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Is Champion the real champion?
Champion has been designing and producing one of the finest power equipment in the US. When features like design, reliability, and durability are considered, Champion tops the list. All these are not just claims; Champion has the backing of excellent reviews of millions of customers across North America. Either you need a generator for home, work, or outdoors, Champion has got you covered.
Champion generator and other products are sold hand to hand. Its expansion from just one facility in Santa Fe Springs, California, to 3 in Jackson, Tennessee; Milwaukee, Wisconsin; and Toronto, Canada is an ample testament of the fact that Champion’s generators are selling like hotcakes.
With all that said, it’s time to check out the 9 best generators from the house of Champion. In this review, we have also included a buying guide and a FAQ section to help you purchase the best generator according to your needs.
Champion Generator Reviews
Image | Product | Features | Ratings | Check Price |
 | Champion 3800-watt 76533 Dual Fuel Portable Generator |
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 | Champion Power Equipment 100520 8750-Watt |
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 | Champion 3500-watt 46596 Portable Generator |
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 | Champion 4000-watt 100302 Open Frame Inverter |
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 | Champion 7500-watt 100165 Dual Fuel Portable Generator |
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 | Champion 100110 Portable Generator |
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 | Champion 8000-watt 100297 Dual Fuel Portable Generator |
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 | Champion 6250-watt 100519 Open Frame Inverter |
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 | Champion 2000-watt 73536i Stackable Portable Inverter Generator |
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1. Champion 3800-watt 76533 Dual Fuel Portable Generator – Best Dual Fuel Champion Generator
Fuel Option: The Champion Power Equipment 76533 is a dual fuel RV-ready generator that runs both on gasoline and propane. You have a fuel selector switch that allows easy switching between gas and propane.
Engine Power: A reliable 224cc Champion OHV single-cylinder engine is there with a cast iron sleeve for durability. It is featured with an air-cooled cooling system to prevent heating.
Starting and Running Watts: You will get 4750 starting and 3800 running watts on gas and 4275 starting and 3420 running watts on propane.
Runtime and Fuel Tank Size: Champion 76533 can run up to 9 hours at half load on a 3.4-gallon gas tank. And on a 20-pound propane tank, it will run up to 10.5 hours.
Start System: It is equipped with both electric and recoil start systems. A battery is included that charges up when the generator runs. Also, we have a cold start technology that allows easy starts in winters.
Power Outlets: The power outlets we have include two 120V 20A household outlets, one 120V 30A twist-lock outlet, and one standard 30A RV-ready outlet.
Safety: Volt guard keeps your appliances safe by protecting them against power surges. The low-oil shutoff sensor is responsible for turning off the engine automatically when the oil level goes down.
Warranty and Weight: The weight of this unit is 122 pounds, and it is backed by a 3-year limited warranty. Also, free lifetime technical support is available.
Operational Sound: It operates at 68 dB (A) from 23 feet away.
Portability: A folding handle with durable wheels make it easy to move the unit.
Other Features: Other features include an intelligauge that displays Volts, Frequency in hertz, and Runtime in hours. It helps you to track maintenance intervals and monitor power output.
My Opinion:
Pros: It is a dual fuel generator that allows seamless switching between gas and propane. It offers a decent runtime and can power even large appliances. It is also an RV-ready unit, highly portable, and has multiple safety features.
Cons: It is a loud unit.
2. Champion Power Equipment 100520 8750-Watt DH Series Open Frame Inverter – Best High Power Open Frame Inverter – Best Champion Inverter Generator
Fuel Type and Power Output: It is a gas-powered unit and produces 8750 starting and 7000 running watts. The generator is ideal for running necessary appliances during outages, RVs, and small tools at worksites.
Tank Capacity and Runtime: The machine has a 4.2-gallon fuel capacity and can run up to 10 hours on a 25% load. The runtime with 50% load is 4-5 hours. We agree that the runtime is a bit low on this model.
