No matter what type of emergency situation you’re faced with, powerful, small inverter generators can come in handy. From camping to hurricanes, these little masters will provide the very essential power you need when all else fails. This is AC current- the same type of power your house uses – can hook up almost any appliance in a grid power outage.
We know that in a time of crisis it can be hard to decide which Genset is best for your needs. So here’s our pick of the 5 top-rated mini generators under 700$, for you on the market today! All are almost around 2000 watts power output. And these portable generators can even be used for your RV, camping, and tailgating also.
Compare them and order one today for your home!
Top 5 Best Small Inverter Generators under 700$
Let’s talk about the 5 best little generators in the industry! The portable, quiet devices with loads of power!
[Disclaimer: Here is our hand-picked selection of the 5 best-rated small inverters for you. After hours of research, we have made this list. We did not buy any and tried it out on our own. We did however go through nearly all of the reviews and ratings for all formats to make it easier for you. As an Amazon affiliate, we will receive a small percentage of any purchase made through these links.]
Our list is here:-
- Generac GP2200i Portable Inverter Generator
- WEN 56200i 2000-Watt Gas Powered Portable Inverter Generator, CARB Compliant
- Champion 2000-Watt Dual Fuel Inverter Generator, Ultralight
- Briggs & Stratton P2200 Power Smart Series Inverter Generator
- Westinghouse iGen2200 Super Quiet Portable Inverter Generator
Almost all of them are super quiet in operation and can be rated as the best small quiet generators also. We can go to the reviews next.
Generac GP2200i 7117 Portable Inverter Generator Review
Generac Power Systems Inc. holds the largest share in the Portable Generator market, as shown by Statista.com stats. This share is almost 40%. According to Generac, the 60-year-old company was one of the first in the US to “engineer affordable home generators”. Many patents in this area are held by the company in the USA and abroad
Small inverter generators can be great for people on the go and especially for outdoor enthusiasts. They are able to power a wide variety of appliances and electronics and are lightweight enough to be easily carried around. The Generac 7117 GP2200i inverter generator is an affordable option for a little portable generator that offers you plenty of bang for your buck.
Specifically, the Generac GP2200i has clean power. For best results and to avoid damage to your expensive electronics, you should connect them directly to this 2200i generator. It also includes a USB charging port so you can charge your devices right through it as well.
These inverter generators are highly rated and 80% of users give it a perfect 5/5 star rating. If you want a quality inverter generator that won’t break the bank, then this is definitely one to consider.
1. Features & Benefits of Generac GP2200i Portable Inverter Generator
It has Generac’s TruePower™ Technology which helps to generate powerful and reliable signals. It produces a <3% THD(THD is discussed below) output without any fluctuations. It is therefore ideal for delicate and sensitive electronics like your laptops, mobile phones, radios, tools, and even your kitchen appliances
This Generac 7117 has a power output of 2200 starting watts and 1700 running watts.
This Genset is loaded with the hailed Generac’s OHV(Over Head Valve) 80cc single-cylinder 4-stroke engine and is simple to start manually.
In this review, one of the best features found is that this generator unit is quiet and friendly to your neighbors. Noise levels are dramatically reduced by a fully enclosed acoustic-block design. On a real test video, we could see, from 25 feet away on full-throttle, it makes 66 dB sound which is the sound level of a downtown restaurant. This means that it won’t disturb any of your household and outdoor recreational activities. In your wildlife adventures, it will not disturb the serene wildness around with its noise. So, it is considered by a great number of users as a best small quiet generator for camping.
It is Compact and Lightweight. It weighs only 46.6 lbs and is one of the best small inverter generators in the US power tools market.
Its built-in integrated handle makes transportation also simple. Lots of consumers seemed as using it as a portable generator for their boats also.
Generac GP 2200 is one of the top-rated fuel-efficient small quiet generators. It has 7.0 Hours Run Time at 50% Load and 10.75 Hours Run Time at 25% Load. The fuel tank is of a capacity of 1.2 gallons. Clean and fresh Gasoline is the fuel used. Up to 10% Ethanol or Gasohol also can be accepted.
