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RV lifestyle is full of open road trips and camping along with your family or friends. If you want to make your RV adventure more convenient and enjoyable, we recommend you buy your power source to make your camping experience more like living in a house.
The RV generators featured in this article will allow you to enjoy your time on the road with the peace of mind that you won’t lose power. In this article, we’ll provide you with the best RV generators in 2021 based on price, fuel type, performance, noise level, and more. They will supply clean and safe power for your microwave ovens, phones, refrigerators, ACs, and other variety of appliances.
So, let’s take a look at the best options on the market today.
Best 5 RV generator: a comparison table
| Model | |
 Honda EU2200iThe most durable & reliable RV generator | Wattage: 2200 watts Item Dimensions: 16 x 20 x 11 inches Item Weight: 40 Pounds Tank Volume: 0.95 Gallons Fuel: Gasoline Noise Level: 48 dBA at 1/4 loa Warranty: 3 years Benefits: - The most reliable manufactured on the market - Has Ultra-Quiet Operation - Offers good fuel efficiency - Has eco mode - Has Honda My Generator app + Bluetooth® capability |
 Champion 3400 Watt Dual Fuel GeneratorThe most powerful RV generator with a Dual Fuel option | Wattage: 3400 watts Item Dimensions: 25.1 x 17.3 x 18.3 inches Item Weight: 95.7 Pounds Tank Volume: 1.6 Gallons Fuel: Propane or gasoline Noise Level: 59.0 dBA Warranty: 3 years Benefits: - Offers dual fuel (runs on propane and gas) - Includes inverter, easy-to-use control panel, and electric start to save time - Includes multiple ports for flexibility - Has extra accessories (Dual 2.4A Port USB Adapter, LPG Hose With Regulator and Oil funnel) |
 Westinghouse iGen2200The best price for great quality | Wattage: 2200 watts Item Dimensions: 19.8 x 11.4 x 17.9 inches Item Weight: 46 Pounds Tank Volume: 1.2 Gallons Fuel: Gasoline Noise Level: 52 dB Warranty: 3-year Benefits: - Value-for-money item - Has long run time (maximum 12 hours) - Has engine/fuel control switch - Has enhanced fuel-efficiency - Has extra accessories (Dual 2.4A Port USB Adapter, LPG Hose With Regulator and Oil funnel) |
 Briggs & Stratton P3000The most user-friendly RV generator | Wattage: 3000 watts Item Dimensions: 26 x 14 x 21 inches Item Weight: 96 Pounds Tank Volume: 1.5 Gallons Fuel: Gasoline Noise Level: 58 dB Warranty: 2-year limited warranty Benefits: - Has a luggage-style handle for mobility - Offers exclusive Quiet Power Technology for fuel efficiency - Offers an LCD and electric start - Has handy additions for better control |
 Yamaha EF2000iSv2The most portable RV Generator | Wattage: 2000 watt maximum Item Dimensions: 19.3 x 11 x 17.9 inches Item Weight: 44.1 Pounds Tank Volume: 1.1 Gallons Fuel: Gasoline Noise Level: 51.5 to 61 dBA Warranty: 3 years Benefits: - Offers an auto-decompression system for easy start - Has hardened steel handle for stable moving - Huel efficient (comes with a handy fuel gauge) - Offers eco-friendly operations |
What to Pay Attention to Before Buying an RV Generator
Before buying an RV generator, you need to know several essential things to get the best out of your generator. The following are the most important factors to consider before choosing the perfect generator for your RV:
1) Power output (Wattage)
The main feature of an RV generator is the ability to produce electricity for the various electrical appliances in your RV. In this regard, the most important thing to check when buying a generator for your RV is its power output, which shows you the maximum electrical load it can take.
