This is a Powerhorse 3500 vs Predator 3500-watt inverter generator face-off.
I have researched both of these generators to help you determine which one will best suit your backup power needs.
Both generators get tested and then sold under market-leading brand names. Northern Power tool + Equipment and Harbor Freight tools. But, A Chinese generator company manufactures them.
Powerhorse 3500 and Predator 3500-watt inverter generators are not the same.
Overall, the Powerhorse 3500 generator wins more aspects in comparison to the predator 3500 generators. It has more starting, rated power, and is more fuel-efficient and durable.
But, the Predator 3500-watt inverter generator wins in a few aspects too. It has fuel options and has more user reviews in number as compared. And the Powerhorse inverter generator wins on most aspects just by an edge.
But again,
Do you need an alternative fuel option?
Will the Predator generator’s 3500 starting and 3000 rated wattage be enough for your needs?
Everyone’s use cases and requirements are different. So I would suggest you choose according to your power needs.
So, I have compared both in many aspects to understand what sets these generators apart.
Keep reading…
Powerhorse 3500 vs Predator 3500: Comparison
Powerhorse generator 3500 – tested and sold by Northern Tools + Equipment. Predator generators get tested and sold under the brand name Harbor Freight tools.
Both Powerhorse 3500 and Harbor Freight Predator 3500 models get manufactured in China.
Both these generators have electric start engines and do not have a fuel gauge.
These have generator inverter technology which ensures clean power generation. Clean power has a pure sine wave output. It is essential for sensitive electronic equipment such as computers.
I have simplified the comparison by highlighting important features just for you.
Powerhorse 3500 vs Predator 3500: Power Output and Efficiency
Power output is a very important aspect when looking for the best generator. Ideally, you should go for the generator with a power of 20% – 25% higher than your power needs.
Better efficiency means the generator has more runtime and power for the same amount of fuel. More runtime decreases the hassle of refueling at short intervals. It will also save you fuel costs in the long run.
Power Output Comparison
This Powerhorse portable generator comes with an LC170F-3 212cc engine. LC170F-3 – Engine Model produces 4500 peak watts at starting and then 3500 rated watts.
Predator 3500 uses an OHV 212cc engine to produce 3500 peak watts and 3000 watts rated power. Both have the same engine displacement but different power outputs.
Both generators are parallel-ready. This means you can connect two generators using a parallel kit to get twice the power.
Winner – Powerhorse
Power Efficiency Comparison
Powerhorse Portable Inverter generator runs up to 10 hours at quarter load on 2.6 gallons of gasoline.
Harbor Freight Predator 3500 generators can run up to 11 hours at a quarter load on 2.6 gallons of gasoline.
Both generators come with ESC (Engine Smart Control) feature or economy mode. This promotes fuel-saving and dependability.
It may seem to you that a predator 3500-watt has better efficiency. But the Powerhorse generator is running at 875 watts (¼ of 3500 watts). Whereas the Predator is running at 750 watts (¼ of 3000 watts). Gasoline consumption is the same for both.
So, I used a proper method and found Powerhorse to be more power and fuel-efficient (less gallon per hour consumption).
Winner – Powerhorse
Powerhorse 3500 vs Predator 3500: Fuel Types and Tank Capacity
The fuel tank capacity of a portable generator accounts for the runtime of the generator. A bigger fuel tank will mean more runtime but it will also increase the weight of the generator.
Natural disasters can disrupt the gasoline supply. A generator with fuel options becomes useful when the accessibility of a fuel type is not good in your area.
It is completely up to your power needs to decide the priority of features.
Fuel Type Comparison
The Powerhorse generator runs on unleaded automotive gasoline only.
The Predator generator can run on 87+ octane or stabilizer-treated unleaded gasoline.
Clearly, Predator 3500-watts has more options.
Winner – Predator
Tank Capacity Comparison
Both generators have the same i.e. 2.6 gallons – fuel capacity.
Winner – Draw
Powerhorse 3500 vs Predator 3500: Convenience and Safety Features
There are many guidelines for generator manufacturers to ensure user safety.
All generators produce harmful gasses and particles while running. One such deadly gas is Carbon Monoxide.
Safety features have higher importance here. Proper precautions become necessary while using portable generators.
The Portable generator operation should be convenient. You won’t love struggling with your generator after paying for it.
Safety Features Comparison
The Powerhorse generator is EPA and CARB (California Air Resource Board) compliant.
EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) and CARB ensure your generator emissions are within standards.
This generator also has a USDA forest service-qualified spark arrestor. This spark arrestor adds to safety when used in parks or forests.
Predator 3500-watt is also EPA & CARB compliant. But does not have USDA qualified spark arrestor.
Winner – Powerhorse
Digital controls Comparison
The Control panel of both generators has an LCD Information panel and simple controls. Each panel has an LCD display, light (LED) indicators, and an operation key.
