Best quietest portable generators for RV camping travel trailers tailgating Review

Best & quietest portable generators for RV, camping, travel trailers & tailgating Review 2022

Portable generators are compact contraptions that are pretty popular these days. Powering up your electronic devices during a field or camping trip was made easy by these generators, but there’s a catch – most of them are pretty loud.

It’s only common that most people get bored and tired of feeling annoyed by the constant noise some generators produce, so brands like Briggs & Stratton, Wen, and Goplus have devised a way to clear up this little obstacle for you.

We’re talking about “quiet portable generators” – even though they look exactly like your average generator, they are characterized with noiseless method of operation. As we searched for the quietest portable generator, we’ve come across these beauties:

Best Quiet Portable Generator Overall – WEN 56200i Super Quiet 2000-Watt Portable Inverter Generator

Best & quietest portable generators for RV, camping, travel trailers & tailgating Review - WEN 56200iLet’s begin with the best one, shall we? The quietest portable generator for the buck is, in our humble opinion,  is the Wen’s 56200i. It simply has it all – it’s very powerful, boasting 2000 watts of power, it is super quiet, and it comes outfitted with premium-quality cutting-edge features.

On top of all, it doesn’t cost that much, considering all the benefits you could take advantage from. It belongs to the medium price point category, and it holds a massive value for the cash.

 

 

A quick overview of the most notable benefits:

  1. Wen’s 56200i is a great all-around quiet portable generator, boasting a huge level of versatility
  2. It’s ideal for any number of situations, ranging from home usage to campgrounds and such
  3. High-quality features included numbering two 3-prong receptacles, 5V USB port, and other
  4. Great for the cash, even though it can’t be labeled as “cheap”
  5. This portable generator can be purchased with 1250w or 2000w – no need for overkill if you don’t need all that extra power

Best Budget Quiet Portable Generator – Goplus Gas-Powered Inverter Generator

Our runner-up is pretty close to the Wen’s 56200i – is the Goplus’ Gas-Powered inverter generator. The Goplus relies on affordability rather than absolute efficiency and versatility. Truth be told, this portable generator is not as reliable as our top quietest portable generator pick, but it comes at a considerably lower price, and it boasts a similarly silent method of operation.

Should 1250w be too little for you, this model comes in three “power” variants – the 1250W, 2750W, and the powerhouse of 3500W. The features it comes outfitted with are above satisfactory, to say the least, and you’ll be more than happy to hear that there are dozens of user-friendly settings, such as status lights, oil-alarm system, and the like.

 

A quick overview of the most notable benefits:

  • Goplus gas-powered inverter generator is among the most affordable generators in our review
  • Three power-options, including 1250W, 2750W, and 3500W
  • User-friendly features make Goplus inverter generator very easy to use
  • Low fuel consumption and high efficiency
  • Air-cool system prevents overheating

Best Quiet Portable Generator for the money – Yamaha EF2000iSv2

Our third-best option is Yamaha’s EF2000iSv2. Simply put, this model isn’t all that powerful, but it’s the most reliable one you’ll ever come across. If you’re searching for the quietest portable generator, this just might be it, as it’s outfitted with ultra-quiet muffler and USFS-approved spark arrestor.

Not only is it quiet, It’s also superbly versatile – Yamaha’s EF2000iSv2 is also one of the smallest, hence the most compact generators out there. It costs quite a lot, but the plethora of benefits would be more than enough to compensate for this little flaw.

 

A quick overview of the most notable benefits:

  • Yamaha’s compact generator boasts 1600W of reliable power, 2000w at maximum output
  • Superior noiseless method of operation makes this one of the best generators for the buck
  • CARB compliant inverter system
  • Available in standard Blue and “Camouflage” design options

