A 2000 watt generator is a very reasonable option to run your necessary appliances during a power outage. No doubt, it won’t power your entire home or office, but it has enough juice to keep you going. You can keep your refrigerator running, phone/laptop charged, TV running, and lights on with it. If you know how to manage loads applied on the generator and are aware of starting and running wattage concept, you can do a lot with a 2000 watt generator.
When it comes to buying the best 2000 watts generator for your needs, the selection can get pretty challenging. There are hundreds of options available in the market for you to buy. If you are not aware of the ins and outs of the generator world, you are likely to end up with low quality and unreliable generator. To help you buy the best generator, we have reviewed the best models for you. In this article, you will find 7 best 2000 watts generators, a buying guide, and an FAQ section. After reading our reviews, all your concerns and queries regarding a 2000 watts generator will be answered.
Check out our top 7 picks for 2000 watts generator and stay connected with the world during blackouts.
Table of Contents
Best 2000 Watt Generators [Comparison]
Image | Features | Ratings | Check Price |
Champion 100900  |
| 4.6 | |
WEN 56200i  |
| 4.6 | |
PowerSmart 2200  |
| 4.3 | |
Pulsar PG2000iSN  |
| 4.4 | |
Sportsman GEN2000  |
| 4.5 | |
Generac iQ2000  |
| 4.2 | |
Generac iQ2000  |
| 4.3 |
Best 2000 Watt Generator Reviews
1. Champion Power Equipment 100900 2000-Watt Dual Fuel Inverter Generator – Best Dual Fuel 2000 Watt Generator
Fuel Type and Power Output: It is dual fuel 2000 watt inverter and can be run on gasoline and propane. Its performance on both fuels is outstanding. On gasoline, it delivers 2000 starting and 1600 running watts. Propane will provide you with 1800 starting and 1400 running watts. We agree that the power output is low on propane, but it will keep you going when you run out of gas during an emergency.
Tank Capacity and Runtime: It has a 1.1-gallon fuel capacity. The machine can run up to 12 hours with a 25% load. On a 20-pound propane tank, it will give you a runtime of up to 34 hours. However, it is not advised to continuously run your generator for more than 8 hours, regardless of the fuel type.
Engine Specifications: It is built around a 79cc OHV Champion engine. It is a recoil starting unit.
Outlets: You get two 120V 20A household outlets, a 12V automotive-style outlet, and a dual-port USB adapter. The outlets don’t feature a direct USB connection.
Safety Features: You get a low oil shutdown, overload protection, and surge voltage protection. To keep your sensitive appliances safe from short-circuiting, the THD is less than 3%. Champion gives you a safe and secure experience with its machines.
Control Panel: Apart from the outlets, the control panel has a grounding terminal, propane inlet, parallel ports, indicator LEDs for eco mode, low oil, and overload reset. The fuel selector/choke dial is also located on the control panel.
Dimensions, Weight, and Portability: The unit measures 17.3 x 11.5 x 17.7 inches and weighs only 39 pounds. It is so lightweight that you can lift it with the handle and move freely with it. The ergonomic handle makes uphill movement a breeze.
Eco-mode and Parallel Connectivity: The machine offers eco-mode and parallel connectivity to enhance usability and give you a better working experience.
Noise Level: It operates at 53 dBA. It is not the quietest in the industry, but it is a very impressive and decent sound rating. You won’t be bothered by it.
Warranty and Certifications: You get 3 years limited warranty from Champion. This unit is EPA and CARB certified and can be used in all 50 states.
Included Accessories: A propane hose, USB adapter, engine oil, oil funnel, tool kit, user manual, and spark plug wrench are included in the box. These things facilitate a quick setup.
My Opinion:
Pros: It is a dual fuel machine and frees you from the tension of relying on only one fuel type. The runtime is impressive, and it will never let you down with its excellent performance. It is lightweight, highly portable, and an economical buy with these features.
Cons: The only issue with this machine is that it misses out on the USB ports.
2. WEN 56200iPortable Inverter Generator –Best 2000-watt Generator under $450
Engine: It carries a 79.7 cc 4-stroke OHV engine that is less powerful than the engine of Westinghouse iGen2500.
Starting and Running Wattage: WEN 56200i generates 2000 surge watts and 1600 rated watts.
Start System: There is a pull start system.
Noise level: It also makes less noise during operation. It runs at 51 dB (A).
Certifications: You will get clean and environment-friendly energy, thanks to its EPA III and CARB certifications.
Fuel Tank Size and Runtime: WEN 56200i offers a runtime of 6 hours at a 50% load on a 1-gallon fuel tank.
Control Panel: It features two 3-prong 120V outlets, one 12V DC outlet, and one 5V USB port making it ideal for camping, tailgating, and backup power.
Safety Features: No need to worry about engine damages due to low-oil and overload. It shuts down automatically when it reaches lower oil levels or gets overloaded.
Portability: It has a handle, so you can easily carry it to different campsites or homes.
THD Rating: With less than a 3% THD rating, you can power your sensitive electronics without any fear.
Parallel Connection Capable: If over 2000 watts are necessary for the job, you can link two generators together with the WEN 56421 Parallel Connection Kit.
Weight and Warranty: WEN 56200i weighs 48 pounds and comes with a 2-year warranty.
Eco-mode: It is a fuel-efficient product. Its Eco-mode saves fuel and money.
My Opinion:
Pros: This generator best for camping and tailgate parties. It operates with little or no sound, light in weight, and starts without any problem. Also, its eco-mode makes life easier.
Cons: This generator is tall and may not fit in the back of your truck with the cover closed.
3. Westinghouse WH2200iXLT Inverter Generator –Best 2000-watt Portable Generator
Power Output: Another excellent addition to the list is Westinghouse WH2200iXLT. It produces 2200 peak watts and 1800 continuous watts.
Start System: It features both the electric start and pull-start system.
Engine: Westinghouse WH2200iXLT features a 79cc engine.
Control Panel: There are two 120V AC power outlets and a 12V DC 8A outlet. More, we have an eco-mode switch, engine shutoff, and light indicators.
Noise level: It is quiet, fuel-efficient, and operates at a noise level of 52 dB (A).
Certifications: WH2200iXLTis an EPA, USFS, and CARB Compliant generator.
Runtime: You will get a runtime of 13 hours at 25% load.
Fuel Tank Capacity: A 1.3-gallon fuel tank comes with this generator.
THD Rating: It has a THD rating of less than 3%.
Safety Features: Low-oil indicator and an overload alarm are the two safety features.
Portability: It comes with a built-in handle that allows for easy transportation.
Parallel Connection Capable: You can pair it with another unit through the Westinghouse Inverter Parallel cord (sold separately) for a solid 3,600 watts of clean power.
Weight and Warranty: Westinghouse WH2200iXLT weighs 43 pounds and comes with a 3-year warranty.
My Opinion:
Pros: The Westinghouse WH2200iXLT inverter generator is lightweight and is ideal for sensitive electronics such as televisions, laptops, and cell phones.
Cons: Low oil sensor tends to develop faults.
4. PowerSmart 2200 Watt Inverter Generator – Best 2000-watt inverter for Camping
Fuel Type and Power Output: It is a gas-powered unit capable of producing 2200 starting and 1900 running watts. Its power output is ideal for campsites, tailgate parties, fun, and play purposes. It will also provide enough juice to run compulsory appliances during a power outage.
Tank Capacity and Runtime: It has a 1-gallon tank. The unit can provide up to 7 hours of runtime at 50% load.
Engine Specifications: The inverter is built around a 79cc 4-stroke OHV engine. The engine is capable of running in extreme weather conditions and will not let you down. Even if you are camping in chilly mountains, the engine will respond to your needs.
Outlets: It comes with a 12V DC outlet, two 5V USB outlets, and two 120V 15A AC outlets. For camping, DC and USB outlets are a must. You can run a water cooler, charge your phones and laptops, and run medical equipment on this machine without any worries.
Safety Features: To make your experience safe with this machine, the manufacturer provides low oil shutdown, overload protection, and surge voltage protection. The THD is less than 1.3%. It is a plus point of this machine.
Control Panel: Along with outlets, the control panel has LED indicators for low oil, overloading, and output. The Eco-mode switch, parallel ports, choke lever, and on/off switch are located on the control panel. There is no data center and fuel gauge on this machine.
Dimensions, Weight, and Portability: It weighs only 40 pounds and measures 21 x 20 x 14 inches. Low weight ensures that you don’t have to face trouble carrying this unit to campsites. The ergonomic and comfortable carry handle augments the portability feature.
Eco-mode and Parallel Connectivity: You get eco-mode and parallel connectivity. At campsites, these features come in handy when you have to run heavy machines. Eco-mode results in fuel saving.
Noise Level: This machine is not only best in terms of performance; it is also remarkable in terms of noise production. The sound rating is only 48 dBA. You will enjoy a quiet campsite experience with PowerSmart.
Warranty and Certifications: It comes with a 2-year limited warranty on parts and labor. The inverter is EPA and CARB certified to run in all 50 states.
My Opinion:
Pros: It is lightweight, quiet in operation, an easy-to-setup machine. Another advantage of buying this inverter is that economically priced and offers less than 1.3% THD.
Cons: We would like to see a data center and a fuel gauge in this machine. However, it is justified not to have such features in this price range.
5. Pulsar PG2000iSN Portable Generator –Best Cheap 2000-watt Inverter Generator
Start System: Pulsar PG2000iSN comes with a recoil start system.
Engine: It comes with an 80cc single-cylinder, 4-stroke OHV engine.
Power Output: If we talk about the power output, then it produces 2000 peak watts and 1600 running watts.
Control Panel: There are two (2) 120-volt outlets, one (1) 12V direct connect 8A outlet, and a 5V direct connect USB outlet.
Noise level: It operates at a noise level of 59 dB (A) from a distance up to 10 feet.
Certifications: It is a CARB-compliant product.
Runtime: Your generator can run up to 8 hours at 50% load.
Fuel Tank Capacity: A 1.2-gallon fuel tank is part of this unit.
Safety Features: Low oil indicator with a low oil shutdown feature
Portability: The handy suitcase design is both durable and compact, giving you the freedom to take the Pulsar anywhere with ease.
Parallel Connection Capable: Parallel Capability allows you to connect two PG2000iSN units for increased power output.
Weight and Warranty: It weighs 47 pounds and comes with a 1-year warranty.
My Opinion:
Pros: Equipped with an 80cc OHV engine that makes it strong enough to operate a 5,000 BTU air conditioner running all night on a full tank of fuel.
Cons: It has some customer-reported quality issues. Also, it is a little noisy than comparable models.
6. Sportsman GEN2000 Portable Generator –Best 2000-watt Conventional Generator
Start System: It comes with a recoil start system.
Engine: Sportsman GEN2000 carries a 2.6 HP, 87cc 4-stroke OHV engine.
Power Output: It produces 2000 starting watts and 1400 running watts.
Control Panel: There are two 120V AC household power outlets and a 12V DC 8A outlet for battery charging. Also, there are circuit reset buttons and a power switch button.
Noise level: 65 dB (A) is its operational sound.
Certifications: It is EPA approved and non-CARB compliant.
Runtime: It offers a runtime of 9 hours at 50% load.
Fuel Tank Capacity: You have a 1.2-gallon fuel tank.
Safety Features: Sportsman GEN2000 comes with an engine shut-off switch for convenience and safety.
Portability: Its compact size and weight make it easy to travel and transport.
Weight and Warranty: The weight of this unit is 53 pounds, and it comes with a 1-year warranty.
My Opinion:
Pros: In case of a power outage, it can easily save everyone’s day by powering up a lot of home appliances. It runs for 9 hours on unleaded gasoline, which is easy to find.
Cons: It is not recommended for high altitude use above 3,000 feet.
7. Generac iQ2000 Inverter Generator –Best 2000-watt Generator under $500
Start System: Generac iQ2000 is simple to use. You can power it up with a heavy-duty pull cord. A simple power dial lets you start, run, and stop the generator.
Engine: It carries the 80cc engine.
Power Output: 2000 and 1600 are the starting and running watts.
Control Panel: On the control panel, there is one 120-volt 20-amp duplex outlet to operate two devices at once. The triple-position idle-control rocker lets you select either the economy mode for noise reduction and fuel efficiency, a standard mode for regular use, or a turbo mode for total power.
Noise level: It operates at a noise level of 53dBA.
Certifications: Generac iQ2000 is a CARB compliant product.
Runtime: Your unit can run up to 8 hours at 25% load.
Fuel Tank Capacity: It features a 1.06-gallon fuel tank.
Safety Features: This generator immediately shuts down in case of low oil levels for added safety.
Portability: You can easily carry this generator in one hand. The U-shaped handle in the middle makes it both comfortable and highly portable.
Parallel Connection Capable: Connecting two iQ2000 generators give you twice the power.
Weight and Warranty: Generac iQ2000 weighs 46 pounds and comes with a 3-year warranty.
My Opinion:
Pros: The Economy mode is great for smaller loads; it takes less gas and results in a much quieter operation.
Cons: Several people report having trouble with the generator at higher altitudes.
Buyer’s Guide
Inverter vs. Conventional Generator
Most of the 2000 watt generators are inverters. However, there are a few models that come in conventional style. If you don’t like inverter generators and want to save some bucks, the conventional generator is a great option. Please keep in mind that conventional generators are heavier than inverters, don’t produce clean current, and are not perfect for powering sensitive appliances. They are cheaper to buy. If you have a limited budget, a 2000 watt conventional generator is the best option.
Type of Fuel
The next big thing to consider is the type of fuel. Most of the 2000 watts generators are gasoline-powered. However, it is always beneficial to have a dual fuel generator. It gives you the freedom to run your generator on propane as well. Propane comes in handy when you don’t have gas to run your generator. Propane has a long shelf life and can be stored without any fears for emergency use. It burns cleaner and gives a better run time. Propane has a lower energy density than gas. On the other hand, gas is hard to find during infrastructural problems and natural disasters. Its shelf life is also less than propane.
Engine Capacity
A powerful engine in a small generator means no fluctuations and a more stable current. If you plan to run heavy appliances on your generator like a refrigerator, AC, then look for a powerful engine. For lightweight appliances like TV, phone/laptop chargers, lights, a less powerful engine is also perfect.
Control Panel
Regardless of the size of the generator, it must have a fully advanced and functional control panel. A fully advanced control panel allows you to control your generator without any hassles. The latest units come with an odometer, on/off buttons, choke, and power outlets.
Power Outlets
You may need to run your appliances directly on the generator. Hence, you must look for all the power outlets. It must have DC/AC outlets, car adapter outlets, USB outlets, and other options to directly connect your appliances. If these outlets are covered with rubber pads, it increases safety and keeps the outlets and plugs safe from water and dust.
Tank Capacity and Run Time
2000 watt generators come with small gas tanks. However, they still provide you with an impressive run time. The reason is that inverters are fuel-efficient, and when the load is kept under half of their total capacity, their efficiency and run time increases further.
Portability
2000 watt generators are lightweight and easy to carry around. Inverters come with carry handles to facilitate movement. Make sure that the carry handle is big and has an ergonomic design.
