverter Generator with CO Shield 3,500 W · 4,500 W · Gasoline · 101 lb · CO Shield · 61 dBA (distance not stated in the listing text) Remote start from a key fob 4.3	3,500 W	4,500 W	Gasoline	101 lb	CO Shield	61 dBA (distance not stated in the listing text)	Check price →
Our verdict Our verdictResearched A 4,500-watt Champion inverter that starts from a wireless key fob, with a battery included. The listing gives up to 14 hours on a 2.25-gallon tank, load not stated, and 61 dBA. The model name includes CO Shield, and the features list a CO Sensor. Best for Remote start from a key fob Good Wireless remote start with key fob CO Shield named Parallel ready per the title Worth knowing 101 lb Outlet types not described in the listing text 120V only listed Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you need 240V for a transfer switch: the listing does not describe a 240V outlet. What it runs →
9. Champion 201050 4,000-Watt Dual Fuel RV Ready Portable Inverter Generator with CO Shield 3,000 W · 4,000 W · Gasoline or propane · 51.8 lb · CO Shield · 64 dBA at 23 ft Small dual fuel inverter for essentials 4.3	3,000 W	4,000 W	Gasoline or propane	51.8 lb	CO Shield	64 dBA at 23 ft	Check price →
Our verdict Our verdictResearched A recoil-start inverter that runs on gasoline or propane. It gives 3,000 running watts on gasoline and 2,700 on propane, with a TT-30R outlet for an RV and clean-power household outlets. At 51.8 lb it is a carry-it-yourself size. Best for Small dual fuel inverter for essentials Good Runs on gasoline or propane Under 3% THD household outlet Parallel outlets and propane hose included Worth knowing Recoil start only No 120/240V outlet, so not for a transfer switch 1.54-gallon gas tank Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you need 240V for a transfer switch: it has 120V outlets only. What it runs →
10. Champion 201317 2,500-Watt Ultralight Portable Inverter Generator with CO Sensor 1,850 W · 2,500 W · Gasoline · 39.7 lb · CO Sensor Light camping and small-load backup 4.2	1,850 W	2,500 W	Gasoline	39.7 lb	CO Sensor	—	Check price →
Our verdict Our verdictResearched A 39.7 lb inverter generator with 1,850 running watts, enough for lights, phone chargers and a small appliance or two. The listing gives an 11 hour run time on a 1.1-gallon tank, with the load not stated. It has a CO Sensor and one household duplex outlet. Best for Light camping and small-load backup Good Light at 39.7 lb CO Sensor listed Parallel-ready with an optional kit Worth knowing One 120V household duplex outlet 1,850 running watts is limited for a refrigerator plus other loads Noise level not stated in the listing text Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you need 240V or a 30A outlet: it has 120V outlets only. What it runs →
11. Champion 201407 11,000-Watt Wireless Remote Start Portable Inverter Generator with CO Shield Best big inverter 9,000 W · 11,000 W · Gasoline · 200 lb · CO Shield · 64 dBA at 23 ft Home backup through a transfer switch 4.2	9,000 W	11,000 W	Gasoline	200 lb	CO Shield	64 dBA at 23 ft	Check price →
Our verdict Our verdictResearched An 11,000-watt Champion inverter with a 120/240V 30A locking outlet, for use with a transfer switch or inlet box installed by a licensed electrician. It starts from a key fob and lists 64 dBA at 23 ft. The model name includes CO Shield, and the features list a CO Sensor. Best for Home backup through a transfer switch Good 120/240V 30A locking outlet Wheel kit and battery included CO Shield named Worth knowing 200 lb Gasoline only, no propane option listed Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you want a generator under 100 lb: this one is 200 lb. What it runs →
12. Westinghouse iGen12000TFc 12,000 Peak Watt Tri-Fuel Portable Inverter Generator 9,000 W · 12,000 W · Gasoline, propane or natural gas · 191 lb · CO Sensor Tri-fuel backup with remote start 4.2	9,000 W	12,000 W	Gasoline, propane or natural gas	191 lb	CO Sensor	—	Check price →
Our verdict Our verdictResearched A 12,000-peak-watt Westinghouse inverter that runs on gasoline, propane or natural gas, with remote start and a CO Sensor. The title says transfer switch ready; any hookup is installed by a licensed electrician. It weighs 191 lb. Best for Tri-fuel backup with remote start Good Three fuel options Remote and electric start CO Sensor listed Worth knowing 191 lb Propane and natural gas output not listed Noise not stated Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you want a generator you can lift: it weighs 191 lb. What it runs →
