For small power needs, like charging some household appliances, running a small power tool, or camping, a 2000W generator is just enough. While this power range is considered to be relatively quiet compared to its larger models, noise is still worth considering.
In this list, our team will share with you their quietest 2000-watt generators that they researched, tested, and collected over the past couple of months.
Here are the quietest 2000 watt generators you can buy in 2024:
- Dual Fuel: Champion Power Equipment 100402
- Ultra Lightweight: WEN 56203i
- Best For Extended Performance: A-iPower SUA2000
- Fuel Efficient: Briggs & Stratton P2200
- Best Parallel Capability: Westinghouse iGen2200
- Easy To Start: PowerSmart Generator
| 6 Quietest 2000 Watt Generators | ||
|---|---|---|
Dual Fuel | Champion Power Equipment 100402 | |
Ultra Lightweight | WEN 56203i | |
Best For Extended Performance | A-iPower SUA2000 | |
Fuel Efficient | Briggs & Stratton P2200 | |
Best Parallel Capability | Westinghouse iGen2200 | |
Easy To Start | PowerSmart Generator | |
Dual Fuel: Champion Power Equipment 100402
- Offer flexibility in fuel sources – dual-fuel design
- Dependable – made by a famous brand & backed by a 3-year warranty
- Convenient and powerful - parallel capability and Ez Start dial
- The parallel kit is sold separately
- Not start in the run position or on full choke
Dual-fuel generators are the perfect choice for those who want comfort and flexibility in fuel sources, especially during storm-related shortages or outdoor use when gasoline is usually hard to buy.
At the 2000-watt range, there are a variety of brands that provide dual-fuel generators, but the Champion’s is the most affordable yet reliable we have tested.
The reason we appreciate its reliability is that Champion has been one of the most well-known generator manufacturers in the industry. Additionally, they offer a 3-year warranty with this line, which is far beyond the industrial standards.
A bonus for its parallel capability and Ez Start dial for extra convenience. But we would be impressed more if it also included a parallel kit in the package.
| Champion Power Equipment 100402 Specifications | |
|---|---|
Peak Watts/Running Watts | 1800w/1440w on propane 2000W/1600W on gasoline |
Noise Level | 53 dba from 23 feet |
Max Runtime | up to 11 hours |
Highlight Features | dual-fuel design made by a famous brand & backed by a 3-year warranty parallel capability and Ez Start dial |
At a highly competitive price tag and made by a dependable manufacturer, along with an excellent warranty, the Champion Power Equipment 100402 is the best dual-fuel generator in the 2000W range.
Ultra Lightweight: WEN 56203i
- Ultra-lightweight and easy to maneuver – dimensions of 17.3 x 11.5 x 17.7 inches & the weight of 39 pounds
- Allow for charging more home appliances simultaneously – provide two USB adaptors, one 12V DC outlet, and two 3-prong 120V ones
- Useful and low-maintenance - fuel shutoff
- The plastic pull starter could be sturdier
- Wish it had a watt usage indicator
As for easy go-and-grab power, we find the WEN 56203i is worth considering because it’s one of the lightest out there, weighing at 39 pounds. It is also the most compact option here, with an approximately square shape and 11.5-inch depth, along with a handy carrying handle.
Another notable fact is that, at the 2000W range, this model is the quietest out of its competitors.
According to the US Department of Health and Human Services, its hum is just as quiet as the sound of a normal 2-person conversation.
Our team testers really appreciate the extra outlets built on this unit, including two USB adaptors, one 12V DC outlet, and two 3-prong 120V ones, making its performance optimal. The added fuel shutoff also comes in handy, as it makes maintenance friendlier.
| WEN 56203i Specifications | |
|---|---|
Peak Watts/Running Watts | 2000W/1700W |
Noise Level | 51 decibels at quarter load |
Max Runtime | 10.8 Hours Quarter-Load |
Highlight Features | dimensions of 17.3 x 11.5 x 17.7 inches & the weight of 39 pounds provide two USB adaptors, one 12V DC outlet, and two 3-prong 120V ones fuel shutoff |
Weighing at only 39 pounds, the WEN 56203i is obviously the most lightweight option on our list. Besides, it’s very safe, quiet, and convenient to use.