It has power Outlets of 120V 20A 5-20R and 12V DC (1) 1.5A. USB Outlet is also there for your laptops, mobiles, tablets, etc.
Integrated off, run, and choke knob is there to make your starting easy.
It comes with bright LED Indicators to alarm you for low oil levels, overloads, etc.
It can be paralleled with another Generac GP2200i generator and get dual power up to 3230 Watts. [Parallel kit 7118 is sold separately.]
It has an Economy mode also. It utilizes fuel economy technology to improve fuel efficiency
With its Generac 7118 Parallel Kit ( On Amazon, which is sold separately), it can be paired with another Generac 7117 Gp2200i generator for doubling your power needs.
This Generac 7117 has 2 years limited warranty for residential and a 1-year limited warranty for commercial consumers.
Pros
- Clean Power Output
- Quiet
- Compact & Easily Portable
- Fuel-efficient
- Eco Mode
- Lesser THD
- USB outlets for charging
- Parallel capability
Cons
- Not found as EPA & CARB compliant
Conclusion
In conclusion to this review, we can confidently say that the Generac GP2200i is one of the best small inverter generators, optimal for your outdoor recreational needs, for camping, power outages, emergency backup, and RV’s as well. It has a clean output and it is super quiet which doesn’t disturb any of your households. Overall, To get a really good value for your money, you can consider the Generac GP2200i.
2. WEN 56200i 2000-Watt Gas Powered Portable Inverter Generator (CARB Compliant) Review
First of all, this WEN 2000 watt inverter generator is a CARB compliant inverter generator which means it is eco-friendly. And, WEN inverter, made by the 60-year-old LLC is committed to regularly updating the California Air Resources Board(CARB) regulations on emissions from the Internal Combustion Engines of their power tools. At the same time provides a ‘cleaner output’ and avail us more flexibility while running your appliances. We really like that. It’s what makes it so unique among the crowd.
It is one of the rated small inverter generators for home, camping grounds, outdoor cookouts, tailgaters, and of course for unwarranted power outages. It is also a perfect fit and an eco-friendly generator for your construction sites.
Features & Benefits of WEN 56200i 2000-Watt Gas Powered Portable Inverter Generator
In addition to the CARB compliance, it is EPA III compliant as well.
This 2000 watt mini generator system has a power output of 2000 starting watts or peak watts and 1600 running watts or rated watts.
Wen inverter generator 2000 watts is capable of generating PURE SINE WAVE signals without much distortion. That means with less THD. It keeps its THD to 0.3% at no load and under 1.2% at full load. This meticulous system can safely keep our sensitive devices like laptops, mobile phones, tablets, smart tv, etc.
This small 2000 watt small power generating system has a stupendous Gasoline engine which is 79.7 cc 4-stroke OHV single-cylinder with forced air cooling system. It has a 1-gallon fuel tank. It will start and run more smoothly and will require less maintenance from you. As dedicated to environment-friendly CARB and EPA protocols it emits fewer pollutants to your surroundings.
It is a compact and super quiet inverter generator. It is quieter than our normal conversation. While testing from a distance of 22 ft It produces 51 decibels at a quarter of its load, 52 dB at 1/2 load, and 55 dB at 3/4 load. It is almost near to our conversation decibels and is one of the quietest small inverter generators
WEN 56200i generator is ultra fuel-efficient. At half load, it gets a run time of 6 hours. At quarter load it gets 9.4 hours run time., which is superb!
It weighs just 48 lbs. So, it is lightweight. That makes its portability and maneuverability easier. Thus, it can be rated by lots of users as one of the best in the small inverter generators domain. All the outdoor enthusiasts cannot get a better backup than this!
It is equipped with ‘two three-prong 120V receptacles or outlets, one 12V DC receptacle, and one 5V USB port.’You can directly charge your devices using the USB port.
It comes with an Eco-mode throttle. which can maximize fuel efficiency.
LED indicators for low-oil, low-fuel automatic shutdown, and overload. It helps to safeguard your mini power Genset and your devices and tools from damage.
It has a Parallel Connection Kit WEN 56421 (You can check here for WEN 56421 sold separately) for paralleling with another WEN 56200i generator to get additional energy.
