Best 2000 Watt Generator Reviews – Our Top Picks for 2024
There's a reason why the 200-watt generators are a popular powering option in many households.
Unlike other different-powered models, the 2000-watt generator strikes the perfect balance between power and portability.
The best 2000 watt generator is ideal for anyone who is not hoping to spend a fortune to power their household.
In any case, the 2000-watts generators are suitable who are simply looking for a budget unit that has just enough juice to power applications like worksites, RVs, outdoor events, and household appliances.
A majority of the 2000 watt generators are lightweight, at the very least, and thus come with improved portability.
More importantly, they remain affordable while satiating all your power needs.
Our Top Pick
Westinghouse iGen2200
We choose to go with the Westinghouse iGen2200.
For starters, this model checks on all the boxes of the best 2000W generator. Though it has a slightly higher output of 2,200w, it's still within the 2,000 range, and most importantly, within the budget of the standard 2,000w models.
Table of Contents
Comparison Table & Runner Ups
In the comparison table below, we shall pit the top 7 models in the market and let you have a glimpse of what each model offers.
Image | Product Name | Features | Price | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Westinghouse iGen2200 | Surge Watts: 2,200W | $$$ | |
 | WEN 56200i | Surge watts: 2000W | $$$ | |
 | Yamaha EF2000iSv2 | Surge Watts: 2,000W | $$$ | |
 | Honda EU2200i | Surge Watts: 2,200W | $$$$ | |
 | Generac 6866 iQ2000 | Surge Watts: 2,000W | $$$ | |
 | Pulsar PG2000iSN | Surge Watts: 2,000W | $$$ | |
 | Champion 100148 2000-Watt | Surge Watts: 2,000W | $$$ |
Top 7: Best 2000 Watt Generators
Now, if you’ve been in the market searching for the best 2000 watt generator, I know you’re already facing the harsh reality that purchasing a 2000-watt generator is challenging.
Given that these models are available in a plethora of sizes come with different characteristics, and there're numerous brands to choose from, picking the right model can be a tad challenging.
Fortunately, we scoured through the internet to bring you the best 2000 watt generators in the market.
In the comprehensive review below, we shall review the top 7 2000 watt generators. In the end, we shall provide you with a detailed generator buying guide that will let you make a more informed decision in your next purchase.
1. WEN 56200i
Starting our review of the best 2000 watt generators is the Wen 56200i.
Under the hood of the Wen 56200i, we have a reliable and powerful engine that makes this equipment handy acquisition, especially when compared to similarly priced units in the market.
Quick Summary
A compact unit, the Wen 56200i is extremely portable and easy to carry around with.
We love the versatility offered by this unit, as it is extremely suitable for use on various applications, including powering your household, RV, or even your worksite.
WHY IS THIS A TOP PICK?
Performance
If you crack the Wen, you’ll find a 79.7 cc four-stroke engine.
Though the drivetrain on this unit is generally small in stature, it will still provide you with the juice you need for your powering tasks.
At peak output, the engine pumps 2000 watts of electricity, and the continuous output stands at 1600 watts.
Sure, it's not a lot of electricity, but it's more than sufficient to power all the needs of your RV, campsite, tailgating, or even on your work sites.
What we love most about the output from the Wen is that it mirrors that one of a pure sine wave. This means it generates clean electricity, and it can be used for powering sensitive equipment such as smart TVs.
Parallel Capable
If 2000 watts is still not sufficient for you, the Wen supports parallel connectivity, meaning you can connect another Wen generator to up your total output.
Runtime and Fuel Efficiency
Wen has a voluminous fuel tank that supports 1 gallon of fuel at a go.
Besides the fuel tank, users are pleased with the generous runtime on this unit.
According to the manufacturer, this unit is capable of delivering up to 6 hours of runtime at ½ load.
Further, you can extend the runtime of this generator up to 8 hours by using engaging the Eco Mode function.
Noise
At a 25% load, the Wen generates 51 decibels.
It's not particularly a quite generator because most users will work on a 50% load, which translates to higher noise.
Nonetheless, it’s still within the limits of the acceptable range.
Portability
If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, you know that portability is of the essence on any generator.
Fortunately, the Wen is such a unit.
Weighing at 48 pounds, this unit will not weigh you down.
Further, the unit comes with a modest dimension of 18 x 11 x 18 in, meaning it’s a compact unit.
Portability on this generator is further bolstered by the presence of a carrying handle that allows you to move the unit with greater ease.
Outlets
A complete power solution, the Wen comes with a versatile panel.
