This review will help you determine which is the best 3500-watt generator.
I have researched the most known 3500-watt portable generators and listed 5 top-notch generators in this review. So you can save time and effort finding the best 3500-watt portable generator.
I found Generac iQ3500 to be the best 3500-watt inverter generator overall. This generator uses inverter technology and is super quiet. It also uses Power Rush technology to deliver 50% more surge power.
This RV-ready portable generator produces clean energy and has an electric start. It also has an automatic voltage regulator, low oil shutdown, and overload protection.
But, your power need and preference might be completely different than any other.
So,
What is a good 3500-watt generator?
How much of a house will a 3500-watt generator run?
How to buy a 3500-watt portable inverter generator?
Let’s get into it…
Best 3500 Watt Generators Reviewed
A 3500-watt portable generator has optimal power and portability. This makes it ideal for our RVs, camping, tailgating, job sites, and other recreational activities.
They also generate enough power to run our essentials during emergencies such as any natural disaster or a power outage.
Finding the best 3500-watt portable generator is tedious. One can easily get lost in the wide variety of generators and their features.
So, I have included selected features of the best 3500-watt generators just for you.
#1: Generac 7127 IQ3500 – Overall Best 3500 Watt Portable Inverter Generator
Generac Power System has been around since 1959. They are the first to create affordable home standby generators.
And now Generac Power System is one of the top manufacturers of home backup generators.
Generac iQ3500 is an IQ series super quiet inverter generator from Generac Power System. It features a Generac 212cc 4-stroke OHV engine.
Generac 7127 iQ3500 comes with the following features:
Power Output
Generac iQ3500 generator produces 3500 starting watts and 3000 running watts on gasoline.
Since this is an inverter generator, so, it has a bit lower power output.
Fuel Capacity and Efficiency
Generac iQ3500 has a 2.6-gallon fuel tank capacity. It can run up to 14.1 hours at a quarter load and 8.9 hours at half load on a gasoline single tank.
It has lower fuel consumption and a great run-time in a single tank of 2.6-gallons
Noise Level
This portable generator produces a noise level of 47 DB. This noise level is like people having a normal conversation.
Advanced Inverter technology and enclosure design reduce the noise level for this generator.
Convenience
This generator does have a Powerdial electric start and recoil start for emergencies. It has 3 operation points i.e. choke, run, and off.
Generac iQ3500 has two 120V 20A 5-20R Duplex, one 120V 30A L5-30R Twist Lock outlet, and two USB ports. USB outlets come in handy to charge mobile devices, cameras, etc.
This generator is parallel-ready. This lets you connect two Generac iQ3500 inverter generators for parallel operation using a parallel kit to get double power.
This generator also comes with Advanced PowerRush Technology. This delivers 50% more starting capacity so, you get more with less.
Generac iQ3500 comes with an intuitive control panel with a digital smart LCD. This has Digital Wattage Meter, Remaining Run Time Display, Generator Status, Hour Meter, and Fuel Level.
Safety
Generac 7127 iQ3500 is an EPA and CARB compliant generator.
This generator uses inverter technology to generate clean power. It has THD (Total Harmonic Distortion) of less than 3%. Clean power is ideal for sensitive electrical devices.
Durability and Portability
Generac iQ3500 generator features an engine built with a durable cast iron sleeve for extended durability.
This comes with metal handles, a low-oil shut-off sensor, and automatic voltage regulation.
This generator is light and compact but not the lightest of all generators on this list. The lack of wheels does not affect portability much.
Dimensions (inches): 23.7 x 18 x 21.7 (LxWxH)
Weight (lb): 109.1
Generac Power System provides a 3-year limited warranty on Generac iQ3500 generators.
“This generator is a good choice for both work and play. It is quieter and produces clean power.”
#2: Westinghouse WGen3600v Portable Generator – All-Rounder
Westinghouse Power Equipment is a trusted and renowned brand with high-quality power tools. Westinghouse generators are affordable and reliable and created with the expertise of over a century.