This small quiet gas generator comes with wheels for easy maneuverability.
It is designed with closed frame construction to keep the noise levels down as well as all the parts in place so there are no loose components rattling around while running.
This WEN 56200i is a top-rated small inverter generator for camping and for your home, RV and boat.
Are WEN inverter generators any good?
Yes. It is truly good. The WEN inverter generator is easy to set up and use. It is also lightweight and durable. The WEN 56200i Generator CARB-compliant, comes with a 2-year warranty, which gives you peace of mind knowing that it is safe to buy.
Pros
- CARB & EPA complaint
- Almost Pure Sine Wave(PSW)
- Super Quiet
- Lightweight and combat
- USB charging Parallel capability
- Comes with a 2-year warranty
- USB outlets for charging
- Almost 80% of customers give a 5/5 rating
Cons
- Nothing in special
Conclusion
This WEN 56200i equipment is one of the best power generating systems you can buy for around 500$. It is one of the best small inverter generators we have reviewed to use for camping, power outages, emergency backup, and RVs. If you are short on cash and want a good portable generator system, then we recommend you to have this WEN 56200i 2000 Watt Inverter Generator CARB Compliant.
3. Champion Power Equipment 100900 2000-Watt Dual Fuel Inverter Generator Review (Ultralight)
The Champion 100900 2000-watt dual fuel inverter generator review starts with the performance of the unit itself. It is a lightweight, quiet, and reliable on-the-go power supply for all your needs. It is a small and compact design that will comfortably fit in just about any area you wish to place it in. This includes your vehicle, garage or even tucked away outdoors for emergency power protection when camping or hunting.
One thing that deserves honorable mention is its ability to run on both gasoline and propane fuel without any modifications needed when switching fuels from one to the other. The gas tank holds a whopping 1.05 gallons of gas while the propane tank can hold an ample 20 pounds of fuel which should be more than enough for camping needs.
While searching for the best small inverter generators, of both EPA & CARB compliant along with dual-fuel potential, this Champion Power Equipment fits the class. EPA & CARB certifications ensure its ability to run pollutant-free and can operate in all 50 states without having to look over your shoulder.
Feature & Benefits OF Champion Power Equipment 2000-Watt Dual Fuel Inverter Generator
This Champion’s weight is just 39 pounds, an ultralight one, good for camping, tailgating, and on the go. It is one of the lightest and smallest portable generators in the 2000 watts category.
Its engine is Champion 4-stroke 79cc OHV. With its 1.05 Gallon capacity gasoline tank full, it performs meticulously to generate a power output of 2000 starting watts or peak watts and 1700 running watts or rated watts. It will run for up to 11.5 hours neatly at a quarter load.
When using a 20-pound propane tank, the Champion 2000 watt generator has a power output of 2000 starting watts and 1530 running watts. This mini Genset can perform up to 34-36 hours at a quarter load when it is on its 20-pound propane tank.
As for the noise level, this dual fuel generator is surprisingly quiet for such a small model as it boasts a 53 dBA from 23 feet. This is one of the reasons why many people choose it as their number one choice for a dual fuel quiet generator when it comes to running power tools outdoors in their yards.
It has 2 covered outlets of 120V 20A(5-20R) for household items to connect. One 12 V automotive type outlet is also for charging related devices.
This equipment produces a clean and almost balanced signal or power output. It has < 3% THD.
It comes with a good recoil starting system and has a special feature named, Cold Start Technology, which helps easy starting in winter.
It has a dual USB adaptor for connecting your phone, laptop, tablet, etc.
This best-rated small portable generator has an Economy mode that can help in better fuel economy, quieter output, and an extended OHV engine life. In this mode, the engine runs in a reduced engine load.
It has a built-in carrying handle for easy portability.
The Champion inverter generators also come with a handy parallel outlet that can be used to connect two units together for double the output power or run time if needed.
It comes with a Low Oil Shut-Off sensor for the safety of the engine if overheating cases are detected.
With the 3-year limited warranty and free lifetime technical support, it makes you feel happier.
