Best Inverter Generator Under $500 in 2023 (Review)

Sometimes it might be quite difficult to find the best inverter generator under $500. With every niche market offering so many different products, it makes sense that this is the case.

Unfortunately, this very fact can make it incredibly difficult to find the item that best suits your needs, which is why we’ve put together this inverter generator under $500 buying guide.

Our Best Picks:

#PreviewProduct
1 A-iPower Portable Inverter Generator, 2000W Ultra-Quiet RV Ready, EPA Compliant, Small & Ultra Lightweight For Backup Home Use, Tailgating & Camping (SUA2000iV) A-iPower Portable Inverter Generator, 2000W Ultra-Quiet RV Ready, EPA Compliant, Small & Ultra...
2 Champion Power Equipment 100692 2000-Watt Portable Inverter Generator, Ultralight Champion Power Equipment 100692 2000-Watt Portable Inverter Generator, Ultralight
3 WEN 56235i Super Quiet 2350-Watt Portable Inverter Generator with Fuel Shut Off, CARB Compliant, Ultra Lightweight, Black WEN 56235i Super Quiet 2350-Watt Portable Inverter Generator with Fuel Shut Off, CARB Compliant,...
4 WEN GN400i RV-Ready 4000-Watt Open Frame Inverter Generator, CARB Compliant, Black/orange WEN GN400i RV-Ready 4000-Watt Open Frame Inverter Generator, CARB Compliant, Black/orange
5 GENMAX Portable Inverter Generator,1200W ultra-quiet gas engine, EPA Compliant, Eco-Mode Feature, Ultra Lightweight for Backup Home Use & Camping (GM1200i) GENMAX Portable Inverter Generator,1200W ultra-quiet gas engine, EPA Compliant, Eco-Mode Feature,...
6 Westinghouse 2200 Watt Super Quiet & Lightweight Portable Inverter Generator, Gas Powered, CO Sensor, Parallel Capable, Long Run Time Westinghouse 2200 Watt Super Quiet & Lightweight Portable Inverter Generator, Gas Powered, CO...
7 WEN 56225i 2250-Watt Gas Powered Portable Inverter Generator with Fuel Shut-Off, CARB Compliant , Black WEN 56225i 2250-Watt Gas Powered Portable Inverter Generator with Fuel Shut-Off, CARB Compliant ,...
8 Miniature DC 3.6~6V to 20KV High Voltage Transformer Boost Step up Inverter, Arc Pulse Generator, Power Module, Black Miniature DC 3.6~6V to 20KV High Voltage Transformer Boost Step up Inverter, Arc Pulse Generator,...
9 WEN 55201 Magnetic Oil Dipstick for Inverter Generators (compatible with WEN, Yamaha, Predator) WEN 55201 Magnetic Oil Dipstick for Inverter Generators (compatible with WEN, Yamaha, Predator)
10 AIVOLT 1600W Super Quiet Inverter Generator, Ultra Lightweight Gas Powered Portable Generator for Camping & Home Use, EPA Compliant AIVOLT 1600W Super Quiet Inverter Generator, Ultra Lightweight Gas Powered Portable Generator for...
11 WEN DF475T Dual Fuel 120V/240V Portable Generator with Electric Start Transfer Switch Ready, 4750-Watt, CARB Compliant WEN DF475T Dual Fuel 120V/240V Portable Generator with Electric Start Transfer Switch Ready,...
12 Pulsar G2319N 2,300W Portable Gas-Powered Inverter Generator with USB Outlet & Parallel Capability, CARB Compliant, Gray Pulsar G2319N 2,300W Portable Gas-Powered Inverter Generator with USB Outlet & Parallel Capability,...
13 Westinghouse 4650 Watt Portable Generator, RV Ready 30A Outlet, Gas Powered, CO Sensor, CARB Compliant Westinghouse 4650 Watt Portable Generator, RV Ready 30A Outlet, Gas Powered, CO Sensor, CARB...
14 PowerSmart Portable Generator, 2200 Watts Inverter Generator gas powered, Super Quiet for Outdoor Camping & Home Use, CARB Compliant PS5025 PowerSmart Portable Generator, 2200 Watts Inverter Generator gas powered, Super Quiet for Outdoor...
15 Rainier R2200i Super Quiet Portable Inverter Generator - 1800 Running & 2200 Peak - Gas Powered - CARB Compliant Rainier R2200i Super Quiet Portable Inverter Generator - 1800 Running & 2200 Peak - Gas Powered -...

