Finding the best RV generator for your specific needs is crucial!
That may seem like a strong statement, but if you want to completely cover your power needs while camping at the lowest operating cost, then this isn’t a purchase to take lightly.
So, we’ve reviewed the 10 best RV generators available today and created a handy buyer’s guide to help ensure you have the power you need at the campsite!
Overview
RV Generator Comparison Chart
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Westinghouse iGen2200 inverter generator
The Westinghouse iGen2200 Inverter Generator is a small but mighty generator ideal for use in an RV. It is lightweight (46 pounds) and comes outfitted with a carrying handle. This inverter generator has less than 3% total harmonic distortion (THD).
Its low THD levels make it a good inverter generator option for powering small, sensitive devices like laptops and tablets. Additionally, it is strong enough to power all essential home devices with 2200 peak watts (1800 watts running).
If you find that you need more power, this generator is parallel-compatible. You can connect it to another Westinghouse generator using an inverter parallel cord (not included).
This generator also boasts great fuel efficiency. In fact, it’s up to 3 times more efficient than traditional generators! So, you can expect up to 12 hours of use on the 1.2-gallon gas tank. Very impressive!
Moreover, it has a high-efficiency mode. When you activate this option, the generator automatically adjusts how much power it’s generating (and how much fuel it is consuming) based on what is plugged into any (or all) of its four ports: two 120-volt 20-amp outlets and two USB ports.
The safety features for this inverter generator make it an excellent option, too. It has a low-oil shutdown, overload protection, and a built-in spark arrestor to prevent accidents. It is also EPA, USFS, and CARB-compliant.
With all of these features and its 79cc engine, it is still quiet. The Westinghouse iGen2200 comes with low-tone mufflers that keep sounds under control. The sound for this generator measures in at 52 dBA making it perfect for camping sites.
Should you have any issues with your Westinghouse, it comes with three years of limited service, labor, and parts coverage. You also have access to nationwide customer service and support.
This generator may be small, but the power that it puts out gives it a big reputation. One complaint is that the process of “breaking in” the generator is more involved than anticipated. Otherwise, this is a reliable, portable, and powerful generator for camping and a whole lot more.
Westinghouse iGen2200 Super Quiet Portable Inverter Generator
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WEN 56200i 2000-watt portable inverter generator
If you’re looking for a portable camping generator at a lower price point, the WEN 56200i 2000-watt portable inverter generator is the best RV generator for you.
It’s perfect for campsites because it is well under the average dBA limit. It is dubbed “quieter than a window air unit,” measuring in at 51 dBAs. In fact, it earned the title of “quietest generator” by our staff!
This generator is all about efficiency. It is easy to carry, weighing 48 pounds with a handle for easy transport. THD levels range between 0.3% (no load) and 1.2% (full load), which will power a versatile array of electronics with clean energy.
This generator has the least amount of power on this list (also one of the least expensive) at 2000 surge watts and 1600 running watts. If you need more power, though, it is parallel cable compatible.
There are plenty of plug options to power various devices, including two 3-prong 120-volt receptacles, one 12-volt receptacle, and one 5-volt USB port. With the eco-mode feature, the generator will adjust its fuel consumption to match the power output at any given time.
Other safety features of the WEN 56200i are overload protection, low-fuel shutoff, and low-oil shutoff to protect the generator and any devices plugged into it. All of these protections have indicator lights shown on the inverter generator’s display.
This generator is gas-powered and carries 1 gallon of fuel in its tank. It is EPA III and CARB compliant. You get a 2-year warranty with a nationwide network hotline to assist you with any issues you may have.
The one complaint about this generator is that although it is small, it is a little taller than expected. Otherwise, the WEN 56200i is small and less expensive, but it holds its own on the market and serves as a versatile and practical choice for a portable generator.
WEN 56200i Super Quiet 2000-Watt Portable Inverter Generator
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Champion 3100-watt Portable Inverter Generator
The Champion 3100-watt portable inverter generator is one of the more expensive (and one of the most powerful) generators for camping on this list. Outfitted with a 171cc engine, this portable generator was made to power your RV. Getting power to your recreation vehicle is as easy as plugging into the 120-volt 30A RV plug on the generator.
Along with that RV plug, you get two 120-volt household outlets that show off its versatility as a generator for camping as well as potential home power outages. This generator puts out 3100 watts on a surge, with 2800 watts while it’s running at a partial load. For this generator, that equals 8 (or more) hours of use on a full tank of gas (1.6 gallons).
