Last Updated: May 17, 2022
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Best RV Generator in 2023

RVs are a great way to get off the beaten track and explore sights you might never see otherwise. They’ve come a long way since their humble beginnings, and many are now fitted with luxurious mod cons that truly make your RV a home away from home.

Many of these homey touches, however, require a reliable power source – such as shore power. Although some people opt to go with solar panels, this isn’t feasible for everyone (we don’t all have the joy of constant sunshine, after all). Plus, even if you’re into renewables or pre-charging, it can be super handy to have a back-up power supply too.

RV generators supply your RV with power no matter where you are. They run off gas, diesel, or propane, and convert these fuels into power you can use for all your homey appliances.

With more and more portable RV generators on the market these days, choosing the right one for you can seem like a daunting task. That’s why we’ve put together this list of the best RV generators currently available and summarized each product, along with its pros and cons.

We’ve also highlighted a few things to keep your eye on when you’re shopping around. We’ve included a mixture of products so that, by the time you’re done reading this review, you’ll know what your best option is and be confident taking the plunge and investing in the ultimate RV luxury – unlimited power, happy travels!

Top Product Overview

DuroStar DS4000S Portable Generator, Yellow/Black
  • Powerful with a large tank capacity
  • Compact dimensions are great inside
SEE ON AMAZON →
Champion Power Equipment 4750-Watt Electric Start Dual Fuel RV Ready Portable Generator
  • Powerful running outputs provided by both gasoline and propane
  • Push-button and Cold Start technology for ease of ignition
SEE ON AMAZON →
WEN 56200i 2000-Watt Gas Powered Portable Inverter Generator, CARB Compliant,Black & Orange
  • Ultra-portable thanks to its light weight and carry handle
  • Very quiet when running
SEE ON AMAZON →
Honda 664240 EU2200i 2200 Watt Portable Inverter Generator with Co-Minder
  • In-built carbon dioxide monitor
  • Eco-throttle system - fuel-efficient
SEE ON AMAZON →
Champion Power Equipment 4000-Watt RV Ready Open Frame Inverter
  • Powerful running power and numerous outlets
  • Can link up with a second unit for added power
SEE ON AMAZON →
DuroMax XP4400E Gas Powered Portable Generator-4400 Watt Electric Start-Camping & RV Ready, 50 State Approved, Blue/Black
  • Super high running power
  • Large fuel holding capacity
SEE ON AMAZON →
Generac 7128 GP3500iO 3,500-Watt Gas Powered Open Frame Portable Inverter Generator - Quieter & Lighter Design with Increased Starting Capacity - Produces Clean, Stable Power - CARB Compliant
  • Easy-to-use, informative interface
  • Low oil warning, overload warning, and ready to load LED
SEE ON AMAZON →
  • Gas can be shut off to prevent stale fuel
  • Pulse width modulation protects electronics from surges
SEE ON AMAZON →
A-iPower Portable Inverter Generator, 2000W Ultra-Quiet RV Ready, EPA Compliant, Small & Ultra Lightweight For Backup Home Use, Tailgating & Camping (SUA2000iV)
  • Lightweight with a carry handle
  • Duel fuel model available
SEE ON AMAZON →

Best RV Generators


Top Pick

Durostar DS4000S Portable Generator

DuroStar DS4000S Portable Generator, Yellow/Black

The Durostar DS4000S Portable Generator really is a powerhouse.

Fueled by unleaded gas housed in a tank with just under 4 gallons of capacity, combined with 3300 watts of running power, you can rest assured you’ll have all the juice you need for your next adventure.

We also love that its swanky power panel that features all the usual controls plus an oil warning light so you never get caught out without any fuel. Plus, there’s an automatic low-oil shut-off function built in to protect your engine from low oil levels, wining. It also has various outlets so you can hook it up in the way that’s best suited to your vehicle.

Although we like its ultra-durable frame, this does add to the weight – at 94 lbs this isn’t the easiest generator to get from A to B (and it doesn’t have wheels either, although you can pick these up separately).

However, once you get this beast into your RV its compact dimensions mean it won’t get in the way and we can guarantee you won’t regret having it around. It’s also not the quietest RV generator we’ve come across but, for its power, it’s not particularly loud either.