Of all the options in this article, the one with the highest power output is the Champion 3400 Watt Dual Fuel Generator (review) – it supplies 3400 watts of power and can operate on either propane or gasoline! Furthermore, if over time you will need to increase the load on the generator, no worries, thanks to the parallel option you can connect two Champion’s generators to increase available wattage and amperage. In this case, you will need to purchase an additional RV generator that will be compatible with your RV generator. All generators presented in this article also have the parallel option. For example, the Westinghouse iGen2200 (review) you can connect with the Westinghouse WH2200iXLT, iGen1200, iGen2200, Westinghouse iGen2500, and it also requires a Westinghouse parallel cord.
2) Noise level
The noise level is one of the main considerations when it comes to choosing the best RV generators. Also, some national and public parks may have noise restrictions. All of the RV generators featured in this article have a pleasant noise level, the quietest generator here is the Honda EU2200i (review), which operates at 48 to 57 dBA, which is less noise than in a library or typical conversation between two people!
3) Weight & portability
If you will be moving the generator from one place to another, you will probably want to get a lightweight model. Most of the generators reviewed here are portable, but we recommend a very compact Yamaha EF2000iSv2 (review) with a u-shaped handle to make it easy to transport.
4) Economical fuel consumption
The fuel consumption of the generator is also one of the most important factors to consider. This is especially important if you plan to travel far out of town. We recommend considering RV generators that provide an eco-friendly mode, such as the Honda EU2200i (review) or the Champion 3400 (review) with smart economy mode.
5) Durability and Reliability
If you use your RV generator quite often, it can face a lot of wear and tear over time. Before buying an RV generator, you should pay attention to the warranty and build quality. We recommend the Honda EU2200i (review), which comes with a 3-year residential and commercial warranty. This model has an improved stator/rotor allowing better control over the electrical output quality and the ventilation system to provide better cooling for the generator, making it more durable.
The Honda is often rated as the most reliable manufactured on the market, so you’ll be sure your RV generator is covered from top to bottom for 3 full years!
Some additional factors will also improve your RV generator experience.
Additional Factors to Pay Attention to
- Remote start – is a very handy feature that allows you to switch on your generator without having to go outside, even without getting out of bed! The Champion 3400 (review) and the Briggs & Stratton P3000 (review) have this feature.
- Output Ports – RV generator with multiple ports options will be more practical and useful, for example, for your power needs the Briggs & Stratton P300 (review) has 4 x household outlets to charge household appliances or power tools, and it also includes a 12V 30 Amp outlet for easy hookup to any RV.
Based on these criteria, we have selected the best models and carried out a detailed review of each.
A Detailed Review of Each Model
Honda EU2200i — The Most Durable & Reliable RV Generator
✅ Pros:
- Lightweight and compact
- Ultra-Quiet Operation
- Starts easily
- Offers good fuel-efficiency
- Parallel Ready
- Reasonable run time (4.0 to 9.6 hours)
- Has Honda My Generator app + Bluetooth® capability
- Has eco mode
- 3-year residential and commercial warranty
⛔️ Cons:
- No electric start
- Quite expensive
- Miss engine/fuel control switch unlike Westinghouse iGen2200 (review)
- Lacks fuel gauge unlike Briggs & Stratton P3000 (review) and Yamaha EF2000iSv2 (review)
- A bit small fuel tank and miss dual fuel to compare to Champion 3400 Watt Dual Fuel Generator (review)
The Honda EU2200i is a popular RV model among camping enthusiasts. It comes with an eco-throttle system, you’ll only find in Hondas, which makes it both quiet and fuel-efficient. It operates from 48 to 57 dBA, which is less noise than in a library! This makes it ideal for your RV adventures, camping, and any other activity that requires quiet operation.
It’s the most durable and reliable RV generator on the list thanks to its stamped metal recoil rope that provides increased product durability and reduces potential damage to the generator body. The Honda EU2200i also has an improved stator/rotor allowing better control over the electrical output quality and improved the ventilation system to provide better cooling for the generator, making it more durable.
The Honda EU2200i supplies 2200 watts and 120V, perfect power for your microwave, refrigerators, small AC units, and other variety of appliances, making it perfect for portable use for RVs, camping, and any other outdoor event. But if you need more power, you can connect your Honda EU2200i to the EU2200i Companion for up to 4400 watts of power! Besides, this generator provides 3 fuel options (propane, natural gas, and gasoline) but you will need to buy a Generator Conversion Kit to enable this feature.