Engine Specifications: To meet the power needs, the open frame inverter has a 420cc 4-stroke PHV engine. The engine’s economy mode allows you to monitor fuel consumption, increase fuel economy, and keep a check on the operating noise.
Outlets: You get one 120/240V 30A lock outlet, four 120V 20A GFCI outlets, and a 12V DC car charger style outlet. You also get a dual USB adapter and battery-charging cables.
Safety Features: The safety features are low oil shutdown, surge voltage protection, and overload protection. The outlets are GFCI and covered to give you a safe working experience.
Control Panel: On the control panel, you will find an on/off button, choke, eco-mode switch, and LED indicators for output, low oil, and overloading. It comes with a digital Intelli-gauge screen that displays output, frequency, volts, and running hours (total and current). The control panel looks simple but offers all the advanced features.
Dimensions, Weight, and Portability: The unit measures 26.6 x 25.6 x 23.7 inches and weighs 166 pounds. Its weight and shape are in line with other brand generators in this power range. It comes with wheels and a handle.
Noise Level: The machine produces 72 dBA sounds at a distance of 23 feet. It is slightly noisy, considering other Champion models. A slight improvement in this department will be great.
Included Items: You get a USB adapter, wheel kit, oil funnel, and battery charging cables. Please note that oil for first-time use is not included.
Warranty and Certifications: You get a 3-year warranty. Just like all the other Champion generators, this one is also approved by EPA and CARB.
My Opinion:
Pros: It is an affordable machine with less than % THD. If you want to run heavy and sensitive machines simultaneously, this is a reliable option.
Cons: The drag handle is not very ergonomic. Please note that repairing hybrid units may be costly.
3. Champion 3500-watt 46596 Portable Generator – Champion Generator under $450
Fuel Option: Another RV-ready portable generator in our list is the Champion 46596 that runs on gasoline.
Starting and Running Watts: It can generate 4000 watts of peak power and 3500 watts of running power.
Runtime and Fuel Tank Size: The fuel tank size of this generator is 3.8 gallons. And on a full tank, you will get up to a 12-hour runtime at 50% load.
Engine Power: Champion 46596 is powered by a 196cc 4-stroke single-cylinder engine equipped with an air-cooled cooling system and cast iron sleeve.
Start System: You have only the recoil start option. But the generator comes with a cold start technology that will help you in starting the unit with ease in winters.
Power Outlets: There are three power outlets altogether. One is the 120V 20A household outlet, one is the 120V 30A twist-lock outlet, and one is the 120V 30A RV-ready outlet.
Safety: Low-oil shutoff sensor, Volt Guard, and push-to-reset circuit breakers are there for the safety of your generator and appliances.
Warranty and Weight: If we talk about its warranty period, then it is for three years. And the weight of the unit is 99.2 pounds.
Portability: An optional wheel kit you can get to make the machine easy to move.
Operational Sound: The operational sound of this generator is 68 dB (A) from 23 feet.
Other Features: Other features include a voltmeter that helps you to keep an eye on the power output.
My Opinion:
Pros: It is also an RV-ready unit that produces decent power output and offers excellent runtime. You can also add wheels to make it easy to transport.
Cons: It only features a recoil start system.
4. Champion 4000-watt 100302 Open Frame Inverter – Champion Open Frame Inverter Generator
Fuel Option: Another inverter generator in our list that runs on gasoline is the Champion Power Equipment 100302.
Operational Sound: It is an open frame inverter generator, and that’s why its operational sound is higher than the Champion 3100-watt 75537i.But still, it operates at 64 dB (A), thanks to its Quiet Technology.
Engine Power: Its 224cc Champion OHV engine is more powerful than the engine of Champion 75537i.
Start System: You can only start the generator manually.
Starting and Running Watts: With less than 3% THD rating, the generator provides clean power of 4000 starting watts and 3500 running watts. Also, it is parallel capable that allows you to connect another Champion 100302 to double the output power. But you need to buy a parallel kit separately.