This information panel helps you check the output, runtime hours, and overload. It also has a Low oil alert indicator & indicator for overload.
All information, alerts & simple controls help the easy and safe operation of the generator.
Winner – Draw
Outlet Type & Respective Receptacles Comparison
Multiple outlet types add to the convenience. Both generators have a 30A RV adapter so you can hook your RV directly. Hence an RV-ready inverter generator.
The Powerhorse generator includes (2) NEMA 5-20R 120V-20A, (1) NEMA TT-30R 120V outlets, and (2) USB ports. Each USB port is 5V.
Predator 3500 has (2) 120VAC grounded outlets, (1) 120VAC Twistlock Outlet, and (1) DC-12v Two Pin Outlet. This does not have any USB Port.
The Powerhorse has extra 2 USB ports and one less 12V DC outlet when compared to Predator 3500. USB outlets come in handy when you want to power your mobile devices, cameras, etc.
A 12V DC outlet can serve the same purpose as a USB port when used with chargers. It can also power anything which needs a bit more volts.
Winner – Draw
Portability Comparison
Both portable generators come with an integrated wheel kit with a wheel lock. Wheel lock ensures extra safety when storing or starting the generator.
The wheel kit makes moving this generator easy. They can be easily carried by 2 people using their double handles.
Both generators have the approx same weight and Dimensions.
Product Details:
Powerhorse Generator :
Weight – 99.2 lbs
Dimensions (in)- 22.8 / 17.3 / 22 (L/B/H)
Predator 3500-watt Generator :
Weight – 100 lbs
Dimensions (in)- 22.75 / 17.3 / 20 (L/B/H)
Predator 3500-watts is 2 inches less in height. But it won’t make much difference unless you have storage space restrictions.
Winner – Draw
Noise Comparison
We love a quiet generator. The generator with a 0 decibels noise level is ideal.
So, We have to choose a generator that generates a lower noise level compared to others. Generators using inverter technology are quieter than traditional generators.
Louder generators will disturb you and your neighbors. You won’t like to have the loudest generator in your neighborhood.
Each generator is a quiet inverter generator and produces a noise rating of 57 decibels at quarter load.
Winner – Draw
Advanced Features Comparison
The Powerhorse generator has a push-button electric starter feature. It has an emergency recoil backup.
Predator 3500 has a dial for an electric start which has off start and run points. It also has a recoil backup.
In the event of battery failure, a recoil start remains as an option. Other than the dial and push-button, both have electric start engines.
Winner – Draw
Powerhorse 3500 vs Predator 3500: Other Features
At last, a few features might get you interested. These account for the overall performance of the generator.
Durability Comparison
Both generators are durable & have a dependable operation. They have a low fuel level shut down feature, electric overload protection & circuit reset options. These ensure longer engine life.
Low oil level shutdown prevents any damage to the engine from low oil levels.
The Powerhorse generator has additional 100% copper-wound heads. These prevent overheating ensuring longer engine life.
Winner – Powerhorse
Warranty and Customer Support Comparison
Warranty is essential and ensures your product serves you for a while.
Both generators include a 2-year residential and 90 days commercial warranty.
You can buy an extended warranty for the Powerhorse generator. This will cover repairs for your generator beyond the warranty period.
Winner – Draw
Price Comparison
Both generators show tough competition to top this comparison.
When it comes to price, the Powerhorse generator has a lower price as compared to predator 3500.
Price comparison is on prices offered at the time of comparison. This might update or change at any instance.
Check out the latest price for Powerhorse Inverter Generator.
Check out the latest price for Predator 3500 Inverter Generator.
Winner – Powerhorse
Powerhorse 3500 vs Predator 3500: User Reviews
More than 84% of users have rated Predator 3500 5/5 star rating in 5916 reviews. This generator has an average rating of 4.8/5.
Most users liked the price, the ease to use, the power, and the dependable operation. Users have complained about any event of battery failure and recoil backup not working.
Around 79% of users recommend the Powerhorse Inverter generator in 135 reviews. Users liked lower noise level operation, reliability, power, etc. It has an average rating of 4.6/5.
Powerhorse 3500 vs Predator 3500: Alternatives
Predator and Powerhorse both are generators worth recommending. But, their availability might be an issue for you.
Also, everyone’s use case is different. You might need a different generator for added features, dual fuel capability, more power, better performance, etc.
So, if you still haven’t decided on this generator then you might want to check the alternatives.
Westinghouse WGen3600 – Durable and Powerful
Westinghouse Outdoor Power Equipment has been around for more than a century now. Westinghouse is one of the most reliable and trusted portable generators out there.
Westinghouse WGen3600 is a versatile and reliable portable power solution. This Westinghouse portable generator features a 4-stroke 212cc Westinghouse OHV engine.
This portable generator produces 3600 watts of running power and 4650 watts of starting power on gasoline. It comes with a fuel tank capacity of 4 gallons.
