If you live in an area where power outages happen frequently, you would know how important it is to have backup power ready. If you also like spending time outdoors, a generator will certainly help you maximize the fun while camped out. You can bring your devices with you with the assurance that you can easily charge them when batteries run low. There are a host of generators for your needs. If you simply want to enjoy nature without that distracting and noisy engine sound, definitely go for a super quiet generator.
Generators help supply electric power during a power outage or when you are off the grid. They don’t actually produce power but rather use the mechanical energy supplied to them to generate current. With the power they supply, generators prevent the disruption of daily activities and business operations.
Many electrical generators are smaller and portable systems that are used for camping. They provide small amounts of power for just a few low-wattage devices. Others are used as permanent installations to power entire homes. Larger industrial generators are capable of supplying full power to facilities, hospitals, and huge offices.
Long the system of choice for many, propane, diesel, bi-fuel, and natural gas-powered generators ensure that the lights stay on when the power goes out in the neighborhood. However, newer technologies have emerged such as battery-powered generators. These offer the convenience of not needing to refuel constantly and with no toxic fumes produced.
In this article, we round up 12 super quiet generators to make your camping experience as fun as possible. These generators are also excellent home backups in case of power outages. With their quiet technology, your neighbors are spared from the noise that regular generators make. They boast of several functions which make them ideal for work and play, for job sites, recreational activities, or travel. Read through our impressive recommendations to help you select the best quiet generator suitable for your needs.
WEN 56380i Super Quiet 3800-Watt Portable Inverter Generator
Producing clean energy, the WEN 3,800 watt inverter generator is without voltage spikes and drops. It is safe to run laptops, mobile phones, and other sensitive electronics because it limits total harmonic distortion to under 0.3 percent at no load and under 1.2 percent at full load. It can generate up to 3800 surge watts and 3400 rated watts of power.
The WEN 56380i generator is about as quiet as a window-type air conditioner at 57 decibels at quarter load. This is due to the 212cc 4-stroke air-cooled OHV engine. When you are camping, you will be free of the noisy distraction found in regular generators as you enjoy and become one with nature.
Equipped with a fuel shutoff feature, the generator uses the remaining fuel from the carburetor before it automatically shuts down. This minimizes maintenance as build-up and blockages caused by stagnant fuel inside the carburetor are effectively avoided. This feature also helps prolong the unit’s lifespan. It also comes with a low-oil and low-fuel automatic shutdown, indication lights, and overload protection safeguard. Because of these handy features, you can be confident that both your generator and your electronics are protected from any form of damage. You can even safely use the generator in national parks and campgrounds due to the spark arrestor that comes with it.
With a lightweight design, built-in wheels, and a folding handle, this generator is easy to transport. The ultra-efficient 2.2-gallon tank provides over 8.5 hours of half-load run time. The fully-packed panel comes with two 3-prong 120V standard household receptacles. It also includes one AC 120V 30A NEMA TT-30R twist lock receptacle, one 12V DC receptacle, and one 5V USB port. An easy-to-read digital fuel and load display are incorporated so that you can easily tell when it is time to load up with fuel.
You can maximize fuel economy by using the Eco-Mode switch. This optimizes the usage of gasoline because the engine automatically adjusts consumption as items are plugged and unplugged from the panel. Easy oil changes are also possible due to the handy oil access cover. In order to share wattage between multiple units, you may easily link up two WEN inverter generators using a WEN 56421 Parallel Connection Kit, which is sold separately. This way, you can use up more energy as needed!
EPA III and CARB compliant, the product comes with a 2-year warranty. If you need to have an issue looked into, a nationwide network of skilled service technicians and a friendly customer helpline can help you with that.
Briggs & Stratton P2200 Power Smart Series Inverter Generator with Quiet Power Technology and Parallel Capability
Featuring a computer-controlled, quiet, and fuel-efficient 111 cc OHV engine, the latest Briggs & Stratton P2200 Power Smart Series produces 2,200 starting watts and 1700 running watts. The engine adjusts its speed to allow efficient, consistent, and quiet power with its affordable inverter technology. It also produces less than 3% total harmonic distortion, which makes it safe for laptops, TVs, and other electronics. The USB port allows charging of portable electronics. Slightly higher than the WEN model at 59 decibels operating volume, this generator is still quieter than a normal conversation although sound levels may vary based on proximity and location.
