This is our review of the WEN 56203i portable inverter generator.
I have done extensive research on WEN 56203i so you can save time and effort gathering the insight.
WEN Products have been around since 1951. With decades of experience in power tools, WEN Products have a reliable and efficient line of portable generators.
WEN 56203i is a super quiet 2000-watt portable inverter generator. It has impressive fuel efficiency and portability. This quiet inverter generator is just 39 lbs and produces operation noise as low as 51 DB.
This WEN 2000-watt generator uses inverter technology to produce clean energy. Clean power is ideal for sensitive devices such as computers, laptops, cameras, etc.
But, your need for a power solution might be different from anyone else.
So, before you rush to choose this generator for your power needs. You might want to look into the following.
Is the WEN inverter generator 2000-watt any good?
How long can you run this Wen generator?
Who makes the engines in WEN generators?
What can you run with this WEN 2,000-watt inverter generator?
I have included a short overview of features, alternatives with more pros, and our conclusion in this WEN 2000 generator review.
Let’s dive right in…
Wen 56203i Generator Overview
WEN Portable generator’s engine gets manufactured in China but its headquarters are in Elgin, Illinois. WEN 56203i 2000-watt inverter generator uses a 79cc 4-stroke OHV engine.
This WEN generator uses inverter technology to produce clean power. Unlike any regular generator, an inverter generator produces power with a pure sine waveform.
WEN 56203i generator’s total harmonic distortion is under 0.3% with no load and 2% at full load. Clean power is ideal for sensitive electronics.
A few distinctive and decisive features of WEN 56203i are:
Power Output and Tank Size
You should know how much power you need in your portable power solution. Calculating your power need is important as it will filter the large list of generators.
I did a careless analysis of the power output which resulted in a portable generator with much more power than I actually needed.
You might have heard “With great power comes great responsibility”. 😉
But, let me tell you what else comes along with a powerful generator.
More power means more weight, fuel consumption, and high maintenance. And, when we had to move, we couldn’t take it with us, but we definitely took a lesson along with us.
So, calculate your power needs before you set out on the quest for the best portable generator.
WEN 56203i produces a surge power of 2000 watts and while running produces 1700 watts of power. This power is good enough to run a modern refrigerator, freezer, sump pump, etc. You can also use it to power your computer, mobile, drone, etc on the go.
A bigger tank size means more runtime but it does not mean better fuel efficiency. Also, a larger tank increases the overall weight of the portable generator. So, bigger isn’t always better.
WEN 56203i inverter generator has a 1-gallon fuel tank.
Efficiency and Fuel Type
The efficiency of a portable generator depends on its power output, runtime, fuel used, and generator engine life. An efficient generator saves you bucks in the long run.
This generator can run up to 10.8 hours at a quarter load on a single tank of gasoline i.e. 1 gallon. On half load, it can run up to 7 hours.
This generator features economy mode (eco-mode). Eco-mode switch regulates engine speed to decrease fuel consumption. Thus saving unnecessary burnt fuel.
Generators with dual-fuel technology have an alternate fuel option i.e. propane. The extra fuel option comes in handy when either of the fuel sources gets inaccessible.
Also, if you are lazy to fetch gasoline when it gets over abruptly. Propane is cheaper and burns cleaner than gasoline. However, fuel efficiency is a bit lower for propane as compared to gasoline.
This generator is 2000-watt gas-powered and does not have dual-fuel capability.
Safety Features
Proper safety measures and precautions are necessary when using a portable generator. Other than power, all portable generators produce harmful gases and particles when running.
When used in a place with a limited air supply, the engine starts producing Carbon Monoxide (CO). This gas is deadly and accounts for hundreds of deaths every year. CO is also referred to as a silent killer. 🔪
EPA and CARB provide regulations for emissions from any portable generator. EPA is Environmental Protection Agency and CARB is California Air Resource Board. All generators have to be compliant with either EPA or both.
WEN 56230i is an EPA and CARB-compliant generator.
Do not use any portable generator in a compact location with a limited air supply like a basement, or closed room. Regardless of its certification.