13. Generac iQ5200 DF 5,200-Watt Dual-Fuel Portable Inverter Generator with COsense 3,900 W · 5,200 W · Gasoline or propane · 107 lb · COsense Dual fuel inverter with COsense 4.2	3,900 W	5,200 W	Gasoline or propane	107 lb	COsense	—	Check price →
Our verdict Our verdictResearched A 107 lb electric-start inverter that runs on gasoline (3,900 running watts) or propane (3,500). COsense shuts it down if dangerous CO levels are detected nearby. It has a 30A L5-30R outlet, two GFCI outlets and USB ports. Best for Dual fuel inverter with COsense Good COsense CO shutoff Both fuels' watts listed Electric start with battery included Worth knowing 107 lb No 120/240V outlet for a transfer switch 49-state compliant, not 50 Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you live in California or need 240V: it is 49-state compliant with 120V outlets only. What it runs →
14. Westinghouse iGen2550DFc 2,550 Peak Watt Dual Fuel Super Quiet Lightweight Inverter Generator with CO Sensor 1,900 W · 2,550 W · Gasoline or propane · 43.2 lb · CO Sensor · 52 dBA (as low as; distance not stated) Light dual fuel inverter for small loads 4.2	1,900 W	2,550 W	Gasoline or propane	43.2 lb	CO Sensor	52 dBA (as low as; distance not stated)	Check price →
Our verdict Our verdictResearched A light inverter generator for gasoline or propane with 1,900 rated watts and a TT-30R outlet. Westinghouse lists a CO Sensor and run time up to 11 hours at 25% load. It suits small loads such as phones, lights and a fridge. Best for Light dual fuel inverter for small loads Good About 43 lb CO Sensor Under 3% THD Worth knowing 1,900 running watts No electric start listed No 120/240V outlet Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you need to run big loads: it lists 1,900 rated watts. What it runs →
15. Westinghouse iGen2550 2,550 Peak Watt Portable Inverter Generator with RV-Ready 30A Outlet 1,900 W · 2,550 W · Gasoline · 43.2 lb · As low as 52 dBA (distance not stated) Light unit with a 30A RV outlet 4.1	1,900 W	2,550 W	Gasoline	43.2 lb	—	As low as 52 dBA (distance not stated)	Check price →
Our verdict Our verdictResearched A 43 lb inverter with 1,900 rated watts, a TT-30R RV outlet and two 20A household outlets. The listing gives up to 11 hours on a 1.16-gallon tank, with Economy Mode. It does not state a carbon monoxide shutoff. Best for Light unit with a 30A RV outlet Good TT-30R RV outlet plus two 20A outlets Digital display and hour meter Light at 43.2 lb Worth knowing No CO shutoff stated in the listing Noise distance not given 1,900 rated watts limits what runs at once Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you want a carbon monoxide shutoff: the listing does not state one. What it runs →
16. Westinghouse iGen2800c 2,800 Peak Watt Portable Inverter Generator with CO Sensor 2,200 W · 2,800 W · Gasoline · 47.4 lb · CO Sensor Small backup with a CO Sensor 4.1	2,200 W	2,800 W	Gasoline	47.4 lb	CO Sensor	—	Check price →
Our verdict Our verdictResearched A 47.4 lb Westinghouse inverter with 2,200 running watts and a CO Sensor. The listing shows a fuel gauge, hour meter and USB port, and says it is parallel capable. It gives a 12 hour run time with the load not stated. Best for Small backup with a CO Sensor Good CO Sensor listed Fuel gauge and hour meter Parallel capable Worth knowing Small 0.98-gallon tank Noise not stated Outlet types not described Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you need a 30A or 240V outlet: the listing does not describe one. What it runs →
17. Generac 7127 iQ3500 3,500-Watt Gas-Powered Portable Inverter Generator, CARB Compliant 3,000 W · 3,500 W · Gasoline · 109.1 lb CARB-compliant mid-size with electric start 4.1	3,000 W	3,500 W	Gasoline	109.1 lb	—	—	Check price →
Our verdict Our verdictResearched A 3,000-running-watt Generac inverter with electric start and a battery included. The listing says CARB compliant. At 109.1 lb it is heavy to move, and it does not state a carbon monoxide shutoff. Best for CARB-compliant mid-size with electric start Good Electric start with battery included CARB compliant per the listing 2.6-gallon tank Worth knowing 109.1 lb No CO shutoff stated in the listing Noise not stated Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you want a carbon monoxide shutoff: the listing does not state one. What it runs →