This quiet inverter generator also includes a super lo-tone muffler and start-type recoil. With its 1-gallon fuel tank, 6.5 hours of continuous operation at 25% load is possible. Additionally, the P2200 offers the ability to be connected in parallel with another P2200 or P3000 unit for more power.
Needless to say, this generator is perfect for your camping, tailgating, or residential backup power needs due to its handy, lightweight, and portable design. All you need to do is read through the quick setup manual, gas it up, and crank it easily. Although 2200 watts isn’t a lot when it comes to generators, it will serve its purpose for the most part and won’t stop until it is out of gas.
Generac GP3500iO Open Frame RV Ready Inverter Generator
Do you enjoy camping in your RV but fear having no electricity to power your devices? Worry no more because the Generac’s GP3500iO open frame inverter generator is perfect for your outdoor needs. In fact, you can readily connect it to your RV. With 3500 starting watts, it can power most RV air conditioners up to 15,000 BTU. It is also up to 25% lighter, which makes it super portable. Clean power is delivered due to its true power technology.
With its PowerRUSH Technology, 50% more starting capacity can be delivered. This patented technology allows you to do more with less. It is ideal for environments where noise is not desired because it is 50% quieter. For an open frame design, the noise level is pretty low, which could be due to the inverter idling down when it can. However, you have to note that the noise can be a bit higher than the truly shrouded inverters especially when the generator ramps up.
You can also double the power by connecting two units together through a parallel kit that is sold separately. With its 2 USB outlets, you can easily charge smartphones, tablets, and other electronics. The PowerDial includes the START/RUN/STOP functions into one simple-to-use dial so that you can easily operate this silent generator.
DuroMax XP5500EH Fuel Portable Generator
This portable DuroMax XP5500EH 5000 watt Dual Fuel Hybrid generator wows with an impressive 5,500 starting watts and 4,500 running watts – the highest in this list! It can handle heavy loads from refrigerators to high amperage tools. You can operate it at 120 V and 240 V together, or at 120 V only at maximum power. This dual-fuel capability (gasoline or propane) along with its low noise level of 69 dB allows the generator to be used just about anywhere.
Although not exactly the quietest generator in the list, its fuel tank boasts of a 3.96 gallons capacity while the suggested propane tank size is 20 gallons. At only 127 lbs, this generator costs 2x less than other similar units and is 2x less the weight. You can start it using either the keyed electric start or through the E-Z recoil pull start. This unit is durable enough to be used even for construction sites. It is also easy enough to transport for tailgating or camping.
Thoroughly tested at their headquarters in Ontario, California, the quality of this generator is readily apparent with no corners cut in its design and manufacturing. To give you more peace of mind, the unit comes with a 1-year factory. It can also be serviced at any of DuroMax’s many approved service centers throughout the country. Your purchase of the generator includes one oil funnel, one spark plug wrench, tools set, wheels and handle kit. It also includes DC charging cables and an owner’s manual. Finally, it comes in two colors – blue and black.
Champion 4000-Watt RV Ready DH Series Open Frame Inverter with Quiet Technology
Improving the way you power your life, this generator comes with a Quiet Technology that allows it to operate at 64 dB which is only slightly louder than speech at 23 feet. As such, it is also ideal for RVs, tailgating, or as a backup for power interruptions.
It incredibly shines in its clean output especially for sophisticated electronic devices. Made possible by the reliable 224cc Champion engine and its Cold Start Technology, the generator can produce an impressive 4000 starting watts and 3500 running watts on gasoline for up to 17 hours (at 25% load). This allows the unit to be 50% quieter than a traditional Champion 3500-watt generator.