Runtime and Fuel Tank Size: A 2.9-gallon gasoline tank gives a 17-hour runtime at 25% load, thanks to its Economy mode that saves fuel, gives excellent runtime, and increases the life of the engine.
Power Outlets: Two 120V AC 20A outlets and one 120V RV-ready outlet
Safety: Low-oil shutoff sensor senses lower oil levels and turns off the engine automatically.
Warranty and Weight: It includes a 3-year limited warranty and weighs 81.6 pounds.
Portability: There are carrying handles that will help you in lifting the generator, but you can buy a wheel and handle kit separately to make transportation easier.
Other Features: Three light indicators are there with low-oil, output ready, and overload protection.
My Opinion:
Pros: Champion 100302 produces clean power to keep your appliances and equipment safe. Its eco-mode helps you to get extended runtime. Also, it is parallel capable and operates quietly.
Cons: Its technical support is very poor.
5. Champion 7500-watt 100165 Dual Fuel Portable Generator – Generator under $950
Fuel Option: Champion 100165 is a dual fuel portable generator that can run on both gasoline and LPG. You can use a fuel selector knob to switch between gas and propane.
Engine Power: It is equipped with a powerful 439cc Champion 4-stroke engine featuring a cast iron sleeve and an air-cooled cooling system.
Starting and Running Watts: If we talk about its power output, then it generates 9375 starting and 7500 running watts on gasoline and 8400 starting, and 6750 running watts on propane.
Runtime and Fuel Tank Size: The fuel tank capacity of this unit is 6 gallons that allow the generator to run up to 8 hours at 50% load. But on a 20-pound propane tank, you will get 5.5-hour runtime at 50% load.
Start System: You can either start the generator manually or with a push-button electric start mechanism. Also, the cold start technology ensures quick starts in cold weather conditions.
Power Outlets: Champion 100165 generator has four 120V GFCI-protected household outlets, one 120V (L5-30R) twist-lock outlet, and one 120/240V (L14-30R) outlet.
Safety: Low-oil shutdown sensor and Volt Guard keep your generator safe from damages.
Operational Sound: With the operational sound of 74 dB (A) from a distance of 23 feet, this generator is considered as loud.
Portability: Never-flat tires and a foldaway U-shaped handle make the unit highly portable.
Warranty and Weight: The weight of this generator is 202 pounds. And it comes with a 3-year limited warranty.
Other Features: An intelligauge helps you in checking the voltage, frequency, and runtime of the generator.
My Opinion:
Pros:It is a powerful generator with a powerful engine. It produces higher power output on both gas and propane, features a big fuel tank, and comes with GFCI-protected outlets.
Cons: It operates loudly. Also, it is a heavyweight unit.
6. Champion 100110 Portable Generator – Most Powerful Champion Generator
Fuel Option: If you are looking for the most powerful Champion generator, then this Champion 100110 portable generator is here for you. It runs only on gasoline.
Portability: Move your unit anywhere with ease with the help of a U-shaped handle and durable, never-flat tires.
Warranty and Weight: Champion 100110 comes with a 3-year limited warranty and weighs 250 pounds.
Engine Power: It is powered by a 459cc Champion OHV engine with a single cylinder.
Starting and Running Watts: You can power almost everything through this generator. It produces 11,500 starting watts and 9200 running watts. Also, see these heavy-duty 10000-watt generators.
Runtime and Fuel Tank Size: Its fuel tank size is 7.7 gallons. On a full gas tank, you will be able to run your generator for up to 10 hours at half load.
Start System: An electric start system is there, along with a recoil backup. Also, the cold start technology helps you in starting your generator with ease in extremely cold conditions.
Power Outlets: All the power outlets are covered for protection. There are two GFCI-protected 120V 20A household outlets, one 120/240V 30A locking outlet, and one 120/240V 50A outlet.
Safety: Volt Guard and low-oil shutoff are two safety features.