Best Quiet Portable Generator – Comparison Table

Model Rating Quietness Key Features Power Price
DuroMax XP4400E 05-Apr Decently quiet Electric key start, 4-gallon gas tank, automatic shut-off feature 3500 continuous watt output, 4400 at peak power Medium price point category
Westinghouse iGen2500 4.5/5 Very quiet Lightweight construction, Enhanced fuel consumption economization, Double-insulated enclosure 2200 watts output, 2500 at peak power Medium price point category
Briggs & Stratton 30545 P3000 PowerSmart 05-Apr Very quiet 10-hour operational lifespan, 1.5-gallon tank, 4 power source outlets 3000 watts Medium-high price point category
Goplus Gas-Powered Inverter Generator 3.5/5 Decently quiet 6-hour runtime when at 100%, built-in handle, overheating prevention system 1250 watts Budget price point category
WEN PowerPro 56101 05-Apr Very quiet Lightweight construction, 1-gallon tank, 5-hour operational worktime when at 50% 1000 watts Budget price point category,
WEN 56200i 05-May Superiorly quiet operation Two 120-watt receptacles, EPA III & CARB compliant, very versatile 2000 watts, 1600 rated Medium price point category
Generac 7117 GP2200i 05-Apr Very quiet Economy mode, compact design, Truepower technology, 1.2-gallon tank 2200 watts Medium-high price point category
HONDA EU2000i 05-Apr Decently quiet Inverter technology, CARB compliant, 3.4-hour runtime 1600-watt power, 2000 at peak Medium-high price point category
Yamaha EF2000iSv2 05-May Superiorly quiet Carb compliant, Smart Throttle, Inverter system, PWM control 1600-watt power, 2000 at peak Medium-high price point category
Westinghouse WH2200iXLT 05-May Super-quiet operation Lightweight construction, enhanced fuel consumption, 1.3-gallon tank, 13-hour runtime at 25% load 1800-watt power, 2200 at peak Affordable price point category
Rockpals 250W inverter power generator 05-Apr Decently quiet Runs on batteries (solar charge possible with solar panels, which are sold separately), two AC outputs, 3 USB ports, 4 DC ports, lightweight construction; 250-watt power, 300 at peak Very-affordable price point category

Best quietest portable generator for RV – Recreational Vehicles

Recreational vehicles (we’ll call them “RVs” further in text) are excellent for all sorts of things. Some people call them camping houses, others who like to live on the road make homes from them, and there’s one thing that every RV owner has in common – the need for a reliable power source.

Best quietest portable generator for RVRecreational Vehicles

 

Most RVs are packed with all sorts of electronics, just like any regular household, not to mention the engine. This is why a power generator is a must-have for any RV owner. Further on that note, you don’t want to buy just any generator – some models are bulky and will take up too much space, others are incredibly heavy, pricey, and what not.

We’re here to discuss the best and quietest portable generators for RVs, the notable benefits of owning such models, and we’ll pitch in a couple of recommendations if you don’t know where to begin your search.

The benefits of owning a quiet and portable generator for your RV

Simply put, your generator will be operating for the most part while tucked inside your RV. This is where the “quiet” and “portable” come into play.

First of all, a non-portable, bulky generator might take up too much space. As it’s only common, RVs are intended to serve as short-term (exceptions are possible) mini houses, so each inch is valuable.

Most RVs, however, are outfitted with special storage compartments that were specifically built to accommodate a portable power source, but that might not be the case with all models. That leads us to the first notable benefit of owning a portable generator for your RV:

  • More room for other items

It’s not hard to imagine the number of items in a standard RV – there are bunk beds, small sofas, little dining tables, storage for necessities, and more. Now, imagine the mess that would ensue after you’ve introduced a generator in the midst of all that.

As we’ve already mentioned, most RVs have large trunks that can store your generator, but, if it’s too large, too wide, or too big in any other way, you’ll have to prioritize. Having a portable generator will leave you with more space, so you don’t have to trouble yourself with leaving out the things you want to bring with you. As for the second benefit, it’s quite obvious:

  • Enjoy a good-night’s sleep

Let’s get this straight – every generator produces some noise, just like different people have different levels of tolerance to loudness. Now, the latter does not apply to travels in your RV, as you will most likely spend your nights neatly parked in a remote location, and while doing so, you’ll find that your ears won’t be able to put up with constant humming and buzzing.

Some people take out their generators outside to reduce the noise, others pile up clothes over it in hope for similar results. Well, if you desire a quiet night, you might want to consider a generator that won’t trouble you with excess buzzing. There are certain models that are particularly efficient in this field of performance.

Things to look out for

As RVs are particularly spacious when compared to standard cars, you could overlook the size of your generator, as long as it’s not particularly bulky or large. On the other hand, you’ll want to consider choosing a powerful generator that is capable of providing enough electricity without it being too noisy. This narrows down the things you should look for to the following:

  • High power output

Your RV will need electricity for all sorts of things, ranging from simple household electronics to powering up your engine. This is the reason why you should consider models that have at least 600-700 watts – and that’s putting it mildly. Ideally, you’ll need at least 1000 running watts if you want to heave a piece of mind.