It can also run for the entire night without having to add more gasoline. How convenient is that? As if that isn’t enough, it can also handle a large load like a 14,500 BTU air conditioner. It is also 20% lighter due to its advanced open frame inverter design. This helps save fuel, extends engine life, and reduces your overall footprint.
The Economy Mode (Eco-mode) also determines fuel consumption in real time to optimize electrical load. With lower electrical load, the engine idles. This provides quieter operation and higher fuel economy. The Eco-mode is most beneficial when your load is light. Otherwise, it honestly does not seem to make a lot of difference. If you’re shopping for the quietest generator possible, this probably isn’t the model for you. The fact is, it isn’t as expensive as other inverter generators precisely because it doesn’t come with extra sound dampening features found in the more expensive models. However it still manages to be just a bit quieter than regular generators, even more so at low load when Eco-mode is enabled.
In terms of ease of use, the generator features a Quick Touch Panel, which offers fast access to controls. This makes operation of the generator very easy. CARB compliant, it is also suitable for sensitive electronics with its clean power at less than 3% THD. It is RV-ready with a 120V 30A RV and two 120V 20A household outlets. It also includes a 12V DC outlet with dual USB adapter. You can increase the power output by connecting up to two 2800-watt or higher inverters or digital hybrids with the optional parallel kit.
When you buy it, an oil funnel, battery charging cables, and USB adapter are included. It also comes with a 3-year limited warranty with free lifetime technical support from its skilled technicians.
Overall, this generator definitely has a few small quirks but does a good job of filling its niche of 3500 watt generators that can cleanly power sensitive electronic devices. All that, and a three year warranty, we can say this is a good bang for the buck! As with most generators, make sure to do a level of maintenance once in a while.
WEN 56203i Super Quiet 2000-Watt Portable Inverter Generator
Another WEN generator featured in this list, the 56203i is the lighter and more portable option at 39 pounds. While bigger sounds better most of the time, a nimble and efficient generator does the job just as well sometimes. This facilitates easy transport and storage, especially helpful when you like to camp and spend a lot of time outdoors. Similar to the sound of a normal conversation, it is extremely quiet when operating due to the 79cc 4-stroke OHV engine which permits operation at an extremely low 51 decibels at quarter load. This is quieter than an air conditioner, making it the quietest generator in the list. Easy to operate, it starts at first pull and runs smoothly.
If you are concerned about using it for sensitive electronics, worry not because it produces 2000 surge watts and 1700 rated watts of clean power. It is free of voltage spikes and drops and features a fuel shutoff. This setting allows the remaining fuel in the carburetor to be used up before the generator effectively shuts down. Your generator is sure to last longer as you say no more to blockages and build-ups due to the extra fuel left in the carburetor.
Designed to mirror a pure sine wave, it is safe to use on laptops and cellphones. The generator prevents total harmonic distortion above 0.3 percent at no load and above 1.2 percent at full load. You can even run bigger electronics like your tv and fridge with no problem. A fully-packed panel is incorporated into the generator. This panel features two three-prong 120V 14A NEMA 5-20R receptacles, one 12V 8.3A DC receptacle, and two 5V USB ports.
You can maximize fuel economy through its eco-mode switch, which allows the generator’s engine to automatically adjust its consumption as items are plugged into and unplugged from the panel. If you are in need of more energy, you can easily connect two WEN inverter generators through the separately-sold parallel connection kit.
With a built-in overload protection and indicator lights, you can be assured that both your generator and your electronics are protected from damage. You can’t go wrong with this purchase especially since it is just a fraction of the price of an equivalent Honda generator. If you use a stabilizer in your fuel and take advantage of the fuel shutoff feature, this generator can last you a decade without any problem. Lastly, it also comes with a two-year warranty and is CARB compliant.
A-iPower SUA2000iV 2000 Watt Portable Inverter Generator Quiet Operation
With 2000 starting watts and 1600 running watts, A-ipower SUA2000iV generator runs on clean and safe power ideal for sensitive electronics. The inverter technology produces pure sine wave power, which makes it suitable to use for phones, televisions, laptops, and other electronics. Producing only 58 decibels of noise, it is definitely a quiet inverter generator. It is also lightweight and compact at only 46 pounds.