The ports on this unit include:WHAT I LIKED
WHAT I DIDN'T LIKE
2. Yamaha EF2000iSv2
When you need a reliable and portable generator, it’s hard to beat the Yamaha EF2000iSv2.
Quick Summary
With an impressive engine alongside and user-friendly design, the Yamaha EF2000iSv2 packs a punch and comes with every desirable feature you would want to have.
WHY IS THIS A TOP PICK?
Performance
At the core of the Yamaha EF2000iSv2, we have a reliable 79cc, OHV, air-cooled, single-cylinder, 4-stroke engine.
Like the Wen we’ve reviewed above, this unit is capable of producing 2,000 peak watts and runs at 1,600W continuous wattage.
With the pulse width modulation technology in place, it lets this Yamaha offering deliver a clean output, akin to that one you get from the conventional power grid.
So, the power output from this unit is ideal for use on sensitive equipment such as smartphones.
Twin Tech Operation
Like a majority of the inverter generators in the market, this unit supports parallel connectivity, meaning you can join more than two Yamaha generators for increased output.
Runtime and Fuel Efficiency
Sporting a slightly larger fuel tank than that one of the Wen, the 1.1 fuel capacity of the Yamaha will provide you with extended runtime.
According to the manufacturer, this unit is capable of providing users with a generous run time of 10.5 hours at a ¼ load.
A major contributor to the excellent run time is the smart throttle feature that optimizes the engine performance according to the load.
Noise
Besides optimizing the engine performance to suit your load needs, the smart throttle feature, alongside the inverter, helps to reduce the noise.
Like the Wen, the Yamaha generator delivers quiet and noiseless operation.
According to the manufacturer, this unit is capable of delivering 51.5 decibels when working at a 25% load.
Portability
Weighing 44.1 pounds and with a modest dimension of 19.3 x 11 x 17.9 inches, the Yamaha is fairly compact and lightweight too.
Portability on this unit is further manifested by the presence of grip handles that make transporting the unit a cinch.
Outlets
The outlet panel on this unit is a bit restrictive as it does not include the 5V USB port we had earlier seen in the Wen.
Instead, it includes:
Safety
The Yamaha EF2000iSv2 considers safety seriously, and this is evident is the number of safety features included.
More notable, the USFS-approved spark arrestor captured our attention as it will prevent instances of fire breakouts that are often caused by sparks. Other safety features include auto- shutdown, low oil shut down and more.
WHAT I LIKED
WHAT I DIDN'T LIKE
3. Westinghouse iGen2200
The Westinghouse iGen2200 is not exactly a 2,000W generator because it has a slightly higher power output, but well within the 2,000W metric.
We’ve decided to include this unit on this list because users have been raving about its functionality and features.
Quick Summary
A premium product, the Westinghouse iGen2200 ticks on all the boxes of the best 2000w generator.
WHY IS THIS A TOP PICK?
Performance
Like all the generators we’ve reviewed on our list, this unit is powered by a reliable 79.7 cc four-stroke engine.
However, unlike the other models, the Westinghouse iGen2200 has a slight edge, regarding the total output.
With a peak of 2,200, this unit has a continuous output of 1,800 Watts.
With such a kind of power rating, your powering options are not limited in any way, as this unit will allow you to handle a variety of tasks and different applications.
Further, the output generated by this inverter-based model is clean, meaning it’s ideal for use even on sensitive electronics.Parallel Capable
Like all the inverter modes, the Westinghouse iGen2200 is parallel capable.
This is to means that if your power needs go beyond 2,200W, you can connect this model to another one for higher output.
Fuel Efficiency and Runtime
The Westinghouse iGen2200 is slightly ahead of its peers regarding fuel efficiency and runtime.
For starters, it has a slightly larger fuel capacity, which can hold up to 1.2 gallons of fuel.
The voluminous fuel tank is further accompanied by an extended run time of 12 hours at ¼ load.
What this means is that you can run your Westinghouse iGen2200 all night long, from dusk to dawn or vice versa without worrying, get out of power.
Noise Level
Expectedly, this monster unit similarly comes with a noise that matches its output.
Surprisingly, however, there's a negligible difference between what this model produces and what the latter two we've reviewed.
With a noise rating of 52 decibels, users, even those keen, can barely point a difference in the noise output and the lesser-rated models.
Portability
Weighing at approximately 47 pounds and with a modest dimension of 19.7 x 11.2 x 17.9 inches, the Westinghouse iGen2200 is a compact and lightweight model.
