The Best Inverter Generators of 2024 for Backup Power Almost Anywhere, Tested
Portable generators are crucial during power outages and helpful for remote locations, and inverter generators are the crème de la crème in terms of efficiency.
Similar to traditional models, inverter generators come in different sizes and outputs, but they use a computer-controlled inverter to provide usable power as needed. This makes them lighter, quieter, and more efficient than traditional open-framed generators, which supply a set amount of power regardless of current needs.
Inverters are still relatively new generators on the market, so we wanted to test the bestselling models before making recommendations to our readers. The Bob Vila test team put several brand-name inverter generators to the test at their homes to see how they performed. Our favorite was the Westinghouse iGen4500 Inverter Generator for its incredible portability, efficiency, and handy remote.
Keep reading to learn what sets these generators apart from traditional models and how they fared in our hands-on tests. Our top picks vary in output and intended use, and they are all worthy of their spot in our lineup of the best inverter generators.
- BEST OVERALL: Westinghouse iGen4500 Inverter Generator
- BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Wen DF250i Super Quiet 2500-Watt Dual-Fuel Generator
- BEST CARB-COMPLIANT: Generac iQ3500 Portable Inverter Generator
- BEST BLUETOOTH: Ryobi 2300-Watt Bluetooth Inverter Generator
- BEST DUAL-FUEL: Champion 2000-Watt Dual-Fuel Inverter Generator
- BEST SMALL: Honda 2200-Watt Inverter Generator With CO-Minder
How We Tested the Best Inverter Generators
We researched over 25 different makes and models of inverter generators before selecting several top options for testing. When compiling this list, we considered brands like Champion and Honda since they’re well respected in the generator industry. However, we didn’t automatically cut machines from smaller companies like Wen and Ryobi if they had good features and high customer satisfaction ratings.
For our real-life tests, we assembled the generators and followed the manufacturer’s instructions for fueling and operation. We tried to max out each generator, estimating how many items we could plug in using an online wattage calculator. We powered tools, appliances, heaters, mini AC units, and more, noting how to use the generators and how much noise they emitted when running.
After testing, we awarded each inverter generator points based on a rubric. We assigned them ratings for ease of use, noise, power, portability, and value.
A note on noise level ratings: Many generators are inherently loud. Therefore, we scored each generator’s noise on whether it matched the expected levels set forth by the manufacturer and what would be reasonable given the machine’s wattage. If it was louder than expected, we rated it lower. If it was quieter, we rated it higher.
Testing Stats
Products tested: 7
Hours spent testing: 40.5
Tests performed: 5
Average price: $772
Our Top Picks
The following inverter generators represent some of the best generators currently available. Each one earned its spot by performing well in our hands-on tests. Whatever your power needs may be, there’s likely to be a generator on this list that’ll hit the mark.
Best Overall
Westinghouse iGen4500 Inverter Generator
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 4.5/5; Value 4.5/5
Product Specs
- Wattage: 4,500 peak watts and 3,700 running watts
- Fuel: Gasoline
- Outlets/ports: One 120 volt (V)-30 amp (A) outlet; two 120V-20A outlets; 2 USB-A ports
- Weight: 104.7 pounds
What We Like
- Remote control offers starting and stopping from a distance
- Eco mode saves energy when power draw is minimal
- Extendable handle and wheels make it easy for just 1 person to move
What We Don’t Like
- Not dual fuel; runs on gasoline only with no option for propane
Westinghouse’s iGen4500 inverter generator is both a high-tech and high-functioning model. It offers a variety of power ports, including a 30A, two 20A, and two USB. In our tests, we used it to charge our digital devices while also powering the appliances in our travel trailer. The iGen4500 has a 3.4-gallon gasoline tank that can run up to 18 hours. As an inverter generator, it only burns as much fuel as needed to power the appliances or tools plugged in. This makes it more eco-friendly than a noninverter model that burns fuel at a set rate no matter how much power is being drawn.
However, with a weight of almost 105 pounds without fuel, we found it challenging for one person to lift it into and out of our truck bed. Once on site, its setup was simple: We added oil, filled the gas tank, and were in business. While this would be a great emergency generator, its quiet and efficient operation makes it a top-notch pick for RVs, camping, and remote powering.