Powerful, versatile, and with some thoughtful extra touches… surely this must be heavy on the wallet? Actually, no. This sturdy little generator also offers fantastic value for money (although the warranty is just 1 year), what a winner.

Pros

  • Powerful with a large tank capacity
  • Compact dimensions are great inside
  • Informative power panel, including fuel gauge
  • Automatic shut-off when oil is low protects engine
  • Various outlets for versatile compatibility
  • Great value for money

Cons

  • Quite heavy
  • Wheels must be purchased separately
  • Warranty could be longer

Product Information

  • Dimensions: 24" x 17" x 17"
  • Weight: 94 lbs
  • Noise level: 69 dB
  • Voltage: 120 V
  • Power Output wattage: 4000 Watts (starting power); 3300 Wats (running power)
  • Engine type: 4 stroke
  • Tank volume: 4 Gallons
  • Fuel type: Unleaded gas
SEE ON AMAZON

Best Allrounder

Champion Power Equipment 76533 Portable Generator

Champion Power Equipment 4750-Watt Electric Start Dual Fuel RV Ready Portable Generator

We just can’t get enough of the Champion Power Equipment 76533 Portable Generator.

Can’t decide which fuel to use? Not to worry, this generator runs off both gas and propane and, what’s more, it features a fuel selector switch so you can switch up your duel supply at the push of a button (literally).

Both fuel types produce a good amount of running watts (3800 for gas and 3420 for propane) and we absolutely love the push-button electric start which, combined with the Cold Start technology, means you’ll always be able to get this RV generator up and running, even if you’re out in frosty temperatures.

Like the Durostart mentioned above, it has an automatic shut-off function when oil levels get seriously low, and it has an ‘intelligauge’ that lets you monitor power outputs and more. In addition, it features an in-built surge protector so you won’t suffer from overloads, but, if something along those lines were to occur, you can sleep easy knowing that you’re covered by a 3-year warranty.

In terms of portability, this RV generator is pretty darn heavy BUT it does come with a durable folding handle plus wheels for ease of maneuvering, so we think it’s pretty manageable overall.  I could be a little quieter too, but it’s definitely not the loudest generator we’ve come across either.

Overall, this generator sits in the average price category, yet it’s certainly an above-average generator!

Pros

  • Powerful running outputs provided by both gasoline and propane
  • Push-button and Cold Start technology for ease of ignition
  • In-built surge protector prevents overloads
  • 3-year warranty included
  • Intelligague allows monitoring of voltage
  • Foldable handle and wheels for ease of manouvering

Cons

  • Very heavy
  • Could be a little quieter

Product Information

  • Dimensions: 26.3" x 24.8" x 22.9"
  • Weight: 122 lbs
  • Noise level: 68 dB
  • Voltage: 120 V
  • Power Output: 3800 Watts (gasoline) 3420 (propane)
  • Tank volume: 3.4 Gallons
  • Fuel type: Gasoline and propane
SEE ON AMAZON

Best Budget

WEN 56200i Portable Generator

WEN 56200i 2000-Watt Gas Powered Portable Inverter Generator, CARB Compliant,Black & Orange

The WEN 56200i Portable Generator is so compact and quiet you won’t even know it’s there… well almost.

This nifty little portable generator weighs less than 50 lbs, is super compact, and comes with a comfortable carry handle, making it super easy to move around your camp. Granted, it doesn’t come with wheels but, for something this light, they aren’t totally necessary.

Plus, producing just 51 decibels when in operation, this is certainly one of the quieter generators on the market. With a running output of 1600 W, this might not be as powerful as larger models, although it’s plenty for most uses. Plus, if you really want that extra kick, you can team, this generator up with another unit to double your output!

Thanks to various outlets, this generator can supply both AC power and DC power. It is compatible with 3-pronged plugs, DC outlets, and USB ports. Plus, you don’t need to worry about any pesky surges, the distortion has been limited to protect your valuable electronics. Our favorite feature, however, is the eco-setting that automatically restricts fuel consumption to what’s needed – great for the environment and great for your wallet.

