Finding the best RV generator is essential for powering your adventures without disrupting the peace of your surroundings.
In this guide, we highlight the top 5+ RV generators that combine quiet operation with efficient performance, ensuring reliable power for your travels.
Our Top Picks of The Best RV Generators in 2024
- 12500 Peak Watts, 9500 Running Watts (Gasoline); 11200 Peak Watts, 8500 Running Watts (Propane); 9500 Peak Watts, 7500 Running Watts (Natural Gas); Remote Start With Included Key Fob, Electric and Recoil Start; Up to 12 Hours of Run Time on a 6. 6 Gallon Fuel Tank With Fuel Gauge
- Features Two GFCI 120V 5–20R Standard Household Receptacle, One Transfer Switch Ready 120V L14-30R, and One RV Ready 120/240V 14–50R; All Outlets Have Rubber Covers for Added Safety
- 64 dBA is great for RVs, tailgating, or camping with 6500 starting watts and 5000 running watts and up to 15 hours run time on only 3.95 gallons of gasoline
- Monitor voltage, frequency and operating hours with ease, plus features CO Shield carbon monoxide auto shutoff system, and the EZ Start Dial simplifies startup while Economy Mode monitors power consumption in real time
- 9500 Running Watts and 12500 Peak Watts (Gasoline); 8500 Running Watts, 11200 Peak Watts (Propane); Remote Start With Included Key Fob, Electric and Recoil Start; Up to 12 Hours of Run Time on a 6. 6 Gallon Fuel Tank With Fuel Gauge
- Features Two GFCI 120V 5–20R Standard Household Receptacle, One Transfer Switch Ready 120V L14-30R, and One RV Ready 120/240V 14–50R; All Outlets Have Rubber Covers for Added Safety
- 5000 Peak Watts and 3900 Rated Watts at Less Than 3% THD – Telescoping Handle – Gas or Propane Powered – Remote Start With Included Key Fob, Electric and Recoil Start
- Features a 5–20R 120V Duplex Household Outlet, an RV-Ready Tt-30R 30 Amp Outlet and Two USB Outlets – Great Choice for Travel Trailers or Home Use – Strong Enough to Run All Your Essentials
- At less than 49 pounds, this inverter is one of the lightest 4000-watt inverters in the industry
- 64 dBA from 23 feet is perfect for camping, tailgating or to backup a few home essentials, with 4000 starting watts, 3000 running watts and up to 10 hours run time, plus features CO Shield carbon monoxide auto shutoff system
- 4000 peak watts / 3200 running watts on gas
- 3600 peak watts / 2800 running watts on propane
- Gasoline: 5300 Running Watts & 6500 Peak Watts; Propane: 4800 Running Watts & 5800 Peak Watts; 4.7 Gallon Fuel Tank With Fuel Gauge; Up to 14.5 Hours of Run Time with 120/240V Volt Selector Switch
- Features One 5–20R 120V Household Duplex Receptacle, One RV-Ready TT-30R 30 Amp Receptacle, and One Transfer Switch Ready L14-30R 30 Amp Receptacle; All Outlets Have Rubber Covers for Added Safety
- 2550 Peak Watts and 1800 Rated Watts at Less Than 3% THD – Weighs Only 42.4 Lbs. – Gas Powered – One RV Ready TT-30R Outlet, Two 120V 20 Amp Outlets, and Two USB Outlets
- Great Choice for Home Use as an Emergency Backup in a Power Outage – Strong Enough to Run All Your Home Essentials
- 149cc engine generates up to 3600 surge watts and 2900 rated watts
- Produces clean power to prevent damage to sensitive electronics such as smart phones, tablets and laptops
- Generates clean power to safely operate sensitive electronics such as phones, tablets, TVs, and computers
- Parallel-ready panel allows you to connect any 2 WEN inverter generators for increased wattage output
- 3600 Running Watts and 4650 Peak Watts; Recoil Start; 4 Gallon Fuel Tank With Fuel Gauge; Up to 14 Hours of Run Time Per Tank
- Feature Two 5–20R 120V Household Duplex Receptacle, One RV-Ready TT-30R 30 Amp Receptacle, and One L5-30R 30 Amp Receptacle; All Outlets Have Rubber Covers for Added Safety
How We Selected the Best 5+ RV Generators
To round up the top RV generators, I dived into a bit of a hunt. First, it was all about power, size, and frills on offer with each generator. Portable vs. built-in was part of the debate, because each type has its perks. Built-ins usually bring at least 3,000 watts to the table and connect smoothly with the RV’s electrical layout. On the flip side, portable generators boast flexibility and are easier to handle, though they might pack a smaller punch (Electric Generators Direct).
Noise was another box to tick. A whisper-quiet generator can really enhance your campsite experience by not drowning out the natural soundtrack. Next up, I weighed efficiency ratings and fuel preferences, eyeing diesel and propane choices that fit various RV sizes like a glove. I scoured customer feedback and expert takes too, to see which machines cut the mustard in all sorts of conditions.