The THD levels for this generator are less than 3%, so you can plug in even your most sensitive electronics without worry.
The big size of the generator comes with a big weight. This Champion is heavy and weighs a whopping 84 pounds, but it is easy to transport. You can move it with the built-in handle and never-flat tires.
For a generator of its size, the Champion 3100-watt is quieter than the other generators on this list. It measures 58 dBAs, which is more than ideal for campsites.
Its safety features have RV use in mind. This inverter generator has a smart eco-mode that adjusts the fuel consumption to how much power is needed. It also has a low-oil shutoff sensor and push-to-reset circuit breakers. The design of this inverter generator makes these controls easy to find since they’re all on the quick-touch panel.
Should you find yourself at a campsite with a dead car battery, you can find a 12-volt DC automotive-style outlet with a dual USB adapter and 12-volt DC battery-charging cables on the generator.
It comes with a 3-year limited warranty and free lifetime tech support.
Even though this generator is more expensive than others on this list, the value is clear. The Champion 3100-watt portable inverter generator can act as a backup for home power outages, is designed for RV use, meets all the needs that a standard generator meets, and more. It is the best RV generator for you if you need big power and don’t mind its big size.
Champion 3100-Watt RV Ready Portable Inverter Generator
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Champion 3500-watt portable generator with wireless remote start
Meet the Champion 3100-watt portable generator’s big sibling, the Champion 3500-watt portable generator. This large unit makes the list because it has a few additional features that its predecessor does not.
To start, the Champion 3500-watt portable generator is wireless remote-start capable from up to 80 feet away. If you’re close, though, just use the touch start. These options already make the unit easy to use.
The 196cc engine makes it one of the more powerful generators on this list. Moreover, it uses an electric start system. If you’re in a cold-weather situation, there is no need to worry. This generator is designed with cold-start technology, so you’ll be up and running in no time.
The fuel tank on this generator holds almost 4 gallons of gas. There’s also an easily readable gauge on the control panel where you can see where your fuel levels are, too.
Similar to its predecessor, the Champion 3500-watt portable generator is RV-ready with a 120-volt 30A locking, 120-volt 30A RV, and two 120V 20A outlets. You’ll have no issues powering your RV with this model.
This generator produces 4000 starting watts and 3500 watts running at 25% capacity. With that and the 4-gallon gas tank in mind, you’re looking at a 12-hour run-time.
If any power issues arise, this generator for camping will handle them well. It comes equipped with a built-in surge protector to prevent overload. It also has low-oil shutoff capabilities.
For its 124-pound size, this “portable” generator is fairly quiet. It hits about 68 dBAs from 23 feet, which may bother some fellow campers at your site since it’s at the higher end of the allowed decibel range for campsites.
Even though this model is significantly heavier, it is still classified as portable. It comes with wheels, and it is relatively easy to pull around. The high power introduces a type of versatility that is unmatched.
A general complaint about this generator is that it is too big to be classified as portable. It also does not have inverter technology, so sensitive objects are susceptible to issues.
This model comes with a 3-year limited warranty and free lifetime tech support.
Champion 3500 Watt Portable Generator | Wireless Remote Start
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Durostar DS4000S Gas-powered 4000-watt portable generator
The Durostar DS4000S portable generator is powerful. Its 209cc Durostar 7.0 HP air-cooled OHV engine has 4000 starting watts and 3300 running watts.
The Durostar is ideal for job sites or events that require several things to be powered simultaneously. It works well with high-voltage appliances and heavy power tools. It’s also a great generator to use as a backup during power outages. It should have no problem powering your RV.
It comes with two 120-volt household outlets and one 120-volt twist-lock outlet. The household outlets are GFCI protected. The generator is outfitted with copper windings.
For as much power as it produces, it only weighs 92 pounds. That includes an almost 4-gallon tank that supplies fuel to the generator for about 8 hours at a 50% load. It’s also a relatively quiet unit. It measures at 69 dBAs, which is still on the higher end of the sound range than some campsites prefer.
Even though this generator is not an inverter, it has good safety features. There’s a full power panel that holds all of the main controls in one convenient place. You’ll see notifications here, like when the low-oil shutoff has been triggered. The generator is also built with surge-arrest technology.