Westinghouse WGen3600v comes with a powerful 212cc 4-stroke OHV Westinghouse engine.
Westinghouse WGen3600v has the following key features:
Power Output
Westinghouse WGen3600v generates an impressive power output. This generator produces 4675 peak watts and 3600 rated watts.
With this power, you can run essential household appliances and power your Recreational Vehicle.
Fuel Capacity and Efficiency
Westinghouse WGen3600v has a fuel tank capacity of 4 gallons (15L). It can run up to 14 hours at a quarter load and 10.5 hours at half load on a single tank of gasoline.
Noise Level
This portable generator makes an operating noise level of 68 DB. This noise level is a bit louder than a vacuum cleaner.
Convenience
This generator does not have an electric start and depends on the recoil start.
Westinghouse WGen3600v has one 120-Volt duplex household outlet. It also has one L5-30R, and one TT-30R RV receptacle with rubber outlet covers.
This generator is RV-ready. You can connect your RV directly to the TT-30R RV outlets and start using this generator.
This generator comes with an Oil, Oil Funnel, Tool Kit, and User Manual for an easy plug-and-play experience.
Safety
Westinghouse WGen3600v is an EPA and CARB-compliant generator. But, it does not have a Carbon Monoxide sensor.
This generator has GFCI-protected outlets. These protect you from any incidents that could happen due to faulty ground.
Durability and Portability
Westinghouse WGen3600v generator features an engine built with a durable cast iron sleeve.
This generator comes with an automatic low oil shutdown feature. It also has automatic voltage regulation and voltage protection.
This generator is lightweight and compact. It does not have a wheels kit included but you can buy them separately.
Dimensions (inches): 23.3 x 17.5 x 18.7 (LxWxH)
Weight (lb): 99.5
This generator has a 1-year commercial and 3-year residential warranty. They also boast nationwide technical support.
This generator does not have dual-fuel compatibility. But, a model with the same features and dual-fuel capability is available.
So, if you need a 3500-watt portable generator with a dual fuel feature. You might want to check Westinghouse WGen3600DF.
Check the Current Price of the Westinghouse WGen3600DF dual fuel portable generator.
Also, if you prefer a generator with a CO sensor and the same features then Westinghouse WGen3600CV can be the one for you.
Check the Current Price of the Westinghouse WGen3600CV portable generator.
This generator has impressive power output and fuel efficiency. These make this generator ideal for your travel trailers and recreational activities.
This generator can also serve as an emergency backup power solution for your home.
#3: DuroMax XP4400EH- Dual Fuel Special
DuroMax Power Equipment has been around for two decades. Their USP is their generators with dual-fuel technology.
DuroMax XP4400EH is a dual-fuel XP series generator. This generator comes with a 210cc 4-Cycle Air-Cooled Spark-Ignition DuroMax OHV engine.
This generator produces plenty of power and peak watts to run most of your essential household appliances. It can run a refrigerator, an air conditioner, a sump pump, a coffee maker, and other high-amperage tools.
DuroMax XP4400EH performs the following distinctive features:
Power Output
DuroMax XP4400EH generates 4400 surge watts and 3500 rated watts of power on gasoline. It produces 4180 starting watts and 3325 running watts on propane.
This generator features MX2 Boost technology. This lets you get maximum power for each 120V receptacle.
Fuel Capacity and Efficiency
DuroMax XP4400EH has a fuel tank of 3.96-gallons capacity. The suggested tank size for propane is 20 lbs.
It can run for approximately 11.5 hours at a half-load when running on gasoline. And, it has 9.8 runtime hours when running on propane.
Noise Level
This generator makes a noise level of 69 DB. This noise level is louder than a vacuum cleaner running.
Convenience
This generator does have an electric start and a recoil start as a backup for emergency situations.
DuroMax XP4400EH has two 120V GFCI household outlets and one 120/240V 30A twist-lock outlet. It also has 12V DC charging ports for charging external batteries.
