Natural disasters come uninvited, and not having electricity around is the last thing you would want then. A 2000-watt generator, which has a half-load runtime of around 10 to 20 hours, is enough to run a house or a small office. If a generator has a half-load runtime of 10 hours, it means you won’t have to get up in the middle of the night if the air conditioner stops working in order to refill it. From using kitchen appliances to watching television and working on the computer a generator provides you with comfort during difficult times. You also can easily take most of these generators with you when you go camping or set off on a car journey.
With so many brands contributing to 2000-watt generators on the market, it only feels right to review the most popular models, give you a list of top six of them, and help you choose the one for your needs. In our research, we considered the generator’s maximum output and engine power, noise level, fuel tank capacity, warranty and guarantee scheme, as these features are crucial for deciding on the right model.
We spent a good couple of days going through features and specifications of each of the six 2000-watt generators, as well as expert and customer reviews across the Internet. In this article, you’ll find a table summarizing our top picks, in-detail reviews of each generator we included in our list (with advantages and disadvantages), and a buying guide that will help you make the right choice.
More features: Eco-Mode, indication lights, parallel connection capable
A best-selling model by WEN, the WEN 56200i produces clear power that can be used to operate phones, computer, tablets, kitchen appliances, and television.
It only produces 51 dBA of noise, which is comparable to the sound of a normal conversation suggested by US Department of Health and Human Services. It’s quieter than the sound produced by an average-sized air conditioner, so you won’t be disturbed while hunting, camping, or restoring power for a back-up. This model can also be used as a small RV generator if you have an adapter for it.
To use the fuel to its maximum efficiency, switch on the Eco-Mode which helps the generator to adjust the fuel consumption on its own. The generator comes with a 12V DC receptacle, two three-prong 120V receptacles, and a 5V USB port.
With a half-load runtime of only six hours, the generator’s power will last you only for six to seven hours of sleep. If you think your office or home needs more than 2000 watts of power, simply attach two generators together using the WEN 56421 Parallel Connection Kit.
The generator only weighs 48 pounds, making it one of the most lightweight products on our list. The generator’s panel includes three indicators: low oil, overload, and output. WEN offers two years of limited warranty for this 2000-watt generator model.
Honda is one of the leading names when it comes to portable generators. They have mastered the art of integrating inverters in their generators, and the EU2200i is an exemplary example of their creation.
The user-friendly generator comes with the powerful GXR120 engine known for its fuel-efficient and noiseless operation. In fact, the EU2200i is one of the quietest generators you will find on the market.
The powerhouse is equipped with two AC outlets of 120V giving out 2200 watts and 1800 watts. You also have another 12V 100-watt DC outlet. The combination enables you to drive a wide range of appliances and devices such as fridge, microwave, computers, TV, DVD players, and commercial equipment.
The generator comes with a fuel capacity of 1 gallon which produces enough power for 8 hours. You can get a peak of 2000 watts for thirty minutes though you can hook up other Honda generators on parallel connections to drive more power.
Honda has also made it possible to offer low maintenance for this super noiseless performer. Even beginners can take care of the generator without any problem. There is a big oil filler that has a longer spout for easy refill. The large oil drain gutter means you can refuel easily without making a mess.
The model also comes with a 3-year limited warranty which adds the silver lining.
More features: innovative inverter system, long runtime
As with most things Yamaha produces, their EF2200iS generator is stocked full of revolutionary, cutting-edge technology that provides an impressive amount of power and excellent performance. While at first glance you may notice how compact it is, it’s surprisingly durable and can handle a beating throughout countless trips. As it is so compact, we weren’t necessarily surprised at it being so lightweight, but were pleased with how easy it was to transport. The comfy handles made it easy to carry long distances without causing chafing or cramps.
As the energy is so high-quality, you can freely use it to power your laptops with a built-in microprocessor. The 1.24-gallon tank can run up to 10.5 hours at a quarter load, which is perfect for fishing trips or day trips out on the lake or ocean. Fuel shutoff lets the carb run dry, which also cuts down on starting problems if you’ve kept it stowed away all season. The carb drain also ensures every bit of fuel is let out for even longer periods of storage. A closable vent cap is particularly convenient to eliminate fuel spills, which is especially important on boats. You’ll also find a fuel level indicator right on the cap, so you can quickly glance and know where you’re at.
