7 Smallest Portable Generators Of 2024 – Tiny Yet Powerful
A Camping lover must have a lightweight portable generator that can be fit anywhere with sufficient capacity, safety features, a durable engine, and a soundless mechanism.
We have tested the 40 smallest portable generators of 2024 and come up with the top 7 units ranging from 240 – 1900 wattages.
Comparison Table Of The Smallest Portable Generators Of 2024
1. Champion Power Equipment 2500 Watts – Best Small Generator
FEATURES & SPECS
After hearing that Champion has launched its smallest dual-fuel inverter generator I instantly ordered it for my brother’s RV. The delivery time and packaging were pretty good; I got the manual, engine oil, propane gas hose, angle funnel, USB charger, and the generator itself.
Design and built quality:
The Champion Power 2500w is built from hard plastic with decent details and finish; I didn’t find any creak on the casing. On the other hand, its design is pretty convenient you can access the engine oil and spark plug compartment easily.
The front of the generator has lots of plugs, USB ports, and outlets, however, on the back, you will get a spark arrester. The top has a caring handle, spark plug compartment, and gas tank access on the other hand the bottom contains rubber legs for stabilization.
Other than that you will get a smooth manual pull starter on the right side, however, on the left side, you will have access to the engine oil and filter.
Ports and other essentials:
- Easy to operate Fuel selector dial.
- One 12, 8A DC USB port.
- 2 x 120V, 20A outlets.
- Ground terminal.
- Parallel ports to connect other units.
- Indicator lights (overload, low fuel, economy mode).
- 20A circuit breaker.
- Propane inlet.
Capacity test:
Since this is a dual-fuel 79cc 4-stroke generator, I have conducted separate tests on both propane and gas.
Gas test results: I connected a microwave of 1400w and a vacuum of 600w and it supplies power of 1850w with no overload light, after 1900w I got a red overload light and it shut down at 1950w which is amazing. I also got the same results on eco mode as this is an inverter generator.
Propane test results: I connected the same load as above and started adding power; at 1650 watts, it worked fine, but after crossing 1700w it started struggling, so on propane, you will not get that much capacity.
Also, it comes with parallel ports for merging another unit to double the capacity.
Runtime test: Champion 2500 comes with 1.1 gallons of gasoline tank and an option to integrate a propane tank.
below are some tests we have conducted with both gasoline and propane
Gasoline (1.1 Gallon Fuel Tank): With a 25% load on eco mode, I got 11 hours of runtime; however,, at 50% with ECO mode OFF I got 6 hours which is not bad for a 1.1-gallon tank.
Propane (20lbs Fuel Tank): At 25% load on eco mode, I got 32 hours of runtime, however with eco mode OFF at 50% load I got 17 hours.
Noise test: At idle (economy mode) I got 52 – 53dB from 25 feet away, remember the results may vary a bit on the propane and gasoline.
At full capacity 100% load I got 65 – 66db from the 25 feet away, it makes sense to be too loud because we are pushing its limits. On 50% load, I got 54 – 55dB which is quite impressive.
Maintenance and usage: Not only its operation is easy but also easy to maintain, as this generator has a toolless entry on the side to access the engine’s oil, filter, and spark plug you don’t need to waste lots of time on maintenance.
If you want the smallest dual fuel generator that runs almost your all equipment without producing noise and pollution this is for you. Also, you will get decent efficiency with 3 years of limited warranty as well.
2. EF ECO FLOW Portable Power Station DELTA – Small Portable Generator For Camping
FEATURES & SPECS
Well, I ordered this beast power station for my RV a few months ago and I must say it was not delivered at the right time, even the customer support was not free to reply to my messages.
After opening the box I got the power station covered in a nylon bag and two boxes containing 3.5 MC4 to XT60 Cable but it is pretty thin, a 1.5m AC Charging Cable 1.5m Car Charging Cable, a User Manual, and a Warranty Card.