Westinghouse WGen3600 can run up to 14 hours running at a quarter load on a single tank of gasoline. When operating at half load, this generator has 10.5 hours of runtime.
This Westinghouse generator features a TT-30R RV Outlet Perfect for Camping or Home Backup. It also has one 120V Duplex 5-20R and one 120V L5-30R power outlet.
This portable generator is RV-ready. It comes with an Automatic Low Oil Shutdown, overload protection, outlet covers, and fuel gauge.
This 3600-watts generator comes with a 3-year residential and 1-year commercial warranty backed by nationwide customer support.
Never flat wheels and foam grip handle make moving this generator easy. This generator produces a 68 DB noise level.
Dry Weight – 105 lbs
Shipping Weight – 114 lbs
Dimensions (in)- 23.3/ 22.8 / 21.3 (L/B/H)
Westinghouse WGen3600 has more power output and durability. It is also better than both predator and powerhouse generators in warranty and feature comparison.
If you need added dual-fuel capability and the same features as above then do check Westinghouse WGen3600DF.
Check the Current Price of the Westinghouse WGen3600DF dual fuel portable generator.
Also if you need dual-fuel capability and CO sensor features along with features of Westinghouse WGen3600. Then you should check the Westinghouse WGen3600DFcv portable generator.
Check the Current Price of the Westinghouse WGen3600DFcv dual fuel generator with CO sensor.
The price for these generators keeps changing due to active discounts and offers. So, do check yourself for the exact unit price once.
Generac 7127 IQ3500 – Super Quiet and Efficient
With decades of experience and innovation, Generac Power System has created a reliable and affordable portable generator product line.
Generac 7127 IQ3500 is an IQ series super quiet portable inverter generator. This generator features a Generac 212cc 4-stroke OHV engine.
This inverter generator produces clean power ideal for sensitive electronics. Clean power (i.e. Sine wave power) has lower voltage spikes and low THD (i.e. Total Harmonic Distortion).
This Generac generator produces 3500 peak watts and 3000 running watts. This power output is similar to our generators in comparison.
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.
This generator produces 47 DB of noise level when running at quarter load. This noise level is lower than a normal conversation.
Electric start removes any hassle involved in starting a portable generator. This Generac 3500-watts inverter generator comes with an electric start with POWERDIAL™.
Generac iQ3500 has two 120V 20A 5-20R Duplex, one 120V 30A L5-30R Twist Lock outlet, and two USB ports.
This generator is parallel-ready. It means you can connect two Generac 7127 to get double power i.e. 7000 peak watts and 6000 running wattage.
PowerRush technology enables maximum power for each outlet. You can either use a 120V or 240V power outlet to get maximum output.
Its control panel has a digital smart LCD. It has Digital Wattage Meter, Run Time Remaining Display, Generator Status, Hour Meter, and Fuel Level.
Product Weight – 109.1 lbs
Dimensions (in)- 23.7/ 18 / 21.7 (L/B/H)
This generator is an excellent choice for home backup, camping, tailgating, etc. Generac Power System provides a 3-year limited warranty on Generac iQ3500 digital inverter generator.
Powerhorse 3500 vs Predator 3500: The Winner
The Powerhorse 3500 is the overall winner of our Powerhorse 3500 vs Predator 3500 comparison.
The Powerhorse inverter generator comes with higher starting power i.e. 4500 watts. It also has a higher rated power of 3500 watts. This extra power can become useful for starting and running extra equipment.
It also wins our efficiency and safety comparison. The Powerhorse Inverter Generator is an affordable, efficient, and reliable power backup solution.
But, the whole comparison was neck to neck other than power output.
Predator generator has got more user reviews than Powerhorse. It can also run on octane and gasoline.
So don’t get all cooked up while making the choice. Both generators are really good and powerful enough to power all your essentials.
Just keep in mind your use case and choose any portable inverter generator of the two.
You can also see the list of 3500-watt generators reviewed by me. 😉
These are excellent emergency power backup sources. They will suffice your tailgating, recreational activities, and camping power needs. Each is also an RV-ready inverter generator.
All alternatives in this comparison are from the most trusted and reliable brands. I have selected these alternatives on the basis of user reviews and recalls.
It was a must for me to mention alternatives as I have been waiting for a long time to see both Powerhorse and Predator generators online.
Also, the alternatives i.e. Westinghouse WGen3600 and Generac 7127 IQ3500 have all features and even more compared to Powerhorse 3500 vs Predator 3500 generators.
So, choose the portable generator that suits your power needs best. It will be equally worth it.
For example, if you need a generator with a lower noise rating and better efficiency. Then Generac 7127 IQ3500 can be the best choice for you.
Check the Current Price of the Generac 7127 IQ3500 portable inverter generator.
Also, I have experienced that some generators take extra time to get delivered. So, if you plan to use it on a coming date, do check the delivery date once.