18. Generac 71532 GP3300i 3,300 Starting Watt Gas Powered Portable Inverter Generator with COsense 2,500 W · 3,300 W · Gasoline · 59.5 lb · COsense Mid-size with a 30A twist-lock outlet 4.1	2,500 W	3,300 W	Gasoline	59.5 lb	COsense	—	Check price →
Our verdict Our verdictResearched A 59.5 lb Generac inverter with 2,500 running watts and 3,300 starting watts. It has a 120V 30A twist-lock outlet and COsense, the maker's CO shutdown. The listing gives 7 hours at 25% load on a 1.06-gallon tank. Best for Mid-size with a 30A twist-lock outlet Good COsense CO shutdown 120V 30A twist-lock outlet 59.5 lb Worth knowing Listed as 49 State compliant, not 50-state Noise not stated Some listing rows conflict with each other Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you live in California: the listing says 49 State compliant. What it runs →
19. DuroMax XP11000iH 11,000-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Digital Inverter Generator 9,000 W · 11,000 W · Gasoline or propane · 216 lb · CO Sensor · Under 61 dB at 25% load (distance not stated) Dual-fuel backup with remote electric start 4.1	9,000 W	11,000 W	Gasoline or propane	216 lb	CO Sensor	Under 61 dB at 25% load (distance not stated)	Check price →
Our verdict Our verdictResearched An 11,000-watt DuroMax dual fuel inverter that runs on gasoline or propane, with remote electric start and a CO Sensor. The title says transfer switch ready; any hookup is installed by a licensed electrician. It weighs 216 lb. Best for Dual-fuel backup with remote electric start Good Gasoline or propane Remote electric start 5-year warranty Worth knowing 216 lb Outlet types not described in the listing Propane output not listed Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you want a generator you can lift: it weighs 216 lb. What it runs →
20. WEN DF480iX 4,800-Watt Dual Fuel RV-Ready Electric Start Portable Inverter Generator with CO Watchdog 4,000 W · 4,800 W · Gasoline or propane · 78.5 lb · CO Watchdog Mid-size dual fuel inverter, electric start 4.1	4,000 W	4,800 W	Gasoline or propane	78.5 lb	CO Watchdog	—	Check price →
Our verdict Our verdictResearched An electric-start inverter generator that runs on gasoline or propane and lists 4,000 running watts. It has a fuel shut-off and WEN's CO Watchdog. The listing does not give outlet types or propane output. Best for Mid-size dual fuel inverter, electric start Good Electric start Fuel shut-off Three-year warranty Worth knowing Propane output not stated Outlet types not itemized 78.5 lb is heavy for an inverter of this size Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you need a 120/240V outlet for a transfer switch: the listing shows 120V only. What it runs →
21. Westinghouse iGen4000DFcv 4,000 Peak Watt Dual Fuel Portable Inverter Generator with CO Sensor 3,300 W · 4,000 W · Gasoline or propane · 59 lb · CO Sensor · 52 dBA (as low as; distance not stated) Wheeled dual fuel inverter, 3,300 watts 4.1	3,300 W	4,000 W	Gasoline or propane	59 lb	CO Sensor	52 dBA (as low as; distance not stated)	Check price →
Our verdict Our verdictResearched A recoil-start inverter generator for gasoline or propane with a wheel and handle kit. It lists 3,300 running watts and up to 7 hours on a 1.69-gallon tank. Westinghouse lists a CO Sensor. Best for Wheeled dual fuel inverter, 3,300 watts Good Wheel and handle kit included CO Sensor listed Parallel capable Worth knowing Recoil start Listed run time is 7 hours Outlet types not itemized Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you want electric start: this one is recoil start. What it runs →
22. WEN 56235i Super Quiet 2350-Watt Inverter Generator 1,900 W · 2,350 W · Gasoline · 39 lb Budget inverter that's light to carry 4.0	1,900 W	2,350 W	Gasoline	39 lb	—	—	$429 at Amazon as of Nov 8, 2026, 5:17 PM ET · Details Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product. In stockCheck price →