Our major complaint is the fact that this RV generator can only hold 1 gallon of gasoline at a time, so make sure you have some extra containers with you before you set off. Overall, if you want something portable and affordable but don’t want to miss out on quirky extra features, then this could be the one for you.

Pros

  • Ultra-portable thanks to its light weight and carry handle
  • Very quiet when running
  • Can be team up with another unit for extra power
  • Features a fuel-saving eco-mode
  • Numerous outlets and surge protection
  • Great value for money

Cons

  • Less running power than larger units
  • Lacks wheels (but at least it's light and has a handle)

Product Information

  • Dimensions: 18" x 11" x 18"
  • Weight: 48 lbs
  • Noise level: 51 dB
  • Voltage: 120 V
  • Power Output: 2000 W (starting power); 1600 W (running power)
  • Engine type: 4 stroke
  • Tank volume: 1 Gallon
  • Fuel type: Gasoline
SEE ON AMAZON

Honda EU2200i Portable Generator

Honda 664240 EU2200i 2200 Watt Portable Inverter Generator with Co-Minder

We’re sure you’ve heard of Honda before… they’re a big name in the world of engines after all. So you’d expect their portable generators to be top-notch too… and you’d be right.

The Honda EU2200i Portable Generator is one smooth machine. It’s lightweight, quiet, and powerful enough for most needs. On top of that, high-quality engineering means that the power emitted is as reliable as it comes from a gas-powered generator, so blackouts and surges will become things of the past.

It’s not the most potent RV generator on our list, but if you need to top-up your power, you can join this unit with another model to double up on juice. The eco-throttle system makes this one of the most fuel-efficient generators on the market, meaning it can run for long periods of time off little fuel (which is good, as it can only hold 1 gallon of gasoline at a time).

One of our favorite features is the integrated carbon dioxide monitoring system that will automatically shut down the system if carbon monoxide levels start to approach unsafe levels.

Other extra touches include running this engine with the fuel valve closed (to prevent fuel from going stale), a large spout and oil gutter to stop pesky spillage, and even color-coded start-up points you can’t go wrong.

Oh.. and for any tech-savvy people out there, you can even use Bluetooth to monitor and pause your electricity output from your phone!

So, what’s the catch? You might have guessed it… it’s the price. This portable generator certainly doesn’t come cheap. However, if you’ve got cash to splash, this is one reliable bit of machinery that will last you for years to come.

Pros

  • In-built carbon dioxide monitor
  • Eco-throttle system - fuel-efficient
  • High-quality construction
  • Can link up with a second unit for added power
  • Ultra-portable thanks to its lightweight and carry handle
  • Very quiet when running
  • Bluetooth compatible

Cons

  • Less running power than other units
  • Lacks wheels (but at least it's light and has a handle)
  • Very expensive
  • Small gas capacity

Product Information

  • Dimensions: 16" x 20" x 11"
  • Weight: 40 lbs
  • Noise level: 48-57 dB
  • Voltage: 120 V
  • Power: 2200W
  • Tank volume: 1 Gallon
  • Fuel type: Gasoline
SEE ON AMAZON

Champion 4000 Inverter

Champion Power Equipment 4000-Watt RV Ready Open Frame Inverter

The Champion 4000 Inverter is a fantastic allround RV generator.

Its powerful gasoline-fueled engine produces 3500 running watts yet this inverter generator has remained fairly lightweight thanks to its open-frame design. It also features a 3-gallon fuel tank that will last you for ages – this inverter generator can run for 17 hours on a quarter load.

It comes with outlets for various electronics, making for a super simple home set-up, and it can even be linked to another unit if you want to boost your juice. Oh, and it features a low oil shut-off sensor too to protect your engine.

Although advertised as being incredibly quiet, this engine operates at 64 decibels and there are far quieter generators out there. Similarly, although not the lightest generator we’ve seen, at around 80 lbs, it isn’t the heaviest either. And if you do need a helping hand for maneuvering this thing, there are compatible wheels available, but they must be purchased separately.

Overall, considering its power, it remains fairly light and quiet, but if these factors are your top priority you might want to look elsewhere. At the lower end of the price spectrum and with a 3-year warranty included, this inverter generator offers fantastic all-round performance.