The fuel tank is 2 times smaller compared to Briggs & Stratton P3000 (review) fuel tank (1.5 gallons), which means the Honda EU2200i has a shorter run time. Despite this, it runs almost 10 hours only on a single tank, depending on your load. So, running for the entire night won’t be an issue at all.
Furthermore, it also has the My Generator smartphone app makes owning a generator even easier and more convenient. The Honda EU2200i requires manual start-up, but the My Generator app for this Honda model allows remote stopping, operation monitoring, and service reminders, utilizing Bluetooth connectivity.
We recommend the Honda EU2200i because it is perfect for camping, a backup power source, and other outdoor activities that need a quiet generator. The quality, durability, and reliability of the Honda EU2200i make it worth the price!
Accessories for the Honda EU2200i
For added convenience, we advise that you buy the following helpful accessories:
Anti-UV, Waterproof Generator Cover
The waterproof coating that will prevent damage from the harsh environment, ideal for outdoor use.
Dust-proof technology for enhanced durability.
Remember to never cover the generator when the generator is running.
Cable for Parallel Operations
With this cable, you can connect the Honda EU2200i to other RV generators (no “Companion” model generator needed!) to double your power.
Has a 30amp RV outlet.
Generator Conversion Kit
This generator conversion kit gives you more freedom in fuel choice and you will get 3 fuel options – Propane, Natural Gas or Gasoline.
Champion 3400 Watt Dual Fuel Generator –The Most Powerful RV Generator with Dual Fuel option
✅ Pros:
- The most powerful RV generator on the list
- Dual fuel — runs on either propane and gas as per your needs
- Has extra accessories
- Includes inverter and electric start to save time
- Easy-to-use control panel
- Includes multiple ports for flexibility
- Parallel ready
- Easy to assemble
- 3-year long warranty
⛔️ Cons:
- Lacks fuel gauge unlike Briggs & Stratton P3000 (review) and Yamaha EF2000iSv2 (review)
- Miss engine/fuel control switch unlike Westinghouse iGen2200 (review)
- A bit heavy to compare to Honda EU2200i (review) and Yamaha EF2000iSv2 (review)
The Champion 3400 Watt Dual Fuel Generator is the most powerful RV generator on the list. For a reasonable price, you get a powerful generator that easily deals with a heavy load.
Since this RV generator comes with a 196 CC gas engine, you get 3400 watts of power and can operate on either propane or gasoline, giving you more convenience to use whichever fuel is available at the moment making it the most versatile of the generators.
The Champion 3400 includes a “Quick Touch Panel” which provides easy access to controls in one central location. It also has a smart Economy Mode to save fuel providing quieter operation for outside uses such as parties or campfires without noise disturbances.
The Champion 3400 is the heaviest generator on the list, it is 2 times heavier than Yamaha EF2000iSv2 (review). So, it can be difficult to lift this generator in and out of an RV, truck, or car, especially alone. But it has wheels which make it easier to transport. If this is a big disadvantage for you, take a look at the most portable models – Honda EU2200i (review) or Yamaha EF2000iSv2 (review).
Yes, the Champion 3400 Watt Dual Fuel Generator is heavy, but it’s also a powerful, well-made, and quiet RV generator! Moreover, it offers a 3-year long warranty with free lifetime technical support from dedicated experts that adds to its reliability.
Accessories for the Champion 3400 Watt Dual Fuel Generator
For added convenience, we advise that you buy the following helpful accessories:
Weather-Resistant Storage Cover
The cover will protect your generator from inclement weather, great for storage or transporting.
Makes the generator last longer as it won’t be directly affected by weather conditions – but never cover the generator when the generator is running!
Has a 1-year limited warranty.
Parallel Kit
Connects two Champion’s RV generators to increase the total available wattage and amperage.
