What Are The Best 3500 Watt Generators – Our Pick For 2022

  • By: James S
  • Date: June 8, 2022
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Are you planning a trip with the family soon? Perhaps spending some much-needed time together in the outdoors Maybe you are experiencing power outages, or you want a portable generator with a lot more power? One thing to consider when outdoor camping or using an RV would be your source of power. The last thing you want to be doing is hauling around a large or heavy generator. So instead, we would suggest choosing the best 3500 watt portable generators.

In A Hurry?….

Check out our 3 top 3500 watt generators below:

Champion Power Equipment 100554 4375/3500-Watt RV Ready Portable Generator with Wireless Remote Start, CARB
Champion Power Equipment 100554 4375/3500-Watt RV Ready Portable Generator with Wireless Remote Start, CARB
9.7/10
  • WIRELESS REMOTE START: Start and stop with ease from up to 80 feet away with the included wireless remote key fob – push-button power and convenience like never before
  • ELECTRIC START: Trust the reliable 208cc Champion engine with its battery-included electric start featuring a 3-way ignition switch, plus built-in Cold Start Technology for easy starts in cold weather
  • RELIABLE AND POWERFUL: At 4375 starting watts and 3500 running watts, enjoy up to 12 hours of run time on a full tank of gasoline with a noise level of 68 dBA from 23 feet
  • COVERED OUTLETS: 120V 30A locking, 120V 30A RV and two 120V 20A outlets and Volt Guard built-in surge protector prevents overloads and keeps your appliances and equipment safe
  • CHAMPION SUPPORT: Includes 3-year limited warranty with FREE lifetime technical support from dedicated experts
Generac GP3500iO Open Frame RV Ready Inverter Generator - 3500 Starting Watts with PowerRush Technology
Generac GP3500iO Open Frame RV Ready Inverter Generator - 3500 Starting Watts with PowerRush Technology
9.5/10
  • PowerRUSH Technology - Delivers over 50% more starting capacity-allowing you to do more with less
  • Up to 50% quieter - ideal for noise sensitive environments/ up to 25% lighter - for improved portability
  • True power technology - clean power for sensitive electronics
  • RV ready - connect directly to RV to power most RV air conditioners up to 15, 000 BTU
  • USB outlets and parallel ready - connect 2 units together for double the power
Generac 7127 iQ3500-3500 Watt Portable Inverter Generator Quieter Than Honda, Orange/Black
Generac 7127 iQ3500-3500 Watt Portable Inverter Generator Quieter Than Honda, Orange/Black
9.1/10
  • ULTRA-QUIET – 40% Quieter than Honda* Advanced inverter technology and enclosure design provide optimal quiet performance (* Over 5 dB(A) quieter than the EU3000is, based on independent third-party testing)
  • Ideal for work or play - durable steel enclosure, clean inverter power and easy portability make this the ideal generator for jobsites or recreational activities
  • 16% more power than Honda, Featuring power rush advanced technology.Rated AC Frequency:60 Hz
  • Digital smart lcd - digital wattage meter, run time remaining display, generator status, hour meter and fuel level
  • USB ports - charge mobile devices including smartphones and tablets
  • Electric start with power dial start/run/stop - three operation settings integrated into one simple-to-use dial (battery included)

These portable inverter generators are compact and lightweight design. As well as being extremely portable, many of the inverter generators offer electric start, eco mode and have a quiet operation.

Being mid-sized and easy to carry around means that they are ideal for powering appliances and those all-important electronic devices……after all, we need to keep the kids happy, right!?

As well as being a great choice when spending time in the outdoors, they are a great option when there is a power outage in your neighbourhood.

A 3500 watt generator provides reliable power and many models come with a built in overload protection.

Added to this, the inverter generators will also produce clean electricity which is a huge plus for our planet too!

Things To Consider When Buying A Portable 3500 Watt Generator?

Not sure about the best buy on a generator? Here are some of the things to consider while shopping.

What Will You Be Using The Portable Generator For?

Do you plan on using it for camping, powering up your home appliances, or maybe using it for your business? Understanding the purpose of use will determine the wattage you need.

What Is Your Budget?

Like with any large purchase, determining your budget will mean that you are not going over the top. You may also want to factor in shipping or transport charges when ordering one online.

Brand And Warranty

The best brands have a warranty to cover any faults with the unit. Many also offer a money-back guarantee! As well as being reliable, you want to purchase from a reputable brand that offers good customer service if needed.

Conventional Or Inverter?

Inverter generators are more efficient, easier to use, and are more silent. They are also easier to start up, and the output is cleaner.

Conventional generators are heavier, bulkier, and are louder. They are also cheaper to purchase.

Each type of generator has its advantages and disadvantages, but because inverter generators produce cleaner electricity, they are preferred.

Portability

Portability is a huge factor and will be determined by you. You may want to look at the weight and wheeled designs of the generator. Some generators also offer handlebar carrying design which helps! Others have removable wheels.

