Inverter generator comparison and advice

The inverter generator market offers such a bewildering array of brands and features that it is very difficult to decide which make and model is best for your needs.

Most inverter generators are sold for leisure activities, such as camping, caravanning and motorhomes, boating and hobbies. This is because they need to be portable, and able to power sensitive equipment such as laptops and TVs safely. It's the inverter technology that produces the smooth power required.

We sell over 30 different models of inverter generator which can be confusing, so we've created this page to help explain more about the important factors you need to consider when purchasing, and we'll also compare some of the leading inverter generators on the market today.

There are many factors which will dictate how long your inverter generator will last, all of which you more or less have control over.

1. What you use your generator for. The less strain you put on your generator the longer it will last, so if you need 1900W and your generator produces 2000W, it won't last as long as a generator that produces 3000W and is under less strain.

2. How long your run your generator for. Inverter generators are not designed to run for long periods without a break, but with light-medium usage they should comfortably run for 1000+ hours. If you run your inverter generator for 8 hours non-stop every day, you can expect it to last a much shorter time.

3. Which brand you buy. Don't look at all inverter generators and think they are much the same, there are large differences in engines and build quality across the range. Honda engines are expensive but reliable and strong, Chinese engines tend to be the opposite. You always get what you pay for (with the odd exception) so look at our comparison tables. Our sales team have experience of dealing with happy and unhappy customers, so if you're unsure then a call to them is the best thing to do.

4. How you maintain your generator. Like all engines, generator engines need to be properly maintained and stored to ensure they last and run well. This factor can also affect your warranty so you should always follow the manufacturer's guidelines for maintenance.

Warranties are an important guideline when trying to work out how long a generator might last you for. If a manufacturer is willing to provide a long warranty then you can be sure they are confident the generator will last for that long.

The most important element of your generator is the engine, and this is also what influences the price more than anything else.

If you take a quick look at our comparison table, the Stephill and SDMO inverter generators initially stand out as being very expensive based on specification, kVA etc. But a closer look reveals that they use Honda and Yamaha engines respectively, and these engines are far superior to any other available on the market today.

There is no denying that cheap generators are flooding the market, and these are generally powered by engines which are mass produced in China. We hear plenty of stories of these cheap generators not lasting 3 months, never mind 3 years.

If you buy a Honda or Yamaha powered generator you can be sure that you are buying quality. If you look after the engine, it should last you way beyond any warranty period and be totally reliable. If you decide that you don't want to pay the premium, what are the other options available across our range?

Champion - Take a look at the video about Champion generators which is available when viewing any Champion product on this website. They are a company who care about their products and customers - as such they have produced an excellent engine of their own at an incredible price.

Loncin - This manufacturer's parent company is Barrus, one of the world's leading engine manufacturers for industry, marine and domestic products. Not quite as good as Honda or Yamaha, but almost.

Hyundai - They make good cars, but their generator division is a completely separate company so don't think that you're buying into that reputation. These engines are made in China and don't compare to the Honda or Yamaha engines. They do offer fairly good value for money though.

Briggs & Stratton - A well respected manufacturer with a proven and technically advanced and highly efficient engine. Not an industry leader but solid enough.

Kipor - If you read the online reviews it seems that Kipor generators split opinion, but they are very popular in the boating and caravanning community. They are 1/3 of the price of an equivalent Honda, so don't expect the same quality, but they do offer value for money.