Safety Features
Generators with safety features are reliable and durable. When you are buying the generator, make sure it has all the safety features in it. Low oil shutdown, protection from overloading, overheating, surge voltage protection your generator and appliances running on it. Some latest models also come with low oil and overload warning indicator lights.
Starting Mechanism
If you don’t feel comfortable pulling the starting ropes every time you need your generator, buy an electric start model. They are very easy to start. All you have to do is push a button and your generator will be up and running in the blink of an eye. Generators with dual starting options are a bit costly.
Throttle Control
Another feature to look for in an inverter generator is throttle control. It is also known as eco-mode in some generators. Throttle control adjusts the engine output according to the load applied to it. It helps in increasing the run time and reducing the running cost.
Noise Level
Inverters are generally less noisy compared to conventional generators. They usually operate at 60-65 DB. You must look for the quietest generator under your budget. Prolonged exposure to generator noise can be harmful to your health and the people around you.
Parallel Capability
Almost all the inverters are parallel capable. Paralleling allows you to connect two same generators and get more power out of them. The benefit of parallel is that it allows you to run heavy appliances that can’t be run on a single inverter. You also get more power outlets to connect the appliances directly to the paralleled inverters.
Warranty and Certifications
Never ignore the warranty while buying a generator. You never know when it will start troubling you. Therefore, it is better to buy a generator with a warranty cover. Make sure you read all the terms and conditions before setting up your generator. Certifications from EPA and CARB ensure that the exhaust of your generator is not harmful and won’t impact your health and disturb the environment.
Price
The last thing to consider is the price. We suggest you buy the best generator under your budget. There is no point in saving a few bucks at the time of purchase when you have to spend more on operational costs and repairs.
Pros and Cons of a 2000 Watts Generator
Pros
- They are perfect for emergency use, recreational purposes, RV, and tailgating.
- 2000 watts generators are cheap to buy, easy to maintain, and have a low operational cost.
- Inverter technology is fuel-efficient, quieter, and lightweight.
Cons
- You cannot run heavy appliances on them. Any appliance having a starting wattage of more than 2000 watts will not start on this generator.
- 2000 watts generators have a small fuel capacity.
FAQ
What can I run on a 2000 watt generator?
Any appliances having a starting wattage below 2000 watts can be run on a 2000 watts generator. However, if you add an appliance with 1800 starting watts and 300 running watts, you will have to switch off all the other appliances on the generator and then add other devices. You can run a small refrigerator, AC, TV, lights, computer, and other appliances under 2000 watts. Please make sure that the total load on the generator never exceeds the maximum rated power of the generator.
Can I use a 2000 watts generator for my RV?
Yes. If the generator is RV ready, it can be used for RVs as well. However, it will only run appliances under 2000 watts.
How can I increase the run time on my generator?
To increase your generator’s runtime, make sure the load is kept at 50% of the total output of the generator. 2000 watts generators have a small tank, so make sure you fill the tank completely when you need power backup for a long time.
How to avoid generator theft?
To avoid generator theft, use metal brackets, safety chains, and cable locks. You can lock your generator with a solid object nearby. Generator theft is common for small generators.
How to maintain my generator?
A 2000 watts generator has the same maintenance needs as compared to a large unit. You must inspect spark plugs, change engine oil timely, and keep the battery charged. Always store your generator at a safe, dry place and cover it with a generator cover. Never run your generator in rain or snow without a generator tent.
Is it better to buy two 2000 watts generator or a single 4000 watts generator?
The answer to this question depends on your usage pattern. If you use the generator to power heavy appliances and your use is limited to home or RV, then go for a bigger generator. However, if you want versatility but less power and freedom to use your generator at different places, go for two 2000 watts generator. You can always connect them to enhance the power output and increase the number of outlets.
Conclusion
Never underestimate the potential of a 2000 watts generator. If used correctly and load is managed in the right way, you can use a 2000 watts generator to run a small AC, refrigerator, and a majority of other appliances in your home/office or RV. You can select one from the list above and forget the tension of staying without electricity.