Quiet Generator Operation
A portable generator with no noise while running is yet to achieve. We got to choose the quietest generator from the options available.
A noisy generator can be invasive and will not only steal your peace of mind but your neighbor’s too. Imagine camping with a noisy generator or a cookout with a loud one.
This generator produces an operating noise level of 51 DB when running at a quarter load. This noise level is like the sound of moderate rainfall or a normal conversation.
Convenience
Other than distinctive features there are other features that add to your convenience and are worth mentioning.
Intuitive Control Panel
WEN 56203i has a power panel with output, overload, and fuel indicators. It also has a choke and fuel Shut-off dial.
These indicators help protect your generator and also your equipment powered with it. But, it definitely lacks a digital meter that displays real-time updates.
Power Outlets
This 2000-watt generator comes with a variety of outlets. It comes with two three-prong 120V household outlets, one 12V DC receptacle, and two 5V USB outlets. Each 5V USB port comes in handy for charging devices such as mobiles, cameras, etc.
Parallel Capability
This generator comes with parallel compatibility. It means you can run two WEN 56203i generators in parallel using WEN’s parallel connection kit. You will get double power i.e. 4000 watts peak power and 3400 watts running power.
But, a parallel connection kit is not included with the generator. So, if you intend to use it, you have to buy it separately.
Electric Start
This generator does not have an electric start and depends on the recoil start for starting.
Electric start definitely removes the hassle involved in starting the generator but also adds to its cost.
Durability and Portability
Durability is the ability of a portable power generator to withstand extreme conditions and its lifetime.
WEN 56203i has a solid body to last tough conditions for any 2000-watt generator. It also comes with a fuel shut-off dial and overload protection.
You can turn off the fuel while running the generator. This lets any remaining fuel burn in the carburetor. This eliminates any possible damage to the engine by stagnant fuel. This is very helpful when you plan to store generators for a brief period of time.
This generator is compact and lightweight. It can be easily carried between job sites and can power your essential devices on the go.
Weight: 39 lbs
Dimensions: 17.3” x 11.5” x 17.7” (L X W X H)
WEN products back WEN 56203i by a 2-year warranty.
Alternatives
If you still haven’t decided on WEN 56203i and need a few more features along with these. It could be an electric start or dual-fuel capability.
In this case, you might want to look at these alternatives.
Honda EU2200i – Quietest Generator
Honda is one of the most trusted and premium brands out there. Honda EU2200i uses a GXR120 commercial series engine.
This portable inverter generator produces 2200 surge watts and then 1800 running watts of power. Its tank has a fuel tank size of 0.95 gallons.
It can run for up to 8.1 hours at a quarter load on a single tank of fuel. It has a noise rating of 48DB at quarter load i.e. lesser than WEN 56203i.
It also comes with a CO Minder feature that detects and shuts off the engine if CO levels cross the standard limit.
Honda EU2200i features an exclusive Honda My generator app and Bluetooth® capability. This lets you monitor your generator remotely.
This 2000-watt honda generator has a mechanical decompression system for an easy start with a recoil starter.
Weight: 47.4 lbs
Dimensions: 20” x 11.4” x 16.7” (L X W X H)
Honda offers a 3-year warranty for the Honda EU2200i backed by a nationwide network of service centers.
This gas-powered generator produces more power with its commercial-grade engine. It is also the quietest generator on this list and comes with other exclusive features.
But, it has a bit more weight and size as compared to WEN 56203i. It will also cost you more compared but Honda generators are worth their price.
Champion 2000-watt – Dual fuel option
Champion Power Equipment is famous for its versatility and reliability. Champion 100402 2000-watt inverter generator uses a champion 80cc 4-stroke engine.
This generator has a dual-fuel capability. So, it can run on gasoline and propane. An alternate fuel option comes in handy in case of a natural disaster when the gasoline supply can get disrupted.
This generator produces 2000 surge wattage and 1600 running wattage on gasoline fuel. It has a bit lower power output on gasoline i.e. 1800 watts peak power and 1440 running watts on propane.
It produces a noise level of 53 DB and has 11 hours of runtime on a single tank of gasoline i.e. 1.1 gallons.