Best For Extended Performance: A-iPower SUA2000
- Offer longer runtime than its competitors – the exclusive “Low idle” technology
- Safe & user-friendly - the low oil automatic shutdown and the low oil indicator feature
- Wish there were more outlets
To deal with long-term power outages, the A-iPower SUA2000 is a shining contender due to its exclusive “Low idle” technology, which makes the overall runtime extended up to 7 hours at ½ load.
We also conducted several individual tests to verify this statement. As a result, it did last approximately 11 hours at 25% load. We believe that if run at eco mode, its runtime could be even longer.
The model packs a punch, with an emphasis on the low oil automatic shutdown and the low oil indicator feature.
For the price, this is truly a steal.
| A-iPower SUA2000 Specifications | |
|---|---|
Peak Watts/Running Watts | 2000W/1600W |
Noise Level | 52 decibels |
Max Runtime | 7 hours at 50% load |
Highlight Features | the exclusive “Low idle” technology the low oil automatic shutdown and the low oil indicator feature |
When it comes to the quietest 2000W generator for extended performance, the A-iPower SUA2000 is always our confident pick.
Fuel Efficient: Briggs & Stratton P2200
- Fuel-efficient - a 111 cc OHV engine
- Capable of offering double power output – parallel port
- Easy to share the generator’s heft with the others during transportation - a smart H-handle design
- Not allowed in National Parks
- A bit heavy
Admittedly, we were a bit biased when including this 2200W generator in this list.
But all of our testers believe that you’ll like it due to its decent balance of lightness, quiet operation, and efficient power that can work well in most situations, whether emergencies, shortages, or camping.
It highlights a 111 cc OHV engine that is inherently considered to be ultra-quiet and fuel-efficient. Therefore, despite featuring a just 1-gallon tank, the unit still can last for 8 hours of constant runtime at ¼ load.
If you want higher power output, feel free to take advantage of its parallel capability.
| Briggs & Stratton P2200 Specifications | |
|---|---|
Peak Watts/Running Watts | 2200W/1700W |
Noise Level | 59 decibels |
Max Runtime | 8 hours at 25% load |
Highlight Features | a 111 cc OHV engine parallel port a smart H-handle design |
Considering its superior fuel efficiency to similar counterparts in the market, the Briggs & Stratton P2200 is a worthwhile investment.
Best Parallel Capability: Westinghouse iGen2200
- Able to pair with various lines of Westinghouse to meet different power needs – parallel capabilities with iGen2500, iGen2200, and iGen1200
- Consistent performance – a 1.2 fuel tank for 12 hours of runtime
- Dependable - EPA and CARB certified, economy mode, & tested in separate labs
- A bit rough in operation at no load
The Westinghouse iGen2200 is our last exception in this post, and the reason is its parallel capability. We know that there are a variety of models out there that have this feature but the iGen2200 has been our most favorite for over 3 years.
Why?
It’s because the unit allows for pairing with many of the manufacturer’s lines, consisting of iGen2500, iGen2200, and iGen1200, for extra high power output, not just doubled.
The ultra-large fuel tank is another plus, making its overall runtime extended up to 12 hours at ½ load, which is incredible for regular 2000W generators.
It’s also extremely safe and dependable to use, by getting EPA and CARB certifications, featuring economy mode, and being tested in separate labs for minimum smoke release and residual oil.
| Westinghouse iGen2200 Specifications | |
|---|---|
Peak Watts/Running Watts | 2200W/1800W |
Noise Level | 52 dBA |
Max Runtime | 12 Hours |
Highlight Features | parallel capabilities with iGen2500, iGen2200, and iGen1200 a 1.2 fuel tank for 12 hours of runtime EPA and CARB certified, economy mode, & tested in separate labs |
If you’re after the quietest and most dependable 2000W generator with advanced parallel capabilities, choose the Westinghouse iGen2200
Easy To Start: PowerSmart Generator
- Easy to start – feature a functional pull coil
- User-friendly – light indicator & various outlets
- Long-lasting & low-maintenance - forced air cooling system
- No complaint
For non-experienced users, the most important thing we believe when considering a generator is an easy-to-start design.
That’s why we included the PowerSmart Generator in this list.
While most gas-powered generators averagely require three pulls of the power coil to start, this one started right up and was really quiet.
Besides, it is engineered to be user-friendly, boasting 5 different outlets (including two USB adaptors for charging smartphones and tablets). The 4 stroke OHV single-cylinder with a forced air cooling system also comes in handy for low maintenance.
| PowerSmart Generator Specifications | |
|---|---|
Peak Watts/Running Watts | 2000W/1700W |
Noise Level | 52 dB at 23 feet |
Max Runtime | 7 hours |
Highlight Features | feature a functional pull coil light indicator & various outlets forced air cooling system |
In terms of easy-to-start design, the PowerSmart Generator far outperforms the other brands.
How To Choose The Quietest 2000 Watt Generator?
Determine Where The 2000w Generator Is Used
The measuring unit of generators’ noise levels is decibels (dB or dBA). And, the required decibel rating of quiet generators is from 50-60dB.
However, in some countries, there are regulations on the maximum noise level allowance for specific areas, which means if the noise created by any of your devices exceeds the regulations, you might be punished by law.
It is essential for all people to learn about these noise regulations in your living area, therefore, to choose a 2000W generator with the right noise levels.
Below is the day and night noise classification table for you to consider:
Land use destination classes | The noise level allowance | |
Daytime (6.00 a.m. – 10.00 p.m.) | Night (10.00 p.m. – 6.00 a.m.) | |
Rural areas affected by activities using operating machinery. Urban areas that have average population density with commercial activities; no industrial activity Urban areas affected by traffic crossing or local vehicular traffic | 60 | 50 |
Urban areas mainly for residential use | 55 | 45 |
Public parks High urban interest areas Rural residential areas Areas for rest and recreation School areas Hospital areas | 50 | 40 |
Inverter Technology
The fact that those generators built with an inverter engine run more quietly than those that aren’t.
The reason is that inverter engines use advanced sound-dampening technology and are constructed of special mufflers. Particularly, when the load is light, it can throttle back for quieter operation and fuel-saving.
The only cons of inverter generators are their high cost, which might be a big difficulty for people on a tight budget to buy. However, in the long run, it’s worth a try.
Which Brands Make The Quietest 2000 Watt Generator?
WEN Products
WEN Products has been one of the most reliable brands in designing and distributing the quietest, budget-friendly portable generators since 1951. They have been developing a wide range of lines, focusing on quality, performance, and especially, quietness.
A-iPower
A-iPower provides customers with numerous portable generators that are custom-made for different power needs, such as on the weekend, at the job site, and at home.
With 30 years of expertise, they do know how to make their products become not only the quietest but also the most innovative and cost-effective.
Briggs & Stratton
Speaking of the brands making the quietest gas-power generators, Briggs & Stratton deserves the 1st ranking position in the chart. Being one of the oldest manufacturers, they have been selling their products in over 100 countries up to now.
Westinghouse
This 1886-founded brand is currently the leader in portable generator manufacturing. They were one of the companies owning the most patents during the 20th century, which mainly helps their products amazingly quiet despite the high power output.
FAQs
How many dB is a quiet generator?
A quiet generator, in general, should have a decibel rating between 50-60dB.
Can I make my generator quieter?
Yes, you can. Here are some effective ways to make a generator quieter:
- Replace the muffler
- Add a muffle box or an enclosure
- Use sound deflectors
- Add rubber feet or place the machine on a soft surface.
Why is my generator so loud?
There are some common reasons for a loudly-working generator:
- It’s running at high load
- It’s a powerful generator - The bigger the generator’s power output, the louder the operation noise
- Feature no sound deflecting components
- It’s broken somewhere
- You put the generator too close to you
Why are Honda generators so quiet?
Honda generators are so quiet because of three reasons:
- Its engine speed isn’t tied to the generator’s output frequency
- The specifically designed engine to be quieter
- Muffler
Can a 2000-watt generator run a refrigerator?
Yes, it can. A 2000W generator can run most household refrigerators.
Conclusion
And, that’s all for this comprehensive buying guide. Hopefully, we have provided you with all the pieces of information you need for choosing the quietest 2000-watt generator.
We also would like to know your thoughts about our picks. Which is your best bet? Have you tried it?
Please share with us through the comment section, and finally, thanks for reading!
