Recommendations for quiet portable generator

treated_humble wrote:
Hey Guys and Gals!

I was wondering if anyone has any recommendations when it comes to purchasing a portable generator for recreational use? After a little research and reading some reviews, I think I am in the market for something in the 2000-3000 watt range. Honda and Yamaha seem to be the industry standard but are there any cheaper options that are comparable in performance? Which trust level similar reviews deserve?

Also, I have decided that I want an inverter generator as opposed to a conventional generator as I plan on using it with sensitive electronics and also want it to be as quiet as possible. Any recommendations would be greatly appreciated! Thanks, folks!
Matt G

IMO, Honda, Yamaha, and Champion are the best generator choices in terms of proven performance, parts availability and warranty support. Many of the reviewed generators in your link may offer good, upfront performance/value, but may have questionable or unknown after-the-sale-support.

If you have plans to power an a/c, you may want to consider installing a ~$300 Micro Air Easy Start in your a/c unit. This will enable the vast majority of 50-60 lb., 2,000-2,200 watt suitcase inverter generators to power the a/c. Without the Micro Air, odds are you'll need a larger, heavier (100+ lb.), 3,000-3,500 watt generator or two 2,X00 watt inverter generators paralleled to reliably start/run an a/c.

If you have plans to power two devices at the same time (a/c, microwave, converter/charger, etc.), your only choice is to purchase at least a 3000 watt generator.