Many of you have probably experienced a power outage and know how frustrating they can be. If you had a 2000 watt generator, you could power the essential items during an electrical failure. A generator can also serve as a means of bringing power to places that do not have access to electricity, such as in the field.
A generator works by turning mechanical power into an electrical current. These devices often run on another fuel source such as gas, propane, or diesel. If you are in the market for a new 2000-watt generator, check out this review before making a purchase.
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Image | Model | Engine Type | Runtime | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
No products found. | Atima AY2000i | 4-stroke, Gasoline | 4.2 hours | |
WEN 56200i Super Quiet | 4-stroke, Gasoline | 6 hours at half load | ||
Pulsar PG2000iSN | 80cc OHV, gasoline | 6 hours at half load | ||
 | Champion | 4-stroke, gasoline | 9.5 hours at ¼ load | |
Energizer eZV2000P | 79cc 2.7 HP, gasoline | 4.2 hours at full load | ||
No products found. | Sportsman GEN2000 | 2.6 HP, 4-stroke, gasoline | 9 hours at ½ load |
What Can You Run on a 2000 Watt Generator?
Your first line of defense when it comes to a power outage is a generator. Everyone has different power needs in their household. For example, if you have a small home, then your power needs will be vastly different than a large business. The advantages of owning a 2000 watt generator are endless, but we recommend them for home power outages, emergencies, camping, or running power to a more remote place.
Since you’re reading this buyer’s guide, I imagine you would like to know just what you can run on a 2000 watt generator. In general, you can power a refrigerator, a smartphone, a laptop, and a few lights. This is enough for camping, RV touring, or a typical power outage.
Choosing a Quality 2000 Watt Generator
Generator Size vs. Power Needs
You should purchase the smallest generator that will still meet your power needs. This is the most cost-effective strategy. If you have experienced a small power outage that only lasts a day or two, then you should be able to get by with a 2000 watt generator to power essentials. If your power needs include complete comfort, such as running an AC unit, then you need to look at buying more wattage.
Fuel Type
How will your generator run? This is an essential question when you make a purchase. The most popular types of fuel for generators are gas and diesel. These fuel types are relatively efficient. Propane is also used as a fuel source, but it does not burn as efficiently as other fuel sources. You may also want to consider bi-fuel systems that allow for use with two fuel sources.
Transfer Switch
This feature is necessary on all installed back up generators. If you plan to install the generator directly into your power grid, then you will have to have a transfer switch by law. This will prevent back feeding and possibly blowing a transformer. If you want to power large home devices, such as AC units or furnaces, then you will need a transfer switch for your portable generator.
Generator Type
In this guide, we are covering 2000-watt models, but there are numerous types available. There are three general types of generators: inverter, standby, and portable. An inverter generator works using high tech magnets. A portable model works utilizing a combustion engine and fuel source. A standby model operates automatically and delivers permanent backup power.
Noise Level
If you've ever heard a backup generator running, then you know they can get quite noisy. If you are running a portable generator for your home, then you probably want to be able to sleep without hearing it outside. All portable generators will come with a decibel level, so ensure that you check the spec sheet before buying.
Fuel Efficiency and Running Costs
Depending on the fuel type of your 2000 watt generator, you can expect the running costs to fluctuate. A 2000-watt gas generator will consume 0.75 gallons per hour. A diesel generator will consume anywhere between 0.6 - 1.6 gallons per hour. Check the specifications of the model that you want to buy so that you can prepare with enough fuel.
Price & Warranty
We are reviewing 2000-watt generators, so you can expect to find a price range of $300 - $1000. This price will fluctuate some based on the features and brand that you choose. All of the generators that we reviewed in this guide will come with a warranty. This is essential for ensuring that you have an opportunity for a replacement if needed.
6 Best 2000 Watt Generators Reviewed
1. Atima AY2000i
No products found.
Our top Pick!
Engine Type | 4-stroke, Gasoline |
Noise Level | 52 dBa |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 1 gallon |
Runtime | 4.2 hours |
Warranty | Yes, 2 years |
If you are looking for something portable, then this is the model for you. The Atima AY2000i is our top pick in the category of 2000 watt generators. It is powered by the always reliable Yamaha engine. It is powered by gasoline, so finding fuel won’t be an issue. This model is great for camping or traveling since it only weighs about 50 lbs.