With A-iPower’s “low idle” technology, extended run time is possible. You can take advantage of this as you go camping or tailgating. It is also powered by a 79cc engine. A built-in fuel gauge helps you know when it is time to refuel. There is also an easy gas gauge and spark plug access on top. A funnel makes refilling easy, although your purchase doesn’t come with oil.
Although the wattage is not the highest, the product more than makes up for it with its quality and robust engineering. Lots of information stickers are also incorporated so that operation is simplified and made easy for you.
Generac 7117 Gp2200I W 50St Inverter
Outdoor enthusiasts will be happy with Generac’s GP2200i inverter generator as it provides a portable power solution designed to go well with your outdoor festivities. The GP2200i provides the stable power you need without disturbing neighbors or the surrounding wildlife when you camp out.
This quiet inverter generator features 2200 starting watts and 1700 running watts. Its TruePower technology provides clean, stable power ideal for sensitive electronics, tools and appliances. Additionally, the 1.2 gallon fuel tank allows 10.75 hours of runtime at 25% load so you can enjoy a full night’s rest without needing to refuel. Its full enclosure and built-in handle makes transport easy, too.
The Economy mode feature also brings down fuel consumption rates and noise emissions. That way, the generator can operate quietly for longer periods of time. The design is well thought of to provide maximum functionality, such as the integrated OFF/RUN/CHOKE knob which simplifies startup procedures. The parallel capability allows you to connect two units together to power your portable appliances all at the same time. The LED lights notify when the generator is low in oil or is overloading.
Quiet especially when the Eco-mode is activated, this generator can run one big freezer with no issue. In some cases, it can actually be cheaper to buy 2 of these than a single 4,000 watt inverter generator. The unit comes with oil and a funnel for putting the oil in the motor upon purchase. For extra measure, it also comes with 2 years of limited warranty. Needless to say, purchasing this quiet inverter generator gives you the peace of mind and confidence that you made the right choice.
Westinghouse iGen2500 Super Quiet Portable Inverter Generator
In case of a power outage, this Westinghouse iGen2500 is perfect to power any home with its powerful 98 cc 4-Stroke OHV Westinghouse Engine or for recreational uses such as camping and tailgating. It has a start type recoil and can run at 25% for 10 hours. Gas powered and CARB compliant, its oil capacity is 11.8 oz and is 2200 rated watts and 2500 peak watts.
With a 52 dBA noise level, the Westinghouse iGen2500 is among the quietest generators in this list. You won’t have to worry about disturbing neighbors anymore. In fact, you can even carry out good conversations while standing next to it. It also weighs only 48 lbs and has a built-in carrying handle for extra portability.
EPA, USFS, and CARB compliant, the Westinghouse iGen2500 can automatically adjust its engine speed so that only the amount of power you need is produced for enhanced fuel efficiency. With a clean power at less than 3% THD, it can power larger appliances such as refrigerators and sensitive electronics like plasma/LCD televisions, laptops, and mobile devices. Pair it with any Westinghouse inverter generator using the Westinghouse WHPC parallel cord, and you instantly have twice the power.
To make operation easy, the generator comes with a rotating digital display which shows fuel level, power output, remaining run time, and voltage output so you know when it is time to refuel. Safety features are also incorporated in the iGen2500, which include low oil shutdown and overload protection. It comes with two 120V 20 amp outlets and two USB outlets.
If you are looking for a generator big enough to run air conditioning, fans, and lights, this might just be the one for you. It is more than able to accomplish the basic generator functions such as a pull start and manual choke. You will never worry about losing power again with its simple drain and fill oil changes that do not need oil filters. Lastly, it is backed by 3-year limited service, labor, and parts coverage with lifetime technical support.