This generator’s power panel has a voltmeter, LED indicators, and a circuit breaker. These add to the operation’s ease.
This generator is RV-ready. An alternate fuel option adds to your convenience and comes in handy in case gasoline access gets disrupted.
Safety
DuroMax XP4400EH is an EPA and CARB-compliant generator. But, it does not have a CO sensor.
This generator also has GFCI-protected outlets.
Durability and Portability
DuroMax XP4400EH generator features all-metal construction and robust build to last tough conditions.
This RV-ready portable generator comes with an automatic low oil shutdown and surges arrest protection.
This generator is a bit heavier and larger than other generators on the list. It does have included never-flat built-in wheels and a foldable handle.
Dimensions (inches): 25 x 24 x 21 (LxWxH)
Weight (lb): 122
DuroMax Power Equipment provides a three-year warranty for the DuroMax 4400EH generator.
If you do not need the dual-fuel capability, a gasoline-powered option with the same features is available.
DuroMax XP4400E has the same features as DuroMax XP4400EH but does not have dual-fuel capability. And, it will cost you a hundred bucks less too.
Check the Current Price of the DuroMax XP4400E gasoline-powered portable generator.
Also, I have reviewed Duromax XP440EH in more depth. You can check it out if you want.
DuroMax XP4400EH is feature-packed. It is ideal for anyone looking for a dual-fuel portable generator to power their home or recreational event.
#4: Champion 201052 4750/3800-Watt RV Ready and Versatile
Champion Power Equipment has a list of versatile and reliable power solutions. Champion Power Equipment has been around since 2001.
This champion generator comes powered by a 224cc Champion engine. This is a dual fuel generator so it can run on propane and gasoline.
Champion 201052 generator offers the following features:
Power Output
This Champion generates an excellent power of 4750 peak watts and 3800 rated watts on gasoline. It produces 4275 peak watts and 3420 rated watts when running on propane.
This is plenty of power for essential household equipment, power tools, and recreation needs.
Fuel Capacity and Efficiency
This Champion has a fuel tank capacity of 4.7-gallons.
It can run up to 14 hours at a half load running on gasoline. And 10.5 hours at half load on a single tank of propane.
Noise Level
This portable generator makes an operating noise level of 68 DB. This noise level is a bit louder than a vacuum cleaner running.
Convenience
This generator does have an electric start (handy rocker switch) and recoil starter as a backup. Cold start technology in this generator makes starting easy even in cold weather.
This generator’s control panel has Intelligauge. It keeps track of voltage output, frequency, and runtime hours. These make generator operation and maintenance easy.
This Champion has a 120V 30A (TT-30R) RV outlet, two 120V 20A household outlets (5-20R), and a 120V 30A outlet (L5-30R).
This generator is RV-ready. You can connect your RV directly to the TT-30R RV outlet and start using this generator.
Safety
This Champion is an EPA and CARB-compliant generator. But, it does not have a Carbon Monoxide sensor.
This generator has a USDA-qualified spark arrestor. It makes this generator safe when used in parks and forest areas.
Durability and Portability
This Champion generator features a durable and rigid built engine for extended durability.
This comes with an automatic low oil shutdown feature and Volt Guard-built in surge protector. Volt Guard protects the engine from voltage spikes and thus ensures longer engine life.
This generator is on the heavier and larger end of the list. But, never-flat wheels and foldable handles make this generator portable.
Dimensions (inches): 24.7 x 25.0 x 22.2 (LxWxH)
Weight (lb): 123
Champion Power Equipment provides a 3-year limited warranty with this generator. They also offer lifetime technical support from dedicated experts.
This generator features a quick start and a good run time with the big fuel tank. It is ideal for long-term use and heavy loads. This generator can serve as a home backup and portable power source for your job sites (such as construction sites) too.