Larger RVs that are outfitted with TVs, gaming consoles, electronic fridges, LED lights, and such might need even more, but it’s up to you to decide – more power often means more noise.

  • Medium-high size would suffice

The size of your generator won’t necessarily impact its performance – there are large generators that are practically soundless, whereas there are smaller models that hum too loud. Anyhow, an RV could accommodate a larger generator, and if yours has an adequate compartment, you could go with a larger one without any significant problems.

  • Low noise

If your plan on storing your portable generator inside your RV, it’s imperative that it features a near-soundless method of operation. Regardless of the specific area you put it in, it will emit noise that will either annoy you during the day or prevent you from sleeping during nighttime.

Needless to say, you should put a heavy accent on safety – the driver of the RV needs to rest properly and drive without distractions such as constant humming, so a noiseless generator is a must-have.

Our top pick for the quietest portable generator for RVs

The generator that passes all of the aforementioned criteria is  WEN PowerPro 56101. It weighs only 36 pounds, and it features a convenient carry handle with four rubber pads, which means that it’s more than suitable for a standard RV.

PowerPro 56101, 900 Running Watts/1000 Starting Watts, Gas Powered Portable Generator

The soundless method of operation is the reason we recommend it, though, as it features a hum-free exhaust system. Furthermore, it boasts 900 watts of running power and 1000 watts of starting power, which means that it’s more than capable of running most of your electric appliances.

What’s more, it’s surprisingly cheap, which only boosts its overall value. Overall, it’s practically perfect for any RV owner.

Quick rundown of the advantages of Wen’s PowerPro 56101:

  • It’s extremely cheap, as it belongs to the “budget” price point category
  • It’s decently powerful, boasting 1000 starting and 900 running watts
  • The hum-free exhaust system allows for a near-soundless method of operation
  • It’s practically weightless, weighing only 36 pounds
  • Carry handle included for additional portability
  • The size and design of this power generator are absolutely ideal for RV owners

Best quietest portable generator for camping

Camping is not only fun, but it’s also a healthy activity. Even though most traditionalists enjoy having a “wireless” vacation, some people like to bring certain electric devices along, such as iPhones, tablets, even DVDs and TVs, for that matter.

On the other hand, most campers get to their desired location by car or RV – vehicles that operate on electric engines. Plainly put, most people have at least minimal needs for electric supply during their camping trips, hence comes the need for a certain type of a power generator.

Now, as you’ve probably figured already, camping is often done in the wilderness for the following purposes – the beauty of nature, the chirp of the birds, and the gentle sound of winds that cradle us to sleep.

Well, the part when you sleep might get a bit tricky if you have a noisy generator, and the part where you carry your generator to the camping grounds won’t be a breeze if it’s super big and heavy. These are just some of the reasons why we recommend having a quiet, portable generator.

Things to look out for

In essence, you’ll get to decide how much power you need, depending on the camping facilities you’re going to use. A true camping experience is often characterized with minimal electricity, hence even the weakest power generators would do. On the other hand, there are people who’ve adopted a need to rely on electricity, but even the neediest people won’t need powerhouses like DuroMax XP4400E.

DuroMax XP4400E 4,400 Watt 7.0 HP OHV 4-Cycle Gas Powered Portable Generator With Wheel Kit And Electric Start

We can safely assume that you want to make your trip as pleasurable as can be, so hauling a heavy generator might not be the sort of activity you want to enjoy. That’s one of the reasons why people often go with the more convenient, compact options. Let’s discuss the things you should look out for:

  • Low/Medium-low power supply

If there are several cars and RVs at the camping grounds, a medium-low power generator could easily spice them up overnight – no need for an overkill. Further on that note, most campers bring only the necessities, so that the camping trip can be indulged in full on. This leads us to the conclusion that you don’t have to worry too much about the strength of your power generator.

  • Size is not too important

You won’t have to worry about size as well, as your power generator will be neatly parked outside, or inside your car’s trunk. As long as the power generator isn’t huge, you’ll be perfectly fine.