Design and build quality:
It completely blew my mind as this unit seems to be a toy in the pictures but believe me its build quality is pretty solid with premium casing and display, even the ports and other stuff look pretty durable.
You will get two nice caring handles on the front and back. A bunch of ports and a screen on the front, however on the back you will get several outlets.
On the left side, you will have some inputs, however, on the right side is a plane with the logo of ECO FLOW. Other than that I found 4 exhausts on the left and right sides to cool it down.
Ports, outlets, and other essentials:
- A screen that shows the battery percentage, Input and output wattage, and total charging time.
- 6 x AC outlet (100V-120V 1800W 3300W Peak)
- 2 x USB Type-C port
- 2 x USB Type-A ports and 2 x USB-A fast charge
- 1x standard DC 13.6V port
- 1 x carport.
- 1 x Ac outlet input (100 – 120 Vac 50/60Hz)
- Car / solar charging input.
- Overload protector.
Charging test:
EF ECO FLOW Portable Power Station DELTA has the fastest charging capability I have ever seen. It charges 10 times faster than other competitors like Goal Zero, Blue Yeti, etc. I can’t believe it shows 1200 – 1250 watts input on AC, which is insane. Other than that it has pass-through charging functionality as well. After connecting a 1200w load the input power increased to 2300w, which means we are getting the same input power.
It not only performs well on AC power, I also connect the solar charging and get 160 – 170w on that as well.
I am very impressed with its charging capabilities and options but sadly it gets too hot and reduces charging efficiency when I drain the generator. I have to wait for about 1 – 2 hours before charging again.
It is not a good idea to keep it for a dedicated solar system as it has 800 life cycles and tremendous dependency on the temperatures, I would definitely recommend it for camping.
Capacity test:
As this generator is equipped with 100 – 120V, 1800w AC power, and 3300W peak power, I managed to charge multiple things like my laptop, mobile, drones, cameras, etc. even I operate my 1500w oven, 1750w hairdryer, 800w toaster, and 750w vacuum, it works perfectly. Even I used the pass-through test and both input and output power were pretty stable no voltage fluctuations at all.
Noise Test:
At 100% load, I got 52 dB from about 2.5 meters away which is quite impressive.
Safety features and warranty:
EF ECO FLOW DELTA comes with overload and high/low-temperature protection.
Comes with 24 months of warranty as well but I can’t assure you whether they will help you with the warranty claim or not, as I had a bad experience with customer support.
This is one of the smallest generators available in the market in terms of fast charging, durable body, and of course the ports selections and charging versatility.
In my humble opinion don’t go for this if you are going to recharge and charge rapidly it is extremely sensitive to the heat, you will not get the desired efficiency.
3. Jackery Portable Power Station Explorer 240 – The Smallest portable Generator
FEATURES & SPECS
Jackery 240 is one of the smallest and most portable generators for camping available in the market. I got my package in perfect condition, and it includes a generator, user manual, and a nice padded case that consists of a charger and a car charger. I didn’t get a separate case for the charger that should be included in the price tag.
The overall built quality is pretty decent with tough hard plastic, also the design is perfect with a carry handle, some essential ports, and a decent color combination of dark gray and orange.
I was amazed to see the size of this mini generator, it only weighs 3.1 Kg, and now you can assume how compact it will be. I carry this tiny beast at my vocational camping and outdoor parties, it never hurt my arms even I reposition it multiple times.
Performance:
Since Jackery 240w has a lithium-ion battery pack you will get a low discharge rate. For testing I ran my powerful gaming setup with 150 watts output for about 1.5 hours, I also used a tire inflator, mini freezer, DJI Mavic mini, and camera batteries.
Its performance is mind-blowing, you can attach multiple low watts appliances.
Ports and other essentials:
- Top left you will get an average size LCD which shows you the battery life, output and input watts, etc.