Our verdict Our verdictResearched A low-priced, 39 lb inverter generator with a fuel shut-off that runs the carburetor dry for storage. Best for Budget inverter that's light to carry Good Low price Light at 39 lb Fuel shut-off Worth knowing Gasoline only Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you want propane as a backup fuel. What it runs →
23. WEN 3600-Watt Portable Inverter Generator (RV-ready) 2,900 W · 3,600 W · Gasoline · 46.3 lb More power without much more weight 4.0	2,900 W	3,600 W	Gasoline	46.3 lb	—	—	$548.31 at Amazon as of Nov 8, 2026, 5:17 PM ET · Details Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product. In stockCheck price →
Our verdict Our verdictResearched 3,600 W (as listed) at 46 lb, enough to add a window AC or a sump pump to the essentials. RV-ready outlet. Best for More power without much more weight Good 3,600 W RV-ready outlet Worth knowing Gasoline only Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if a 2,200 W unit covers your essentials. What it runs →
24. Westinghouse 5000 Peak Watt Super Quiet Inverter Generator (Remote Electric Start) 3,900 W · 5,000 W · Gasoline · 104.7 lb The most running watts of the inverters here, with remote start 4.0	3,900 W	5,000 W	Gasoline	104.7 lb	—	—	$849 at Amazon as of Nov 8, 2026, 5:17 PM ET · Details Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product. In stockCheck price →
Our verdict Our verdictResearched 3,900 rated watts, the most of the inverter generators on this page, with a remote electric start so you don't have to pull a cord in the cold. Gasoline only, and over 100 lb. Best for The most running watts of the inverters here, with remote start Good 3,900 rated watts Remote electric start Fuel gauge Worth knowing Gasoline only Over 100 lb Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you want to store propane instead of gasoline. What it runs →
25. Champion 201239 5,500-Watt Gasoline Open Frame Inverter Portable Generator, with CO Shield Best inverter for home backup 5,500 W · 7,250 W · Gasoline · 111.6 lb · CO Shield Smaller homes wanting inverter power and an RV outlet 4.0	5,500 W	7,250 W	Gasoline	111.6 lb	CO Shield	—	Check price →
Our verdict Our verdictResearched At 5,500 running watts this one can run a refrigerator, a furnace blower and a sump pump together, with room for a few lights; a window air conditioner or a well pump may need a staggered start. The L14-30R locking outlet (rated 22.9A by Champion) is the kind used with a manual transfer switch cord, and CO Shield is the maker's term for its carbon monoxide shutoff. Best for Smaller homes wanting inverter power and an RV outlet Good CO Shield carbon monoxide shutoff Inverter output for electronics L14-30R and TT-30R outlets Worth knowing Gasoline only, no propane option Recoil start only Heavy to carry at 111.6 lb Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you want to run a whole-house load or a large well pump without managing the load. What it runs →
26. Champion 201175 7,000-Watt Dual Fuel Inverter Portable Generator, with CO Shield 7,000 W · 8,500 W · Gasoline or propane · 213.9 lb · CO Shield Essential circuits through a transfer switch, with inverter power 4.0	7,000 W	8,500 W	Gasoline or propane	213.9 lb	CO Shield	—	Check price →
Our verdict Our verdictResearched At 7,000 running watts on gasoline (6,300 on propane) this covers a refrigerator, freezer, furnace blower, sump pump and a window air conditioner, with a 14-50R and an L14-30R outlet for transfer-switch or generator-cord hookups. CO Shield is the maker's term for its carbon monoxide shutoff. Best for Essential circuits through a transfer switch, with inverter power Good CO Shield carbon monoxide shutoff Gasoline or propane 14-50R and L14-30R outlets plus electric start Worth knowing Heavy at 213.9 lb Propane running watts drop to 6,300 14-50R outlet limited to 29.2A per the manual Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you need to carry it up steps or store it in a small space. What it runs →
27. Honda EU7000iS 5,500-Watt Gasoline Inverter Portable Generator, with CO-MINDER (49-State) 5,500 W · 7,000 W · Gasoline · 263 lb · CO-MINDER Quiet, inverter-clean backup for a home, RV or campsite 4.0	5,500 W	7,000 W	Gasoline	263 lb	CO-MINDER	—	$4,899 at Amazon as of Nov 8, 2026, 5:17 PM ET · Details Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product. In stockCheck price →