On the other hand, the only situation when the size of your generator could be important is the one where you intend to transport it in a car. In that case, consider reading the “quietest portable generators for tailgating” section.

  • Weight plays a major role during transportation

Heavy power generators might pose a problem when it comes to transportation, especially if you’re going by car. Even if you’re packing it inside an RV, heavy generators still need to be hauled inside and outside of the vehicle, urging the males to draw straws.

Jokes aside, most camping destinations are found at elevated positions, making driving uphill pretty hard and dangerous. This is just one of the reasons why you should consider lightweight, easy-to-carry power generators.

  • Soundless generators are highly recommended

Everyone wants to relax while camping, and the last thing people want to hear before they go to sleep is electricity emitting from a noisy power generator. Consider those models that come outfitted with special, soundless features – they usually don’t cost that much.

Our top pick for the quietest portable generator for camping

If you’re planning to make a camping trip, we recommend that you bring Westinghouse’ WH2200iXLT portable generator along. It’s incredibly lightweight, and it comes with a small carry handle, making it very easy and simple to use.

It weighs only 43 pounds, making it one of the most portable power generators we’ve come across so far. Furthermore, it features a near-noiseless method of operation, emitting approximately 59dBA when at half capacity. It’s more than enough to wire up several car batteries, having 1800 rated watts which can be boosted to 2200 W at peak power.

The massive gas tank can store up to 1.3 gallons of gas which can last up to 13 hours. Last, but not least, this power generator features the Inverter technology. If any of your friends have a similar power generator, you can easily hook them up together for more efficient power supply.

Westinghouse’ WH220iXLT belongs to the “moderately expensive” price point category. Even though it costs quite a bit, it will definitely make your camping trip a great one.

Quick rundown of the advantages of Westinghouse WH2200iXLT power inverter generator:

  • Westinghouse’ WH2200iXLT inverter power generator weighs only 43 pounds
  • Nearly-soundless mode of operation – when at half capacity, this generator emits approximately 59 dBA.
  • Superb fuel economy – the 1.3-gallon tank can last up to 13 hours when at 25% load, making it suitable for all-night power supply.
  • The inverter technology allows you to wire up similar Westinghouse power generators for increased efficiency
  • Moderately expensive – the Westinghouse WH2200iXLT belongs to the “moderately expensive” price point category.

Best quietest portable generator for travel trailers

Now, there’s a common misconception about the term “travel trailer”, as people get to confuse them with motorhomes and RVs. Let’s clear this issue up before proceeding further:

  • Motorhomes are a larger category which is divided into three classes (A, B, and C), and RVs can be found within each one, depending on the size, for the most part
  • Travel trailers are stationary campers that are towed by pickups, SUVs, minivans, and such. The main difference between trailers and motorhomes is in mobility.
  • Popup trailers are smaller travel trailers that can be towed by simple cars (although, they’re also stationary, just like other trailers).

The main reason why we need to know the difference between these vehicle categories is so that we can understand what to look for when searching for a suitable power generator. RVs (motorhomes) are practically “houses on wheels”, so most people value fuel economy and quietness over portability and cost.

Briggs & Stratton 30545 P3000 PowerSmart Series Portable 3000-Watt Inverter Generator with (4) 120-Volt AC Outlets and (1) 12-Volt DC Outlet

On the other hand, travel trailers are far less needy – knowing that they’re stationary, you don’t have to bother yourself with the size, as most people keep their generators right outside the trailer. Further on that note, you’ll want to consider weight, as trailers aren’t capable of moving unless they’re towed. There’s a weight limit for everything, and there’s a risk of damage in case your trailer is too heavy.

Without going too far into details, let’s discuss the benefits you can reap if you pick the right travel trailer, and the things you need to keep an eye open for.

The benefits of owning a quiet and portable generator for your Travel Trailer

Travel trailers are the least “needy” vehicles, and, perhaps, the most versatile ones when it comes to transportation. They can be towed by any number of vehicles, but that primarily depends on the trailer’s weight and size.

Picking a suitable power generator for your travel trailer shouldn’t be too hard, but we’ve noted down some of the most notable benefits, just in case you know what you should expect:

  • You won’t have to trouble your family, or your neighbors

Having a loud generator doesn’t mean that only you won’t get a minute to rest – it also means that any neighboring trailers will suffer from the buzzing of your generator. If you want to keep friendly relations and rest in the meantime, you should consider a quiet power generator.