Lastly, I made sure to note the physical size, ensuring the generator snuggles into your RV setup without a hitch. It’s key to make sure your chosen generator can handle the wattage your gadgets need while having about 20% of extra oomph to avoid overload (Electric Generators Direct). With this deep dive, I’m pretty darn sure these standout RV generators will dish out the quiet, efficient juice you need for your next adventure-packed getaway.
Best 5+ RV Generators for Quiet and Efficient Power
Honda EU2200i Companion Generator
Features and Specifications
- Power Output: 2200 watts (max)
- Noise Level: 48 dBA at rated load
- Weight: 47 lbs
- Fuel Type: Gas
- Runtime: Up to 8.1 hours on a 1-gallon tank
The Honda EU2200i is a top pick for campers who love peace and quiet. It’s a lightweight powerhouse, rated highly by folks in the know (Popular Mechanics).
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Light and easy-peasy to carry | Won’t power big RV gear |
| Whisper-quiet | Costs a pretty penny |
Who It’s Best For
Ideal for those who need a trusty energy buddy for smaller gadgets while keeping the natural vibes intact.
Yamaha EF2000iSv2 Inverter Generator
Features and Specifications
- Power Output: 2000 watts (max)
- Noise Level: 51.5 dBA at rated load
- Weight: 44 lbs
- Fuel Type: Gas
- Runtime: Up to 10.5 hours on a 1.1-gallon tank
The Yamaha EF2000iSv2 brings reliable juice without rattling your campsite. It’s a camper’s quiet companion.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Solid inverter tech | Packin’ a bit more heft than others |
| Keeps running on a sip of fuel | Might need a nudge for big appliances |
Who It’s Best For
Great for outdoorsy types wanting dependable power just for the basics.
Champion 3400-Watt Dual Fuel RV Generator
Features and Specifications
- Power Output: 3400 watts (max)
- Noise Level: 58 dBA at 25% load
- Weight: 95 lbs
- Fuel Type: Gas or propane
- Runtime: 7.5 hours on gas, 14 hours on propane
Champion’s got you covered with its dual-fuel flexibility – gas or propane, whatever floats your boat.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Packs a punch for bigger setups | A bit on the beefy side |
| Fuel choices galore | Can need extra TLC over single fuel ones |
Who It’s Best For
Perfect if you’re all about road trips needing serious power to run multiple gadgets without stress.
Westinghouse iGen4500 RV Generator
Features and Specifications
- Power Output: 4500 watts (max)
- Noise Level: 52 dBA
- Weight: 93 lbs
- Fuel Type: Gas
- Runtime: Up to 18 hours on a 3.4-gallon tank
The Westinghouse iGen4500 keeps the energy coming and the noise level down, letting you enjoy longer stretches off the grid.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Powerful yet hush-hush | Takes up more space |
| Marathon-like fuel efficiency | A bit pricey |
Who It’s Best For
If you’re after non-stop power for your gadgets and a zen-like silence at your campsite, this is your go-to.
Generac GP3000i Inverter Generator
Features and Specifications
- Power Output: 3000 watts (max)
- Noise Level: 58 dBA
- Weight: 64 lbs
- Fuel Type: Gas
- Runtime: Up to 8.5 hours on a 1.2-gallon tank
Generac GP3000i packs solid juice in a lightweight frame, making it a favorite among wanderers who don’t pack light.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Easy on the back and compact | Not for electricity-hungry stuff |
| Camping-friendly quietness | Smaller tank equals refuel stops |
Who It’s Best For
Spot-on for adventurers craving easy-to-carry power for all essentials without hogging space.
Honorable Mentions
WEN 56380i Super Quiet RV Generator
The WEN 56380i Generator’s one to keep an eye on if you’re into camping and outdoor activities. It’s so quiet you might forget it’s even there, humming along at just 51 dBA. However, it didn’t quite land in our top picks for a couple of reasons.
Why It Didn’t Make the Top 5+
Here’s the deal: it doesn’t pack the punch some folks need. With a max of 3,800 watts and a steady 3,400 watts, it’s a bit of a lightweight when it comes to powering up bigger RVs. If you’re hoping to run a bunch of gadgets at once, you might find this model a little lacking.
Features and Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Noise Level | 51 dBA |
| Peak Output | 3,800 watts |
| Rated Output | 3,400 watts |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline |
| Runtime | Up to 8 hours on half-load |
| Weight | 48 pounds |
The WEN 56380i won’t bother the neighbors with too much ruckus, and it’s pretty handy for a smaller set-up. But if you’re comparing it to something like the Honda EU2200i, you might see how it falls a bit short on the power and fuel side of things.
If you’re after peace and quiet on those camping trips and the WEN 56380i seems like your cup of tea, great! Just double-check that it fits your needs. For more options and tips on outdoor power solutions, you might want to browse through articles like best portable power stations or best solar generators.
Buyer’s Guide: Picking the Right RV Generator
Choosing an RV generator can be like picking the right pair of shoes—get it wrong, and you could end up miserable on your trip. Here’s my take on what to consider when hunting for your perfect outdoor power companion. Let’s dive into the nuts and bolts, shall we?