So, whether you are planning you take the Westinghouse iGen2200 with you on your RV, or even store it, this model will not consume your space.
Portability on the Westinghouse iGen2200 is further underlined with a build-in suitcase-style handle for easy transport and convenient storage.
Outlets
Regarding the number of outlets, the Westinghouse ties with the WEN 56200; both of these generators come with three three-pronged 120-V ports, One 12V DC & 5V USB port.
And like any modern generator, this product from Westinghouse comes with a plethora of safety features, including circuit breakers, low oil off, and overload shut off.
WHAT I LIKED
WHAT I DIDN'T LIKE
4. Honda EU2200i
The Honda EU2200i is yet another portable inverter generator that can be used on a variety of appliances, including camping, powering your household, and even at job sites.
Quick Summary
With a powerful drivetrain, this generator is extremely reliable and will provide you with immense power at your fingertips.
WHY IS THIS A TOP PICK?
Performance
The Honda EU2200i has plenty of similarities to the Westinghouse iGen2200 we had reviewed earlier.
This monster inverter generator has a massive peak output of 2,200W and a corresponding running output of 1,800W.
The takeoff, however, between these two models is the engine size.
The latter has a 179cc, 4-stroke engine, while the Honda EU2200i boasts of 121cc engine.
Like a majority of the inverter generators, the Honda EU2200i will let you connect an additional generator if you need more juice.
The parallel connectivity feature lets you boost the total output of this unit to 4,400W, making the generator an ideal option for the motor-driven appliances such as air conditioners.
What we like about this inverter generator is that it produces an output that is clean with not surge fluctuations. The output from this unit is free from spikes, and so it's ideal for use on the ultra-sensitive equipment.
Fuel Tank and Runtime
Despite the large power output, this model has a relatively shorter runtime compared to the other models we’ve reviewed.
One of the probable factors that contribute to this short run time is the relatively smaller fuel tank.
With a fuel capacity of 0.95 gallons, a run time of 8 hours at a ¼ load on the Honda offering is on the lower side, regarding fuel capacity.
Further, we also are opinioned that the lack of an eco-mode, such as that one we've seen on the Westinghouse units, also contributes to the dismal run time.
Noise
A major attraction in this unit is a quiet operation.
When running on a low output such as ¼ loads, the Honda generator can keep the noise levels to a bare minimum of 48 decibels. Even at full loads, this generator has an impressive noise output of 57 decibels.
Portability
Weight at slightly 46 pounds, the Honda is one of the lightweight generators on our list and in the general market as well.
This lightness, combined with a modest dimension of 21 x 19.5 x 12 inches, makes the unit compact and ultra-portable.
Portability on this unit is further underlined by a briefcase-style handle that will allow you to transport the unit with ease.
Output
Like the Yamaha EF2000iSv2, this Honda unit is a bit restrictive on the number of output ports.
Unlike the Westinghouse units, this generator lacks the USB ports but instead comes with two 120-volt three-pronged outlets and a 12-volt DC battery charging port.
WHAT I LIKED
WHAT I DIDN'T LIKE
5. Generac 6866 iQ2000
Generally, Generac is well-known for the home standby generators. The company, however, has diversified the production process to include both the portable and inverter generator for outdoor enthusiasts.
Quick Summary
Generac 6866 iQ2000 is a 2000W generator, and it excels in three core areas, and that is portability, run time, and usage.
Another major highlight of this unit is the seamless low transmission and low noise benefit.
WHY IS THIS A TOP PICK?
Performance
Like a majority of the 2000w power generators on our list, the Generac 6866 iQ2000 delivers a peak output of 2000W and a continuous output of 16000w.
Under the hood, however, the Generac 6866 iQ2000 uses a different drivetrain; it uses an 80 cc four-stroke engine.
With such a power output, the iQ2000 will let you handle a plethora of applications and devices, including powering your hedge trimmer, hairdryer, coffee maker, and more.
Better yet, if you need more than 2,000w, the iQ2000 has a parallel connection capability that lets you join another iQ2000 for a total output of 4,000w.
Finally, we love that the iQ2000 is an inverter-based generator.
What this means is that this generator produces a pure sine wave, or rather a clean output. With this generator, you get an output that compares to that of the conventional grid. You can, therefore, use it to power even your sensitive devices.
Runtime and Fuel Efficiency
The iQ2000 boasts of a voluminous 1.06-gallon tanks. It's not the highest we've seen, but it's still well above the recommended limits.