The main downside of this generator is that it doesn’t come with wheels even though it’s “portable.” The wheels are a separate purchase. Otherwise, this generator is powerful enough to power your home, RV, job site, or large event. The versatility of this generator makes it a top contender. This model is EPA and CARB-approved in all 50 states.
DuroStar DS4000S Gas Powered 4000 Watt Portable Generator
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Duromax XP4400E gas-powered 4400-watt portable generator
The Duromax XP4400E 4400-watt portable is a competitive unit. It’s powerful with 4400 surge watts and 3500 running watts. This unit gives off enough power to run a house.
This model uses Duromax MX2 technology, which gives you two options:
- Operate your generator outlets at 120-volts and 240-volts at the same time.
- Operate your generator outlets at 120-volts.
This is similar to a manual version of inverter technology. You can choose to use the max amount of power or not, but it’s customizable. This is a good option for anyone who likes inverter technology but wants more control.
These portable generators use push-start technology for ease of use. It is an all-metal unit with copper windings. It weighs in at a massive 121 pounds, including a 4-gallon fuel tank. With a full tank running at 50% output, you’ll get 8 hours of run-time. The control panel of this model has everything you could imagine, including the power outlets, circuit breaker, voltmeter, and engine shutoff switch.
The unit comes with several safety features. The Duromax XP4400E uses surge-arrest technology to prevent power surges. You’ll find four 120-volt 20A three-prong outlets for plug-in purposes. The unit comes with a built-in spark arrestor on the muffler, too.
This is a sturdy unit with large, rugged wheels. Use this unit wherever you want, but it may not be as welcome on campsites with its 69 dBAs. The built-in muffler does help significantly with keeping it quiet.
The Duromax XP4400E is EPA and CARB-compliant in all 50 states. Complaints about this unit include issues with the warranty and parts being on backorder. Also, the instructions give some users issues. Otherwise, this portable generator is one of the best RV generators available. This unit is EPA and CARB compliant.
Duromax XP4400E Gas Powered 4400 Watt Electric Start Portable Generator
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Champion 3800-watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator
This generator is unlike anything on this list so far because it is dual fuel. The option to run this model on gas or propane makes it uniquely versatile. The freedom to choose which fuel source to use opens up new financial options, longer life on a single fuel source, and convenience.
On top of that, the unit can produce a lot of power. The watts peak at 4750 watts with a running wattage of 3800 watts. With a full tank of gas (3.4 gallons), you can get 9 hours out of this unit. With a full 20-pound propane take, that time bumps up to 10 ½ hours of run time.
The Champion 3800-watt uses a marvel 4-stroke single-cylinder 224cc engine that uses push-start technology. The push-start technology uses a battery (included) and charges internally while the generator is running.
There are four outlets: one 20-volt 30A RV, one 120-volt 30A locking outlet, and two 120-volt 20A household outlets. This unit uses Volt Guard to protect the outlets from power surges. It also has a low-oil shutoff. You can find all the indicator lights and switches on the main control panel.
For the amount of power this unit produces, it’s still somewhat quiet (relatively speaking). It measures 68 dBAs from 23 feet away.
The generator is rugged and durable. It is outfitted with a cast-iron sleeve and has a drop-down handle to pull on its wheels for easy portability. The whole unit weighs 119 pounds and is quite compact. You can find an LED control panel on the side.
The only real complaint about this generator is that the advertised measurements for the sound are wrong, and it’s heavy. Otherwise, this unit is almost a necessity with all of its features and versatility. This unit is CARB compliant in all 50 states.
Champion 3800-Watt Dual Fuel RV Ready Portable Generator with Electric Start
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Cummins ONAN RV QG 4000 Generator
If you want a generator that will work overtime for you, this is the one!
The Cummins Onan 4000w generator is significantly more expensive than portable generators (around 5 times the other generators on this list). It boasts of being able to run a 13,500 BTU air conditioner with plenty of power to spare.
This unit needs to be installed in your RV, so be sure you have ample space. The dimensions of the QG 4000 model are 30L x 19.7W x 14.4H. Cummins does offer various sizes, so if you need something a little smaller or have room for a more powerful and larger model, you have options.
This generator is gas-powered and weighs 172 pounds. It has an easy-to-reach side door for fueling.