- 1x 12w, 10V car charger port with a rubber flap
- 1 x 230v Ac socket that can go for 200w (400w surge peek), but its placement is not oriented for the oversized chargers, I can’t even attach my MacBook pro’s charger.
- 2 x 5V, 2.4A USB Type a charging port. Disappoint to see that it doesn’t have a USB type C for fast charging.
- 1 x DC input.
Charging time and Options:
The Jackery 240 can be charged with the included 19v, 3.41A, 65w charger, Car charger or it can be charged with a solar panel. Please don’t overuse car chargers as it is prohibited by the manufacturers.
When it comes to the charging time it takes 6 – 7 hours to get fully charged. I can’t wait for that long; I use its pass-through charging option and use outputs even during the charging.
This mini generator could enhance your camping experience by providing a sufficient power supply to charge and operate your all equipment.
4. WEN 56200i 2000 Watt – One Of The Best Small Generators
FEATURES & SPECS
WEN 56200i is getting famous for its eco mode, ease of use, and most importantly the build quality and compact design. I got some tool kits, user manuals, an angled funnel, and the generator itself in the package.
Design and built quality:
Like other costly small generators this unit has perfect built quality, its casing is built from hard plastic with a black and orange color combination. I only found a bit low built quality on the door of the engine oil; overall this unit passed our durability test.
On the top, you will find access to a fuel tank, a spark plug, and a caring handle, on the bottom you will have rubber feet.
The front of the generator has multiple ports, power indicators, etc. however the back has vents and exhaust.
The left side has a pull start; on the other hand, the right side only has an engine oil door and branding.
Ports:
- 3-in-1 switch (off, on, choke).
- 2 x 120V, 15A outlets.
- Parallel connection to connect another unite.
- Indicator lights of oil, overload, output.
- Eco mode button.
- Groundnut
- 5V USB port.
- 12 DC receptacle.
- Reset button.
Performance:
The WEN 56200i consists of a 79.7cc 4-stroke OHV 4 – stroke engine that is not only quiet but also efficient and lasts longer than other competitors in this price range. Also, I never found the dark flue gases which is a good sign that this unit is eco-friendly as well.
Other than that I never face voltage fluctuation, I charge or operate my expensive equipment like MacBook, drones, cameras, projectors, etc. regularly.
Capacity test:
I run a 1500 watts heater on this and it performs pretty well, I only got overload lights at 1590 watts which is pretty amazing. I also run a 750 watts heater on eco mode, you can go up to 1000 watts on the eco mode to save your fuel cost.
Fuel test:
I fill up the 1-gallon tank of this generator and operate it for about 9.2 hours on 25% load with eco mode, however, on 75% load it only lasts for about 4 and a half hours.
Noise test:
I took a noise meter (dB meter) and start a test at low rpm from 20 feet away and got 52db, I also test again at high rpm from 20 feet away and got 55db. The results were pretty much similar to the specification.
WEN 56200i could be a great choice for the one who wants high power and efficiency with low noise levels, this unit could enhance your camping journey drastically. I operate my heater, charge multiple pieces of equipment, etc. easily. this is one of the best 2000 watts generators available in the market.
5. Westinghouse Outdoor Power Equipment iGen2200
FEATURES & SPECS
As you might know, Westinghouse is a well known American company with more than a hundred years of experience in power equipment including the smallest portable generators. A friend of mine is using this generator for about a year and his experience is mind-blowing. Well, the package contains an angled funnel, a tool kit, engine oil, manuals, and a generator itself.
Design and built quality:
Its hard casing is not built from glassy plastic you will feel the premium matt finish with a decent compact design to carry it in a van or RV or even in a car. The top has a carrying handle, oil tank, and spark plug access; however, the bottom has 4 rubbery legs.
The front side contains lots of outlets and ports; on the other hand, the back contains some vents and a spark arrester.
On the left side, you will have a manual pull starter, however, on the left, you will have access to the filter, engine oil, etc.