Pros
- Dual Fuel. Runs on Propane and Gasoline (No Modification Needed)
- EPA & CARB Compliant
- Super Quiet
- Ultra-lightweight and Sport Compact Design for Easier Storage and Carrying.
- Dual USB Adaptor
- Low Oil Shut-Off sensor
- Parallel capability
- Almost 80% of customers give a 5/5 rating
- 3-year limited warranty
Cons
- Nothing in special.
- If something to say, THD can be lowered like WEN 56200i
Conclusion
The Champion Power Equipment 100900 2000-Watt is one among the best in the top-rated small inverter generators section and is an ideal power solution for your needs in camping, cooking, RV use, backyard projects, tailgating, and more. It can run on both gasoline and propane fuel without any modifications needed when switching fuels from one to the other. Ideal for Boats, RVs, and Homes Looking to Protect Electronics from Storms. For those looking for a simple generator solution, then look no further than this Champion model.
4. Briggs & Stratton P2200 Power Smart Series Inverter Generator Review
This review is for the Briggs & Stratton P2200 Power Smart Series Inverter Generator. Its sleek and compact design, quiet operation, and reliable power are a few reasons why it has been chosen as one of the tops in outdoor recreations. Though it is primarily designed for camping, it can be a best affordable portable inverter generator for home backup, construction sites, boats, and RV as well.
Briggs & Stratton, a centuary+ old corporation is renowned for their power tools and engines. This inverter generator is a part of their acclaimed, Power Smart Series that consists of many different models, all running on Briggs & Stratton’s own OHV Engines. The P2200 shares many features with the previous generation models such as the P2000 which is highly regarded.
Its price is also extremely affordable, making it a good buy for people who don’t have to pay too much attention to their energy bills.
Features & Benefits of Briggs & Stratton P2200 Power Smart Series Inverter Generator
World-class small inverter generators have a lot of potential and useful features you like. This little genius we are featuring here is also a kind of machine that comes in that class.
Briggs & Stratton is famous for their Internal Combustion Engines. Here, in this Briggs P2200, they have used a 4-stroke 110 cc OHV engine of their own. With its 1 Gallon gasoline tank full, it can generate a power output of 2200 starting watts and 1700 running watts.
It will run uninterruptedly up to 8 hours at 25% load for you.
This lightweight system is easy to carry around when you are out camping. It has a perfect weight of 54 pounds.
It comes with a very heavy-duty (closed) steel frame that holds it well on its own.
This Briggs & Stratton P2200 generator system is CE(Conformité Européenne) compliant and is committed to ecological issues and better human health and safety.
This Power Smart series 2000 watt inverter generator is Briggs & Stratton’s ‘Quiet Power Technology®’ equipped Genset. That makes it on the list of some of the quietest small inverter generators. While measuring at 25% load and away from a distance of 7 meters from the generator it produces 59decibels of sound. At 59 dB sound output, its noise level never breaches a certain threshold of annoyance to you.
The Quiet Power Technology® reduces emissions and noise. It also enhances fuel economy.
Its Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) is < 3%. (It seems that almost all the Power Smart Series small inverter generators produce a clean and almost balanced voltage or power output.)
It has Recoil Starter System for easy starting.
This Briggs little genius has 2 covered 120V-20A household outlets and one 12V-5A DC outlet of automotive type, along with a USB adaptor for immediate charging for your laptops, mobiles, etc.
It has an H-design handle that makes carrying easy and can be done by one or two people.
Briggs & Stratton P2200 generator system has a dedicated parallel outlet that can be used to connect two ‘Power Smart Series’ units together for double the output power or run time if needed. (Parallel kit sold separately. Check here for that.)
Comes with a Low Oil Shut-Off sensor for the safety of the engine if overheating cases are detected.
This small inverter generator comes with 2 Years Limited warranty.
Pros
- CE Compliant
- Quiet Power Technology®
- Hailed, Briggs & Stratton Long-Lasting OHV Engine
- Lightweight and Compact Closed Frame design
- USB Adaptor
- Parallel outlet
- Automatic Low Oil Shut Down
- Circuit Breaker
- Near about 70% of customers give a 5/5 rating
- Affordable Price
- 2 Years Limited warranty
Cons
- If something to say, THD can be lowered like WEN 56200i.