While the amount of power provided was certainly substantial for anything we needed, if you want more, you can connect two units for double the force! We will mention the one downside we could think of, which was that oil can be difficult to fill in without spilling because of the oil spout location and fill angle. However, you will probably get used to it after several uses.
More features: 5-20R 120V household duplex receptacles with rubber covers, minimal assembly required
The Westinghouse WGen2000 is the ultimate powerhouse among the generators listed in our review. It packs a 212 cc OHV engine which produces 2000 watts consistently while peaking a maximum of 2500 watts.
This model is equipped with a huge 4-gallon fuel tank which you can refill once and get endless hours of reliable and steady electricity. The WGen2000 has a run time of 16 hours at 50% load which means you can sleep peacefully without having to get up to refuel!
The generator can even run up to 20 hours running at 25% load.
You can use the generator for a wide range of applications and DIY projects, even powering tools and equipment in the construction site. It has two 120 volts 20 amp outlets to plug various devices but lacks a DC output.
The Westinghouse WGen2000 has a durable built with metal rods protecting the fuel tank and the overall body. This makes it a bit bulky and overweight, but you have to make that compromise for the durability and high power out with long run times. It comes with wheels so that you can pull it to your desired location.
You also get a 3-year limited nationwide warranty and lifetime support while your generator can be serviced anywhere across 1,500 service centers. It also comes with a tool kit and user manual and can be assembled in minutes.
More features: Parallel inverter kit, easy-to-start
The Pulsar PG2000iS is lightweight at only 47 lbs. and one of the most portable generators you will find. It has a neat suitcase-like design with a convenient handle to carry it around without any problems.
When it comes to the specifications, the generator is equipped with an 80 cc engine rated at 1600 watts and reaching a peak of 2000 watts. It comes with two AC 120-volt outlets and also packs a 12-volt DC 8-amp outlet. For smartphones and other devices, there is also a 5-volt DC USB outlet.
The PG2000iS has a runtime of 6.3 hours on half load though you can extract close to 8 hours on lower loads. The company claims their generator to offer noiseless performance which doesn’t disturb your camping activities or conversation.
It produces around 59 to 61 dB of sound, which is higher than the Honda model. Some customers have also complained that their generators make whiny noises and they didn’t turn out as quiet as they expected them to be.
The generator is parallel ready and you can plug in two PG2000iS using a parallel adapter. This enables you to churn up your power output without investing in a bulky generator.
The Pulsar PG2000iS comes with a 1.18-gallon fuel tank which makes it last a bit more than the Yamaha model.
More features: EPA approved
The APG3014G petrol generator produces a peak output of 2,000 watts and a running output of about 1,600 watts. The generator set sits in a sturdy metal frame.
The tank holds 8 gallons of unleaded petrol and is easy to fill thanks to the easy accessibility of the filler neck. While on half load capacity, you can operate the generator for 9.5 hours before you have to refuel. A fuel gauge shows the current level.
The air-cooled four-stroke engine requires oil before you can start the generator via the cable. A low oil safety device protects the engine. When the engine is cold, the choke assists the starting process. You can connect end devices to the two 120-volt sockets. If you are looking for a power generator for your weekend home or smaller construction sites, this device from All Power America reliably supplies you with electricity.
The noise level is within the norm. According to its manufacturer, the generator generates 68 decibels. The model is rated differently in customer reviews. In addition to a lot of positive feedback, you will also find critical comments. Among other things, various deficiencies are complained about as well as difficulties when starting with the cable.
The device is unsuitable for frequent transport because it has no push handles, carry handle, and lacks transport rollers. However, it is fairly lightweight at 55 pounds.
If you’ve settled on buying a 2000-watt generator, you definitely want to know what exactly you can do with it and how to choose the best one from among all the available generators. That is why we took our time and did some research to write this buying guide.
There are some advantages and disadvantages to owning a 2000-watt generator. Let’s explore them a bit!
Pros
Cons
Several factors influences your decision while buying a generator but there are some important features that need to be present in your choice of a product. Let’s take a look at them:
It makes sense that a higher engine power means a steady flow of reliable electricity. The Westinghouse WGen2000 comes with 212 cc and has the highest capacity in the class.