Rockpals 250-Watt Portable Generator Rechargeable Lithium Battery Pack Solar Generator
The first battery powered generator in this list, Rockpals RP250W portable generator has upgraded the AC output to 250W continuous (300W surge max) dual AC output, and has a built-in 2x USB 2.1A and 4x DC 12V ( 60W ) ports. It is an ideal emergency power back-up perfect for home, travel, camping, charging up your tablets, iPhone, iPad, laptops, fans, TV, and lights. It is also a perfect backup for your CPAP machine.
With a high capacity lithium power pack, it is powerful enough to charge smartphones (2500mAh) 25 times, laptops (50W) 3-5 times, and 32″ TVs (75W) 2-3 hours, and about 4 hours for other small appliances, lights, and more. If you like camping, the solar generator is also very handy to be put on the roof of your RV.
That being said, you can recharge the generator in three easy ways. Firstly, the solar generator can be left in the sun to charge with any compatible 60W or 100W solar panel. The battery pack can also be plugged into a wall outlet and be fully charged in just 8 hours. Lastly, the portable power station may be plugged into your car’s 12V socket. The car charger comes with your purchase.
With a pure sine wave inverter, microwaves and motors run faster, quieter, and cooler. Because of a gas-free source of power, it is an extremely silent generator with mainly the cooling fan producing the noise. There are also no fumes, which makes it safe for you and the environment.
Apart from the Rockpals portable generator, a 6.5ft / 2m AC adapter, 3.3ft / 1m car charger cable, DC to Cig Socket adapter, and a user guide are included in the purchase. If you do not need a high wattage system, this portable generator ticks a lot of boxes. Why not make it your next purchase?
Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 240, 240Wh Backup Lithium Battery
Equipped with a 240 watt-hour (16.8Ah, 14.4V) lithium-ion battery pack, the Jackery Explorer 240 requires no fuel or gasoline. This battery-powered generator means that there are no fumes and no clanging during operation.
Perfect for charging laptops, mini-coolers, drones and other outdoor electronics, this portable power station includes one AC outlet (110V 200W 400W Peak), two USB-A ports, and one DC car port so you can power your outdoor activities without any worry. It can easily get recharged with a solar panel and pairs extremely well with the Jackery Solar Saga 60W/100W, which is sold separately. Being battery-powered, it does come with a lower output compared to its gasoline and diesel counterparts.
You can protect your sensitive devices with its pure sine wave inverter portable power station. With a solid handle, you can carry it anywhere, too. Apart from the portable power station, you will also get one AC adapter, one car charger cable, and one user guide upon purchase.
For the many Jackery fans out there, this is an item you can add to your growing inventory. This thing delivers and is absolutely worth it.
Generac 7127 iQ3500-3500 Watt Portable Inverter Generator
From tailgating parties to camping trips, the jobsite and beyond, you can use the iQ3500 inverter generator. It is extremely portable with its durable and lightweight design. The Power Dial is simple to use as it integrates the start, run and stop functions together. The Electric Start (battery included) capability is conveniently placed for quicker startup. You can also select from two engine speeds, depending on your requirement.
Its enclosure design provides optimal quiet performance. In fact, it is said to be 40% quieter than a Honda advanced inverter technology. Based on independent third-party testing, it is over 5 dB(A) quieter than the famous Honda EU3000is. It also has 16% more power than Honda owing to its power rush advanced technology. To keep you informed at all times, it comes with a smart LCD that incorporates a digital wattage meter, run time remaining display, generator status, hour meter and fuel level.
Because of the inverter technology, the generator has a reduced size and weight. It also means that the power it generates is ultraclean. You can power sensitive electronics and tools without the fear of damage. With all these, you can effectively reduce noise and fuel consumption or maximize power response.
Lastly, you can separately purchase the Camco RV 30 AMP generator adapter, which is intended for connecting a generator with an L5-30 locking receptacle to a recreational vehicle.
Buying Guide
Output
The first thing to consider when buying a generator is output measured in watts. One typical household outlet, for example, delivers a maximum of 1,800 watts (15 amps multiplied by 120 volts), or the equivalent of a small portable generator.
