WEN GN400i Review – Lightest 4000-Watts Inverter Generator
In this article, we are going to do an honest review of the WEN GN400i Generator by conducting a few necessary tests like What Can WEN GN400i Run (load test), How loud is WEN GN400i (noise test), and how many hours can WEN GN400i run on a single tank (runtime test).
Without further wasting time, let’s explore our findings;
WEN GN400i Review
Unboxing Experience Of WEN GN400i:
The packaging of this unit was super-protective with lots of padding and cart boards; I didn’t find any damage. The box contains a quick start guide, a user manual, an oil funnel, and a small toolkit. I didn’t find the engine oil, which should be included.
Design and build quality:
Though the design of this machine is not futuristic like the WEN 56380i it is pretty compact and lightweight, with a decent space on the frame to lift it. I didn’t find the wheel kit within the box, which is strange; I have not been able to lift 66lb. for a long time.
When it comes to the built quality the unit comes with a pretty durable corrosion-resistant frame that can last for years.
Outlets And Essentials:
Fuel Tank Size, Fuel Options, And Runtime Of WEN GN400i:
WEN GN400i doesn’t have a dual fuel option and its single tank of 1.85-gallon can last for about 6-7 hours on 50% load, however, on 25% load, I operated it for about 13 – 14 hours.
The manufacturers should include at least a bigger fuel tank or dual fuel option so that we can spend long winter nights comfortably. Since in winter, we use space heaters and other stuff for survival, a single tank of 1.85 gallons is not enough for spending a long cold night.
What Can WEN GN400i Run? (Load Test):
With a 212cc of powerful 4-stroke OHV engine, this machine can provide 4000 starting and 3500 running watts. Also, WEN GN400i is designed to provide pure sine waves; you can run ultra-voltage sensitive appliances fearlessly. Wen has claimed that it can produce under 0.3% of THD at no load, however, on full load, you will only find 1.2% which is amazing.
To test its capacity we have run the following power-hungry appliances.
| Appliance | Running Watts | Starting Watts |
| Electric Kettle | 1200 | 3000 |
| Electric stove | 2000 | 2000 |
| Lawnmower | 1000 | 1400 |
| Space heater | 1600 | 2500 |
| Washing Machine | 1150 | 2200 |
| Vacuum | 450 | 900 |
| Treadmill | 280 | 900 |
| Microwave | 800 | 1700 |
| Televisions and other stuff | 1000 | 2000 |
EOC Mode Test:
After putting the generator on eco mode I found a significant decrease in the noise levels, also the runtime increased drastically, but you can’t put a high load on the machine with eco mode, I recommend you to put 25 – 30% load on eco mode to get mind-blowing results.
How loud Is The Wen GN400i Generator? (Noise Test):
This is not a super silent unit, I am getting 65 – 68dB from 25ft. with 50% load which is not that bad, I can get super silent operation from 40 – 50ft. away. With eco mode, you will even feel lower noise levels.
Thanks to the inverter technology this machine can be used in RV parks because of normal noise levels.
Parallel Compatibility:
WEN GN400i is parallel ready you can fuse two units to get double or triple capacity depending on the machine you want to connect. Before connecting another unit make sure to confirm whether it is compatible or not.
Safety Features:
WEN GN400i is tested and certified by some of the best safety and environmental firms like CARB and EPA, you don’t need to care about yourself, your appliance, and your environment.
As we have discussed in the load test section this machine produces fluctuation-free steady voltage even at high load, all of your voltage-sensitive appliances like a laptop, mobile, cameras, drones, etc. will be safe.
Warranty And Maintenance:
Like all WEN generators, this machine also comes with 2 years of limited warranty with exceptional customer support. Also, you will find WEN’s service centers with experienced technicians around the globe.
We also have reviewed the WEN 56203i make sure to give it a read if you want a smaller unit.
Who Should Buy WEN GN400i?
If you are hunting for the most affordable inverter generator with decent capacity and runtime WEN GN400i should be on your list. Besides its high capacity, this machine is not that loud and heavy, you can use it at any national RV park.
As per my experience, most of the Inverter generators cost $1000 or even more if you are going for Honda but this beast will cost you less than 500 bucks with 2 2-year warranty which is amazing.
What I Like
What I don’t
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.
I would not use this in a campsite. It is insanely loud