  • Save your back by picking a portable generator

Portability is a quality that’s always useful, but even more so when we’re talking about travel trailers. You’ll have to store your generator inside the trailer, move it around until you’ve affixed its position, haul it back outside, and repeat the entire process at least several times. A portable generator might rid yourself of all that trouble, especially those models that come with wheels.

  • Use the time when your trailer is towed to fuel up the generator

Most generators must undergo a process of accumulating power before they can be used – the time required for this process to be complete varies between models, but that shouldn’t bother you, as you can easily use the towing time to complete it.

Things to look out for

Depending on the type of your vehicle, there are different things you should consider. When we’re talking about travel trailers, these factors are quite plain and straightforward:

  • Medium power supply

As travel trailers don’t need any kind of engine to run (they’re towed), they require a substantially lower power supply when compared to RVs, for example. Nevertheless, you’ll need to power up any electronic devices you’ve brought with you, and a medium-power generator might do the trick.

  • The size doesn’t play any significant role

Travel trailers may, or may not be used during the towing process, but the actual size of your power generator doesn’t really play any bigger role. The only thing you’ll have to worry about is weight, and, logically, the bigger the generator, the heavier it is.

This is the reason why compact generators are preferred by travel trailer owners, as choosing heavy generators means that you’ll need a larger towing vehicle.

  • High portability is recommended

If you want to use your trailer in the most space-efficient way possible, you’ll want to put your generator outside of the trailer. This, however, means that you’ll need a portable power generator. Finding that sweet spot will take time, and each time you want to switch positions, you’ll need to haul it, or, more preferably, push your generator.

This is the situation where rolling generators excel – the ones that come outfitted with either carry handles or wheels.

  • Low-noise method of operation

Annoying humming and buzzing might not wake heavy sleepers up, but it can ruin any travel experience. Low-noise generators are particularly handy for travel trailer owners, as most people prefer to go in groups. Keep your relations friendly by having a noiseless generator.

Our top pick for the quietest portable generator for Travel Trailers

A great example of a good travel trailer power generator is Briggs & Stratton 30545 P3000 PowerSmart. The 3k watts might be an overkill, but it features a soundless method of operation and a massive fuel tank (1.5 gallons which ensure up to 10 hours of operation at 25% load).

Furthermore, there are four household outlets and a single USB port, which makes it incredibly convenient for various household appliances. It might cost quite a bit, but Briggs & Stratton generator works like a charm.

Quick rundown of the advantages of Briggs & Stratton 30545 P3000:

  • Easy transportation wheels make Briggs & Stratton P3000 extremely compact
  • Quiet method of operation
  • A fuel tank can hold up to 1.5 gallons, works up to 10 hours at 25% load
  • Four household outlets and a single USB port
  • Moderately expensive

Quietest portable generators for tailgating

Tailgating offers plenty of opportunities to bond closer with your friends and family – pack up light, bring some booze, and enjoy your favorite game with your closest ones. This surely does sound like a beautiful scenario, doesn’t it? Now, most people get the same idea, but putting this plan to action can be laden with some minor difficulties.

First of all, you’ll need to cool up your drinks after you’ve parked your cars, you’ll need to find a suitable spot for your TV, and such. This, however, means that you’ll need adequate power supply.

Since tailgating is one of the least electricity-consuming activities we’ve mentioned so far, it’s only logical that you won’t find much use of bulky generators – even the smaller, more portable ones will do it. On the other hand, small power generators are far easier to transport.

Without further ado, let’s talk about the benefits you can expect, the things you should look out for, and our top recommendation of the best portable generator for tailgating.

The benefits of owning a quiet and portable generator for Tailgating

You don’t have to own the quietest generator on the market to make your tailgating experience a pleasurable one, but you might want to consider models that won’t pop your eardrums with noise. On the other hand, picking a quiet, yet portable power generator will grant you certain perks:

  • Enjoy your game with a piece of mind

Every sports game is tense in nature, and you don’t need extra pressure coming from your noisy generator. Imagine that you’re tailgating with your friends, you planned to watch your favorite football team demolish the other one, and, just before the touchdown, you fail to hear the details you couldn’t otherwise perceive due to humming and hissing. That would be quite a bummer, wouldn’t it?