Many people buy a small generator only for them to regret it at a later time because they had the wrong understanding of basic concepts. You risk burning a generator with too little power under load. On the other hand, if it has too much power, you might be overpaying for something you won’t be able to maximize. Therefore, it is best to figure out which appliances you will use most often in order to calculate your wattage, keeping in mind that certain items run in a specific wattage.
Also note that you would see a spike in energy draw during start-up. When manufacturers rate generator output, they usually refer to a maximum, short-term level only. In practice, most generators can sustain only 80 percent of their maximum rating for a prolonged period of time. If you continuously demand more than this, you’ll shorten the life of your generator. Unless otherwise stated, always view the advertised generator output as overly optimistic then apply this 80 percent rule.
Running (or rated) watts are the continuous watts needed to keep items running. Starting watts are extra watts needed for two-to-three seconds to start motor-driven products like a refrigerator or circular saw. This is the maximum wattage the generator can produce. Some appliances (such as furnace fans, washing machines, and refrigerators) require more start-up power than their specified ratings.
In conclusion, being able to select the right generator output comes with an understanding of what devices and equipment you will mostly use with it.
Run Time
When buying a silent generator, or any other generator for that matter, choose one with a long run-time at half-load. At least 10 hours of run time at half-load will get you a full night’s sleep without having to refuel midway. Of course, this may come with a considerable price hike so make sure you understand how long you intend to be using your generator for.
Fuel Capacity
Fuel capacity is key if you do not want to frequently top up the fuel. If you only intend to use the generator occasionally, a small fuel tank won’t be a deal breaker. However, if there is a need for continuous operation, choose a larger capacity tank so that you wouldn’t have to refuel as often.
Noise Level
You often see dB to describe the noise levels of super quiet generators. dB is a measure of sound. For context, 10 dB is approximately equivalent to breathing and is barely audible. A generator with a rating between 50 and 60 dBA is fairly quiet. Sounds beyond that level may be distracting. While having the best quiet generator is always preferred, a few decibels can be sacrificed for other neat features that you may find more helpful.
Portability
Older generators can be heavy and bulky while newer ones include folding handles and wheels which make them so much easier to carry. This is especially helpful if you intend to use the generators while camped out in the great outdoors or when using them in job sites.
Parallel Connection
Many inverter generators can increase the available energy by allowing them to be connected in parallel with a generator from a similar class. In some cases, using two parallel generators can end up less costly than using one with a higher output to begin with. It is important to know the pros, cons, and applicability of using a parallel system vs a higher wattage one based on your needs.
Compliance
Before making a purchase, be sure to research that your chosen generator is compatible with local, state, or federal ordinances regarding emissions and other environmental considerations (CARB, EPA, USFS etc).
For instance, some generators may lack emissions certification requirements, USDA-approved spark arrestors, or other safety or environmental features. Make sure the proper certifications are provided so that you can avoid citations or accidents such as a fire when the device malfunctions.
Extra Features and Add-ons
Indicators which show wattage, fuel, and other information are always handy. For instance, fuel gauges let you know when it is time to refuel. Some generators also come with heavy-duty cords, thereby eliminating the need to manage multiple extension cords. If you intend to use the generator to run a higher wattage item, like a window AC unit, look for one with a 30 amp locking-type outlet. Before buying, make sure to check for the right type and number of outlets, too. Some come with USB-type ports to make charging your electronic devices hassle-free.
FAQ
Battery vs Fuel-Powered Generator?
Generators powered by propane or diesel can be quite noisy when operating. Battery backup systems operate relatively quietly and do not burn any fuel, unlike a conventional gas-powered generator. This means there are no toxic fumes, which is beneficial to you and to the environment. Additionally, there is no need for regular refueling. As a con, battery-powered generators come with a much lower power output. The limited storage capacity also means you will need to recharge your generator from time to time.
Why Inverter Generators?
Inverter generators ensure that tech devices are protected from damage as they provide “clean” AC voltage. They also often run longer, quieter, and more efficiently than standard ones. Some companies may be misleading in labeling their products as quiet. It is important to note that inverter generators are generally among the best quiet generators in the market.