Includes 120V 50A RV, 120V 30A locking outlets, plus 30-amp, 50-amp circuit breakers to prevent overloads.
Has a 1-year limited warranty.
Hour Meter
It could be used to record the running time of the generator.
Powered by built-in batteries (service life: about 3 years).
Westinghouse iGen2200 – The Best Price for Great Quality
✅ Pros:
- Has affordable price
- Trusted American manufacturer
- Comes with an enhanced fuel-efficiency
- One of the quietest and lightweight on the market
- Long run time – a 12-hour run time on a full tank of 1.2 Gallons
- Parallel ready – you can combine it with other Westinghouse’s RV generators to increase available wattage and amperage
- Has extra accessories
- Easy to assemble
- Has engine/fuel control switch
- Comes with a 3-year warranty
⛔️ Cons:
- Lacks fuel gauge unlike Briggs & Stratton P3000 (review) and Yamaha EF2000iSv2 (review)
- No electronic start and fuel dual like Champion 3400 (review) and Briggs & Stratton P3000 (review)
The Westinghouse iGen2200 is a value-for-money item from a reliable manufacturer. Despite the low price, this product has very strong technical information and performs excellently.
What sets this product apart is its uptime and fuel consumption – it can run continuously for nearly 12 hours on a single 1.2-gallon tank! It makes the Westinghouse iGen2200 the ideal choice for overnight power or long-time applications.
It is the only model on the list, which has the engine/fuel control switch to help you have a little more control over generator start-up. It also included a funnel, basic tool kit, 2 x 5V USB ports for charging your smartphones, cameras, etc.
Moreover, it’s a lightweight and compact RV generator – you won’t find it difficult to unload it from the car and set it up in the campsite unlike the Champion 3400 (review). However, this Westinghouse model does not have an electric start like Champion 3400 (review), so you will need more time to start the generator.
The Westinghouse iGen2200 releases only about 52dBA at 25% load, slightly a little more than the Honda EU2200i (review), but it’s still super quiet and equal to the humming noise of a small car engine or a typical conversation between two people. It also usually sells for twice as cheap as Honda EU2200i (review).
If you are searching for a budget, lightweight, and solid portable generator for RV or camping use, then buy the Westinghouse iGen2200 without a doubt. Furthermore, it’s an easy-to-use generator to operate by even the most novice generator users!
Accessories for the Westinghouse iGen2200
For added convenience, we advise that you buy the following helpful accessories:
Weather Resistant Cover
Made to protect your generator from the harsh environment, debris during storage or transportation to make the generator last longer.
Features an accessories pocket for storing tools, extension cords, and a product manual.
Parallel Cord
Its use-to-use Parallel Cord offers the capability to combine 2 units for double the power when more power is needed or required.
Features illuminated plugs and switches for night and day use.
Waterproof Hour Meter
Easy to record the running time of the generator.
No battery required-connects to spark plug wire.
Briggs & Stratton P3000 – The Most User-Friendly RV Generator
✅ Pros:
- Convenient built-in wheels and ergonomic handle for easy transport
- Exclusive technology for fuel efficiency
- Offers an LCD on the front
- Long runtime – around 10 hours at 25%
- Has handy additions, like a fuel gauge giving you better control over the generator
- Parallel ready – allows you to connect two PowerSmart Series generators to pull more power
- Has remote start
⛔️ Cons:
- Shorter warranty compare to other generators on the list (24 months warranty)
- It’s not CARB compliant – not for use in California
- Miss engine/fuel control switch unlike Westinghouse iGen2200 (review)
- Lacks fuel dual like Champion 3400 (review)
The Briggs & Stratton P3000 is designed to be a user-friendly generator offering a power output rating of 3000 watts combined with its great build quality. It comes with a unique twin handle design and luggage-style handle making it more portable and mobility.
Thanks to the Quiet Power Technology, it reduces noise, fuel consumption, and emissions. P3000 is also a reasonably quiet generator – the noise level stays around 58 decibels at a 25% load, it’s quieter than a typical conversation! The fuel tank has a capacity of 1.5 gallons and this generator runs for about 10 hours at 25% load, so running all night won’t be a problem.
