Inverter generators are gaining much popularity, and there are many reasons for that. They can power all those things that you need daily. They are fuel-efficient, operate quietly, and produce lower emissions.
A 3000-watt inverter generator is best to buy as it can meet all your power needs. Also, these units are portable, that is definitely a plus.
So, if you are looking for a 3000-watt inverter generator, then you are in the right place. Here we are going to review the best 3000-watt inverter generators available in the market. Also, we will highlight those factors that you need to consider when buying these 3000-watt units.
Table of Contents
3000-Watt Inverter Generator Reviews
Image | Product Name | Features | Ratings | Reviews | Check Price |
 | Champion 3100-watt Generator |
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 | Generac GP3000i Super Quiet Inverter Generator |
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 | Honda EU3000IS1A Generator |
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 | Yamaha EF3000iSEB Generator |
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 | Briggs and Stratton 30545 P3000 |
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 | WEN 56310i-RV Portable Inverter Generator |
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 | Coleman CG3500i Inverter Generator |
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1. Champion 3100-watt RV Ready Portable Inverter Generator – Overall Best
Starting and Running Watts: This RV-ready portable inverter generator from Champion Power Equipment is the best in the business. It is best suited to power RVs and tailgating parties. It generates 3100 starting watts and 2800 running watts.
Engine: The generator is powered by a 4 stroke, single-cylinder 171cc engine. There is an air-cooled cooling system that keeps the engine cool during operation.
THD Rating: You can freely connect your sensitive electronics with this inverter generator, as its THD rating is less than 3%.
Noise Level: The unit operates very quietly. From 23 feet, its noise level is 58dB (A). This is equal to the noise of a normal conversation between the two people.
Start System: It is featured with a recoil start system. The generator also has a cold start technology that ensures a straightforward start, even in extremely cold weather.
Economy Mode: This inverter generator is also equipped with a smart economy mode where it reduces electric load, gives better fuel economy, provides quieter operation, and extends the battery life.
Fuel Tank and Runtime: Its fuel tank capacity is1.6 gallons that give 8 hours of runtime at a 25% load.
Power Outlets: Its control panel has two 120V 20A household outlets, a 12V DC outlet with a dual USB adapter, and a 120V 30A RV outlet.
Safety Features: Its safety features include overload protection and a low-oil indicator with an automatic shutoff feature.
Weight and Warranty: It weighs 95 pounds and comes with a 3-year limited warranty.
Certifications: The generator is EPA certified. It is also a CARB compliant unit.
Portability: There is a U-shaped foldaway handle that makes the unit easy to pull and store. Also, there are two carrying handles and never-flat tires that make transportation easy.
My Opinion:
Pros: It is an excellent generator for the money that can power your various equipment and electronics. It works quietly, offers a good runtime, features economy mode, extremely portable, and comes with a 3-year limited warranty.
Cons: The generator fails at higher altitudes.
2. Generac GP3000i Super Quiet Inverter Generator – Lightweight
Starting and Running Watts: This GP3000i from Generac is a compact, portable generator that can power all the things that you need daily. It provides 3000 watts of peak power and 2300 watts of running power. It is featured with PowerRush technology that offers 50% more starting capacity.
Engine: The generator comes with a 149cc Generac 4-stroke OHV engine.
Start System: It is powered by a recoil start system, but you will only need to pull once or twice to turn the generator on.
Noise Level: It operates without disturbing others.
Power Outlets: There are two 5V USB outlets, two 120V 20A household outlets, and a 30A RV receptacle.
Economy Mode: The economy mode switch provides quieter operation and reduces fuel consumption.
Fuel Tank and Runtime: It comes with 1.06 gallons fuel tank that offers 4.5 hours of runtime at 50% load and 5 hours of runtime when a 25% load is applied. Its fuel tank size is smaller than the Champion 3100-watt RV Ready Portable Inverter Generator.
THD Rating: Its THD rating is also less than 3% that makes it ideal to power sensitive electronics.
Parallel Ready: It is a parallel ready unit that allows connecting another Generac GP3000i to generate more power at the time of needs.
Safety Features: Overload protection and low-oil indicator with a shutoff feature.
Weight and Warranty: The weight of this portable generator is 59.5 pounds. And if we talk about its warranty, then there is a 2-year consumer warranty and a 1-year commercial warranty.
Certifications: It is a CARB compliant product. It means you can use this generator in the state of California.
Portability: Its lightweight and a built-in handle make it easy to transport.
My Opinion:
Pros: It is an easy-to-start generator that operates quietly. It is compact and light in weight has a decent runtime, portable, and offers a 2-year consumer warranty. You can also generate more power by connecting another generator in parallel.
Cons: Its fuel tank is small.
3. Honda EU3000IS1A Portable Inverter Generator – Quietest Generator
Starting and Running Watts:This portable inverter generator from Honda can operate many different appliances in your RV as well as your house. It generates 3000 starting watts and 2800 running watts.
Engine: If we talk about its engine, then the 196cc Honda GX200 engine is installed in the generator.
Noise Level: It operates between 49 and 58 dB (A) that makes it super quiet.
Start System: The electric key start system ensures smooth and noise-free operation. Also, for emergency backup, there is a recoil start system.
THD Rating: Its advanced inverter technology with less than 3% THD rating provides stable and clean energy so that you can power your sensitive electronics without any hesitation.
Parallel Capable: The unit is also parallel capable so that you can produce more power to meet your additional power needs.
Power Outlets: There are two 120V 20A outlets, one 120V 30A locking outlet, and a 12V DC outlet.
Fuel Tank and Runtime: With 3.4 gallons fuel tank, the generator can give 20 hours of runtime at a 25% load. This great fuel efficiency is because of the eco-throttle system that allows the engine to adjust its speed according to the load applied.
Safety Features: Overload protection and a Low-oil indicator with an auto-shutoff feature are all included in its safety features.
Weight and Warranty: It weighs 144 pounds and is backed by a 3-year limited warranty.
Certifications: It is also a CARB compliant unit.
Portability: Two handles are available on either side so that two persons can move the generator easily from one place to another.
My Opinion:
Pros:Its powerful 196cc engine operates quietly. The electric key start system ensures a hassle-free start, and its huge fuel tank capacity offers an extended runtime. Moreover, its 3-year limited warranty is a plus.
Cons: It is a heavyweight and expensive product to buy.
4. Yamaha EF3000iSEB Gas Powered Portable Generator – Heaviest 3000-watt Inverter Generator
Starting and Running Watts:This gas-powered inverter generator generates 3000 starting watts and 2800 running watts.
Yamaha Boost Technology: The Yamaha Boost Technology features a Boost Control Unit (BCT) that automatically senses when you need extra power. It boasts around 500 watts by utilizing a 12V internal battery for about 10 seconds. It means with 500 watts boost up; the starting watts reach up to 3500 that helps different electronic appliances to meet the power they require for quick and efficient starts.
Engine: A single-cylinder 4-stroke OHV engine is the part of this Yamaha EF3000iSEB.
Fuel Tank and Runtime: Its 3.4 gallons fuel tank size is the same as the fuel tank capacity of Honda EU3000IS1A, but its runtime is slightly lower that is up to 19 hours.
Noise Level: The generator operates between 53 and 60 dB (A). Its smart throttle system and load sensing rpm control along with a muffler and molded fan reduce the noise levels.
Start System: It comes with both the recoil and electric start systems.
Power Outlets: There are two 120V 20A household outlets, one 120V 30A outlet, and a 12V DC output
Economy Mode: The economy mode helps reducing fuel consumption.
THD Rating: It is an inverter generator, so its THD rating is low that allows you to power your mobile phones, TVs, laptops, and tablets.
Safety Features: Oil watch warning system and overload indicator
Weight and Warranty: It is heavier than Honda EU3000IS1A, weighing 150 pounds. And its warranty period is of 3 years.
Certifications: It is an EPA approved and CARB compliant inverter generator.
Portability: The built-in wheels with two carrying handles make it highly portable.
My Opinion:
Pros: The Yamaha Boost Technology is its most appealing feature. Also, its fuel tank size and runtime are excellent. Moreover, it works quietly and is EPA and CARB certified.
Cons: It is an overweight generator. Also, it is quite expensive.
5. Briggs and Stratton 30545 P3000 Inverter Generator – Features Four 120V Household Outlets
Weight and Warranty: This 30545 P3000 inverter generator from Briggs and Stratton weighs 96 pounds. The company offers 2 years warranty to consumers, and there is a 1-year warranty for commercial users.
Certifications: The generator is not CARB compliant, so it can’t be shipped to California.
Starting and Running Watts: If we focus on its output power, then it generates 3000 starting watts and 2600 running watts.
Engine: The unit is powered by a 171ccBriggs & Stratton OHV engine.
Noise Level: Its Quiet Power Technology ensures 58 dB (A) decibel rating at a 25% load.
Start System: It comes with a recoil start system.
Fuel Tank and Runtime: Its fuel tank capacity is 1.5 gallons that allow the generator to run up to 10 hours at 25% load.
Parallel Capable: There is a parallel connector port that allows you to connect two inverter generators from PowerSmart Series to generate more output power.
Power Outlets: There are four 120V 20A outlets, one 12V 5A DC outlet, one USB port, and a 120V 30A RV outlet. Also, the control panel features an LCD that displays maintenance reminders and important stats.
THD Rating: The unit provides clean and stable power to protect your sensitive electronics.
Safety Features: Low-oil shutdown sensor senses the lower oil levels and turns off the generator automatically to prevent damages.