Noise Level

If you plan to use the generator for outdoor camping, it is essential to be aware of the noise level. Many come with a built-in muffler and offer decibel ratings that help you pick out the best one for your needs.

Fuel Capacity And Run Time

The fuel capacity will determine how long or how often you need to refuel. You also want a portable generator that will run long enough for your needs, whether camping, weekend power outages, or powering up appliances at home.

How Loud Are These Generators?

3500 watt generators are typically not too loud and come with a built-in muffler to produce less noise. There is, of course, still some noise emitted but it is quieter than some other models.

Most 3500 watt generators emit around 68 decibels, making them relatively quiet compared to other models.

Loud generators can be annoying to neighbors and can wear you or your family down quickly!

Do These Portable Generators Offer Good Fuel Efficiency?

Fuel efficiency varies by model. For example, 3500-watt generators are reliable in their fuel efficiency but not as fuel-efficient as smaller, 2000 watt models due to the power draw of the generator itself.

You can usually expect a full gas tank to last for around 10-12 hours.

What Is The Power Output of a 3500-watt generator?

A 3500-watt generator is one of the best options for emergency backup electricity as it can supply power to run several medium-sized household appliances at once.

It will provide around 14 amps on 240 volts or 28amps with standard 120 voltages, making this an ideal choice if you need to power your essentials next time there is an outage!

Can You Consider A Quiet Generator To Be 3500 Watts?

3500 watts is also considered to be quiet. It may not run as quietly as 2000 watt models, but it will still be quieter than most others on the market today.

If you are concerned about noise because you will be using your 3500 generators on a campsite, you can feel at ease because it is quiet enough to do so. You can still run it during the night without disrupting your camping party.

What Are The Quietest 3500 Watt Inverter Generators?

The Generac models are the quietest of all the generators that we reviewed. They have a very low noise level which is why they are perfect for camping or any other event where you will be in close proximity to the generator.

Remember, the size of the engine and the type of fan used will impact how loud a generator is. Some generators, such as Generac, use a sound shield to lessen noise levels.

The oil-filled crankcase design also works to minimize vibration, which could mean extra noise coming from the piston sloshing around inside the cylinder.

Is An Inverter Generator Fuel Efficient?

Inverter generators tend to be more fuel-efficient in their operation, but it will vary depending on the wattage and type of generator you purchase.

Inverter generators are more fuel-efficient because they produce less heat. Instead of converting fuel to energy through combustion with the engine, as in a conventional generator, an inverter generator produces electricity with special magnetized induction coils.

The lack of heat reduces the power lost as the energy moves from the fuel source to its final destination (electrical appliances). Inverter generators also tend to have more sophisticated power regulation and filtering technologies, further reducing energy loss.

Generac 7127 iQ3500-3500 Watt Portable Inverter Generator Quieter Than Honda, Orange/Black
  • ULTRA-QUIET – 40% Quieter than Honda* Advanced inverter technology and enclosure design provide optimal quiet performance (* Over 5 dB(A) quieter than the EU3000is, based on independent third-party testing)
  • Ideal for work or play - durable steel enclosure, clean inverter power and easy portability make this the ideal generator for jobsites or recreational activities
  • 16% more power than Honda, Featuring power rush advanced technology.Rated AC Frequency:60 Hz
  • Digital smart lcd - digital wattage meter, run time remaining display, generator status, hour meter and fuel level
  • USB ports - charge mobile devices including smartphones and tablets
  • Electric start with power dial start/run/stop

Generac is one of the most trusted names in power generation and supplies quality products for over 60 years. The Generac 7127 ixGenerator is one of their best generators.

Here are some of the things that make the Generac 7127 stand out:

Due to its extreme portability, the Generac 7127 model is ideal for either recreational or construction settings. Boasting a compact design and weight of only 109 pounds, you can bring the Generac 7127 to Nascar events, football games, jobsites, or on a family camping trip.

The Generac 7127 also uses advanced inverter technology and enclosure design to provide performance (16% more power than Honda) – and it does so quietly! Dare I say, extremely quiet?

Pros
  • Durable & portable design
  • Electric start & pull start
  • USB plugins for your smaller electronic devices
  • Two engine speeds allow you to control noise and fuel consumption
Cons
  • Potential quality control issues reported
  • Fuel gauge difficult to read

Champion Power Equipment 100554 4375/3500-Watt RV Ready Portable Generator with Wireless Remote Start, CARB
  • WIRELESS REMOTE START: Start and stop with ease from up to 80 feet away with the included wireless remote key fob – push-button power and convenience like never before
  • ELECTRIC START: Trust the reliable 208cc Champion engine with its battery-included electric start featuring a 3-way ignition switch, plus built-in Cold Start Technology for easy starts in cold weather
  • RELIABLE AND POWERFUL: At 4375 starting watts and 3500 running watts, enjoy up to 12 hours of run time on a full tank of gasoline with a noise level of 68 dBA from 23 feet
  • COVERED OUTLETS: 120V 30A locking, 120V 30A RV and two 120V 20A outlets and Volt Guard built-in surge protector prevents overloads and keeps your appliances and equipment safe
  • CHAMPION SUPPORT: Includes 3-year limited warranty with FREE lifetime technical support from dedicated experts

Champion Power Equipment is a company with an unrivaled reputation for producing high quality power equipment.

