Finding Generator Reviews

There are a lot of options when it comes to purchasing a generator.  They come in all shapes and sizes, and you first need to decide which style you want.  This is determined by the generator's application.  For RVs, camping, and tailgating, you'll want a recreational generator.  For home backup, you need an emergency generator, either portable or standby.  Contractors will need professional generators with GFCI protection.  You'll then need to size your generator according to your power needs (always remember to give yourself a little extra wattage so you're not maxing out the generator).

Once you've chosen the style and size, the next step is choosing which brand and model is right for you.  There are a lot of resources you can use, but what gives you the best idea of what you'll end up with?  Reviews from those who own and use the item.  Input from these folks can give you a great idea of what you can expect from a particular model.  You'll know how the generator has performed in real-life situations, and give you insight into the ease of use, reliability, and general customer satisfaction in the product.

Generator Reviews & Ratings @ Electric Generators Direct

So before you make that purchase, make sure you check out the reviews & ratings from actual generator owners.  You'll even see how helpful other shoppers have found the individual reviews, as well as expert & manufacturer responses.  Check out these links to get started:

Honda EU2000i - 1600 Watt Portable Inverter Generator

Portable Generator Reviews @ Electric Generators Direct

Honda EU2000i vs. Yamaha EF2000iS

There is fierce debate amongst tailgaters, campers, boaters and other recreational enthusiasts over who is king of the 2000 watt inverter generator, the Honda EU2000i or Yamaha EF2000is.  While either will get you one of the best rated portable generators on the market, there are some subtle differences that may sway your decision.

Honda EU2000i

Here’s a quick rundown of some of the features found on the Honda EU2000i and the Yamaha EF2000is inverter generators.  They both have the capability to run up to 1600 watts continuously, but are rated up to 2000 surge watts to start certain appliances.  Both have low oil alerts, 3 year warranties, and idle controls to reduce fuel consumption based on the load being powered.  They both produce very clean power that can safely run sensitive electronics, and both are capable of parallel operation to increase available wattage.

Some of the specs between the models will differ slightly.  The Yamaha model claims a slightly lower decibel rating ranges (51.5-61) versus the Honda unit (53-59).  In addition to noise dampening systems, the engine on the Yamaha is slightly smaller than the Honda, which probably lends to the quieter running noise.  Differences in engine age & running environment will impact this rating over time, but the difference is nearly negligible, both run at about the sound of a normal conversation.  Either way, this is a much reduced sound level over a conventional generator, which average somewhere around 90 decibels, about equivalent to the noise produced by a lawn mower.

Yamaha EF2000iS

So, how are they different?  Feature-wise, the Yamaha EF2000is includes a fuel gauge and battery charging cables that the Honda does not.  While the fuel gauge may seem like a small deal, it comes in very handy when you’re trying to avoid overfilling the gas tank.  Yamaha also has an “extended” engine life rating at 500 hours vs Honda's 250 hour rating.  This means that you won't see internal engine components wear as soon.  Yamaha also has a slightly large fuel tank and gets nearly an hour longer run time on a 1/4 load.  See the graphic below for a full comparison of generator specifications.

While they have their differences, they really have a lot in common.  Customer ratings put them neck & neck, the Honda EU2000i receiving the slight edge with an “A+” rating over the Yamaha EF2000iS “A” rating.  Electric Generators Direct recommends both units for inverter generators in the 2000 watt range, but gave Honda the “better” designation through customer feedback and expert ratings.

Honda EU2000i vs Yamaha EF200iS

What's the Best Recreational Camping Generator?

A lot of people want to know which recreational camping generator is "the best."

While they all have their own benefits, I can think of one that is an all-around great recreational generator.

If you ask most camping fanatics, you'll often be told that Honda is the best. There is a reason for that. Honda utilizes innovative technology in their inverter generators to significantly reduce noise, cut down on weight, and enhance fuel efficiency.

One of the best Honda models for camping is the Honda EU2000i. It has an Eco Throttle system, enabling the engine to only run as fast as needed for the given load.

The fuel tank holds 1.1 gallons of fuel, and will run for 9.6 hours when using Eco Throttle, so you can clearly tell how fuel efficient it is.

There is also a lot to be said about Yamaha generators, and they can arguably be better, but the Honda EU2000i has been consistently popular among camping enthusiasts.