Best Quiet Generators for 2022 | Reviews & Buying Guide

Note:

Compared to conventional generators, Inverter generators are quiet, fuel-efficient, and offer clean power output. So all the below generators are inverter type.

If you are a camping enthusiast and love to camp in the woods or live in an area that is under attack by hurricanes or power outages every now and then, then you may need to invest in a generator.

Technology has improved drastically. Gone are the days when you have to use those annoying generators, that made so much noise even when running at 25% load.

Compared to other generators, inverter generators are the quietest and offer great fuel efficiency with clean power output.

We know buying a quiet generator can be a bit overwhelming, so we took the effort and reviewed many great generators. So here are our reviews of the best quiet generators with an in-depth buying guide.

Best Quiet Generators 2022

1. WEN 56200i 2250-Watt Portable Quiet Inverter Generator

The WEN 56200i comes with 2250 surge watts and 1800 running watts. This generator weighs only 1.5 pounds more than the Honda EU2200i but comes with more fuel capacity than Honda.

The WEN 56200i has a harmonic distortion of less than 1.2%, which is safe for sensitive devices like laptops, mobiles, cameras, etc. On a quarter load, the generator can easily supply power up to 9.4hrs. with the full tank.

The generator makes 53 decibels of noise which is greater than the Honda EU2200i but still qualifies for the categories of the quieter inverter. This generator is powered by a 79.7cc WEN OHV 4-stroke engine which is quite capable of generating the power of 1800 running watts.

The generator has 120volts AC outputs, 2 DC outputs in the form of USB ports to which you can directly charge sensitive electronic devices, and an eco mode. WEN 56200i is parallel compatible with other WEN inverter generators to provide more power to you.

If the generator is overloaded or either oil or gasoline is insufficient then the generator will inform you with the dedicated light indicator.

WEN 56200i has a built-in fuel gauge that informs about the level of gas and it has a fuel shutoff feature that allows the generator to use the fuel in the carburetor before shutting completely preventing build-ups and blockages caused by unused fuel left inside the carburetor.

Built-in overload indicator indicates in 3 stages: When the overload is at 4-10% then the lamp flickers, between 10-18% overload the lamp remains on for 16 seconds and then turns off the unit and above 18% the unit automatically shuts down after just 3 seconds of light.

This low-maintenance and lightweight inverter generator is EPA III and CARB compliant and can be purchased in all states of the U.S. including strict California.

2. Champion 6250-Watt Open Frame Quiet Inverter Generator

Champion 6250 Open Frame Inverter Generator comes with 6250 watts of surge power and massive 5000 running watts. It comes with a fuel tank capacity of 4.2 gallons which is capable of supplying an uninterrupted power supply for up to 13.5hrs. on a quarter load.

This quiet generator emits a noise of 69dBA which makes it less choice for campers but this portable generator could be a good choice for a house. It comes with a 4-mode digital meter which keeps track of session & total runtime, volts, and frequency.

The 301cc engine comes with Eco-throttle mode, 4 AC 120V outlets, one 120/240V 30Amp outlet, 12V DC outlet automotive-style, and indicators lights are low oil, overheat & output.

Champion 6250 weighs 121 pounds which makes it difficult to carry everywhere but the handle and wheel kit with a never-flat tire makes it easy to some extent.

3. Champion 3400-Watt Dual Fuel Portable Inverter Generator

This versatile 3400watt champion inverter generator works on both gasoline and propane which can be an excellent choice for camping, tailgating, etc.

Gasoline-fueled generators can generate 3400 starting watts and 3100 running watts whereas propane-powered generators produce 3060 starting and 2790 running watts.

Gasoline capacity 1.6 Gallons which delivers the power supply up to 7.5hrs. on a quarter load and a 20 pounds propane tank gives an uninterrupted power supply of up to 14.5hrs. Combining both can give a power supply of up to 21hrs.

Like Westinghouse igen4500 this quiet generator also has a dedicated 120V 30amp outlet for RV which makes an excellent choice for small users and saves the bucks on the converter. Apart from the RV outlet it also has 2 AC 120Volts outlets and one 12V DC outlet.