What to Look For
How Loud is Too Loud? (dBA)
The noise level of a generator is a biggie. Think about it—you don’t want your camping getaway to sound like a construction zone, right? The decibel level tells you how loud a generator is; lower numbers mean it whispers rather than yells.
| Generator Type | Noise Level (dBA) | Good For |
|---|---|---|
| Inverter Generator | 50-60 | Camping trips, peace seekers |
| Open-Frame Generator | 65-75 | Heavy-duty use, construction jobs |
Inverter types are like the librarians of generators—quiet and polite—ideal if you’re chilling in nature and want to keep it serene.
Power Output and How Thirsty Is It?
You need a generator with the juice to run your stuff, be it small gadgets or a full-blown air conditioner. Most RV generators churn out between 2000 and 4000 watts. Know what you’ll be plugging in so you don’t blow your budget and cart around excess power.
| Wattage Output | Good For |
|---|---|
| 2000-3000 Watts | Small electronics, TVs |
| 3000-4000 Watts | Air cons, microwaves |
And then there’s fuel efficiency—nobody wants to burn through cash, or gas for that matter. Inverter generators sip fuel instead of chugging it, since they adjust based on what you’re powering (Camping World Blog).
Can You Lug It Around?
How heavy is that thing? If you’re always on the move or have limited space, go for something light you won’t need a crane to lift. Many models come with wheels or grab handles—the RV generator’s answer to running shoes.
| Thing to Consider | Portable Choices |
|---|---|
| Weight | Under 50 lbs for better portability |
| Design | Handles or wheels for easy relocation |
Great for those of us who love the freedom to roam without breaking our backs.
By weighing up these no-brainers—noise, power output versus how much gas it guzzles, and how mobile it is—I can ensure I nab an RV generator that ticks all my boxes for chill adventures like camping, hiking, or fishing. If you’re in the market for more outdoorsy gear, peep my top picks for the best portable power stations and best solar generators.
FAQs
What Is the Quietest RV Generator?
If you’re on the hunt for a whisper-quiet RV generator, you’ll want to check out the Honda EU2200i. This little powerhouse operates at just 48 dBA, making it perfect for those who crave peace while cozied up in nature. Despite its low noise, it still pumps out 2,200 watts, finding just the right spot between power and serenity. Its small size also adds to its charm, winning hearts among those who love hitting the open road.
How Long Can an RV Generator Run Continuously?
How long you can keep an RV generator humming away depends on a few things, like what it’s guzzling and its power size. With a full tank:
Gasoline Generators: Most are similar across the board, but be sure you’re in line with whatever the EPA’s got on deck. Otherwise, you could be looking at fines, especially if you’ve got a towable RV without the right parts.Class A Motorhomes: These typically sip from the same tank that feeds your ride too. The kicker? Your generator is smart enough to snooze before you hit that critical one-fourth fuel mark, so you’re not left stranded when it’s time to hit the gas station.Power on the Go: Generators are a lifesaver when you’re off-grid. They keep the air conditioner blowing and all your gadgets charged, ensuring you’re comfy even when the sun is blazing.
If you’re considering greener pastures, alternatives like solar generators or portable power stations can be worth a peek for those wanting a bit more eco-friendliness during their adventures.
Conclusion
Final Recommendations: Best Quiet and Efficient RV Generators
I’ve done the legwork and picked out the top RV generators that quietly deliver efficient power. Here’s the rundown:
Honda EU2200i Companion Generator
- Output: 2,200 watts
- Noise Level: 48 dBA
- Weight: 46 pounds
Perfect for campers wanting something dependable and easy to carry. It’s so quiet, you might forget it’s there—great for outdoor shindigs.
Yamaha EF2000iSv2 Inverter Generator
- Output: 2,000 watts
- Noise Level: 51.5 dBA
- Weight: 44 pounds
This little gadget powers up small appliances while staying featherweight and mobile.
Champion 3400-Watt Dual Fuel RV Generator
- Output: 3,400 watts
- Noise Level: 58 dBA
- Weight: 95 pounds
Cool thing here: it runs on gas or propane, so it’s ready for whatever you throw at it.
Westinghouse iGen4500 RV Generator
- Output: 4,500 watts
- Noise Level: 52 dBA
- Weight: 93 pounds
Got bigger power needs? This one’s strong but keeps the noise down—a win-win.
Generac GP3000i Inverter Generator
- Output: 3,000 watts
- Noise Level: 58 dBA
- Weight: 48 pounds
Reliable with a sturdy build and won’t break your back when you move it.
Top Pick Recap
For the best mix of easy-peasy portability and quietness, the Honda EU2200i Companion Generator is my fave. Its dependable nature and whisper-quiet operation make it a hit for the outdoorsy folks who want peace with their power. But if you need more juice, the Champion 3400-Watt Dual Fuel Generator rocks the versatility role.
Picking the right generator makes your outdoor adventures better, whether you’re camping, hiking, or fishing. If you’re looking for even more cool gear ideas, take a look at our write-ups on best portable power stations and best solar generators to find eco-friendly options.