There are numerous portable generators that could easily erase the possibility of this scenario ever happening to you, hence we picked the one that’s more than capable of achieving precisely that. Feel free to check out our review of Rockpals 250w portable generator.

250-Watt Portable Generator Power Source Power Inverter, 222WH CPAP Battery Pack Home Camping Emergency Power Supply Charged by Solar Panel/Wall Outlet with Dual 110V AC Outlet, DC 12V Ports, USB Port

  • Easy transportation

As far as the supplies are concerned, tailgating is quite plain and simple. Drinks, food, some first-aid kits (just in case something goes awry, better safe than sorry), a TV, a portable fridge, and a small power generator – this is a pretty standardized list of items you’ll want to consider.

Bringing a small generator along means that you’ll be able to bring more stuff – plain and simple. Tiny, portable power generators are nearly weightless, and most models could nearly fit inside a standard jacket’s pocket.

  • Tailgating generators are highly cost-effective

Speaking of price, you can rest assured that the generator you’ll need won’t be super expensive. Small, relatively weak power generators belong to the budget price point category.

  • Most models are quite versatile

While RV owners have to consider power generators that come with household outlets, and the travel trailer owners search for models that come outfitted with wheels, tailgaters haven’t a thing to worry about.

The generators most suitable for tailgating are often powered by batteries (instead of gas/fuel), and they’re packed with various features, including USB ports, battery chargers, and you could even power some models with solar energy.

Things to look out for

Generators for tailgating are exceptionally simple, and there are only a handful of things you should take into consideration before you decide which one suits you best:

  • Low power generators

The only things you’ll need powered up are your TV and your portable fridge. Apart from that, you may want to consider generators that could charge up your phone, but that’s pretty much it. These are the reasons why low-power generators are more than suitable for the task.

  • Medium-low sound emission

How much sound your power generator is emitting won’t make a substantial difference – there will be a lot of people with you, and, even if you’ve managed to find a remote location, you won’t tailgate alone. On the other hand, some people are particularly annoyed by the generator hissing sounds, so owning a silent one might be worth your cash.

Note that most generators used for tailgating are “weak”. This means that the sound emission from a tailgating generator can’t be compared to that of the models RV owners have.

  • High portability

The only reason why you need a portable generator is due to easier transport. Again, low-power generators don’t require a large housing, so you’ll be able to recognize the models you’re after fairly easy.

Our top pick for the quietest portable generator for Tailgating

A good power generator for tailgating should be decently affordable, compact, and silent. We’ve dubbed Rockpals 250W power generator as the best for this kind of activity, and for a good reason to.

First of all, it’s fairly cheap, although not entirely inexpensive. Furthermore, it features 250W of power – more than enough to help you wire up your TV, fridge, and smaller electric trinkets.

The Rockpals power generator is incredibly compact – it’s very small and lightweight, weighing only 6 pounds.

What’s more, it runs on batteries (comes supplied with Lithium battery pack), but it’s solar chargeable as well (solar panels are sold separately, though).

Last, but not least, there’s a full set of complimentary features that are given away as a bonus, including a car-charger cable, DC socket adapter, a simplified user guide, and the 18-month warranty.

A quick rundown of the advantages of Rockpals 250W portable power generator:

  • Rockpals power generator features 250W of power, making it ideal for tailgating activities;
  • This remarkable model comes outfitted with 4 12V outputs, 3 USB outputs, and 2 AC outputs;
  • You can charge this power generator with solar power if you purchase a solar panel. Normally, it works on Lithium batteries (you get a set for free).
  • It boasts a lightweight construction, weighing only 6 pounds.
  • The small design makes it very compact and easy to transport.
  • Complimentary features include a 1-meter charger cable, DC socket adapter, and the user guide.

Best Quiet Portable Generator reviews

We’ve compiled a list of 10 quietest portable generator models for you to choose from. Each model is great in its own right – whether It’s an affordable generator you’re looking for, a reliable one, or a powerhouse of 10KW, they’re all great in their own way. Without further ado, let’s take a look at them:

DuroMax XP4400E

The DuroMax XP4400E is one of the most powerful, yet quiet portable generators we’ve come across. It’s moderately affordable, but superiorly powerful, boasting 4400 watts at peak power, and 3500 watts of continuous output. It’s pretty plain, It’s powerful, and it will definitely accommodate your needs for compact electrical power provision.