Conclusion
Briggs and Stratton has been a household name for more than a century. The reason behind this is quite simple. Their products are always reliable and trustworthy. The same happens to be the case for the Power Smart Series P2200 Watt Inverter Generator as well. As stated above, it comes in the ‘stellar’ avenue of World-class small inverter generators.
5. Westinghouse iGen2200 Super Quiet Portable Inverter Generator Review
Westinghouse iGen 2200 watt Generator is a very compact and lightweight inverter generator with an easy to move handle, sturdy body, and an attractive design that enhances its outlook. It is ideal for camping, tailgating, recreation, or any other outdoor activities that require a power supply. It can be used for construction jobs and home backup as well. With a powerful, long-lasting engine, this generator is built for reliability and efficiency.
Westinghouse has been manufacturing products for more than 100 years and is well-known in the market, especially for their electrical equipment that relies on advanced technology and innovative design. Their generators are one of the most reliable ones with incomparable quality and durability. The Westinghouse iGen2200 Inverter Generator is a notable example of their incomparable excellence. Let’s get to know it in detail.
Features & Benefits of Westinghouse iGen 2200 watt Inverter Generator
While we are reviewing the US market’s best small inverter generators, naturally we will land up in this astonishing little power system also.
It weighs only 46 pounds and is an ultra-compact, closed-frame small inverter generator. Its compact size allows you to place it anywhere and also carry it around easily. t has a built-in suitcase-like handle as well.
This Westinghouse 2200 watt generator is CARB compliant, which means it meets California’s strict emission standards that are more stringent than the federal standards.
It is EPA compliant as well.
It has a 4-Stroke 80 cc OHV Westinghouse engine and it automatically regulates the rpm of the engine to produce only the power you need. This variable engine speed makes it very fuel-efficient. 30-50% more efficient than normal portable generators.
With this generously fuel-efficient engine, the Westinghouse iGen 2200 watt Generator generates a power output of 2200 Peak Watts and 1800 running watts. It has 12 hours run-time on its 1.14 gallons gas tank at quarter load.
It is quiet and smooth in operation. The noise output is a mere 52 dB, which makes it very easy on your ears. With its double-insulated acoustic enclosure and low tone mufflers, it reduces the running sound a lot.
It has two 120V (5-20R) standard household outlets and two 5V USB ports and is protected with rubber covers.
This Westinghouse 2200 watt generator has <3% THD. That means a clean and undistorted power output. This means it is safe for your microprocessor-based devices from mobile phones to plasma televisions to kitchen appliances.
It has an easy-to-start recoil system for better control and stability during the starting process.
Considered as one among the best in the league of the top-notch small inverter generators, this machine comes with a built-in low oil sensor that triggers an automatic shutoff when the oil gets too low.
Overload protection also is there to prevent the generator from damage if it is overloaded.
It has a semi-automatic built-in circuit breaker that can switch off the unit in case of overload.
This generator has a Parallel Outlet to allow you to link two generators together for double the power and run time for your uses like of RV. (The Parallel kit is sold separately.) You can check here for Westinghouse igen2200 parallel cord.
It has an economy mode also for extended run time and fuel efficiency.
It is backed by a 3-year limited warranty from Westinghouse.
Pros
- Legacy Engine
- CARB & EPA Compliant
- Clean output
- Lightweight and compact
- Easy to start and use
- Built-in suitcase-like handle
- Super Quiet and smooth in operation.
- Variable Speed engine to match the load
- Parallel Outlet for linking two generators.
- Low Oil Shut Down sensor
- USB Outlets
- Affordable price
- 3-year limited warranty from Westinghouse
Cons
- No Voltage meter and Fuel gauge.
Conclusion
Westinghouse iGen 2200 watts is quiet, efficient, reliable, and one of the best in class small inverter generators in the power tool industry. It is highly rated by consumers for its overall quality and services. The manufacturer is known for its reliability and trustworthiness. This Westinghouse 2200 watt generator has all the qualities of a user-friendly product that is safe to use.