Ports and essentials:
- Control switch.
- 2 x 120V, 20A Ac outlets with a weatherproof flap.
- 2 x 5V DC USB ports with a flap.
- Parallel outlets.
- Ground load.
- 1 x circuit breaker.
- Eco mode button.
- Reset button.
- Indicator lights (low oil, overload, and output)
Capacity Test:
Before starting the test we have to clarify that it has a 4 – stroke 80cc OHV engine and the manufacturer has stated that its rated capacity is 1800w (2200w peak).
I operate a heater of 1800w and it works perfectly, again I add 250w to check out how much load it can sustain I got an overload light at 1900w which is quite impressive.
Noise Test:
At low idle eco mode, I got 58 – 60dB from 20 feet, however on 75% load I got 69 – 71dB, so this generator is not as quiet as champion 2500 watts, WEN 56200i 2000-Watt, etc.
Fuel efficiency test:
I ran the generator on 30% load for about 11.5 hours on a single 1.14 Gallon tank; I must say its efficiency is beyond my expectations.
Maintenance and usage:
The usage and maintenance of this generator are pretty easy I start it with one pull, however, you can access all essential components like engine oil, spark plug, filter, etc. by removing a few screws which is not a big deal.
Though this is not lightweight as compared to Westinghouse iGen1200 but you can handle a few pounds for getting almost double capacity. Overall this unite is mind blowing, I suggest you place it at least 80 feet away from your camp because it’s a bit noisy.
- Here is a more detailed review of Westinghouse iGen2200
6. A-iPower SUA2000iV – Smallest Gas Generator
FEATURES & SPECS
Ai – Power is not only famous for its durability but also they are getting famous for its great efficiency. Well, I order this generator and get the package within an expected time frame. The package includes a user manual, quick start guide, basic tool kit, and Rv adopter, an angled funnel, and the generator.
Design, Built quality:
Though the A-iPower SUA2000iV is not too lightweight like Jackery generators still it has a decent caring handle with a sleek design that allows me to carry it in a car, van, or RV.
Other than that it is built from hard plastic with a color combination of red and dark gray.
The front side has lots of ports and an air vent, however, on the back, it has an exhaust and air vents for the fan.
On the left side, you will get a pull-start, however, on the right side, you will get some labels and the A-iPower iconic logo.
The top has access to the fuel tank with a fuel gauge and the spark plug, however, the bottom has four rubber feet for stabilization.
Ports:
- A multi-switch
- A 30 amp and 20 amp outlet.
- Parallel ports
- Grounding terminal
- low idle switch
- 3 indicating lights
- 2 x USB ports.
Performance:
Since A – iPower SUA2000iV has 79cc OHV 4-stroke engine with a pure sine wave 60Hz inverter rated for 2k watts starting and 1.6k running, it will never hurt you in terms of abundant power supply with quiet operation.:
Capacity test:
At the low idle test, I got 250 – 255 watts without increasing the RPM.
At the fast idle test, I got 950 – 1000 watts without increasing the RPM.
After increasing the load to 1490 – 1500 watts the green light blinks, which means I am crossing the limits, hence the specification stated by the manufacturer is wrong. I didn’t get 1600 watts.
Noise test:
At slow idle (50% load) I got 65 dB from 20 ft. away, however, at the fast idle (75% load) I got 68 dB from 21 ft. away. As per the specifications, the Noise levels I got are closed to accurate.
Fuel test:
I fill up the 1.1-gallon tank and operated multiple appliances to reach the full capacity. I manage to load up to 1550 watts and surprisingly I got 4.1 hours of lasting.
If you want a generator for the Rv, camping, and a tiny house this will work perfectly for you. Being A – iPower SUA2000iV user I must say place it at least 70 ft. away from your camping if you’re a silent lover like me.
Overall this is one of the smallest portable generators for RVs, camping, and households as well.