#5: WEN 56475 Generator-Loud and Powerful
WEN Products founded back in 1951 has contributed to the making of a standby generator. Since then they have expanded to a wide range of power tools and serve over 50 million consumers.
WEN 56475 is a powerful electric start generator. This generator features a rugged 223cc OHV engine to generate an impressive surge power of 4750 watts.
WEN 56475 has the following features:
Power Output
WEN 56475 generates 4750 surge wattage and then 3750 running wattage on gasoline.
This generator produces enough power for most of your essential appliances.
Fuel Capacity and Efficiency
WEN 56475 has a fuel tank capacity of 4 gallons.
WEN 56475 has up to 10 run-time hours on gasoline. This efficiency is a bit lower than the other best ones.
Noise Level
This portable generator makes a noise level of 74 DB. This noise level is a bit loud and almost like a power washer.
Convenience
This generator does have a keyless electric start so just start the generator by pressing a button. It also has a recoil starter as an emergency backup.
This generator’s power panel has a digital display. It helps us manage oil changes and scheduled maintenance by showing real-time data.
WEN 56475 has two 120V receptacles (standard household 5-20R), a 30-amp 3-prong receptacle (L5-30), and a 120V RV receptacle (TT-30R).
This generator is RV-ready. You can connect your RV directly to the TT-30R RV outlet and start using this generator.
Safety
WEN 56475 is an EPA-certified and CARB-compliant generator. But, it lacks a Carbon Monoxide sensor.
Durability and Portability
This generator is durable enough to last in extreme conditions and portable enough to carry around easily.
This comes with an automatic low oil shutdown feature. It also has automatic voltage regulation and overload protection. These extend the engine’s life.
This generator is not the heaviest and most compact of all. But, it has good portability with the wheel kit.
Dimensions (inches): 26.6 x 17.1 x 17.3 (LxWxH)
Weight (lb): 112.5
WEN Products back WEN 56475 with a 2-year warranty and lifetime technical support from technicians. They also boast a network of 1000 service locations nationwide.
This generator is a compact and reliable power solution. It is also cheaper than a few other 3500-watt inverter generators on this list.
But, it is a bit louder and does not have inverter technology. Fuel consumption is also high as compared to a few other 3500-watt portable generators on this list.
How to buy a 3500 Watt Generator
A 3500-watt portable generator comes in handy in many situations. Emergency situations such as power outages, and natural disasters. A few others to count outdoor cookouts, job sites, travel trailers, and other recreational activities.
But, finding the best 3500-watt portable generator can be a pain. This gets worse if you do not have prior experience with a portable generator.
And, since they cost you a deal and you would probably want to use it for a period before you go for another.
So, I have added a short guide including important features and technologies to look for.
Let’s check it out…
Performance
Performance is a broad term for a portable generator. It includes many aspects which affect the overall performance of the generator.
Calculating performance requires a very sophisticated process. But, a generator with good performance checks out the following points:
- More Power Output
- Lower fuel consumption
- Longer and continuous runtime
- Generator and engine life
- Safe and Clean Power for sensitive electronics
- Durability and Portability
A high performance saves you money and peace of mind now and in the long run.
Safety
Safety becomes necessary when you are dealing with power like this. Portable generators also produce harmful gases and particles.
Some of these gases are toxic. One such gas is Carbon Monoxide (CO). This gas is also known as the silent killer. 🔪
Portable generator manufacturers implement many technologies to cut the risk of accidents.
Safety features to look for when buying a 3500-watt portable generator are:
- CO Sensor/Automatic CO Shutoff: Detects harmful levels of Carbon Monoxide.
- Spark Arrestor: Minimizes fire risks. Important if you intend to use the generator in a park or forest area.
- GFCI outlets: Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters protect you from faulty ground terminals.
In addition to these, proper safety measures are a must. Do not use generators at places where the air supply is less.
How Much Power Do You Need
If you are pretty much clear that you need a 3500-watt generator then skip this section. As we should calculate how much power we need before setting out on the quest of finding the best generator.