Pros

  • Powerful running power and numerous outlets
  • Can link up with a second unit for added power
  • Fairly lightweight and compatible wheels available
  • Reasonably priced and 3-year warranty

Cons

  • Wheels must be purchased separately
  • Not the lightest or quietest (but not super loud or heavy either)

Product Information

  • Dimensions: 20.5" x 17.9" x 17.7"
  • Weight: 81.6 lbs
  • Noise level: 64 dB
  • Voltage: 120 V
  • Power: 2800 Watts
  • Tank volume: 2.9 Gallons
  • Fuel type: Gasoline
SEE ON AMAZON

DuroMax XP4400E Generator

DuroMax XP4400E Gas Powered Portable Generator-4400 Watt Electric Start-Camping & RV Ready, 50 State Approved, Blue/Black

With a starting power of 4400 watts and a running power of 3500, the DuroMax XP4400E Generator is the most powerful generator on our list, making it an ideal choice for power-intensive activities such as air conditioning and refrigeration.

As well as being ultrapowerful, this RV generator can hold an impressive 4 gallons of gasoline at a time, so you can keep that power flowing. It features a low oil-shut-off feature to keep your engine safe as well as surge protection to protect your valuables.

The whole thing is assembled around an ultra-durable frame that won’t go breaking on you any time soon. It’s lacking any USB outlets, but at least it has two household outlets plus a twist and lock.

The downside of the large capacity and powerful engine of this RV generator – is the weight – at 100 lbs it’s higher than some of the models we’ve looked at. Having said that, it comes with a wheel and handle included, so you’ll be able to move it around with ease, plus its dimensions aren’t so bad once you get it inside your RV.

You might expect something so powerful to be noisy, but we were pleasantly surprised to see that that isn’t the case (although it’s certainly not super quiet either). Powerful. affordable, and without any major downsides – what’s not to love?!

Pros

  • Super high running power
  • Large fuel holding capacity
  • Wheels and handle included for ease of maneuvering
  • Features low oil shut-off response and surge protection

Cons

  • Slightly heavy
  • No USB outlets

Product Information

  • Dimensions: 24" x 17" x 17"
  • Weight: 100 lbs
  • Noise level: 69 dB
  • Voltage: 120 V
  • Power: 4400 Watts (starting power); 3500 watts (running power)
  • Engine type: 4 stroke
  • Tank volume: 3.96 Gallons
  • Fuel type: Gasoline
SEE ON AMAZON

Generac GP3500iO Generator

Generac 7128 GP3500iO 3,500-Watt Gas Powered Open Frame Portable Inverter Generator - Quieter & Lighter Design with Increased Starting Capacity - Produces Clean, Stable Power - CARB Compliant

One of the best things about the Generac GP3500iO Generator is how easy it is to use. Its interface is super intuitive and features a low oil warning, overload warning, and ready-to-load LED plus it has USB, ground plug, and twist-and-lock outlets.

This means you can charge various devices directly, and you don’t have to worry about sensitive electronics such as phones or tablets thanks to the True Power technology.

This is not a diesel generator, it is powered by gasoline. It has 3000 watts of running power, this is one hardy RV generator but, in case that’s not enough power for you, you can team this unit up with another to double your output. At just under two and a half gallons, the fuel tank capacity is pretty mid-range.

In terms of portability, there are no wheels with this machine, but it’s not the heaviest either so you’ll probably be okay. Although advertised as being quiet, we can’t find the decibels on the manual or the advertisement so we guess we’ll have to take their word for it…

All things considered, you’re getting a decent amount of power without a tonne of weight but with some nice electronic touches, and you aren’t paying an absolute fortune for it either.