This Atima model comes with an easy to use design. Virtually anyone can plug in their items to a standard electrical outlet. It comes with multiple outlets so that you can plug in many items or an extension cord. It features a quiet design so that you won’t have to worry about disrupting your family or neighbors at night.
I loved that this generator was so lightweight and portable. I carried it along on a recent camping trip, and I had no problem loading it into the car. Once I arrived at the beach campsite, I simply unloaded it and plugged in my items. I got a full day of computer work completed without any issues. It was also extremely quiet, which was perfect for preventing disturbances at the serene beach camp.
Pros
Cons
2. WEN 56200i
Best 2000 Watt Generator for RV
Engine Type | 4-stroke, Gasoline |
Noise Level | 51 dBa |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 1 gallon |
Runtime | 6 hours at half load |
Warranty | Yes, 2 years |
Do you enjoy roaming the open roads in your RV? If you’re like me, then this is one of your favorite weekend adventure activities. The only thing that could make your RV better is to equip it with a portable generator. The WEN 56200i is the best 2000 watt generator for RVs. It is tremendously quiet, so you won’t have to worry about disturbing the rest of the RV camp.
This WEN model features loads of options for plugging in your devices. It comes with 2 three-pronged outlets, one 12V DC outlet, and one USB connection port. This model is rated as SuperQuiet. It operates at around the same sound level as a window AC unit. If you require more than 2000 watts of power, then you can connect two of these models with a parallel connection kit.
One great feature of this WEN model is that it is extremely quiet. I didn’t experience any issues with the noise level, even when it was sitting right outside of the RV. I liked that the start-up was simple. I only had to pull start it once, and it fired right up.As Colin from WEN put it,
“I have run tested the generator with load from my refrigerator, lights, etc. and it has operated fine. No issues and quite quiet.”
Pros
Cons
3. Pulsar PG2000iSN
Best 2000 Watt Generator for Camping
Engine Type | 80cc OHV, gasoline |
Noise Level | 59 dBa |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 1.18 gallons |
Runtime | 6 hours at half load |
Warranty | Yes, 1 year |
One of the best things to do during the spring months is to take a family camping trip. It can be challenging to be off the grid for the weekend in this day and age. The Pulsar PG2000iSN is the best 2000 watt generator for camping. You can easily power a few essentials to keep you comfortable under the stars.
This Pulsar model comes with a lightweight and compact design. This model weighs in at only about 47 lbs. It has multiple different outlet options so that you can charge all of your devices at once. It even has a USB outlet for newer devices. The Pulsar 2000 watt model operates quietly and efficiently.
It features the Stable Sine Wave technology so that you don’t need to worry about frying your electronics. One thing that I thought made this model stand out was its lightweight design. The Pulsar patented Sine Wave tech also provided peace of mind when it came to my essential devices. I didn't have any issues with surging.
As Sawyer noted,
“The generator runs at a low noise level as expected. Tried a large box fan in the AC outlet and it worked fine.”
Pros
Cons
4. Champion Stackable
Best 2000 Watt Stackable Generator
Engine Type | 4-stroke, gasoline |
Noise Level | 53 dBa |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 1 gallon |
Runtime | 9.5 hours at ¼ load |
Warranty | Yes, 3 years |
Sometimes 2000 watts may not be enough to suit all of your power needs at once. You may need 2000 watts for some trips, but others may require double that. The best solution to this is to connect multiple generators with a parallel connection. The Champion model allows for this as well as stacking, which is why we named it the best stackable 2000 watt generator.
This Champion model features a heavy-duty design that can be used in harsh conditions. It a reliable recoil start as well as cold start technology. This allows you to start up in almost any situation, especially extreme winter climates. Champion has integrated their patented Clean Power technology so that you can rest assured that your electronics will be safe. I liked that this generator was so durable. It comes with rugged carrying handles, which makes it easy to carry. It comes in a box-style design, and it can really take a beating when out in rough climates.
As one verified purchaser from Champion stated,
“We've used them from sea-level to over 6300 ft elevation without a problem. Quiet and efficient, and very reliable.” From this review alone, you can tell that this generator is prepared for anything.