Our verdict Our verdictResearched At 5,500 rated watts (7,000 maximum) it can run a refrigerator, furnace blower and sump pump with lights, and a window air conditioner as the biggest add. Honda lists a 30A 125/250V locking outlet for a transfer-switch cord, and CO-MINDER is the maker's term for its carbon monoxide shutoff. Best for Quiet, inverter-clean backup for a home, RV or campsite Good CO-MINDER carbon monoxide shutoff Inverter output for electronics Electric start with 30A 125/250V locking outlet Worth knowing Heavy at 263.2 lb Gasoline only, no propane option 49-state model; California buyers need the EU7000iSNAC Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you need more than 5,500 running watts or a unit you can lift. What it runs →
28. DuroMax XP9500iH 7,600-Watt Dual Fuel Inverter Portable Generator with CO Alert 7,600 W · 9,500 W · Gasoline or propane · 216 lb · CO Alert Home backup with cleaner power for electronics 4.0	7,600 W	9,500 W	Gasoline or propane	216 lb	CO Alert	—	$1,999 at Amazon as of Nov 8, 2026, 5:17 PM ET · Details Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product. In stockCheck price →
Our verdict Our verdictResearched At 7,600 running watts on gasoline (7,200 on propane) it covers a refrigerator, furnace blower, sump or well pump and a window AC together. Inverter output is cleaner for electronics, the 14-50R and L14-30R suit a transfer switch or interlock, and the maker lists CO Alert shutdown. Best for Home backup with cleaner power for electronics Good Inverter output with CO Alert 14-50R and L14-30R outlets Runs on gasoline or propane Worth knowing 216 lb dry per maker page Not CARB compliant per maker Propane drops output to 7,200 W Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you live in California, as the maker lists it as not CARB compliant. What it runs →
29. WEN 56280iX 2,800-Watt Inverter Generator with Fuel Shut Off and CO Watchdog 2,250 W · 2,800 W · Gasoline · CO Watchdog Small backup with CO Watchdog named 4.0	2,250 W	2,800 W	Gasoline	—	CO Watchdog	—	Check price →
Our verdict Our verdictResearched A 2,800-watt WEN inverter with 2,250 running watts, two 120V outlets, a 12V outlet and two USB ports. CO Watchdog is named in the title. The listing gives a 9 hour run time with the load not stated. Best for Small backup with CO Watchdog named Good CO Watchdog named 1.58-gallon tank Two 120V outlets plus 12V and USB Worth knowing Weight not stated Noise not stated Recoil start only Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you need a 30A or 240V outlet: it lists 120V outlets only. What it runs →
30. Generac 82512 GP2500i 2,500-Watt Gas Powered Portable Inverter Generator 2,200 W · 2,500 W · Gasoline · 48 lb · CO Sensor · 53 dB(A) at 25% load (distance not stated) Compact Generac for small loads 4.0	2,200 W	2,500 W	Gasoline	48 lb	CO Sensor	53 dB(A) at 25% load (distance not stated)	Check price →
Our verdict Our verdictResearched A 48 lb Generac inverter with 2,200 running watts and two 20A household outlets. The listing gives 8 hours at 25% load and 5.5 hours at 50% load on a 0.95-gallon tank. It names a CO Sensor and is listed as 49 State compliant. Best for Compact Generac for small loads Good CO Sensor listed Run times given at stated loads Parallel-ready with a sold-separately kit Worth knowing Listed as 49 State compliant, not 50-state Small 0.95-gallon tank Some listing rows conflict with each other Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you live in California: the listing says 49 State compliant. What it runs →
31. WEN DF360iX 3,600-Watt Dual Fuel RV-Ready Portable Inverter Generator with CO Watchdog 2,600 W · 3,600 W · Gasoline or propane · 49 lb · CO Watchdog Light dual fuel inverter for camping 4.0	2,600 W	3,600 W	Gasoline or propane	49 lb	CO Watchdog	—	Check price →
Our verdict Our verdictResearched A 49 lb inverter generator that runs on gasoline or propane, with 2,600 running watts listed. It has a TT-30R RV outlet, USB ports and WEN's CO Watchdog. Output is modest, so it suits small loads. Best for Light dual fuel inverter for camping Good 49 lb TT-30R RV outlet and USB ports Tool-free propane connector Worth knowing No electric start listed Propane output not stated Listed run time is 5 hours Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you need to run more than a few essentials: it lists 2,600 running watts. What it runs →