Pros

  • Easy-to-use, informative interface
  • Low oil warning, overload warning, and ready to load LED
  • Can link up with a second unit for added power
  • Various outlets for numerous devices
  • True Power technology protects sensitive devices

Cons

  • No wheels to aid portability
  • No information on decibels available

Product Information

  • Dimensions: 19.7" x 16.5" x 16.4"
  • Weight: 74.3 lbs
  • Noise level: N/A
  • Voltage: 120 V
  • Output wattage: 3500 Watts (starting power); 3000 Watts (running power)
  • Tank volume: 2.37 Gallons
  • Fuel type: Gasoline
SEE ON AMAZON

Yamaha EF2400iSHC Generator

Yahama is a world-renowned engine manufacturer, so it’s not surprising that one of its inverter generators made it onto our list of the best RV generators around.

The Yamaha EF2400iSHC Inverter Generator has been meticulously crafted to optimize fuel efficiency and ensure reliable, quiet performance, as well as bearing portability in mind.

By adjusting the engine speed to match the load, you can be sure that you’ll get the most of your fuel, saving you money in the long-run (which is a good thing, considering how expensive this generator is in the first place…).

These inverter generators also has a warning system in place for low oil levels to protect your engine as well as an overload warning light. We also love that you can shut off the supply of gas to the engine so that you don’t encounter problems with stale fuel, particularly as a result of poor storage.

Plus, you’re valuable electronics will stay safe while charging thanks to the pulse width modulation (aka surge protection).

At 75 lbs, this portable generator isn’t super heavy, but it would be nice to see it with some wheels.  Overall, if you can afford it, you won’t regret splashing the cash on one of these.

Pros

  • Gas can be shut off to prevent stale fuel
  • Pulse width modulation protects electronics from surges
  • Fantastic fuel efficiency
  • Low oil and overload warnings
  • Reliable, durable construction
  • Low oil warning to protect engine

Cons

  • Very expensive
  • No wheels included
  • Not as powerful as other models

Product Information

  • Dimensions: 20.8" x 16.5" x 18.2"
  • Weight: 75 lbs
  • Noise level: 53 dB (quarter load) ; 60 dB (full load)
  • Voltage: 120 V
  • Output wattage: 2400 (starting power); 2000 Watts (running power)
  • Engine type: 4 stroke
  • Tank volume: 1.6 Gallons
  • Fuel type: Gasoline
SEE ON AMAZON

A-iPower SUA2000iV Portable Inverter

A-iPower Portable Inverter Generator, 2000W Ultra-Quiet RV Ready, EPA Compliant, Small & Ultra Lightweight For Backup Home Use, Tailgating & Camping (SUA2000iV)

And last but by no means least on our list of the top RV generators is the A-iPower SUA2000iV Portable Inverter.

Weighing just 46 lbs, this is one lightweight RV generator that you can carry around easily thanks to the in-built carry handle. We love that there’s a fuel gauge so you’ll never get caught out without any juice, and there’s a ‘Low idle’ mode that lets you use less power over a longer period of time when you need to conserve power.

We love that the engine speed varies with demand, which saves fuel and also reduces noise. The ‘pure sine wave power’ means that your electronics will be safe too.

Although this portable inverter generator is powered by gasoline, if you’re into dual-fuel generators, there’s a model available that runs off both gasoline and propane. And speaking of fuel, be warned that the fuel tank holds just over a gallon of fuel at a time, so you’ll need to take some spare canisters with you.

It might not be the most portable inverter generator we’ve looked at, with a running power of just 1600, but at least you can pair it up with another model to double up on your output if you need to. Finally, this portable, versatile inverter generator also comes with a very affordable price tag, yay.

Pros

  • Lightweight with a carry handle
  • Duel fuel model available
  • Can link up with a second unit for added power
  • Engine speed varies with demand
  • Pure sine wave power protects your electronics

Cons

  • Fuel tank could be larger
  • Not the most powerful generator

Product Information

  • Dimensions: 22" x 13" x 20"
  • Weight: 46 lbs
  • Noise level: 58 dB
  • Output wattage: 2000 Watts (starting power); 1600 Watts (running power)
  • Tank volume: 1.1 Gallons
  • Fuel type: Gasoline
SEE ON AMAZON

What To Look For In An RV Generator

So, as we’ve seen, RV generators come in all kinds of shapes and styles, but what is it you should pay extra attention to before investing in one of your very own?