7. Briggs & Stratton 30651 P2200
FEATURES & SPECS
Well, they delivered this Briggs & Stratton P2200 pretty fast with safe packaging, I got an alligator clamp cable with a cigarette lighter connector, engine oil, an angled funnel, a USB charger with two USB ports, a screwdriver, and some long instructions, and user manual.
Design and built quality:
The overall built quality and design of this generator are up to the mark, its casing is built from matt finished hard plastic with light gray, black and red. The top of this unit has an h – type caring handle which is more convenient as compared to the other competitors, also contains access to an oil tank and spark plug. The bottom contains 4 rubber legs for better placement.
Like other smallest portable generators, the fronts of this unit contain lots of plugs and essentials, however, the back contains the spark arresters.
The left side has a manual pull-start, a chowk, switch, and some instructions to start it the first time; however, on the left, you will have a screwed compartment to do maintenance.
Ports and essentials:
- 2 x 120V, 20A outlets (these are not 20A outlets that only can supply 14.1V which is strange; I am not able to run my air conditioning or oven).
- Parallel connection.
- Reset button for every outlet.
- Indicator lights.
- power smart mode switch.
- 1 x 12v/5A DC port.
Capacity test:
Since this unit has 111cc 4- stroke OHV engine that can produce 2,200 starting and 1700 running watts. I connected loads up to 1688w and it performs like a charm however after increasing from 1700w I got an overload light that makes sense, I am crossing the limits.
Note: Sadly this unit doesn’t have 20A outlets you can’t even run your RV’s Aircondition, oven, etc., that’s the reason my cousin purchased a P3000 unit and make a parallel connection to increase its capacity.
Fuel efficiency test:
I fill up the tank and load anywhere from 400 – 800w and surprisingly it last for about 6 hours and 25 minutes which is quite impressive, maybe it’s because of the power smart mode that adjusts the fuel-burning and generator sound according to the load. I must say the manufacturer was right about the fuel efficiency of this unit.
Noise test:
Around 25 feet away with 25 to 30% load, I got only 57 -59dB, I think it is quieter than the normal conversation. Also in power smart mode, you will feel even less noise.
Maintenance:
Since this unit has decent small details, like a curve tray around the fuel entrance, a small try on the bottom of engine oil entrance. This small detail is a lifesaver for lazybones. With all the wasted fuel accumulated in these trays you don’t need to clean the whole body.
Overall the performance of this generator is impressive in terms of silent operation, fuel efficiency, capacity, portability, etc. the only flaw I got is? It doesn’t have 20A outlets, otherwise, my cousin is using this for its local camping and she is satisfied.
What Size Small Portable Generator Do I Need?
As per my experience, the lighter and more compact generator is more convenient in terms of space occupation and handling, but you should also care about the capacity, efficiency, and other modern features. You have to check out your needs before making a buying decision
E.g.: I prefer a unit with 30 – 40 lb. with 2200 – 2500 running watts and 1700 – 1900 watts so that I can operate air conditioners, ovens, filters, and other essentials. Again it is my choice, Maybe your scenario is different, if you only want to charge your low-watt equipment then better to go for a 240 – 900 watts generator with 5 – 8lb weight.
Final Verdicts
After conducting multiple tests we have made the list of the top smallest portable generators, I hope you have enjoyed it.
- Champion Power Equipment 2500 Watts – High Capacity.
- EF ECO FLOW Portable Power Station DELTA – Best for Camping.
- Jackery Power Station 240 – Mini generator
Still, if you want expert advice I would love to recommend the following units.
Please share our guide with the ones who need the smallest generator.
Josh is a highly skilled electrician with specialized expertise in the field of generators. With years of experience under his belt, he has established himself as an expert in all aspects of generators, ranging from installation and maintenance to troubleshooting and repairs. Josh’s in-depth knowledge of electrical systems and his commitment to staying updated with the latest industry advancements make him a reliable and sought-after professional.