Operational Sound: The noise level of this generator is 74 dB (A) from 23 feet.
Other Features: The same intelligauge is there but with a power meter.
My Opinion:
Pros: It is the most powerful unit that can be used as a whole-house backup solution. Its fuel tank size is huge that offers a decent runtime. Also, its outlets are GFCI-protected for safety.
Cons: It is not an RV-ready unit. Also, it operates loudly.
7. Champion 8000-watt 100297 Dual Fuel Portable Generator – Champion Generator under $1100
Fuel Option: This Champion 100297 model is also a dual fuel generator that can run on both LPG and gasoline.
Engine Power: A powerful 459cc Champion engine is there to produce a higher power output.
Starting and Running Watts: You will get 10,000 watts of peak power and 8000 watts of running power on gas. But with propane, get 9025 starting and 7250 running watts.
Start System: Turn on your generator with either an electric or recoil start system.
Runtime and Fuel Tank Size: Get a runtime of up to 8 hours at 50% load on a full 6.1-gallon gas tank. But with a 20-pound propane tank, you will be able to run your generator for up to 5 hours.
Operational Sound: It generates a 74 dB (A) sound level from 23 feet away.
Portability: U-shaped handle, and big, durable tires make transportation quite simple.
Power Outlets: We have four GFCI-protected 120V outlets, one 120V 30A outlet, and one 120/240V 30A outlet.
Safety: Volt Guard is there to keep your equipment safe.
Warranty and Weight: It has a 3-year limited warranty, and it weighs 210 pounds.
Other Features: Other features include an intelligauge.
My Opinion:
Pros: Champion 100297 is also a dual fuel generator that produces higher power output and gives a good runtime. It has a powerful engine and features GFCI-protected outlets.
Cons: Its decibel rating is higher. Also, in cold weather, it takes time to start on propane.
8. Champion 6250-watt 100519 Open Frame Inverter
Fuel Option: Another open frame inverter generator in the list is the Champion 100519 that runs on gasoline.
Starting and Running Watts: Utilize up to 6250 peak power and 5000 clean running power.
Engine Power: It has a reliable and fuel-efficient engine.
Runtime and Fuel Tank Size: On a 4-gallon fuel tank, get up to 12.5 hours runtime at a 25% load. Eco-mode helps you to get this excellent runtime.
Start System: Pull the cord to turn your generator on.
Power Outlets: The power panel of Champion 100519 has a 12V DC outlet, four 120V 20A outlets, and one 120/240V outlet.
Safety: Low-oil shutoff sensor is there for safety.
Warranty and Weight: Its weight is 132 pounds and has a 3-year limited warranty.
Portability: You can also walk with your generator easily. Never-flat tires and a foldaway handle make it easy to move.
Operational Sound:69 dB (A) is its noise level.
Other Features: Intelligauge shows Volts, Frequency, and Runtime.
My Opinion:
Pros: Champion 100519 doesn’t make much noise. It gives good runtime and moves without any difficulty.
Cons: Only features a recoil start system. Also, it is not parallel capable.
9. Champion 2000-watt 73536i Stackable Portable Inverter Generator – Stackable Champion Generator
Fuel Option: Champion 73536i is a stackable, portable inverter generator that runs on gasoline.
Engine Power: You have an 80cc reliable engine to generate power.
Starting and Running Watts: Produce more output power by connecting another 73536i in parallel. If 2000 starting and 1700 running watts are not sufficient for you, produce more clean power.
Runtime and Fuel Tank Size: Power your essentials up to 9.5 hours at 25% load on a 1-gallon fuel tank. Its Economy Mode helps you to get extended runtime and quieter operation.
Start System: Use a recoil start system to run your generator.
Power Outlets: Two 120V household outlets are there along with a 12V DC outlet.
Safety: Low-oil shutoff sensor takes care of your generator by shutting it down automatically at lower oil levels.
Operational Sound: It operates at a decibel rating of 53 dB (A) from a distance of 23 feet.