Champion 100402 features an EZ start-dial that lets you easily select from fuel options. It also comes with a cold start technology that facilitates an easy start even in cold weather conditions.
This generator also features an awesome digital display. It comes with a fuel level, digital meter, power output level, and other indicators.
Weight: 38.6 lbs
Dimensions: 17.3” x 11.2” x 17.5” (L X W X H)
If you do not need a dual-fuel generator, Champion has a gas-powered generator with the same specs i.e. Champion 100692.
Check the Current Price of Champion 100692 2000-watt portable inverter generator.
Champion Power Equipment provides a three-year limited warranty and lifetime technical support. It is also EPA and CARB-compliant.
This generator is the lightest and most compact on the list. With dual-fuel capability, this generator is for anyone looking for a generator with an alternate fuel option.
It also has a decent price as compared to the features it offers.
Pulsar G2319N – Powerful inverter generator
Pulsar G2319N generator features a single-cylinder, 4-stroke 80cc OHV engine with inverter technology.
This generator produces a maximum power of 2300 watts and then continuous power of 1800 watts. This is the highest starting power of all generators on the list.
Check out our review of the best 3500-watt generators in case you need even more power.
It has a fuel tank with a capacity of 1.18 gallons. It can run up to 9.5 hours at a quarter load.
Pulsar G2319N inverter generator produces a noise level of 59 DB when running at quarter load.
It has a compact suitcase design for easy portability. Pulsar G2319N is also EPA and CARB compliant.
Weight: 47 lbs
Dimensions: 19.7” x 11.2” x 17.1” (L X W X H)
Pulsar Products provide a 1-year warranty with this portable generator.
This generator is low-priced and has impressive starting power. It can be a good option for tailgating, camping, and powering essentials on the go.
Generac 7117 Gp2200I – Truepower™ Technology
Generac 7117 Gp2200I portable inverter generator features an 80cc Generac four-stroke OHV engine.
It comes with TruePower™ Technology. This technology ensures clean and stable power ideal for sensitive electronic appliances.
This Generac generator produces 2200 surge watts and 1700 watts of running power on gasoline. It has a fuel tank with a capacity of 1.2 gallons of gasoline.
Generac 7117 Gp2200I can run for up to 10.75 hours at a quarter load. It comes with a built-in handle for better portability.
The integrated OFF/RUN/CHOKE knob removes any hassle following the startup process. It also has a fuel shutoff feature.
Weight: 46.6 lbs
Dimensions: 19.7” x 11.4” x 17.9” (L X W X H)
Generac GP2200i includes a 1-year commercial & 2 years residential warranty.
This portable inverter generator is fuel-efficient and powerful. But, it has a lesser warranty period.
Conclusion – Is WEN 56203i any good?
WEN Products is a reliable and affordable generator brand.
A 2000-watt portable generator can power up a wide range of appliances and devices. And, it is lightweight and compact in size.
WEN 56203i produces clean power and excellent fuel economy. It also features a fuel shut-off feature. It gives impressive runtime with its 1-gallon gasoline tank with eco-mode.
This Wen 2000-watt is a super quiet generator and produces a noise level of just 51 Decibels at a quarter load. You can also utilize two generators to get double power when needed with its parallel compatibility.
WEN 56203i is also lightweight and compact in size. Clean power and USB make safe charging of sensitive appliances more possible.
But, it lacks a digital meter, fuel gauge, and electric start which definitely add to operation ease and convenience.
If you need other features or a dual-fuel generator you can choose from the alternatives.
For example, if you need a dual-fuel generator, Champion 100402 can be the one for you.
Check the Current Price of the Champion 100402 portable inverter generator.
And if you are ready to pay for more reliability and exclusive features then Honda EU2200i can be the best choice for you.
Check the Current Price of the Honda EU2200i portable inverter generator.
All portable inverter generators on this list are highly rated and from trusted brands. So choosing any generator that suits your backup power needs & price range will be an excellent choice for you.
Also, keep in mind, that portable generators take time to get delivered. So, if you are planning to use it on a coming date, go ahead and check the delivery date for your location.