Are you worried about noise from such a powerful unit? Don’t be! The enclosed muffler gives it its reputation for being an extremely quiet unit. In fact, it measures 68 dBAs from about 10 feet away and meets National Park Service sound level requirements.
The Cummins Onan QG 4000 is a reliable unit, which they back with a 3-year limited warranty. The only complaints about it revolve around the fact that it isn’t portable. This unit is CARB-compliant.
Learn more about the Cummins brand with this quick video.
Cummins ONAN RV QG 4000 Generator
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Honda EU3000iS, 3000-Watt Portable Inverter
This portable generator is one of the most popular units, and for a good reason. It’s less expensive than the Cummins Onan while still being portable. It’s not quite as powerful but still boasts the ability to operate high-power electronics like microwaves, refrigerators, and most A/C units that are 13,500 BTU.
The Honda EU3000is is super quiet. Its volume measures between 49 and 59 dBAs. That range reaches below most of the units on this list. An engine switch controls the ignition, fuel valve, and choke valve for an easy start. When you turn it on, it opens the fuel valve. When it is in the off position, the generator should be unable to start.
The inverter on the unit provides clean energy that is sensitive to devices like laptops and cellphones. Your devices will be protected from any power-related issues. This unit comes with an eco-throttle to help preserve fuel. On average, this generator gets 20 hours of run time on 3.4 gallons of gas.
Users should heed a warning that there is the possibility of overfilling the gas tank, so you have to be careful. There are a few safety features, too. The control panel shows the switches and indicator lights for these. One of the lights is a low-oil shutoff light.
This generator weighs in at 131 pounds. It carries an onboard muffler to keep the noise levels low. There isn’t any specific information available regarding its sound levels. However, Honda has a solid reputation for building good, quiet generators.
Finally, if the Honda’s power is not enough for you, it is parallel compatible.
The main complaints about this unit are that it’s heavy, and the wheel cart doesn’t come with the unit. This Honda is CARB compliant.
Honda EU3000IS 3000W 120V Inverter Generator
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YAMAHA EF2200iS Gas-Powered Portable Inverter Generator
The YAMAHA EF2200iS Gas-Powered Portable Inverter packs a punch for its size. It weighs a mere 55.2 pounds but has a peak output of 2200 watts. Its running output is 1600 watts. At 25% of the unit’s output with a full gas tank (1.24 gal), it will run for 10.5 hours.
This unit comes with an inverter that uses pulse-width modification (PWM) to produce clean, smooth energy. Using smart throttle technology, this unit is fuel-efficient.
This Yamaha is quiet, too. It has built-in muffler technology to help keep it quiet – around 57 – 65 dBA – allowing you to have conversations next to it while camping without knowing it’s running!
Also, if you find yourself needing more power, this unit is parallel-compatible, so you can easily connect two units together, providing 30 amps of power.
We are impressed with the features of this model, but how does it actually do around the campsite?
This unit is compact with a tri-handle design for easy carrying around your campground. Plus, Yamaha incorporated a standard RV plug and a regulated DC socket outlet to easily connect your devices to the generator.
Complaints don’t have much to do with the actual unit. But if you have a warranty issue, you may have trouble getting anything accomplished with the Honda customer service department.
YAMAHA EF2200iS Gas-Powered Portable Inverter Generator
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RV Generator Buyer’s Guide
We designed this buyer’s guide to help you answer all of the questions you have (and some you didn’t even know to ask) to help you make the most educated generator purchase.
The truth is that all generators are not created equally. They come in different sizes, shapes, power outputs, features, etc.
You should consider several criteria when you’re about to purchase a generator. Each of the criteria poses a question to you, the buyer. Once you have your answers, they will point you to the generator that meets your needs and (hopefully) more. Those criteria are power, location, and fuel consumption.
Power
How much power do you need? We’ve established that you’ll be using your generator for RV use, so you’ll want to look for something that’s got enough power to run your most essential RV appliances and devices.
If you are charging sensitive electronics, like cell phones and laptops, there are generators that handle those better. If you’ll be running a full A/C unit and a microwave, some generators handle those better, too. You just have to know the difference. In terms of power, there are two things you want to think about: Generator type and output.
Broadly speaking, there are two types of generators: standard and inverter. A standard generator has a basic engine that runs at a set speed from when you turn it on and ends when you turn it off. This works well for job sites or events. It’s straightforward power.