Portability: Its luggage-style telescoping handle and two 6-inch never-flat tires make transportation easy.
My Opinion:
Pros: Its luggage-style telescoping handle makes transportation much simpler. Also, it offers extended runtime, operates quietly, and features seven power outlets.
Cons: It can’t be shipped to California. Also, it creates more noise when it runs an A/C unit.
6. WEN 56310i-RV Portable Inverter Generator – Most Powerful Engine
Starting and Running Watts:Another best generator with 3000-watt power output is the WEN 56310i-RV. It generates 3100 watts of peak power and 2800 watts of running power.
Engine: It is equipped with a 212cc 4-stroke OHV engine.
Noise Level: The generator operates at 57 dB (A).
Start System: It has a pull-start system, but it generally starts on a single pull.
Power Outlets: There are two 120V AC household receptacles, one 12V DC outlet, a 120V 30A RV receptacle, and two 5V USB ports.
Economy Mode: There is also an economy switch that helps in saving fuel.
Fuel Tank and Runtime: Its 1.85 gallons fuel tank provides 7.5 hours of runtime at 50% load.
Parallel Capable: Use the WEN 56421 parallel connection kit to connect two inverter generators to produce more power.
THD Rating: Less than 1.2% THD rating protects your sensitive electronics.
Safety Features: Low-oil shutdown sensor and overload protection
Weight and Warranty: It weighs 81 pounds and comes with a 2-year limited warranty.
Certifications: It is an EPA III and CARB compliant unit.
Portability: Two carrying handles, one U-shaped pulling handle, and two never-flat tires make transportation trouble-free.
My Opinion:
Pros: It has a powerful engine that works quietly. With a decent fuel tank capacity, it offers good runtime. Also, it is CARB, and EPA III certified.
Cons: Its plastic outer is sensitive that may damage. Also, there is a leakage problem.
7. Coleman CG3500i Inverter Generator – Loudest of All
Engine: This Coleman CG3500i is equipped with a 149.5cc, 4-stroke OHC engine.
Starting and Running Watts: It generates 3500 watts of peak power and 3000 watts of running power.
Start System: It has a recoil start system.
Noise Level: 63 dB (A) noise level from 23 feet
Fuel Tank and Runtime: Its fuel tank size is 1.5 gallons that provide 4.2 hours of runtime at 50% load and 3.1 hours of runtime at 100% load.
Weight: The weight of the unit is 70 pounds.
Power Outlets: Two 120V AC outlets and a 12V DC outlet with USB adapter
Economy Mode: The generator also comes with an economy switch.
THD Rating: Its lower THD rating keeps your sensitive electronics safe.
Safety Features: Overload protection and low-oil indicator with an auto-shutoff feature
Portability: The generator is featured with a carrying handle that you can use to move the unit from one place to another.
My Opinion:
Pros: It is quite an affordable generator that provides decent performance. It is light in weight, fuel-efficient, and has safety features.
Cons: It is comparatively louder than other products on the list. Also, it is a very basic unit.
Buyer’s Guide
Fuel Tank Size and Runtime
3000-watt generators come with different fuel capacities. Some have 1-gallon tanks, whereas some of the units come with 3-gallon fuel tanks. But a big size fuel tank is not the only solution to get extended runtime; your generator must also be fuel-efficient. Also, runtime depends on the load applied. Moreover, make sure that your unit has an Economy mode switch for a better fuel economy.
Start System
Most of the 3000-watt generators feature a recoil start system, but if the unit is also featured with an electric key start system, then it is definitely a plus.
Noise Level
Inverter generators generally create less noise, but still, it is recommended to select the quietest generator from the market. The noise level also depends on the amount of load applied. So, always keep this thing in mind when considering the noise level of your generator.
Parallel Capable
A parallel capable inverter generator is the one that allows you to connect another inverter generator to produce more power output. This feature comes handy when you need more power during a power outage, camping, or tailgating.
Control Panel
Control panel is the area where you have power outlets, economy mode switch, parallel connectivity outlets, and different light indicators. But the most important thing to consider is the number and types of power outlets. Make sure that the control panel has at least two 120V 20A household outlets, a 12V DC outlet, and a twist-lock outlet. Also, a USB port is a plus.
Safety Features
Low-oil indicator with auto-shutoff feature and overload protection with an indicator are the common and essential safety features to have in your generator.
What is an inverter generator?
An inverter generator is the one that converts AC power into DC and then back to AC. As a result, you get clean and stable energy.
Inverter generators are less powerful but costly as compared to conventional generators; however, they are more fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly and make less noise.
Which type of fuel 3000-watt inverter generators use?
3000-watt inverter generators either run on gasoline or propane. Also, some dual-fuel generators use both fuel options.
What does THD rating mean?
Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) is the measurement of harmonic distortion present in the signal. The THD rating of inverter generators must be less than 3% so that they can provide clean and stable power to your sensitive electronics.