The champion power equipment 100554 3500-Watt RV Ready Portable Generator with Wireless Remote Start is the ultimate way to keep your home running in a crisis. The Remote start technology will have you feeling like a king! So you can turn on your generator while you lay back and kick your feet up

In our research, some of the things customers loved most are:

1) The setup and instructions are very intuitive so there are no difficulties out of the box

2) The LED readout gives a lot of great information such as volts, running time for the session, all run time for the generator, and frequency (Hertz)

With enough juice for an entire 15,000 BTU air conditioner and features like remote start that are sure make this portable genny useful no matter where you go! And on top of all these great perks?

The beastly 208cc single-cylinder OHV engine can handle anything from small tools to big project jobs.

Pros
  • Electric remote start + cold start technology
  • “Never flat wheels” for portability
  • A nationwide network of service centers will back up your purchase for 3 years
  • 12 hours run time and clean energy
  • Keeps your appliances safe with a volt guard and surge protector
Cons
  • Rare negative experiences reported
  • The “volt guard” might be oversold, and you might not be able to trust the claims they make

Champion Power Equipment 100307 Dual Fuel

The Champion 3500-watt RV Ready generator has a 224cc engine to run on either gasoline or propane.

It also makes it easy for you to get started with your power in an emergency by automatically switching from one fuel source type according to what’s available at the time of use – this way, there are never any worries about running out!

Propane is a useful fuel source for emergencies because it has an unlimited shelf life. You can store propane months in advance, allowing you to prepare more for any storm that may come along! Gas contains ethanol which makes long term gas storage less viable – but not to worry with this good boy around!

In our research, some of the things customers loved most were:

1) Was easy to set up in “about 15 minutes”

2) Successfully ran for 4 days straight during Hurricane Irma and never skipped a beat until they regained power

This generator has been tried and tested!

It also comes equipped with a volt guard to prevent dangerous voltage spikes, which could damage sensitive electronics like laptops when connected directly into shore power outlets without protection, while cold start improves efficiency after sitting unused over winter months.

Pros
  • Has dual-fuel capability
  • It weighs slightly less at 104.9 pounds
  • Electric remote start + cold start technology
Cons
  • No wheels
  • Slightly less run time on gasoline at 9 hours
  • Some users say it’s loud

Generac 3500iO Open Frame RV Ready

The Generac GP3500iO Open Frame Inverter Generator is the ideal portable power solution for anyone who needs to do more with less.

This compact powerhouse delivers as much wattage of electricity to keep pumps, refrigerators, water heaters, and other essential appliances running – and you’ll even have watts to spare!

As with all Generac generators, the GP3500iO is backed by a network of independent company-owned retail locations throughout North America.

In our research, we learned that some of the things customers loved most are:

1) It’s extremely easy to start

2) The noise level is just as quiet as some 2000 watt generators

3) The noise level is HALF as quiet as other 3500 watt generators

All in all, the Generac Generac GP3500iO is lightweight and versatile can be used as either a portable home generator or stationary standby unit – whatever your needs are, this generator is ready to work hard.

Pros
  • Extremely light, only 74.9 pounds
  • Ultra-quiet – up to 50% quieter
  • It packs a punch! High starting power for its size
Cons
  • Only 1 year warranty for commercial use
  • Only has recoil pull-start capability
  • Only 8 hours run time on 50% load

Briggs & Stratton S3500

Need to power your RV while out camping? This Briggs and Stratton portable generator should do the trick! It has a 3500-watt capacity, 120V/30A outlet that’ll make it easy for you.

And with enough juice (and air conditioning), you’ll be nice and comfortable all summer long – no matter how hot things get inside those metal walls of yours on an average day at home or in paradise.

It has enough power in its 30A RV outlet so your recreational vehicle will be running smoothly when hooked up!

For one thing: customers really loved how easy this generator is to maintain! Many of them commented that it’s so simple and quick – they can start up in just minutes or even seconds when needed for their specific power needs (which was nice because not all generators come with such versatility).

One unique aspect of this generator is that it also has carbon monoxide protection. It automatically senses carbon monoxide levels to ensure your safety.

Pros
  • Has enough power to run a 15,000 BTU RV air conditioner
  • Efficient run time of 10 hrs @ 50% load
  • Never-Go-Flat wheels and a fold-up handle
Cons
  • Shorter warranty compared to others (Only 2 year consumer warranty)
  • Open frame configuration makes it loud

Conclusion

If you are searching for the best 3500 watt generators then we would recommend the Briggs & Stratton S3500. This is a reliable generator and is a top choice when camping, as well as powering your RV.