The Briggs & Stratton P3000 has got a convenient control panel with an hour meter, fuel gauge, and 4 x household outlets to charge household appliances or power tools, including a 12V 30 Amp outlet for easy hookup to any RV. In comparison, one of Briggs & Stratton’s main competitors – the Honda EU2200i (review) and the Champion 3400 (review), which come with only two such sockets and miss hour meter as well as a fuel gauge. The Briggs & Stratton P3000 also has an LCD screen that shows the amount of power being used, total unit hours, and maintenance reminders including oil, air filter, and spark plug changes.
Unfortunately, it is not CARB compliant which means that if you are located in California, you can’t purchase and use this unit there. For all other states, the generator is completely legal.
Overall, the reliable and portable design as well as quiet operation with 3000-watt making the Briggs & Stratton P300 an ideal solution for camping and other outdoor activities. It also has enough power to handle even the most demanding devices. If there is any problem with the generator, you are covered by a 2-year warranty.
Accessories for the Briggs & Stratton P3000
For added convenience, we advise that you buy the following helpful accessories:
Protective Cover
Protects the generator from debris during storage or transportation to prolong its life.
Designed with an opening handle for easy portability.
Parallel Kit
Quickly and easily connects two Briggs and Stratton Inverter generators to combine their output.
Has a 1-year limited warranty.
Yamaha EF2000iSv2 – The Most Portable RV Generator
✅ Pros:
- Easy to transport thanks to hardened steel handle for stable moving
- Extended runtime – runs up to 10.5 hours at 25% rated load
- Comfortable noise level – 51.5 dBA at ¼ load
- Easy to start by the auto-decompression system
- Highly durable Yamaha engine
- Parallel ready – lets you connect two generators for getting the extra power
- Fuel efficient
- Eco-friendly operations
- It offers a 3-year warranty from Yamaha
⛔️ Cons:
- No USB ports
- Miss engine/fuel control switch unlike Westinghouse iGen2200 (review)
- No electronic start and fuel dual like Champion 3400 (review) and Briggs & Stratton P3000 (review)
- Lacks fuel dual unlike the Champion 3400 (review)
- No display screen available to compare with Briggs & Stratton P300 (review)
The Yamaha EF2000iSv2 is one of the most lightweights and trendy portable generators with a unique retro design offering a top-quality 2000-watt generator. Compared to other generators, the Yamaha EF2000iSv2 is slimmer making it easier to transport by its u-shaped handle. It’s also made from soundproofing materials for quiet operation.
The Yamaha EF2000iSv2 comes with useful features as an oil protection system, fuel gauge, and a smart throttle that automatically adjusts the fuel to the load you’re running to make sure you get every last drop out of your gas tank. Also on the control panel, it has 3 power outlets – two 120 volt ac power outlets and one 12 volt DC outlet for charging batteries. There are no USB ports on this model.
The Yamaha EF2000iSv2 also has the auto-decompression system and auto-warm up a system which makes for an easier way of starting the generator. The auto-decompression system reduces compression to make the pull start easier and the auto-warm up system increases engine speed so that you can connect high power demand devices quicker.
At 25% load work, the Yamaha EF2000iSv2 being recorded to run up to 10.5 hours. Compared to Yamaha’s main competitor, which is the Honda EU2200i (review), the Yamaha EF2000iSv2 runs 2 hours more. The Yamaha EF2000iSv2 also has a fuel gauge unlike Honda EU2200i (review).
Overall, Yamaha EF2000iSv2 is a great practical choice for camping trips, , and other outdoor activities, delivering you top-of-the-line tools, essential electrical power, and excellent design!
Accessories for the Yamaha EF2000iSv2
For added convenience, we advise that you buy the following helpful accessories:
Generator Cover
Helps to protect your equipment
from the harsh environment, debris during storage or transportation making the generator last longer.