Pros
Cons
5. Energizer eZV2000P
Trusted Brand
Engine Type | 79cc 2.7 HP, gasoline |
Noise Level | 59 dBa |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 0.9 gallons |
Runtime | 4.2 hours at full load |
Warranty | Yes, 3 years |
Everyone loves to invest in the brands that they know best. I am sure everyone has heard of the Energizer brand, including their iconic battery bunny commercials. We named the Energizer eZV2000P model as the best trusted brand 2000 watt generator. It has all of the top-notch quality and features that we’ve grown to expect from Energizer.
This model comes in a compact design. Since it only weighs 44 lbs, you can basically take it anywhere with you. It features dual wave technology with eZV inverters that will keep your valuable electronics safe. The inverters control both voltage and current. One impressive feature is the Energizer EcoMode. You can put the generator into this mode to save on power when you need it most.
I loved that this name brand generator came with great features at an affordable price. I enjoyed carrying it on camping trips since it is one of the lightest 2000 watt generators on the market. I also liked the ability to connect another one directly to is so that I could have even more power if needed.As one purchaser, Mark, stated,
“Took it to my hunting camp to break it in and it worked great. Well worth the investment.”
Pros
Cons
6. Sportsman GEN2000
No products found.
Low Running Watts
Engine Type | 2.6 HP, 4-stroke, gasoline |
Noise Level | 65 dBa |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 1.2 gallons |
Runtime | 9 hours at ½ load |
Warranty | Yes, 1 year |
While this buyer’s guide is geared towards 2000 watt generators, most of these models have a start-up wattage of 2000 and running wattage of slightly less. This creates the best fuel efficiency possible while still powering all of your devices. The Sportsman GEN2000 is the best low running watts generator on the market. It runs at a highly efficient 1400 watts after startup.
This Sportsman model is fuel-efficient compared to other products. It comes with a rugged design that is perfect for any type of conditions. It features multiple different power outlets so that you can charge your devices with ease. There are two 120V AC outlets and 1 DC outlet. It is a straightforward machine, but it serves its purpose exactly as it should with no hang-ups.
One feature that I really enjoyed with this model was the long runtime. This is due to the lower running watts. I was surprised to find out that it ran for about 9 hours at a half load. This is quite a bit more than other competitors. If you plan to be out in the wilderness for a while with no access to gas, then this may be the model for you.Pros
Cons
Generator Fuel Options
Diesel
This type of generator fuel is usually used in larger models. It burns much cleaner than gasoline, so it is better for the environment. The average fuel consumption for a larger 8000-watt diesel generator is about 0.34 gallons per hour at ½ load.
Gas
This is the most popular fuel type for portable 2000 watt generators. The average consumption rate is about 0.75 gallons per hour when running at full power. This will vary greatly depending on how much wattage you are using at the time. If you only have a few lights plugged in, then the consumption will be less. Gas is the least environmentally friendly fuel source.
Liquid Propane
This fuel type is the best for the environment. It emits the least amount of toxins into the air. The consumption rate is similar to that of gasoline. The average rate is around 1 gallon per hour. This makes propane generators the least cost-effective to run.
Bi-Fuel/Dual Fuel Systems
These models are capable of using multiple different sources as fuel. These can be great for emergencies if one fuel source is in high demand. For example, during a natural disaster, gasoline tends to be the first fuel source that is in high demand. If you have a generator that runs on both propane and gas, then you can switch to propane when gas becomes scarce.
Hooking Up and Running a 2000-Watt Generator
Now that you’ve decided on which product you are going to buy, you need to know how to set it up correctly. Many of the products that we reviewed are simple to set up and start using right away.
It is important to note the safety precautions associated with generators. Always operate safely and keep these guidelines in mind.
The first thing you should do is properly break in your new generator.
People also Ask (FAQs)
How do standard and inverter generators compare and differ?
How long do 2000 watt generators last?
Are these generators expensive to run?
Do I need a professional to install a 2000 watt generator?
How noisy is a typical 2000 watt generator?
Will a 2000 watt generator run an air conditioner?
Conclusion
In this article, we have provided you with all of the tools, tips, and guidelines to purchase your next 2000 watt generator. We have scoured the internet to provide you with the absolute best models available so that you can be prepared in any power outage situation.
Now, for the final caveat, which model is the bottom line best model? In our opinion, the Atima AY2000i is the best 2000 watt generator. It features lightweight and rugged designs. It also comes in a quiet and easy to use package.