Inverter generators use a microprocessor to monitor how the load changes when you increase (or decrease) it. It auto-adjusts the power output to an appropriate level as those changes occur. So, if you’re charging your laptop, microwaving a burrito, and watching TV, your output will be at one level. Once you finish microwaving that burrito, the power output adjusts to only needing to supply power to the TV and continue to charge your laptop.
Inverter generators are beneficial for things like microwaves and laptops because it prevents surges that could potentially damage your devices. (In this context, these are referred to as “sensitive” devices.)
Output is the number of watts that a generator puts out. You’ll usually see a larger number and a slightly smaller number. For example, the WEN 56200i is a 2000-watt portable generator. It outputs 2000 surge watts and 1600 running watts.
This means that when the generator has a full load, the max that it can output is 2000 watts. It can’t do this for very long, though. The lower number, 1600 watts, is when the generator is at 25% capacity. This load is what the generator will run at for the listed run-time. So, the WEN 56200i will run at 1600 watts for about 10 hours on a full gas tank.
WEN 56200i Super Quiet 2000-Watt Portable Inverter Generator
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Check out our guide on how to find the right-sized generator for your camper to ensure you’ll never be left without power!
Location
Where are you running your RV? If you plan on camping with a generator, your generator needs to produce no more than 70 dBAs for you to avoid being asked to turn your generator off (or being asked to leave). These guidelines vary from park to park. Generally, though, a noise level between 60 and 70 decibels is an acceptable range.
Did you know…
If it seems like your generator is louder than normal, it may be time for an oil change.
The location also brings portability into question. Will you be installing it for use exclusively on your RV? Or will you be using it for camping, as a backup power source during power outages, at job sites, or anything else? Generators are so versatile that you can find one that does some or all of these things, but you want to know what you’re looking for beforehand.
If you are going to install the generator, you should find an expert to do it for you. Generators provide power, and you don’t want to be stuck without it at a campsite. Some generators have complex installation instructions. You should also check its dimensions. Ensure that the generator you’re looking at actually fits into your RV before you purchase it.
Installations also come with separate fees. Keep that in mind as you consider how much you are willing to spend.
If you don’t want to install your generator, you’ll need to decide on whether to purchase a portable RV generator or not. Now, just because a generator isn’t labeled “portable” doesn’t mean that you can’t move it. It typically means that it won’t come with wheels and a handle installed.
In some cases, like with the Durostar DS4000S 4000-watt portable generator, it is portable but doesn’t come with wheels. They’re sold separately. Ultimately, a big question in “portability” is weight. Will you need to pick the generator up? If so, can you? Check out how heavy a particular generator is before purchasing it (if heavy lifting is not in your plan).
Fuel Consumption
Gas is the most common type of fuel for generators. All of the units in our list of generator reviews above are gas-powered. However, some generators use liquid propane or diesel to power them. And some use two different fuel sources, like the Champion 3800-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Generator, which can operate on gas or liquid propane.
Champion 3800-Watt Dual Fuel RV Ready Portable Generator with Electric Start
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The important thing here is to understand how your power draw affects fuel. Again, using the WEN 56200i as an example: you get 10 hours on a 1600-watt load and a full tank of gas. This model carries about 1 gallon of fuel in its tank.
From there, it’s simple math. Take the number of hours you will be using your generator and divide that by 10. That’s how much fuel you’ll need. Make sure that the number is worth it when you decide to purchase a generator.
WEN 56200i Super Quiet 2000-Watt Portable Inverter Generator
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Generator Maintenance
A crucial part of owning a generator is maintaining it. There’s no worse feeling than trying to start your generator after it has been stored away for the winter with no success. Practicing regular maintenance rituals will ensure that your generator is ready to go when you need it.
Here are the general rules for generator maintenance.
Fresh is best
When it comes to fuel, always get it fresh. Using old fuel can cause a build-up that is difficult and costly to repair. Fresh fuel is one way to ensure that your unit will run properly.
Regular oil changes
Keeping up with oil changes ensures that your generator is well-lubricated. Follow manufacturer guidelines on what type of oil to use and how often you should get your generator oil changed.
Clean your battery
Regularly cleaning your battery lines reduces build-up.
Get professional tune-ups
There are always things you can do to maintain your generator (like the suggestions we’ve made so far). Similar to a car, though, you should take your generator in to be regularly serviced by a professional. If you follow all of these guidelines, your generator should run smoothly for many years.