Key Features:

  • At peak power you’ll benefit from 4400 watts or 3500 continuous, reliable watts
  • The gas tank can hold up to 4 gallons, allowing for 8 hours of total run time
  • Fully electric, battery included
  • Automatically shuts off when oil is low
Pros Cons
A massive gas tank Moderate affordability
Extremely powerful generator Quite heavy (for a compact generator)
User-friendly features

Westinghouse iGen2500

The Westinghouse iGen2500 inverter generator is next on the menu – this model is very compact and lightweight, and it boasts a whole set of premium-quality features, including two USB ports, household duplex outlets, and a decently large fuel tank. Overall, it’s not exactly cheap, but it holds a huge value for the cash.

Key Features:

  • Lightweight design, weighing only 48 pounds
  • Built-in handle allows for easy transportation
  • Two USB ports and a single 120 20A duplex outlet
  • 2500W at peak, 2200 running watts
  • 1-gallon tank allows for 8-hour runtime (at 25% load)
  • Double-insulated enclosure allows for superiorly silent method of operation
Pros Cons
One of the quietest portable generator models Moderately expensive
Lightweight, weighing only 48 pounds
State-of-the-art technology and features

Briggs & Stratton 30545 P3000 PowerSmart

Briggs & Stratton are a reputable brand, and we didn’t include their 30545 P3000 Power Smart by accident. Namely, this generator is extremely powerful, yet decently quiet and compact. The best thing about this quiet portable generator is that it comes outfitted with a full set of superb features, such as four household outlets, an impressive fuel tank, and such. Great, if not the best of the bunch.

Key Features:

  • Available in 2200W, 3000W, and 2200W + 3000W combo options
  • Decently quiet method of operation
  • A 1.5-gallon tank allows for 10 hours of operation at 25% load
  • Four household outlets and a 12-volt locking outlet
  • 2-year warranty
Pros Cons
One of the most reliable compact generators No major flaws
Outstanding features and settings
Powerful and quiet

Goplus Gas-Powered Inverter Generator Portable

We’ve already mentioned Goplus’ inverter generator, and, in case you didn’t get to see it, It’s one of the best budget quiet generators out there. Even though affordability is its forte, Goplus’ power generator comes in three variations, and the latest one (3500W) is quite powerful.

Nevertheless, this model is ideal for people who want to save up some money while getting their power ready – great overall value and high reliability is the least you should expect.

Key Features:

  • Comes in three “power” options, including 1250W, 2750W, and 3500W
  • Built-in handle for easy transport
  • Oil-alarm system
  • Low fuel usage
  • 6-hours runtime at 100% load
  • Forced cooling system prevents overheating
Pros Cons
Very affordable Mediocre performance when compared to other models
User-friendly features
Quiet and decently powerful

WEN PowerPro 56101

Yet another Wen in our top picks, the Power Pro 56101 is definitely one of the quietest compact generators out there. Surely enough, It’s not all that powerful, outputting only 1000w at best, but it’s practically weightless with 36 pounds and superbly soundless. On top of that, It’s also the cheapest power generator among the 10.

Key Features:

  • Weighs only 36 pounds
  • Carry handle included
  • Works on a mixture of oil and gas
  • One-gallon tank allows for 5 hours at 50% load
  • Quiet exhaust technology & spark arrestor for noiseless operation
Pros Cons
Extremely cheap Low power
Practically soundless due to quiet exhaust tech Medium reliability
Lightweight power generator Only 5 hours of runtime at 50% load

WEN 56200i

If you weren’t around since the beginning, Wen’s 56200i is our top overall pick. This model boasts a decent balance between power and versatility, as It’s outfitted with 2000w of power and a plethora of user-friendly features. It includes everything you need to get your camp powered up, including two prong receptacles and a carry handle for easy transportation.

Key Features:

  • Noiseless method of operation
  • Carry handle included
  • EPA III & CARB compliant OHV engine
  • 2000w at peak, 1600 rated watts
  • Comes outfitted with a total of 4 receptacles
Pros Cons
Superb features and technology Moderate affordability
Absolute reliability and high versatility
User-friendly features and high control over the settings

Generac 7117 GP2200i

Generac’s 7117 GP2200i is a well-balanced, all-around quiet generator. It’s pretty plain and straightforward, being outfitted with a set of necessary, but reliable features. One of the best things about it is that you’ll be able to connect up to 2 inverters (parallel-ready feature), right next to the economy mode that reduces the overall fuel consumption. Great for the buck, to say the least.

Key Features:

  • Practically weightless
  • Carry handle included
  • Economy mode allows for reduced fuel consumption
  • Parallel ready
  • Fuel tank of 1.2 gallons operates up to 10 hours at 25% load
Pros Cons
Economic-based high-quality generator No major flaws, apart from it costing quite a bit
Noiseless method of operation
Allows you to connect up to 2 inverters together

HONDA EU2000i

Here we’re looking at the Honda’s EU2000i, one of the quietest portable generators on the menu. It weighs quite a lot, but it boasts high power and versatility levels. Overall, it does a massive bang for the buck if you can afford it, as it belongs to the “high” price point category.

Key Features:

  • 2000W at peak, and 1600 running watts
  • 3.4 hours of runtime at 100% capacity, 8 hours at 25% load
  • Noiseless method of operation
  • Inverter technology
  • CARB compliant
Pros Cons
Decent runtime at various capacity levels “High” price point category
Powerful and silent generator Weighs more than an average compact generator
Clean output due to inverter technology

Yamaha EF2000iSv2

Yamaha’s EF2000iSv2 is our top pick concerning the value. Overall, it’s a high-quality silent power generator that features the Inverter technology and CARB-compliant settings, but it’s also among the quietest compact generators out there due to ultra-quiet muffler & USFS-approved arrestors. Even though it costs quite a lot, it’s safe to assume that it’s more than worth the cash.

Key Features:

  • 1600 rated watts, 2000w at peak
  • Ultra-quiet muffler feature
  • Smart throttle engine improves the fuel economy
  • Inverter technology & CARB-compliant settings
Pros Cons
One of the most valuable silent power generators Mediocre runtime hours
Superior features and technology Costs a lot
Extremely silent

Westinghouse WH2200iXLT

Westinghouse’ WH2200iXLT is a balanced, high-quality silent generator that boasts quite a value for the buck. It’s as compact as it’s lightweight, but, most importantly, it’s super-safe due to pure, clean power output. It belongs to the “medium” price point category, and it’s decently valuable for the money.

Key Features:

  • Weighs 43 pounds
  • Safe, clean power output –1800 rated watts, 2200w at peak
  • Gas tank of 1.3-gallon lasts up to 13 hours at 25% load
  • Inverter technology (parallel ready)
Pros Cons
Huge gas tank allows for improved runtime No major flaws
Weightless and noiseless
Very powerful generator

Buying Guide

Things to consider – what to look for when searching for a quiet portable generator

If you want to pick a “good” generator, you’ll have quite a room for error, but if you’re searching for the quietest portable generator, there are certain things you’ll want to keep an eye out for.

First of all, you’ll want to look up the price. More often than not, the price point category discerns the “good” from “bad”. This will give you a clearer view of the other things you’ll consider later on.

Secondly, look out for features. Generators are outfitted with various electronic parts, so it might do you good to inquire about what each part does. Since different generators come outfitted with different sets of features, it would be pointless to try to categorize them – ask the brands or look up the reviews.

Thirdly, the power is what you’re looking for. Ironically, a 500w generator might serve you better than a 3KW one, given the circumstance. People who need to power up their cellphones don’t need a generator with high wattage while campers need to spice up quite a lot of items.

Last, but not least, the weight comes into play. A compact generator is the one that you can safely and easily transport from the point A to the point B. If your generator weighs a lot, it’s definitely not “compact” – even though it may have wheels, your back will be sore after you’ve packed it into your trunk.

Conclusion

Without going too far into details, we’ve crowned the Wen 56200i as the quietest compact generator in our review. It’s not too expensive, it’s powerful, and, most importantly, it’s super-quiet. If, by chance, this model is not to your liking, feel free to browse through our top 10 picks, and you’ll be sure to find the perfect one for you. We wish you good luck in your search!

Best Portable Generator under $300, $400, $500, $600, $700, $800 & $1000

Get a portable generator that matches your budget.

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Comments 1

  1. Hi, there! I’m searching for a perfect generator for an RV for quite some time and Wen’s PowerPro sound pretty good (if you know what I mean). Also, I’m surprised by how much it costs, considering features. Going for that one for sure!

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