32. WEN DF680iX 6,800-Watt Dual Fuel RV-Ready Electric Start Portable Inverter Generator with CO Watchdog 4,500 W · 6,800 W · Gasoline or propane · 99.2 lb · CO Watchdog Larger inverter that offers 240V output 4.0	4,500 W	6,800 W	Gasoline or propane	99.2 lb	CO Watchdog	—	Check price →
Our verdict Our verdictResearched An electric-start inverter generator for gasoline or propane with a 240V configuration. The listing says it can do low-power Level 2 charging of battery and hybrid electric vehicles. It lists 4,500 running watts; outlet types are not itemized. Best for Larger inverter that offers 240V output Good 240V configuration listed Electric start Fuel shut-off Worth knowing Outlet types not itemized Propane output not stated 99.2 lb Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you need to know the outlet types before buying: the listing does not itemize them. What it runs →
33. Westinghouse iGen5000DF 5,000 Peak Watt Dual Fuel Portable Inverter Generator with Remote Electric Start 3,900 W · 5,000 W · Gasoline or propane · 104.7 lb · 52 dBA (as low as; distance not stated) Electric start inverter with long run time 4.0	3,900 W	5,000 W	Gasoline or propane	104.7 lb	—	52 dBA (as low as; distance not stated)	Check price →
Our verdict Our verdictResearched An electric-start, key-fob inverter generator that runs on gasoline or propane. It lists 3,900 running watts and up to 18 hours on 3.4 gallons of gas, with a data display and an RV-ready TT-30R outlet. The listing does not mention a CO shutoff. Best for Electric start inverter with long run time Good Remote electric start Up to 18 hours on a full tank Data display and Economy Mode Worth knowing 104.7 lb No CO shutoff named in the listing Listing mixes iGen5000DF and iGen4500DF details Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you need 240V for a transfer switch: it has 120V outlets only. What it runs →
34. WEN 56250i 2,500-Watt Inverter Generator with Fuel Shut Off 1,900 W · 2,500 W · Gasoline Basic small inverter for camping and lights 3.9	1,900 W	2,500 W	Gasoline	—	—	—	Check price →
Our verdict Our verdictResearched A 2,500-watt WEN inverter with two 120V outlets, two USB ports and an hour meter. The listing does not state weight, noise or a carbon monoxide shutoff, so check those before you rely on it for home backup. Best for Basic small inverter for camping and lights Good Two 120V outlets and two USB ports Hour meter 3-year limited warranty Worth knowing No CO shutoff stated in the listing Weight and noise not stated Listed run time is only 4 hours, load not stated Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you want a carbon monoxide shutoff: the listing does not state one. What it runs →
35. WEN 56380i 3,800-Watt RV-Ready Inverter Generator with Electric Start 3,400 W · 3,800 W · Gasoline · 99.2 lb RV-style 30A outlet with electric start 3.9	3,400 W	3,800 W	Gasoline	99.2 lb	—	—	Check price →
Our verdict Our verdictResearched A 3,400-watt WEN inverter with electric start and a TT-30R RV outlet. At 99.2 lb it is heavy for its output. The listing does not state noise or a carbon monoxide shutoff. Best for RV-style 30A outlet with electric start Good Electric start TT-30R RV outlet Digital load and fuel display Worth knowing 99.2 lb No CO shutoff stated in the listing 2-year warranty only Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you want a carbon monoxide shutoff: the listing does not state one. What it runs →
36. WEN 56432i 4,500-Watt RV-Ready Inverter Generator with Fuel Shut Off 3,600 W · 4,500 W · Gasoline · 53 lb RV-ready power at a listed 53 lb 3.9	3,600 W	4,500 W	Gasoline	53 lb	—	—	Check price →
Our verdict Our verdictResearched A 4,500-watt WEN inverter with a TT-30R RV outlet, two 120V outlets and USB ports. The listing gives 53 lb and a 5 hour run time with the load not stated. It does not state a carbon monoxide shutoff for this model. Best for RV-ready power at a listed 53 lb Good TT-30R RV outlet Data meter 3-year limited warranty Worth knowing No CO shutoff stated for this model Listed run time is only 5 hours Small 1.27-gallon tank Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you want a carbon monoxide shutoff: this listing does not state one. What it runs →
