Here is one of those areas where I do believe, you will get what you pay for. Granted, there are lots of options out there and some are more affordable than others. Does that make them a "better deal"? I purchased my Honda 2000i just about 16 years ago. I always have used premium fuel mixed with a stabilizer. I always drain it each fall and run it dry. In the spring it does take a few pulls to get it all going but after that, only a pull or two each time.
My cousin saved something like $500 when purchasing a different brand on sale at COSTCO. His lasted about a year and a half. Couldn't get it serviced and no one had parts. He went out and got a Honda and is still using it. So....in the long run....how much money did he save? I am also in favor of getting the quietest generator you can find. Decibel ratings are confusing. These are measurements of SOUND created by the energy produced by sound waves. There is a huge difference between 80 and 90 decibels. It is a logarithmic scale. Research this a bit before you make your decision.