Resistant to mold, mildew, and abrasions.
Parallel Power Cables
This cable can parallel two different RV generators to pull more power.
Fits also Honda EU2200i (review) and Westinghouse iGen2200 (review).
Has a 1-year warranty.
Waterproof Hour Meter
Use this waterproof hour meter to record the running time of the generator.
No battery required-connects to spark plug wire.
A Quick Guide to Use Your RV Generator Safely
RV generators are a great choice for road trips, due you can use them to keep your refrigerators, chargers appliances, or other powered devices running. However, unsafe use could lead to unnecessary risk or dangerous situations, so it is necessary to know how to use the RV generator correctly and safely.
Here is a list of “Do’s and Don’ts” to help increase the lifespan of your RV generator, and use your RV generator safely.
Do:
- Always read the instruction book. Every generator model is different, even if you have owned or operated some other generator in the past.
- Use the fuel recommended for your RV generator only, according to the instruction.
- Always turn off the engine when refueling and let it cool down. Fuel spilled on hot engine parts could ignite.
- Check your RV generator frequently – fuel lines, tank, cap, and fittings for cracks or leaks. Never use electrical cords that are worn, damaged, or frayed. Better to replace it if necessary.
- Use the weather-resistant storage cover to prolong the life of your RV generator. But remember, before covering the generator, make sure the engine and silencer are completely cooled to store the generator safely. (typically 15-30 minutes).
Don’t:
- Never use an RV generator indoors, including garages, basements, crawl spaces, and the generator compartment of a recreational vehicle, even if doors and windows are open. High levels of carbon monoxide fumes produced as RV generators operate can be deadly to humans.
- Never operate the engine in rain or snow and never touch it with wet hands. Otherwise, there is a risk of electric shock.
- Do not overfill the tank – if the tank overflows, fuel could drip onto the hot engine and cause a fire or explosion. Always allow space for fuel expansion.
Summary
The RV generator is an essential item for your RV trip or camping. A good generator will make your RV adventure that much more comfortable and enjoyable. However, finding the best generator can be very complicated and time-consuming, but we’ve done it all for you!
We hope this article has made your process of finding your ideal generator easier and that you have chosen your winner!
Our top-5 RV generators are based on these criteria and include the following models:
| Honda EU2200i | The most durable & reliable RV generator |
| Champion 3400 Watt Dual Fuel Generator | The most powerful RV generator with a Dual Fuel option |
| Westinghouse iGen2200 | The best price for great quality |
| Briggs & Stratton P3000 | The most user-friendly RV generator |
| Yamaha EF2000iSv2 | The most portable RV Generator |
FAQs
🧐 What does an RV ready generator mean?
RV generator that is ready for use in your recreational vehicle. It should have enough power to run all the electronics and appliances in your vehicle and be portable enough to easily take it with you on your RV travel, camping, or other outdoor events.
Read our article to get more information about the best RV generators.
🏆 What are the best RV generators?
The best RV generators include:
Honda EU2200i – is the most durable & reliable RV generator brand
Champion 3400 Watt Dual Fuel Generator – is a powerful RV generator with a Dual Fuel option
Westinghouse iGen2200 – has the best price for a quality
Briggs & Stratton P3000 – is the most user-friendly RV generator
Yamaha EF2000iSv2 – is the most portable RV generator
Find detailed information about each model in our article.
💡 Can I run an RV generator all night?
Depending on the generator type. Before using it all night, you need to check the run times of the generator, which should be from 8 to 20 hours. For this purpose, we recommend you the Westinghouse iGen2200, which can run a 12-hour run time on a single 1.2-gallon tank! Read our article to get more information about this model.
🌧 Can I run an RV generator in the rain?
No, it’s unsafe for you. RV generators must not be used in wet conditions, such as snow or rain as well as near a pool. It also must not run if your hands are wet, you might be electrocuted when its electrical panel gets wet.
Read the A Quick Guide to Use Your RV Generator Safely section to be sure that you’ll use your generator safely.