37. PowerSmart HB5020 2,500-Watt Portable Inverter Generator 1,900 W · 2,500 W · Gasoline · 39.7 lb · 59 dBA at 23 ft Light camping unit with Eco mode 3.8	1,900 W	2,500 W	Gasoline	39.7 lb	—	59 dBA at 23 ft	Check price →
Our verdict Our verdictResearched A 39.7 lb inverter with 1,900 running watts, listed at 59 dBA at 23 ft. It has one 20A duplex outlet, a 12V port and two USB ports. The listing does not state a carbon monoxide shutoff. Best for Light camping unit with Eco mode Good 39.7 lb 59 dBA at 23 ft listed Eco mode Worth knowing No CO shutoff stated in the listing One 120V duplex outlet 2-year warranty only Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you want a carbon monoxide shutoff: the listing does not state one. What it runs →
38. DuroMax XP16000iH 16,000-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Digital Inverter Generator 13,000 W · 16,000 W · Gasoline or propane · 368 lb · CO Sensor · Under 72 dB at 25% load (distance not stated) Large dual-fuel unit with 50A outlets 3.8	13,000 W	16,000 W	Gasoline or propane	368 lb	CO Sensor	Under 72 dB at 25% load (distance not stated)	Check price →
Our verdict Our verdictResearched A 16,000-watt DuroMax dual fuel inverter with two 50A outlets. The title says transfer switch ready; any hookup is installed by a licensed electrician. It runs on gasoline or propane and weighs 368 lb. The listing names a CO Sensor. Best for Large dual-fuel unit with 50A outlets Good Two 50A outlets Gasoline or propane 5-year warranty Worth knowing 368 lb Propane output not listed Needs a transfer switch installed by a licensed electrician for house use Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you want a portable unit one person can move: it weighs 368 lb. What it runs →
39. Pulsar GD400BN 4,000W Portable Dual Fuel Generator, Parallel Capable, RV-Ready, CARB Compliant 3,200 W · 4,000 W · Gasoline or propane · 47.3 lb · 59 dB at half load (distance not stated) Light CARB-compliant dual fuel 3.8	3,200 W	4,000 W	Gasoline or propane	47.3 lb	—	59 dB at half load (distance not stated)	Check price →
Our verdict Our verdictResearched A 47.3 lb dual fuel generator listed as CARB compliant and parallel capable. It lists 3,200 running watts, a 1.1-gallon tank and a 4-hour run time. The warranty is one year. Best for Light CARB-compliant dual fuel Good 47.3 lb CARB compliant Parallel capable Worth knowing Listed run time is 4 hours 1-year warranty No CO shutoff named in the listing Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you want long run time or a CO shutoff named in the listing: it shows 4 hours and none. What it runs →
40. ERAYAK 4500PDM 4,500W Dual-Fuel Portable Inverter Generator with CO Sensor 3,500 W · 4,500 W · Gasoline or propane · 54 lb · CO Sensor · 60 dB at 7 m Compact dual fuel inverter, 3,500 watts 3.8	3,500 W	4,500 W	Gasoline or propane	54 lb	CO Sensor	60 dB at 7 m	Check price →
Our verdict Our verdictResearched A 54 lb dual fuel inverter generator with 3,500 rated watts, 30A RV-ready output (a TT-30R conversion plug is supplied) and a CO Sensor with automatic shut down. It is parallel ready and recoil start. The listing's model names do not match. Best for Compact dual fuel inverter, 3,500 watts Good 54 lb CO Sensor with automatic shut down Parallel ready Worth knowing Model number and name differ in the listing Propane watts not stated Recoil start Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you need 240V for a transfer switch: the listing shows 120V only. What it runs →
41. Generac iQ3800 DF 3,800-Watt Dual-Fuel Portable Inverter Generator with COsense 3,000 W · 3,800 W · Gasoline or propane · 107 lb · COsense Dual fuel inverter with COsense, 3,000 watts 3.6	3,000 W	3,800 W	Gasoline or propane	107 lb	COsense	—	Check price →
Our verdict Our verdictResearched An electric-start inverter generator for gasoline (3,000 running watts) or propane (2,700). Dual COsense sensors shut it down if CO reaches hazardous levels. It weighs 107 lb with wheels and a handle. Best for Dual fuel inverter with COsense, 3,000 watts Good COsense CO shutoff Electric start with backup recoil Propane and gasoline watts listed Worth knowing 107 lb Outlet types not itemized Run time figures in the listing differ Who shouldn't buy it: Don't buy it if you need 240V for a transfer switch: the listing shows no 120/240V outlet. What it runs →