Regarding fuel efficiency, we were not particularly impressed with the iQ2000.
According to the manufacturer, this unit has a runtime of 7.7 hours while working on a ¼ load.
So far, it’s the least runtime we’ve seen on our list, but it’s still a decent one.
Noise Level
While the runtime and fuel efficiency might be a bummer to many, it made up for short coming with a seamless and noiseless operation.
The manufacturer has not included the actual noise rating on their website, but Generac claims the iQ2000 is quieter than the Honda generator.
A major highlight that helps to dampen the noise in this unit is EasyStart Technology.
EasyStart Technology will you customize the power output according to the load at hand.
Using the common settings on the Generac, Turbo mode, Standard mode, and Economy mode, you can adjust the speed of the generator to match the load.
The Eco mode has the least amount of noise generated, while the turbo noise has the highest.
Portability
Despite the powerful output, the iQ2000 is fairly compact and lightweight too.
Weight at 46 pounds and with a dimension of 20 x 12.6 x 16.9 in, the iQ2000 is a highly portable unit.
Outlets
We were a bit concerned with the outlets on this model.
So far, it has the least number of outlets, only featuring two 120V outlets.
Unlike the previous models we've reviewed, it does not offer a DC outlet or even a USB connection.
WHAT I LIKED
WHAT I DIDN'T LIKE
6. Pulsar PG2000iSN
Though the Pulsar PG2000iSN is a budget option, it packs a punch and comes with plenty of desirable features.
Quick Summary
This model is comparable to the more expensive models in terms of performance and run time; in particular, it covers plenty of common ground with the Generac iQ2000 we have reviewed above.
WHY IS THIS A TOP PICK?
Performance
Like the Generac model, this unit is powered by a reliable 80cc single-cylinder 4-stroke OHV.
Besides the drivetrain, these units have a similar power output; 2,000 peak watts and 1,600 continuous outputs.
As such, this offering from Pulsar is an ideal choice for a variety of applications, including powering your household appliances, RVing, and even camping.
Further, the Pulsar is an inverter-based model, meaning it’s the ultimate choice for clean power. So, regardless of what electronics you’re powering, you will always be assured that they’re safe.
And like a majority of the inverter-based unit, this Pulsar product supports parallel connectivity, meaning you can add an extra Pulsar unit to boost your overall output.
Fuel Capacity and Runtime
This Pulsar PG2000iSN generator has a voluminous fuel tank with a generous capacity of 1.16 gallons.
Expectedly, however, for this budget option, it comes with a relatively lower runtime of 6 hours at 50% load.
It's the least we've seen so far, but it's nothing get surprised about comparing what you pay to get this generator.
Noise
Noise is probably the biggest compromise that this generator has, and probably underlines the statement you get what you pay for.
Rated at 59 decibels, the Pulsar is the noisiest generators we've come across, and it's significantly louder than a majority of the 2000w generators we've reviewed on our list.
Portability
Portability is of the essence when choosing a generator.
With this particular model, you get an extremely lightweight and portable unit too.
Weight at a mere 47 pounds and with a dimension of 19.7 x 11.22 x 17.97 in, the Pulsar will not weigh you down and will fit in the smallest spaces.
Portability on the Pulsar is further underlined by the briefcase-style handle that lets you carry this unit with greater ease.
Outlets
A stronghold on this unit lies on the versatile panel.
This Pulsar model comes with a slew of accessories that lets you power multiple devices simultaneously.
The outlets on this unit include;
WHAT I LIKED
WHAT I DIDN'T LIKE
7. Champion 100148 2000-Watt
The Champion 100148 2000-Watt is yet another budget option, but it packs a punch and is performance-oriented.
Quick Summary
Sporting an alluring yellow and black box-like design, it does not take long to notice this unit. A cool and practical design, the stackable design on this unit is super handy for transport and storage.
WHY IS THIS A TOP PICK?
Performance
Like the Pulsar we had reviewed above, this unit is powered by a reliable 80cc 4-stroke engine.
The drivetrain on this unit is capable of generating a peak output of 2,000w and a continuous output of 1,700w.
Though this Champion generator is not exactly a powerhouse, it’s an ideal option for the lightweight to moderate tasks.
In particular, it's suited for powering sensitive electronics such as laptops, mobile phones, and DSLR. This is because it produces a pure sine wave output or rather clean energy with minimal discord and fluctuation.
Further, if you want to boost your total power output, you'll love the parallel connection feature that allows you to join another Champion generator. This generator allows you to stack up on your electricity requirements literally.
