Both Honda and Yamaha have great inverter generator options if you want to up your off-grid camping game.
You’ll be able to power everything you need and charge sensitive devices that don’t play well with other options. But choosing the right one for your rig will depend on a few factors.
Today, we’ll tell you everything you need to know to make your decision.
Let’s hit it!
What Are Inverter Generators?
Inverter generators are designed to create AC and DC electricity so you can power any device you want on your trip. They produce more reliable energy and won’t cause any spikes that can fry sensitive electronics.
This type is much quieter than open-frame or onboard options that roar through RV parks. Even though they’re small, lightweight, and easily portable, they’ll make your camper much homier while you’re boondocking.
While most run on propane or gas, they’re fuel efficient since their engines can cycle up or down as needed. They also have low emissions, but you’ll still want to keep the exhaust pointed away from you.
You can find them in various sizes and power limits, so you’ll need to consider which devices you’ll want to use while off-grid.
Smaller options let you charge your phone or use smaller kitchen appliances, while larger ones can power your fridge or dishwasher as needed. The biggest models are rarely portable and may weigh hundreds of pounds. That said, they’re great for backup in areas where electricity is unreliable.
Honda and Yamaha both have several quality inverter generators to consider before planning your next trip to the boonies.
Popular Honda Inverter Generators
Honda has built a distinguished reputation for reliable generators. Their latest offerings are worth considering to give your RV more flexibility on the road.
Honda EU2200i
This companion generator offers 2200 watts of power. It can also work in tandem with other units, increasing your capacity when you need to run more appliances. Once it’s paired with another generator, you can use the convenient 30-Amp port to operate just about anything onboard.
Plus, at 47 pounds without fuel, it’s extremely portable. It has a carbon monoxide detector to protect your family and a low oil alert to preserve the engine.
While this is a reliable investment, it has several downsides. It costs more than similar units and doesn’t come with a fuel gauge or electricity meter.
Price Check: Honda EU2200i
Honda EU3000iS
If you need a little more juice, this model is the way to go. This generator delivers 3,000 watts without all the noise you’d expect from a larger unit. And it has an electric starter, so you won’t struggle to get it going.
The EU3000iS has the same safety features as the EU2200i. Plus, the enclosed body helps keep the noise down while protecting the components from the elements. It’s easily paired with additional units when you need more power and can run for nearly 20 hours at a quarter load.
Weight is the only real drawback here. At 134 pounds, you’ll need to pack carefully if you want to bring it along for your trip. However, just like other Honda generators, this thing is built to last.
Price Check: Honda EU3000iS
Popular Yamaha Inverter Generators
Honda isn’t the only name worth knowing in generators. Yamaha models can easily last decades with proper maintenance. Here are our recommendations.
Yamaha EF2200iS
Yamaha’s take on the 2200-watt generator is comparable to Honda’s, but a few features help it stand out. An LED display will alert you to overloads or low oil so you can avoid damage. It also has a quick reset button to reboot the breaker without turning it off.
The carbon monoxide detector has an auto shutoff to protect your family even while you sleep. It also has a lug on the front panel, so you can install a grounding lug to prevent shocks while you’re nearby.
You won’t have to worry about waking your neighbors with this quiet, portable, fuel-efficient device.
Price Check: Yamaha EF2200iS
Yamaha EF3000iSE
When you need more power on the go, Yamaha’s EF3000iSE inverter generator is a good choice. And at 67 pounds, it’s much lighter than other units in the same class. It also features a manual backup and a key-operated electric start-up.
Built with safety in mind, it includes a carbon monoxide shut-off and a cleanable spark arrestor to prevent fires. Plus, it delivers clean, consistent power within minutes thanks to the auto warm-up.
Price Check: Yamaha EF3000iSE
Which 2200 Watt Inverter Generator Is Better, Honda or Yamaha?
Honda’s 2200-watt generator is lighter and easier to transport. It runs a little quieter, too. But despite the low noise, it’s one of the most powerful, efficient engines in its class. Plus, the fuel-off valve lets you get the carburetor dry, so you don’t have to worry about anything going stale.
In general, the price point of the Honda generator is a little higher. If you need consistent power, the larger engine may help seal the deal.
On the flip side, Yamaha has a bigger fuel tank and a longer run time. And while it may be a few pounds heavier, it comes with three convenient handles to make carrying it easier. It also features a cap to help you drain excess gas and protect your engine.
One of the best benefits it offers is the LED display. This allows you to check the status of your generator easily and adjust your usage as needed.
Both options come with three-year limited warranties and a reputation for longevity, so it’s hard to go wrong with either.
Dig deeper into Honda generators: Honda Generators: 5 Reasons To Buy [and Exclusive Recall Info] EU2200
Is the Honda or Yamaha 3000 Watt Inverter Generator Better?
Honda’s 3000-watt generator manages to get a lot more power per gallon of fuel. Even though its tank is about one-third the size of the Yamaha unit, it still runs almost as long. Unfortunately, it takes up a lot of weight in exchange for efficiency.
And it’s nearly as quiet as the 2200-watt, as well as easier to operate because of the electric start-up feature.
The Yamaha generator has built-in wheels, so you don’t have to purchase them separately. To top it off, it’s about half the weight. If you need to power an air conditioner during your trip, you can pack this on board without sacrificing your load. You’ll also enjoy a longer run time on a full tank.
Once again, the LED displays give it a major advantage over the Honda generator. But it’s a little louder, and its convenience comes at the price of fuel efficiency.
Dig deeper into Yamaha generators: Is a Yamaha Generator Good Enough for RV Life?
Who Does It Best, Yamaha or Honda?
The truth is that both Honda and Yamaha have great generators that can make boondocking much more luxurious. Whether you need backup power at home or want to run your appliances as you wander off the grid, you’re set.
Either brand will give you reliable, clean energy to operate anything you need during your travels. And with a little maintenance, you’ll be set for years to come!
Discover the Best Free Camping Across the USA
To be honest with you, we hate paying for camping. There are so many free campsites in America (with complete privacy).
You should give it a try!
As a matter of fact, these free campsites are yours. Every time you pay federal taxes, you’re contributing to these lands.
Become a FREE CAMPING INSIDER and join the 100,000 campers who love to score the best site!
We’ll send you the 50 Best Free Campsites in the USA (one per state). Access the list by submitting your email below: