What are the best inverter generators that produce 3500 or 3800 Watts?
First off, why use an inverter generator rather than a conventional generator? For one, the newer and more technologically advanced inverter generators are much more fuel-efficient.
Thus, saving you money in the long run. Inverter generators are also much quieter and less annoying to be around. Lastly, we believe that inverter generators are typically a much better bang for the buck.
It is also important to note that the more Watts, the more power. One of the biggest reasons people need 3500 rated or starting Watts is to power a 15,000 BTU ac. There are many other reasons why the demand for an inverter generator with this much Wattage is massive.
It is a reliable amount to get through difficult situations of a power outage, enough for camping, tailgating, or your RV.
Not only are they used for fun, but they come in serious handy in case of an emergency. It wasn’t until I had a family of my own until I decided to purchase my first inverter generator. Knowing that my family will have a working refrigerator and other power sources in a severe storm certainly gave me peace of mind.
Without further ado, based on experience, reviews, research, and comparisons; we gathered a list of the best inverter generators that produce anywhere between 3500 or 3800 starting or rated Watts?
In Short, Here Are The 5 Best 3500-3800 Watt Inverter Generators
- Westinghouse iGen4200 (3500- 4200 Watt)
- Generac GP3500iO (3000-3500 Watt)
- WEN 56380i (3400-3800Watt)
- Westinghouse iGen4500 (3700-4500 Watt)
- Generac 7127 iQ3500 (3000- 3500 Watt)
1. Westinghouse iGen4200 (3500- 4200 Watt)
First up, the popular Westinghouse iGen4200 is an incredible generator at a reasonable price. This portable inverter generator is a hybrid with an open frame. The hybrid technology adds a unique element to its fuel efficiency. Thus, saving money in the long run. It’s most efficient while in “Efficiency Mode.” It is both CARB and EPA compliant producing clean energy.
With the purchase, you receive a tool kit, oil funnel, oil, and a manual. This generator is popular among campers with its TT-30R outlet located in the front. It has a powerful 4-Stroke OHV engine that’s relatively easy to start. One of the things we really like about this unit is the incredibly high Wattage for the price.
You get 3500 rated Watts with a 4200 peak Watt at only $620. You will have a tough time trying to find this high of Wattage at that low of a price point.
Going back to the fuel efficiency, you will be delighted with the iGen4200. It gives you 18 hours of run time with 2.6 gallons of gas. The self-noise is relatively low as well at 62dBA. One of the downsides to this generator is the fact that it does not have wheels.
Considering its weight at 82 pounds, it may be difficult to transport. An extra hand may come in handy. Overall, the Westinghouse iGen4200 portable inverter generator is an excellent choice. Running well below $1000, it offers exceptionally high Wattage for the price.
Details & Tech Specs
- EPA compliant
- CARB Compliant
- TT-30R outlet
- 18 hours run time with 2.6 gallons of gas
- Self-noise: 62dBA
2. Generac GP3500iO (3000-3500 Watt)
The Generac GP3500iO is a portable inverter generator with an open frame. For the high Wattage, it’s competitively priced below $600. This generator is relatively popular in the construction industry. Being much more compact and portable than it seems in the pictures, it’s 16 inches tall, 19 inches deep, and 17 inches wide.
It is also slightly lighter than the typical generator at roughly 74 pounds. For campers, you won’t have any issue powering your RV or 15,000BTU air conditioner. On the front is a 30-Amp, recoil start, 2 USB outlets, and more.
The relatively lightweight for its size makes it easy to carry. You’re able to single-handedly carry this generator, but unfortunately, it doesn’t have wheels for more accessible travel. This unit offers parallel technology enabling you to add a second generator for more Wattage.
However, it can only be paralleled with another GP3500iO. Starting up at 3500-Watts and running at 3000-Watts, it’s incredibly powerful for the size. Let alone, incredibly powerful for the price, as well.
One of the essential features I like about the Generac GP3500iO is its Powerrush technology. Basically, it offers more than 50% more start-up capacity.
The only downside I noticed with this unit is the lack of wheels. Although it is relatively light for a generator at 74 pounds, it is much heavier when full of gas. Besides that, it is an excellent choice for RV, camping, job sites, or home backup.
Details & Tech Specs
- Open frame
- Can only be paralleled with another GP3500iO
- Inverter generator
- Starting Watts: 3500
- Running Watts: 3000
- True Power Technology for clean power
- CARB compliant
- 30-Amp RV plug
3. WEN 56380i (3400-3800Watt)
The WEN 56380i is, and rightfully so, one of the highest-rated and reviewed inverter generators on the market. With an incredible surge of 3800-Watts and 3400 rated Watts, this portable generator is extremely powerful. On the front, you will find an AC 120V NEMA TT-30R RV receptacle, one 5V USB port, two three-prong 120V receptacles, and a fuel display.
Especially for its size, this generator is very quiet at 57dBA. Many say it’s even quieter than the famous Honda generator. Without any fuel, the generator is pretty heavy at 99 pounds. Fortunately, the wheels and extended travel handle make it significantly easier to travel.
One of the things I like about this unit is it’s very reliable. Both the body and motor are robustly made and built to last. I also appreciate the electric start this generator offers. Another thing fascinating about the WEN 56380i is the option to get it as an open frame at a much lower price.
Like many inverter generators, it provides a 30-Amp RV plug. Another essential feature is its Eco mode, which increases your fuel efficiency. Overall, the WEN 56380i is a dependable generator that will not let you down. We highly recommend it.
Details & Tech Specs
- EPA III
- CARB Compliant
- Clean power
- Watts: 3800 Start and 3400 run
- Self-noise: 57dBA
- Wheels
- Travel handle
- Recoil start
- 212cc 4-stroke OHV engine
- Closed frame
4. Westinghouse iGen4500 (3700-4500 Watt)
Next in line, the highly-rated Westinghouse iGen4500 is a great portable inverter generator. It is incredibly powerful, producing 3700-watts and a peak of 4500-watts. This generator weighs 104lbs. Coming with wheels, it is very convenient and easy to travel with. However, in “efficient mode,” the Westinghouse iGen4500 is incredibly fuel-efficient. You get about 11 hours with only 1 gallon of gas. On a quarter load, you receive 18 hours of run time.
The front shows the fuel display amount, remaining run time, lifetime hours, power output, and voltage output. It is extremely quiet, averaging 52-55dB. Something I really like about the iGen4500 is the ability to run a midsized air conditioner of 15,000 BTU if needed.
It’s effortless to hold a conversation next to it without the noise becoming too overbearing. On the front, you will see two 5 volt USB ports for your laptop, tablets, phones, etc. Considering it produces nearly the highest amount of Watts for the price, it is also one of the largest inverter generators on the market.
It can be powered on by a push start, wireless start, or recoil if the battery dies. Many people who need a generator for their RV will significantly benefit from this unit. On the front is a 30 amp receptacle ready to go. One of the few downsides is the many claims of Westinghouse’s poor customer service.
Overall, the Westinghouse iGen4500 is an outstanding generator running below $1000 for a plethora of reasons. It has incredibly high voltage, very fuel-efficient, durable, very quiet, has an efficient mode, has incredible ratings, and is very reliable. We highly recommend it.
Details & Tech Specs
- 3700-Watt and 4500-Watt peak
- RV compatible
- Push-button start
- Wireless start
- Weight: 104 pounds
- Inverter
- TT-30R outlet
- Display: Fuel amount, remaining run time, lifetime hours, power output, and voltage output
- Gas Powered
- Very quiet at 52dB noise
- Feature: Efficient mode
- Two 5V USB ports
- Clean power
- CARB compliant
5. Generac 7127 iQ3500 (3000- 3500 Watt)
Lastly, the Generac 7127 iQ3500 is a good portable inverter generator. Generac claims the 7127 iQ3500 is 40% quieter than the famous Honda. It features an easy electric start or recoil. The initial surge produces 3500-Watts while it runs on 3000-rated Watts. One of the most unique and beneficial features of the Generac 7127 iQ3500 is the steal enclosure.
It is incredibly durable and able to withstand intense conditions. Many people in the construction industry or off-grid living highly benefit from it.
This generator has been tested and proven to run a 15000 BTU AC. It also offers parallel abilities allowing you to add an additional Generac 7127 iQ3500 if needed. Like most inverter generators, this unit is generally quiet. One of the harshest downsides to this item is the inability to return it. Many people who received a defective unit had a few issues getting it repaired.
Another disadvantage is the absence of wheels, making it less convenient for travel. However, the Generac 7127 iQ3500 is a great choice for anyone in need of an inverter generator with outstanding durability.
Details & Tech Specs
- Able to add parallel
- Watts: 3500 Start and 3000 run
- Steal enclosure for tough durability
- Inverter
Quick Recap
Here Are The 5 Best 3500-3800 Watt Inverter Generators
- Westinghouse iGen4200 (3500-Watt)
- Generac GP3500iO (3500-Watt)
- WEN 56380i (3800-Watt)
- Westinghouse iGen4500 (3700-Watt)
- Generac 7127 iQ3500 (3500-Watt)
What’s a portable generator?
A generator is a machine that turns mechanical energy into electricity. It’s used to power electronics portably.
What’s a portable inverter generator?
An inverter generator is more energy-efficient and quieter than a standard generator. This is because the engine throttles in accordance with how much energy is needed rather than full-throttle consistently.
How much does a portable generator cost?
While most generators hover between $450-$1400, you can find some generators as low as $100 and as high as $5000.
How much does a generator weigh?
With a few exceptions, most generators weigh anywhere between 21-235 pounds. Keep in mind, the heavier generators usually have built-in wheels for easier mobility.
How much does an inverter generator weigh?
Most inverter generators weigh anywhere between 21-115 pounds.
When do generators come in handy?
Generators come in handy anytime you need portable electric power such as camping trips, tailgating, off-grid living, RV trips, etc. They’re also essential if your home loses electricity.
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