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Who needs one, and who doesn't

A small inverter suits you if you want the refrigerator, lights, phones and Wi-Fi through an outage, or power at a campsite or RV. It won't run a central air conditioner, and the small ones have 120V outlets only, so they can't feed a 240V transfer switch. If you only need phones, lights and a CPAP for a day or two, a battery power station runs indoors, silently and with no fuel, though it holds far less energy. Whatever you buy, it runs outdoors only: Ready.gov says at least 20 feet away from windows, doors and attached garages.

Before you buy

Size it first.

Add the running watts of what you want on at once, then the largest starting surge; our wattage calculator does the sums. A refrigerator and lights fit in about 2,000 running watts; a furnace blower, refrigerator, freezer and sump pump together need a bigger model (see our size pages).

Running watts are what it keeps up; starting (peak) watts are the short burst motors need to start.

Where a listing gives only one figure, or the same figure for both, we show it as starting watts and say so in the notes.

Noise: makers quote dBA at a distance, usually 23 feet, and often at 25% load.

A figure with no distance can't be compared with one that has it, so each card says what the listing says.

Run time is often quoted at 25% load (a quarter of the rated watts), sometimes at 50%, and some listings don't say the load.

Your run time depends on what you plug in, so plan fuel on the shorter, higher-load figure.

Carbon monoxide shutoff.

Look for the maker's named CO shutoff. We name it only when the listing for that exact model does. It does not make a generator safe near the house.

Outlets.

Small inverters have 120V household outlets and often a TT-30R RV outlet. To run wired-in loads like a furnace or well pump, you need a model with a 120/240V L14-30R or 14-50R outlet and a transfer switch installed by a qualified electrician.

California: some listings say a model isn't available there.

Look for CARB compliant if you live in California; the cards say what the listing says.

Dual fuel inverters also run on propane.

Many listings give no propane watts, so check the maker's figure before you size on propane. They're on our dual fuel generators page too.

How we choose

We verify every product's specifications against at least two independent sources, re-check its US price and stock on a schedule where we can track it automatically, and cross-check safety-relevant claims against official guidance. Every review is labeled Researched or Used and reviewed by us: where we've bought a product, or been sent it free, and used it ourselves, its review says which; where we haven't, our verdict is a considered spec-and-evidence comparison, not a hands-on test. When two products are close, commission can decide which one we pick. A clearly better product always wins. Read our full methodology →

Head-to-head

Champion 2500W dual fuel vs WEN 56235i →Honda EU2200i vs Champion 2500W dual fuel →

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Portable generator safety: where to run it, carbon monoxide and cords

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Power outage checklist: what to do before, during and after

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Carbon monoxide poisoning: symptoms, sources, alarms and what to do

What CO poisoning feels like, who is most at risk, common sources in winter and outages, where to put CO alarm…

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Common questions

What is the difference between an inverter generator and a regular generator?

An inverter generator converts its output electronically; makers describe the result as clean power for electronics and many list under 3% total harmonic distortion. Small inverters are lighter and quieter than open-frame generators of the same size. Open-frame models usually give more watts for the size and are the usual choice for whole-home backup through a transfer switch.

What size inverter generator do I need for a refrigerator?

Add the refrigerator's running watts to everything else you want on, then allow for its starting surge. Our wattage calculator shows what each size runs; a 2,000 to 3,000 running-watt inverter covers a refrigerator, lights, phones and Wi-Fi on generator makers' charts.

Can an inverter generator power a house?

A big one can run a lot of it. The larger models here have a 120/240V outlet for a transfer switch installed by a qualified electrician, which is the only safe way to feed house wiring. Never plug a generator into a wall outlet: CPSC calls that backfeeding and says it is extremely dangerous.

How quiet are inverter generators?

The small models here that list noise give figures in the 50s and low 60s dBA. A few give the distance, usually 23 feet; many give no distance, and some give no figure at all. The bigger ones list higher figures. Compare only figures measured the same way.

Can I run a generator with a CO shutoff in the garage?

No. CPSC says never to use a generator inside homes, garages, crawlspaces, sheds or similar areas, even with fans running or doors and windows open, and CDC says never less than 20 feet from any window, door or vent. A CO shutoff stops the engine when carbon monoxide builds up around the generator; it is a backstop, not permission to run one near the house. Fit battery-operated or battery back-up CO alarms in the home too.

Can I run an inverter generator in the rain?

OSHA says to keep a generator dry and not use it in the rain or wet conditions, and to protect it with a canopy if needed. CPSC says that if you must run one when it's wet, use an open, canopy-like structure on a dry surface, away from any building openings. Our generator covers page compares running covers.

Sources (5)

PreparedStates: generator wattage calculator
Ready.gov: Power outagesgenerators outdoors, at least 20 feet from windows, doors and attached garages
CDC: Protect yourself during a power outagegenerators at least 20 feet from any window, door or vent
CPSC: Portable generator safety alert (CO, wet weather, backfeeding)
OSHA: Using portable generators safely, fact sheet OSHA 3286transfer switch, clear space, wet conditions