For noise reduction, the sound padding is fitted inside, which reduces the sound to 59dBA on a quarter load. Champion 3400watt has a manual start as well as a push start. The generator is powered by a 192cc 4-stroke air-cooled single-cylinder engine.

This quietest generator weighs 121 pounds but the small wheels behind the back and the adjustable handle makes the task a little easy. This comes with 3 years warranty and lifetime technical services.

4. Westinghouse iGen4500 Super Quiet Portable Inverter Generator

 

American brand Westinghouse has launched the Westinghouse igen4500 model which produces massive 4500 surge watts and running power of 3700 watts. On a quarter load, the generator works for an epic 18 hours thanks to an immense fuel capacity of 3.4gallons.

Even, with these high running watts of 3700, the inverter generator emits only 52dBA on a quarter load. Total harmonic Distortion is less than 3% which allows you to charge sensitive electronic devices safely.

Westinghouse igen4500 is compatible with RV and a dedicated plugging area is equipped with an inverter generator that saves a few bucks on the converter. Unlike other portable inverter generators, this comes with a push start button.

On a cold early morning, if you don’t want to step out of the RV to start the generator to run a coffee maker then you are in luck, this budget-friendly yet powerful beast comes with autokey which allows you to start the generator with a press of a button without stepping out.

For noise reduction, the manufacturer has taken various measures like double insulated acoustic enclosures, low tone mufflers, and 2 asymmetrical cooling fans to keep noise levels as low as 52 decibels to deliver peaceful camping.

The generator comes with a real-time LED display that showcases the runtime, remaining fuel, load/output, volts, and lifetime hour data. Right above the screen, there are two 120V AC outlets, 1 dedicated trailer outlet, and 2 USB outlets.

ECO mode is attached to supply fuel-efficient power and the low-oil shutoff feature shuts the generator when the oil is very less thus saving the generator from getting damaged.

It also has low oil, overload, and output-ready indicator lights. Apart from all the above eye-catching features, this silent generator is capable of parallel connection to deliver uninterrupted power supply and also comes with 3 years warranty.

Lastly, this power beast weighs only 98 pounds and comes with high-quality attached wheels and telescopic handles making it a one-person job to carry this. Westinghouse igen4500 is EPA, USFS, and CARB Compliant which ensures the safety and allows use in all 50 states of America.

5. Honda EU2200i Super Quiet Portable Inverter Generator

As the name suggests, the HONDA EU2200i produces 2200 surge watts of power output. This 1800 running watts inverter generator is the upgrade of the EU2000i, although the 2200i model is available at the same price and lesser noise level as of predecessor but with 200 more watts of power.

On a quarter load, the generator creates a noise level of only 49 decibels which is quite lower than the 60 decibels which are created when 2 people are talking. On a full load, the generators emit a noise of 57 decibels.

The fuel tank capacity of the generator is less than 1 gallon but on an eco-throttle mode the generator can power up to 8hrs. Honda EU2200i is more durable and quiet than other generators available in the same range.

If you are on camp away from home or stuck at home with a power outage and in need of more power than thanks to the latest technologies, you can generate more power by simply connecting 2 inverter generators with an optional cable.

Honda EU2200i has parallel capabilities with the same model, the old model EU2000i, and the EB2200i. This generator comes with a 120-volt AC output and 12 Volts DC output (to use DC output, you need to purchase the additional accessories).

The upgraded model of the EU2000i has some user-friendly features like when either fuel or oil is low then the generator will turn off automatically. Unlike the last model, EU2200i has a larger opening for oil and oil drain gutter which makes the process convenient. Honda EU2200i is equipped with a GXR12o powerful engine.

Need more reason to buy? Honda EU2200i comes with 3 years warranty and weighs only 47 pounds.

6. Champion 4000-Watt Open Frame Inverter Generator

This 82 pounds Champion 4000watts open frame inverter generator works on gasoline and propane. The fuel tank capacity of Gasoline is 2.9 Gallons which supplies power up to 17hrs.