Read our full review: Westinghouse iGen4500 Inverter Generator
Get the Westinghouse inverter generator at Amazon.
Best Bang for the Buck
Wen DF250i Super Quiet 2500-Watt Dual-Fuel Generator
Our Ratings: Ease of Use 4.5/5; Noise 4/5; Portability 4/5; Power 5/5; Value 4/5
Product Specs
- Wattage: Gasoline: 2,500 peak watts and 2,000 running watts; propane: 2,250 peak watts and 1,800 running watts
- Fuel: Gasoline or propane
- Outlets/ports: Two 120V-15A AC outlets; 2 USB-A ports
- Weight: 48.5 pounds
What We Like
- Runs on either gas or propane and switches between sources seamlessly
- Not necessarily lightweight at 48.5 pounds, but its small size and handle make it portable and relatively easy to move around
- 2 household outlets and 2 USB ports are sufficient for modest power needs
- Eco-mode adjusts fuel consumption based on load, so appliances and tools requiring less power can run longer
What We Don’t Like
- Discrepancies between illustrations in the manual and on the unit’s tag caused some initial confusion during our tests
We tested the Wen DF250i 2,500-watt dual-fuel generator by plugging in a variety of small electronics, including a circular saw and a shop light. Because the circular saw required significant startup power (1,500 watts), the machine bogged down briefly before ramping up, but then it held steady. For lower-wattage items, we ran the generator in eco-mode, which adjusts fuel consumption based on load size. The generator changed its speed, and since it wasn’t generating more power than needed, it was able to run longer.
At 18.2 inches high by 11.5 inches wide by 19 inches long and weighing 48.5 pounds, the Wen is portable and sized right for small power needs. It runs on propane or gas and features two USB ports and two standard household outlets. It’s ideal for a couple of cell phones, a TV set, and an array of lights at a campsite, or it can provide power to a small jobsite. We tested the generator at an altitude of just over 5,000 feet. Although the manufacturer suggests installing an altitude kit (sold separately) when using the machine above 3,000 feet, we performed our tests without this kit and had no issues.
Get the Wen inverter generator at Amazon, Walmart, Northern Tool + Equipment, or Wen.
Best Carb-Compliant
Generac iQ3500 Portable Inverter Generator
Our Ratings: Ease of Use 4/5; Noise 4/5; Portability 3/5; Power 4.5/5; Value 4.5/5
Product Specs
- Wattage: 3,500 peak watts and 3,000 running watts
- Fuel: Gasoline
- Outlets/ports: Two 120V-20A outlets; one 120V-30A outlet; 2 USB-A ports
- Weight: 109.1 pounds
What We Like
- Easy and reliable startup via a push-button starter and pull-cord backup
- Eco-mode for fuel-efficient idle; automatically increases output when the need arises
- LCD displays output, runtime, and fuel level status in real time
- Parallel ready; 2 iQ3500 generators can be combined for twice the power
What We Don’t Like
- Though well made and versatile, it is expensive compared to similar models
- Weighs more than 100 pounds but does not include wheels to aid transport
When it comes to clean electricity, inverter generators provide a stable current free of voltage spikes and drops. But, not all inverters are “clean” in terms of their impact on air quality. The Generac iQ3500 inverter generator offers the best of both worlds. As a California Air Resources Board (CARB)-compliant inverter generator, it safely and quietly powers sensitive electronic devices while consuming less fuel and emitting less pollution. It comes equipped with a locking 30A outlet, a 20A duplex outlet, and two USB ports to power a wide range of tools and appliances.
Two premium features that set it apart include a large LCD screen that displays power output and fuel levels and a push-button ignition switch. The unit’s 20A duplex receptacle gave it more flexibility for powering high-draw tools and appliances than the 15A alternative on other inverter generators. We used it to power two 1,500-watt space heaters simultaneously for over an hour without tripping the breaker. To test the 30A outlet, we used a three-way service cord to supply a portable table saw, miter saw, and router. Everything worked as smoothly as if plugged into the wall at the shop.