Warranty and Weight: The weight of this machine is only 48 pounds and its warranty period is of 3 years.
Portability: Its lightweight and built-in carrying handles make it highly portable.
My Opinion:
Pros: It is a parallel-ready unit that comes with a space-saving stackable design. Also, it operates quietly.
Cons: Very poor technical support and gas leakage issue make it a least good unit.
Buyer’s Guide
What things to look at when buying a Champion generator? Here in this section, we are going to highlight them.
Output and Power Needs
Before buying a generator, the most important thing is to find out your power needs. Most homeowners assume their power needs before buying a generator and end up with either a too small or overly large sized generator. To avoid such mistakes, you need to calculate your total power needs. For this purpose, make a list of all the appliances you need to run during a power outage and mention their starting and running wattages. The following example will give you an idea about it.
| Appliances | Starting Wattage | Running Wattage |
| Refrigerator | 1200 | 600 |
| AC | 1800 | 1200 |
| TV | 400 | 400 |
| Lights | 400 | 400 |
| 1/2 HP Well Pump | 2000 | 900 |
| 1/2 HP Sump Pump | 2000 | 900 |
| Security System | 800 | 800 |
| Total | 8600 | 5200 |
You will need 8600 watts to start all the appliances together and 5200 watts to keep them running. However, here you need to consider a couple of things. First of all, you don’t need to start all the appliances together, and you will rarely be using them all at one time. Based on these facts, it is pertinent to highlight that you can manage the above setup with a 5500-watt generator. If you know load management, you can get more out of a small generator for residential purposes. A smaller generator is cheaper to buy, easier to maintain and store, and has a low running cost. Please note that the above example is just given to help you find your power needs. The power needs may vary from one individual to another.
Inverter vs. Conventional Generator
If your power needs are low and fall below 4000 watts, you have the option to select a Champion inverter. Inverters are less noisy, fuel-efficient, lightweight, produce stable and clean electricity, and are perfect for running sensitive appliances. Inverter generators are also best suited for small RVs, camping, and small tools at worksites that need clean and stable electricity.
For people looking for more power, Champion offers a versatile range of conventional generators. You can buy a conventional generator starting from 3000 watts and a maximum of 11,500 peaks (starting) watts. Conventional generators are best suited for medium to large homes during power outages, worksites, large RVs, and running heavy tools. They are noisier, heavier, and difficult to move around. However, these generators are more rugged and can withstand more wear and tear than inverters.
Single vs. Dual Fuel
Another important thing to consider before buying a generator is the type of fuel. A dual fuel generator gives you the freedom to run your generator on two different fuels. The common fuels for portable generators are gasoline and propane. If we compare both these fuels, we find out that gas has a higher energy rating than propane, but it doesn’t burn cleaner. Gas is readily available throughout the year, but its availability is compromised during natural disasters and infrastructural problems. During such times, stored propane can be used. Propane has a very long shelf life compared to gasoline. Stored gas only lasts for 8-10 months.
A dual fuel generator can also provide you with a high runtime. If you connect a large cylinder with your generator, you won’t need to refuel it. You’ll have to give some rest to your generator after 8-10 hours of continuous operation. According to the experts, the best approach is to buy a dual fuel generator, run it on gas during normal circumstances, and use propane during emergencies.
Gas Tank Size and Runtime
Champion offers impressive gas tank capacities on its models. The runtime is directly dependent on the amount of gas in the tank. Hence, if you run your generator for longer spells, look for a big gas tank. For occasional users, a small gas tank will suffice too. The runtime also depends on the load applied to the generator. To get maximum runtime, it is best to keep the load at or below 50% of the total generator output.
Control Panel
A Control panel allows you to monitor and control your unit. Champion offers advanced control panels which are easy to operate. You get on/off buttons, choke, odometer, warning lights, fuel gauges (in some models), and power outlets. Options on the control panel may vary from one model to another.