Models like the WEN 56200i and Yamaha EF2200iS have 80 cc engines which are less in power than WGen2000. You should determine the purpose of using your generator and then decide on the engine power you need.
If you are going to use the generator for emergency situations, you won’t need a high powered engine. But if you have high power requirements, then it makes sense to go for engines of higher capacities.
You should check the rating of the generator to ensure the wattage it produces. For example, the Yamaha EF2200iS has a power rating of 1800 watts while the maximum output is 2200 watts.
In comparison, the All Power America model has a rating of 1400 watts with a peak of 2000 watts. All the models have a peak output of 2000 watts except the Westinghouse WGen2000 which produces 2500 watts at the maximum.
A power rating of 1600 to 1800 watts is enough for home and recreational use. If you are looking to run high capacity machinery or equipment, then you would need a high peak. Generally, you will not be running your generator at peak for most of the time times so sticking to a medium range makes sense.
This is one of the most important features in your generator. Most of the generators on our list have a fuel capacity of around 1 gallon which is more or less sufficient for a night sleep.
But if you plan to use your generator for longer hours, then you need to go for higher capacity tanks.
A normal conversation produces sound levels of 60 to 70 dB. Most of the generators on our list function at lower sound levels which doesn’t cross the mark of 60 dB. You can comfortably use all the generators on our list at home or while camping and carry on your conversations without any disturbance.
If you are looking for quieter models, you can go for the Honda EU2000i. It produces far less sound and remains around 50 dB which is peaceful enough to offer you a good night sleep.
You can opt for generators with higher noise levels if you plan to use them outdoors all the time.
Runtime is one of the first things that you should check out when buying a generator. It is obvious that generators with a longer runtime would need less refuelling and offer you electricity for longer stretches.
The runtime of your generator will also be affected by the load you operate it at and the fuel tank capacity. On our list, the Westinghouse WGen2000 has a runtime of 16 hours when operated at 50% load. Any increase in the load will result in decrease of the runtime.
Determine your duration of generator use, and then you will be able to decide how much runtime will be necessary for you.
The combination of the three factors ‑ portability, size and weight ‑ will determine the mobility of your generator. If you plan to move around your generator quite a bit, it makes sense to go for lightweight models with a compact design.
The most portable and compact generator on our list is Pulsar PG2000iS weighing just 47lbs. It also has a convenient suitcase-like design with a neat handle to carry it anywhere you want.
If your generator remains stationary for most of the time, you can go for heavyweight models as it won’t be moved frequently.
It goes without mentioning that a generator with longer warranty will have it covered against defects and malfunctions for a longer time.
Many models like the Westinghouse WGen2000, Honda EU2000i and Yamaha EF2200iS come with a 3-year limited warranty and you can choose them for peace of mind.
Along with warranty, you should also check out if the manufacturer has any options of a free technical assistant. For example, the All Power America 2000-Watt generator offers 24-hour free technical support which is really helpful and goes a long way to solve any problems related to the product.
Also, determine if the manufacturer has service locations in your city or state.
You will find some accessories provided with your generator. The first thing to check out is if the accessories include everything you need to assemble your generator. If not, you will need to arrange them or purchase them separately.
Another important accessory is the user manuals which you may need to set up the generator or resolve common problems. Sometimes the manufacturer also provides additional accessories such as plug wrenches and spark plugs.
You will also need additional accessories such as parallel cables or DC charging cables which can be bought separately if you want to hook two generators.
We are sure by now you have a good idea of the generator you need. Just to note, we will run down a summary for your convenience. If you want an all-around performer, you can settle for the WEN 56200i which comes with a runtime of 6 hours. It is also the most popular model from the company and perfect for home and office use.
You can also go for the Honda EU2000i which is the lowest noise-making generator in our finding. The compact powerhouse provides 1800 watts of electricity for 8 hours and even returns you a good fuel consumption figure.
You can also check out the Yamaha EF2200iS, which has an extended run time of 10.5 hours at half load. Coming from Yamaha, it boasts their trademark quality and performance and is ideal for both residential and office use. If you have a requirement for a long runtime and high power output, then the Westinghouse WGen2000 fits your bill.