The iQ3500 had a lot of strong points, but easy transport was not one of them. It weighs 109.1 pounds and doesn’t have wheels. Yet this was still one of the all-around favorites for its easy startup, quiet operation, and convenient access to electricity.
Get the Generac inverter generator at Amazon, Tractor Supply Co., Walmart, or Generac.
Best Bluetooth
Ryobi 2300-Watt Bluetooth Inverter Generator
Our Ratings: Ease of Use 5/5; Noise 4/5; Portability 4/5; Power 4/5; Value 5/5
Product Specs
- Wattage: 2,300 peak watts and 1,800 running watts
- Fuel: Gasoline
- Outlets/ports: Two 120V-20A outlets; 2 USB-A ports
- Weight: 52 pounds
What We Like
- Fast and easy to assemble; takes under 10 minutes and has no complicated steps
- Convenient monitoring of the generator’s status from a distance via Bluetooth technology
- Powers a range of tools, small appliances, and digital devices
What We Don’t Like
- Not suitable for powering wattage-hungry appliances such as heat presses
The Ryobi 2,300-watt gas generator was a pleasure to test. Unboxing to startup took under 10 minutes, and the app walks users through the process while showing the same readings as the machine’s LED panel. For our tests, we plugged in several work lights and used various power tools, including a circular saw, a reciprocating saw, a jigsaw, a hammer drill, and a sander. The Ryobi lagged a bit when we tried to run a table saw, and it didn’t provide enough juice for a heated t-shirt press, but otherwise, it met our needs. We liked the convenience of being able to monitor the status of the Ryobi while sitting comfortably indoors. We were able to shut down the generator from the app but not start it, which is probably a smart idea in terms of safety.
The Ryobi is relatively quiet, registering 57 decibels from 10 feet away, and we could converse easily without raising our voices. This little generator would be an excellent pick for craft festivals and tailgating excursions. It won’t power a jobsite or all appliances in a home, but it’s perfect for smaller-power uses.
Get the Ryobi inverter generator at The Home Depot.
Best Dual-Fuel
Champion 2000-Watt Dual-Fuel Inverter Generator
Our Ratings: Ease of Use 4.5/5; Noise 4/5; Portability 4/5; Power 4.5/5; Value 4.5/5
Product Specs
- Wattage: Gasoline: 2,000 peak watts and 1,700 running watts; propane: 2,000 peak watts and 1,530 running watts
- Fuel: Gasoline or propane
- Outlets/ports: Two 120V-20A outlets; one 12V DC outlet
- Weight: 39 pounds
What We Like
- Dual-fuel ability allows the generator to run on gasoline or propane
- Compact design makes it easy to transport for camping or tailgating
- Runs quietly, making it a good pick for areas where noise pollution is a concern
- Lightweight for a dual-fuel model, making it an excellent choice to transport for remote use
What We Don’t Like
- Relatively small tank (1.05 gallons) will require frequent filling if running at full load
- At 1,700 running watts, it won’t handle more than 1 or 2 major appliances at a time
Despite being one of the more compact inverters we tested, the Champion Power Equipment 2,000-watt generator excelled. It comes with dual-fuel ability, meaning we could run it on either gasoline or propane. This makes it highly versatile when one fuel type is preferred. The Champion produces up to 2,000 surge watts on startup and settles into a respectable 1,700 watts using gas. It has two standard outlets and a 12V car-type port. The generator’s gas tank is on the small side at 1.05 gallons, but it will run for 11.5 hours when pulling a 25 percent load. Connecting a 20-pound propane tank and pulling the same load will run up to 34 hours.
During testing, we used the Champion to run several appliances, including a coffee maker and a blender. However, when we tried to run all the items simultaneously, we overloaded the machine, and the safety shutoff kicked in and shut it down. Of course, that will happen with any generator if it’s overloaded.
One great thing about this dual-fuel generator is how quietly it runs. The manufacturer claims it creates only 53 decibels of noise, which we found to be accurate in our tests. It’s also relatively lightweight for a dual-fuel model at just 39 pounds, but it won’t be able to run all appliances in an outage. Still, it will power a few and keep electronic devices charged without creating a ruckus.
Get the Champion inverter generator at Amazon or Walmart.