I also recommend you buy a generator with a bit more power than you need (say 20% more). Also, check surge wattage and running wattage separately.
This will be useful in case you need extra power for some reason. Else either you have to manage or you will overload your generator.
Also, a clear idea of your power need filters the huge list of generators out there. I recommend you to give a thought to what you will need to run with your generator and then calculate the power requirements.
Additional Features To Consider
These are other important features that are not essential. But will definitely add to your convenience & generator’s performance.
Low-CO Engine
A low CO Engine minimizes the risk of exposure to toxic CO gas. This is a part of safety standards by EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) and CARB (California Air Resource Board).
Automatic Start
Automatic Start features ensure you get continuous power by starting the generator as soon as the power goes off.
Imagine no more getting up at the midnight to start your generator in case of a power outage. But again, this is not a key feature but adds to your convenience.
Electric Start
Recoil start is a general solution to start your generator. But, I never liked the hassle.
And as your generator will get old, it would get more difficult to start. Since it will require more pulls than one.
So, an electric start removes the hassle and makes it easy to start a portable generator.
Fuel Gauge
A fuel gauge is important to monitor the fuel level in your generator. You might end up with no fuel or less fuel in situations. And I am sure you won’t love it.
So, a fuel gauge in your portable generator ensures fuel availability and will also tell you if your generator has become a fuel muffler.
Low-fuel Shutoff
The low oil Shutoff sensor detects low engine oil and shuts down the generator before the fuel gets over. This saves your generator from incurring any damage by running on low fuel.
Economy Mode
This Eco mode allows you to use a powerful generator for a lower electrical load by using Eco-Throttle technology. This regulates engine speed according to load to increase fuel economy and extend operation.
So, with the economy mode, you save more fuel that could have burnt unnecessarily.
Quiet 3500-watt generator
Operation noise from a portable generator should be as low as possible. A noisy generator will definitely steal your peace of mind.
A portable generator with high noise is not neighbor-friendly. In situations such as a power outage, a disaster, or while camping most people use portable generators. And you won’t love to have the loudest of them all.
Inverter Technology
An inverter generator has better fuel efficiency and quieter operation. They generate a bit less power compared to any conventional generator but it is worth it.
Portable generators with inverter technology have lower THD (Total Harmonic Distortion). So they generate clean and stable power (power with pure sine waveform).
Clean power is ideal for sensitive electronic appliances. Vulnerable electronics include devices such as computers, laptops, etc.
Dual Fuel Capability
The portable generators use dual-fuel technology and can run on two fuel types. One is gasoline and the other is propane generally.
Propane is cheaper and burns more environment-friendly. Just connect to the propane hose and enjoy continuous power.
Alternate fuel sources come in handy when either the fuel source supply gets disrupted or it is inaccessible.
Conclusion
A 3500-watt portable generator is compact and lightweight and generates enough power to run all your essentials.
All generators that are on this list are from renowned and trusted brands. I have also considered user reviews and recalls when comparing the generators.
Generac iQ3500 3500-watt inverter generator is our best choice of all the generators in the review. It is an ideal solution for your home backup, camping, tailgating, etc.
This generator has impressive power and yet has the lowest noise rating of all the above generators. It generates clean inverter power for sensitive equipment.
It also features Advanced PowerRush Technology which delivers 50% more starting power. It has Powerdial Electric Start for a hassle-free start.
But, your requirements can be completely different. So, choose the one that suits your power needs.
For example, Westinghouse WGen3600v is also an excellent gas-powered generator and will cost you less.
Westinghouse has a dual-fuel generator with the same features i.e. Westinghouse WGen3600DF.
Check the Current Price of the Westinghouse WGen3600DF dual fuel portable generator.
They also have a model with a CO sensor and all same features i.e. Westinghouse WGen3600CV
Check the Current Price of the Westinghouse WGen3600CV portable generator.
Hope you found what you were looking for.