Fuel Tank and Fuel Efficiency
The Champion 100148 2000-Watt comes with a standard 1-gallon fuel tank.
Besides the generous fuel tank, we were impressed with the run time and efficiency of this model.
According to the manufacturer, this unit can run for 9.5 hours at a 25% load.
It's not the highest, but for budget options like this one, it's surely a bargain.
Noise
Regarding noise, the Champion 100148 comes with a plethora of technologies to reduce the dampen the noise generated.
The unit is rated 53 decibels from 23 feet, and it makes it an ideal option for camping, tailgating as well as a backup generator for a few home essentials.
The low noise is hugely attributed to the Smart Economy Mode, a feature that reduces the electrical load, and this provides quieter operation, better fuel economy as well as extended engine life.
Portability
Weight at less than 50 pounds, and with a dimension of 24 x 18 x 14 inches, this generator is lightweight and ultra-portable.
The portability of this generator is further underlined by the stackable, patented, space-saving design. With this feature, it becomes easier to transport and store the generator.
Outlets
The numbers of outlets in this generator are pretty limited as it only offers 120V 20A Duplex (5-20R), 12V DC.
WHAT I LIKED
WHAT I DIDN'T LIKE
Best Generator Under 2000W Buying Guide
From the above list, it's evident that every model is unique in its way.
The uniqueness of each of the models can make the process of choosing the best model for you need quite an arduous task.
It's for this reason we've created this massive review guide to help you with your next purchase.
Here, we shall explore some of the critical factors you need to consider when choosing the best 2000 watt generator.
But before then, let’s look at what you can power with a 2,000W generator.
What Can I Power with a 2000W Generator?
Before we answer the above question, we need to know what the 2,000W mean.
A 2,000-watt generator has a surge output of 2,000 watts, or rather, it’s the maximum power output that your unit is capable of delivering.
Understand that this peak output, or for any other generator for that matter, is only sustainable for a short period, especially when an appliance starts before it resumes to its respective continuous output.
So, determine the exact power need, you need to combine all the power wattage of your essential items.
For instance, a laptop requires 150W, and a TV requires 20W. Adding up the combined wattage does not exceed the 2,000W, meaning that both of these items can be effectively powered by the 2,000W generator.
Sure, we've some enormous generators in the market, and the 2,000 watts might seem to run n the lower side.
However, these generators still offer a decent output, sufficient to power multiple appliances.
In any case, this unit will allow you to run a freezer and fridge concurrently, and at the same time, power your lighting system and even allow you to catch your favorite TV show.
Factors to Consider when Choosing 2,000 Watt Generator
There are plenty of factors that you ought to consider when purchasing a 2,000-watt generator.
Some of these include:
Power Requirement
First things first, you need to know your power requirements.
Ideally, you should add up the wattage requirements of every essential appliance in your household that you plan to run simultaneously, and see that it does go above the 2,000 Watt limit.
Now, the good thing with a majority of the generators on our lists is they’re inverter-based, meaning you can easily connect the unit to another to boost your power output.
Noise
Nothing is more frustrating than trying to catch a nap or even read when there’s a noisy generator running from the background.
Unless you’re going to use your unit primarily on a working site, you should always go for a unit with noiseless operation.
Some of the generators usually feature special noise mufflers to dampen the noise produced.
Again, with our list, you’ll enjoy a noiseless operation since a majority of the generators are inverter-based.
Generally, inverter-based generators do not produce a lot of sounds.
Construction
When choosing a 2,000-watt generator, you need to consider the overall construction.
Most of the generators are used either on the indoors or the outdoors and so, having a unit that is sturdily constructed is of the essence.
Ideally, it should be constructed from metal or any other sturdy and hard-wearing material that will prevent the unit from rusting, cushion it against the external elements, and protect it against the dings, drops and knocks.
Run time
Run time refers to the amount taken by your generator until it shuts off.
Run time is often dependent on a variety of factors such as the size of the engine as well as fuel efficiency.
Generally, the bigger the fuel tank, the more run time a unit has.
The second factor is the generator's fuel efficiency; it refers to the rate of burning fuel.
Generally, a generator will burn more fuel, the closer it is to the maximum capacity.
So, when choosing a unit, determine your ideal load, and the amount of hours that you would probably want to have your generator running.
Conclusion
You already have the top 2,000W generators in the market, plus a handy buying guide to help you with the selection process.
Hopefully, you find one that will fit your power needs.
Carefully go all through the above-listed options and choose one that you think will best address your needs.