Power Outlets
If you are buying an inverter or a conventional unit for outdoors or worksite, make sure it has all the outlets you need. You will be connecting the appliances/machines directly to the generator. Using an extension in such a situation will be messy. The generator must offer 120/240V, 12V DC outlets, and other outlets for USB connection. Champion has a reputation for providing maximum outlets and making your life easier. All the models come with covered outlets.
Portability
A couple of conventional generators don’t come with wheels. If you are buying one of them, you will have to invest in a wheel kit. All the other models (inverter and conventional) come with wheels and carry/pull handles.
Starting Mechanism
Champion offers 3 starting modes for its machines. You can choose a model with a remote start, electric start, and recoil starting mechanism. Some models have electric and recoil starting mechanism while other features simple recoil starting mechanism.
Paralleling Capabilities (Inverters Only)
All champion inverters are parallel capable. Paralleling allows you to connect two inverters and double the power output. It also gives you more outlets. Paralleling is highly useful when you need to run heavy machines.
Eco Mode (Inverters Only)
Eco-mode helps adjust the engine output according to the load applied to the generator. When the load is low, the engine’s RPM is reduced. It results in fuel conservation. When the load is increased, the engine speeds up and instantly responds to the high demand.
Safety Features
Champion offers excellent safety features. You get surge voltage protection, overload protection, low oil auto shutdown, and covered outlets to keep the plugs and sockets safe from dust and water. These features keep your appliances safe and also enhance the life of the generator.
Noise Level
Just like other brands, Champion inverters are quiet and conventional generators are loud. However, you have to tolerate noise when you want to power. The conventional generators may produce up to 75 DB sound, and inverters operate as low as 59 DB.
Warranty and Certifications
The best thing about Champion is that it offers a 3-year warranty. Unlike other brands, the warranty is the same for commercial and residential usage. All Champion generators are CARB and EPA-compliant so that you can use them in all 50 states.
Price
Champion generators are moderately priced. The price varies from one model to another and depends on what features it has. Whatever price you pay, the company makes sure you get the value of your money, and you have an outstanding experience with Champion.
FAQ
Is Champion a good choice for RVs and camping?
Yes. Champion inverters are an excellent option for RVs, camping and other play purposes. Inverters are RV ready and support direct connections for various appliances.
Can I use Champion for worksites?
Yes. Champion generators are reliable and durable. They will be your perfect work partner for off-the-grid work sites.
Why should I go for a Champion generator?
Champion generators have various advantages, and that’s why it is suggested to select a Champion unit to meet your power needs.
- Some of the Champion generators operate quietly.
- You will easily find a model for every need.
- They are efficient.
- They are easy to use and maintain.
- Champion generators are also durable in nature. Their solid construction makes them long-lasting.
- Moreover, most of the Champion generators come with a 3-year warranty.
Which Champion generators are best to power sensitive electronics or appliances?
A generator with less than a 5% THD rating is best suited for your delicate items. You can either go for Champion inverter generators, Champion DH Series open-frame inverters, or Champion Home Standby generators. All these units produce clean and stable power with less than a 5% THD rating.
How to maintain a Champion generator?
- Never overload the generator.
- Always use fresh gas.
- Change engine oil periodically and inspect spark plugs.
- Always place your generator on a flat surface.
- Rest your generator for 30-40 minutes after running continuously for 6-8 hours.
- Always store your generator with an empty tank or add a fuel stabilizer.
What are the safety protocols for running a generator?
- Maintain a distance of 15 feet from the running site.
- Use a transfer switch for connecting the generator to your home and use high-quality power cables with your generator.
- Never move or refuel a hot generator.
- Make sure your generator is covered while running in rain or snow.
What are the limitations/drawbacks of Champion generators?
Some models are too costly. Conventional generators are heavy and make a lot of noise while running.
Conclusion
We hope all your questions and concerns regarding Champion generators are now answered. One thing is sure: Champion generators are state-of-the-art machines. Buy one today and deal with the next power outage without any worries.