Gasoline powered generator shoots 4000 starting watts and 3500 running watts whereas a propane-fueled generator produces 3600 starting watts and 3150 running watts. On a quarter load, it emits only 64dBA which makes it a great choice for RV, camping, and even for the whole house backup.

This quietest generator is equipped with 120V 30A for RV, 2 AC 120V, and 12V DC power output. Indicator lights like Overload light, Output light, and low oil light along with eco mode are also equipped.

Numerous things come when you purchase the generator which is a propane kit, jump-in wire, and USB plug. Aftermarket wheel kits are available on Amazon for this heavy generator.

The quiet generator is CARB & EPA certified and like other Champion generators, it comes with 3 years warranty and lifetime technical support.

7. Pulsar G2319N Portable Gas-Powered Inverter Generator

Pulsar G2319N falls under the category of the quietest portable generator, which makes noise of less than 60dBA at 25% load. Pulsar G2319N comes with a fuel tank capacity of 1.18 gallons slightly higher than the Honda EU2200i and WEN 56225i.

This 2300 watts portable generator has 1800 watts of running time and it weighs only 47 pounds. The generator produces power for 6hrs. on a quarter load with the full fuel tank.

It comes with a large 80cc 4-stroke motor and stable sin wave technology allowing you to charge sensitive electronic devices.

A lightweight portable generator is equipped with Eco-mode, one 12V DC 8A outlet, one 5V DC USB outlet, 2 AC 120V outlets, and light indicators like low-oil, overheat & output, and it is parallel ready with the same model.

What to look for when buying Best Quiet Generators?

A special buying guide will help you to select your first quiet generator. Consider the below points before purchasing an inverter generator for you.

1. Purpose

You must know where you want to use your inverter generator. Inverter generators can be used in many places like camping, tailgating, power RV, or at home during an emergency.

For different needs, different type of generator is available in the market. But, one thing is common and is that you must consider the inverter generator which creates low decibels.

If you live in an area where propane is easy to get then you can consider buying a dual fuel inverter generator that works on gasoline and propane as this can be useful in an emergency time when you no longer can go outside and purchase the fuel to run appliances.

2. Required Power

You must consider how many appliances you want to use using your portable generator. Every appliance you wish to use has starting watts and running watts which require working efficiently.

You need to make the list of starting as well as running watts of the appliances in order to know the exact requirement which will help to select the perfect inverter generator. Details of the wattage of appliances are available in a user manual or you can check on the internet.

It’s important to know the usage because if your power consumption is low then you end up paying more.

3. Dual Fuel Capability

Some inverter generators can work on more than one type of fuel and there is an inverter generator in the market which works efficiently on gasoline as well as propane.

Unlike propane, gasoline is easily available everywhere but the propane-fueled generator gives more power than gasoline. Depending on your location and your usage it’s important to decide which is suitable for you, a single-fuel or a dual-fuel inverter generator.

Of course, they would be slightly expensive but they will prove to be useful in the long run and in the time of emergencies.

4. Fuel Capacity

If you are going for a gasoline-fueled inverter generator then you must check the fuel tank capacity because who likes to go gas station every few hours just because the fuel tank of the generator is small?

The fuel tank of the inverter generator is depending on the maximum power generator supplies because if the generator has starting watts of around 2200watts then on 1 gallon it can give power up to 8 hrs. on a quarter load but if your generator has starting watts of let’s say more than 4500 watts then it must have a fuel tank capacity of 3-4 gallons.

5. Weight

More power comes with the more weight of the generator. If you want to use the generator for RV, camping, tailgating, etc then you need to consider buying a portable less-weight generator that you can carry easily everywhere. Currently, portable inverter generators are available in the market ranging from 45 pounds to 60 pounds which you can carry anywhere with one hand.

As mentioned above, more power comes with more weight, if your watts requirement is more, then you can opt for generators that are available for more than 100 pounds but they should come with a handle and high-quality no-flat tires or should be available easily in the market which helps to carry around easily wherever you go.