Portability and Compactness

As we’ve seen, some generators are lighter than others. If you plan to keep your generator in your RV most of the time, this won’t be so important to you, but this can have a big impact if you’ll be moving your generator around a lot (for instance, around the campsite, or sharing it with friends and family members).

The best generators will come with handles and wheels to help you move them around if they’re heavy, and even some of the lighter models feature these now. Powerful generators tend to be heavier than weaker ones, although this isn’t always the case. These days, there are some fairly lightweight, powerful generators out there, but be prepared to pay for the winning combination.

If you’re happy to leave your RV generator stationary most of the time, you may as well save yourself the dollars and ignore the weight factor. 

Noise Level

Generators can be loud, and we mean loud… but all of the ones we’ve presented to you here are reasonable in terms of sound levels. To give you a benchmark, 60 decibels is roughly the sound of a normal conversation and the generators above range between 50-70 roughly.

It might not matter so much if you only want your RV generator as a backup or for daytime use but, if you’ll be sleeping next to it night after night, it might be worth investing in something a little quieter.

One tip is to look at inverter generators as an option as they are often quite quiet. And this is all assuming you have to run it constantly, which might not be the case if you have shore power.

Fuel Efficiency and Type

Fuel-efficient portable generators save you money in the long-term as you have to buy less fuel, they make packing lighter because you have to take less excess fuel, and they’re better for the environment too.

They might cost you more initially, but we do recommend paying the extra if you can afford it. Eco, idle, and economy settings all work to reduce fuel consumption too, so keep your eyes open for these features as well.

Most generators are gas-powered, but there are some dual-fuel generators out there, and they tend to run on gasoline and propane. This is great if you’re in a fix, as it doubles your chances of finding some more fuel. Plus, propane is better for the environment, although you do get less bang for your buck with it.

Our Top Three…

There you have it, our top portable generators and what to look for when you’re shopping around. Just in case anyone’s still struggling to make up their mind, here are our top three to help you decide.

Our best RV generator for anyone on a budget has to be the WEN 56200i Portable Generator. Lightweight, compact, and super quiet, this stealthy generator is perfect for anyone low on space or looking to shed some extra pounds.

On top of that, this portable generator has various outlets, protects your valuable electronics from surges, and features an environmentally fuel-saving mode… we just can’t believe it doesn’t cost more, to be honest…

WEN 56200i 2000-Watt Gas Powered Portable Inverter Generator, CARB Compliant,Black & Orange
  • Dimensions: 18" x 11" x 18" | Weight: 48 lbs
  • Noise Level: 53 dB operation

Our best all-around portable RV generator is the Champion Power Equipment 76533 Portable Generator. We absolutely love that it is both propane and gas-powered and that you can change between the two with the flick of a switch.

On top of that, it’s one of the most powerful portable generators on our list, features push-button ignition that operates even in super cold climates, and features an in-built surge protector.

It comes with wheels and handles included, plus the intelligence means you’ll know exactly what’s going on with your power system – what a winner.

Champion Power Equipment 4750-Watt Electric Start Dual Fuel RV Ready Portable Generator
  • Dual Fuel: Operate your 3800-watt portable generator right out of the box on either gasoline or propane, plus the unit holds 0.6-quarts of oil (included) and has a low oil shut-off sensor
  • Electric Start: Power up the 224cc Champion engine with the handy toggle switch, battery included

And finally, what’s our top pick? We’ve gone back to basics and opted for the Durostar DS4000S Portable Generator. This sturdy portable generator really does pack a punch with fantastic running power, and it’s super durable too thanks to its sturdy frame.

On top of that, we love its power panel that lets you monitor fuel supply (although it should last a while thanks to the huge fuel tank) and there’s also an automatic shut-off function for when oil levels get low. Affordable and with a 1-year warranty included, you can’t go wrong with this little powerhouse.

DuroStar DS4000S Portable Generator, Yellow/Black
  • Plenty of Power – With 4,000 peak watts and 3,300 running watts, this unit can handle heavy loads, from lights and a refrigerator to a home air conditioner and high amperage power tools
  • Powerful Engine – The DuroStar 208cc OHV engine is a workhorse that provides plenty of power to handle multiple jobs, from powering high voltage appliances to heavy duty power tools