Overall Verdict
Overall, the inverter generators under $700 make it easy for you to have power when there’s no electric grid. All the models reviewed are different in their design, so read through all five models and make sure that what you choose works with your needs. Remember, these are all the best small inverter generators under $700 that we’ve reviewed to date, so there is a lot of choices out there.
Some of them are made in China, as well.
The most powerful and loudest is model #1 and quietest is the model #5.
Most compact and ultralight is model #3, most fuel-efficient is model #4. The best product overall can say is model #5, but the consumer rating is lower than the first 3 for it.
We can array them in an ascending or descending order. But aware, these are all very popular models that have been purchased by consumers in the USA many times over because they work for them.
I Hope, this review can serve you in your search for the best small inverter generators.
Thanking you for reading this.
Be generous to have your comments, please.
Tips to buy Small Inverter Generators
Other than its price, what else should you consider before purchasing the perfect portable generator? Here are our tips for buying the best portable generator for your needs.
- Determine how much power you need.
- Determine your type of power and whether you want small inverter generators or large?
- Determine the amount of gas it takes to run the generator.
- Determine if it has a fuel gauge and voltage meter and what range it’s in.
- Determine the accessories.
What are Small Inverter Generators?
An inverter generator is a power generating device that can convert mechanical energy into electrical energy. Normally, an inverter generator is equipped with a motor, an alternator, and an Inverter unit. The engine of the generator runs on gasoline or propane or diesel, which it then converts to electrical energy by the alternator. That AC current waves produced here are normally ‘distorted’ or ‘unclean’. These waveforms of power then go to a ‘rectifier’ and convert to DC power.
Then comes the inverter unit, which is a processor or a computer that ‘inverts’ the ‘distorted’ power waves to steady and clean AC signal. Now, we are getting grid-like supply or Pure Sine Wave(PSW) output. And, it is gone to the control panel. From there to our needs. The distortion percentage is measured as Total Harmonic Distortion or THD. The higher the THD value, the more distorted the waveform, and the resultant waveform has less resemblance to a sine wave. (Read further here, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Total_harmonic_distortion). ieee.org
Traditional generators don’t have this feature to generate a clean wave frequency. So that it sometimes harms your sensitive microprocessor-equipped devices. Nowadays almost all the devices and equipment used by us are of that genre. So, here comes the potential of inverter generators. Traditional generators have up to 25% THD. The Inverter Generators normally range around 1-3% THD.
These power tools can produce up to 9000 watts of electricity. The generating systems which can produce around 2500 Watts are normally considered as small Inverter generators.
They are preferred for their low noise when compared to conventional generators. They are also lightweight and compact, making them very portable. The best of them have features that make them incredibly useful, especially during a crisis situation.
What types of small inverter generators are there?
Open Frame and Closed Frame. In design and look, the open frame inverter generators look like traditional ones. While the closed frame is with an engineered enclosed design which is more compact and lightweight. As the engine is covered, closed frame inverters are the quietest.
The Benefits of small inverter generators
One of the great things about a small inverter generator is that it can be used to power just about any appliance. This includes televisions, DVD players, microwaves, and air conditioners. Of course, you’ll need the appropriate extension cords for all your electronics. When it comes to mini generators there are a few features that make them the most high quality on the market.
- Quiet Operation: These generators are very quiet and non-invasive, when in use, which means they can be used in residential areas without disturbing anyone.
- Efficient power use :Small inverter generators are designed to be as energy-efficient as possible, meaning they can run for long periods of time without needing to refuel or recharge.
- Lightweight: A lightweight small inverter generator is easy to carry and very convenient for people on the go.
Who needs a small inverter generator?
There are many reasons why a small inverter generator is a great idea, especially for those in the United States with grid power outages. If you live in an area where power is often unreliable, then a small inverter generator could be the answer to your prayers.
Anyone who needs to run electronics or appliances in such outages can benefit from using small inverter generators. You can use them at home, in your RV, in your cabin, in your boat, or even while in your wood weekend camping and trekking! Of course, it depends on the type of inverter generator you get, but most will operate most types of appliances and electronics safely.
Also, they are useful for Contractors, DIY mechanics, and other outdoor works men who can easily carry their uninterrupted power supply with them.