6. Decibel Level

It’s important to know how much noise it makes because more noise can disturb your sleep at night and can disturb the sleep of neighbors too.

If you are buying a generator for camping then you must consider this factor because a noisy generator will disturb the other campers which is just rude, right?

Any portable inverter generator lower than 60 decibels from 10 feet is considerable. If you are planning to buy a below 4000 watts inverter generator then you can easily get an inverter generator emitting less than 60 decibels which is even less than 2 people having a normal conversation.

If your generator is too noisy then it will attract warnings and fines from the government.

7. Number of outlets and indicator lights

Outlet counts vary from the generator to generator. If you are planning to use your portable generator in the RV then you must consider buying an inverter generator that comes with 120/240V 30 Amp out, especially for RVs which will save money on the converter.

The latest inverter generator is capable of charging electronic sensitive devices like mobile, laptops, etc. so if you constantly need to charge this type of device then you must check whether the generator has a special USB slot or not.

The generator should have some common indicators of lights like low fuel, overheating, and output. There are some premium inverter generators available that come with LED display that provides real-time data like runtime, remaining fuel, voltage, and much other useful information.

8. Eco-mode

Eco-mode on the inverter generator helps to save power and increases the run-time of the generator. Almost all major inverter generator comes with eco mode but you must check before buying it to stay on the safe side. The main role of the eco mode is to not waste any power unnecessary.

9. Parallel compatibility

Parallel compatibility helps to increase the power supply by using 2 inverters parallelly. You must also check with which models they are compatible so you don’t end up buying an obsolete one.

You must also consider the cost as sometimes buying 2 small inverter generators instead of 1 big inverter generator can cost you more. If you plan to use parallel connections then you need to purchase a special cable to connect and they are not cheap.

10. Environmental Compliance

In order to reduce air pollution, the government has issued regulations that every manufacturer has to strictly follow. Details about environmental compliance are given either on the box or in the user manual or both. Inverter Generators must be approved by EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) in order to use it in all states of the U.S. except in California.

If you reside in California or do camping occasionally in the California area then your inverter generator must be approved by CARB (California Air Resources Board) because the regulation is much more stringent than EPA.

Using any inverter generator without proper compliance can create malfunction or legal issues.

11. Warranty Period

Before buying, you must check how much warranty the manufacturer is offering. A company like Honda and Yamaha gives a warranty of 3 years whereas WEN and Pulsar give a warranty period of only 2 years and the Champion brand gives 3 years warranty with lifetime technical support.

If you travel to new places a lot then your inverter generator manufacturer should have a nationwide service center to solve your issue rapidly no matter wherever you are.

12. Push start and auto key

It is not always necessary to buy a generator with a push-start or auto key. Every generator comes with a cord using which you can start the generator manually but a push-start makes your engine start with the push of your finger.

On a cold early morning, if you don’t want to step out of the RV to start the generator to run a coffee maker then autokey allows you to start the generator with a press of a button without stepping out of your trailer.

If you can spare a few bucks for these features then you should go for it.

FAQ

Q. Can I make the generator quieter?

A. YES, to some extent, you can reduce the noise of the generator. Check the below points to learn more. As the distance increases, the noise will spread out, so extend the distance between you and the generator.

You can also keep the generator in an enclosure but make sure it has enough space for airflow to avoid the overheating problem.

Try positioning the generator evenly because if the generator is on an unlevel surface, it can become noisy. Make sure your generator is on a level surface.

Generators placed on a hard surface can make more noise; put your generator on dirt or grass as they absorb the sound or you can also opt for padding.

Q. Any alternative to expensive Honda and Yamaha?

A. Inverter Generators are expensive, and when you are planning to buy a new inverter generator for the first time, you can consider Honda, but they are too expensive, which makes us think to explore other quality yet affordable generators.

If you plan to buy an inverter generator other than Honda and Yamaha, you should consider generators from Westinghouse, WEN, Champion, and Pulsar. These brands have generators in all the segments, and some of them even give better performance than Yamaha.

To choose the inverter generator from this, you must first select your ideal inverter generator from the buying guide and then visit the website for selection.