15 Best Inverter Generator Under $500 Reviews:

SaleBestseller No. 1
A-iPower Portable Inverter Generator, 2000W Ultra-Quiet RV Ready, EPA Compliant, Small & Ultra Lightweight For Backup Home Use, Tailgating & Camping (SUA2000iV)
  • Produces 2,000 starting watts with 1,600 running watts of clean and safe power for sensitive electronics such as phones, televisions, laptops, and other electronics
  • Complete with A-iPower’s “Low idle” technology for an extended run time of 4 hours at 100% load and 7 hours at 50% load
  • Equipped with a low oil alert light and low oil automatic shutdown, helping keep your generator performing year after year
  • Powerful 80cc OHV 4-Stroke engine provides an abundant power supply yet runs at a super quiet operation of only 52 decibels
  • Light weight and compact at only 46 pounds, making your tailgate or camping experience as smooth as possible
SaleBestseller No. 2
Champion Power Equipment 100692 2000-Watt Portable Inverter Generator, Ultralight
  • At only 39 pounds, this inverter is one of the lightest 2000-watt inverters in the industry
  • 53 dBA from 23 feet is perfect for camping, tailgating or to backup a few home essentials, featuring 2000 starting watts, 1700 running watts and up to 11.5 hours run time
  • The optional clip-on parallel kit enables this inverter to connect with another 2000-watt Champion inverter to double your output power
  • Includes two covered 120V 20A household outlets with clean electricity (less than 3% THD)
  • Includes 3-year limited warranty with free lifetime technical support from dedicated experts
Bestseller No. 3
WEN 56235i Super Quiet 2350-Watt Portable Inverter Generator with Fuel Shut Off, CARB Compliant, Ultra Lightweight, Black
  • Ultralight body weighs in at a mere 39 pounds for easy transport and storage
  • Extremely quiet operation comparable to the sound of a normal conversation according to the US Department of Health and Human Services
  • Produces 2350 surge watts and 1900 rated watts of clean power for safe charging of sensitive electronics (phones, tablets, televisions, computers, etc.)
  • Fuel shutoff maximizes the generator’s lifespan by using up the remaining fuel in the carburetor before shutting down
  • Includes two three-prong 120V receptacles, one 12V DC receptacle, two 5V USB ports, and a two-year warranty
Bestseller No. 4
WEN GN400i RV-Ready 4000-Watt Open Frame Inverter Generator, CARB Compliant, Black/orange
  • Dimensions: 19.8" L x 13.8" W x 18.9" H | Weight: 66.1 lb
  • Generate clean power to safely operate sensitive electronics such as phones, tablets, televisions and computers
  • Parallel-ready panel allows you to connect any two WEN inverter generators for increased wattage output
  • 212cc 4-stroke CARB-compliant OHV engine produces 4000 surge watts and 3500 rated watts
  • Includes two 120V NEMA 5-20R receptacles, two 5V USB ports, one 120V RV-ready TT-30R receptacle
SaleBestseller No. 5
GENMAX Portable Inverter Generator,1200W ultra-quiet gas engine, EPA Compliant, Eco-Mode Feature, Ultra Lightweight for Backup Home Use & Camping (GM1200i)
  • 【Powerful Engine and Safe For Sensitive electronics 】The GENMAX 1200 Starting Watts Inverter Generator is powered by a 57cc 4- stroke OHV gas engine,with inverter technology produce 1200 Starting Watts/ 1000 Running Watts clean power (less than 3% THD),  confidently connect your sensitive electronics such as TV, lights, fans, small power tools and more on camping trips, etc.
  • 【Ultralight and Small Size】At only 25.3pounds, GM1200i is one of the lightest 1000w inverter in this industry. The sturdy handle makes it easy to carry for long distance.
  • 【Extremely Quiet,Fuel Efficient】 As Low as 58 dBA Noise Output with 25% loading at 23 feets, and up to 6.5 Hours of Run Time with 50% loading on a 0.66 Gallon Gas Tank – Features “Economy Mode” for Maximum Fuel Efficiency.
  • 【Power Panel】Includes low oil alarm, overload alarm,Co warning light and output indicator features “Eco mode” for conserving energy and maximum fuel efficiency ,120V/20A outlets and one5V / 1A outlets , one 5V / 2.1A outlets ,parallel ready.
  • 【CO Detect Shutdown】 Includes CO Detect shutdown sensor for Prevention of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning.
SaleBestseller No. 6
Westinghouse 2200 Watt Super Quiet & Lightweight Portable Inverter Generator, Gas Powered, CO Sensor, Parallel Capable, Long Run Time
  • 1800 Rated Watts and 2200 Peak Watts at Less Than 3% THD - Weighs Only 47.4 Lbs. - Gas Powered - Two 120V 20 Amp Outlets, Two USB Outlets
  • Great Choice for Home Use as an Emergency Backup in a Power Outage - Strong Enough to Run All Your Home Essentials - Featuring Automatic Low Oil and Carbon Monoxide (CO) Shutdown
  • Extremely Quiet, Extremely Fuel Efficient: as Low as 52 dBA Noise Output and 12 Hour Run Time on a 1. 2 Gallon Gas Tank - Features "Economy Mode" for Maximum Fuel Efficiency
  • Parallel Capable - Combine Your iGen2200c with the Westinghouse WH2200iXLT, iGen1200, iGen2200, and iGen2500 to Increase Available Wattage and Amperage (Requires Westinghouse Parallel Cord)
  • All Westinghouse Portable Generators are Functionally Tested in the Factory and May Contain Minimum Residual Oil and/or Fuel Odor; EPA and CARB Compliant; Backed By 3-Year Limited Service, Labor, and Parts Coverage and Nationwide Customer Service Network
Bestseller No. 7
WEN 56225i 2250-Watt Gas Powered Portable Inverter Generator with Fuel Shut-Off, CARB Compliant , Black
  • Dimensions: 19" x 11.5" x 18.2" | Weight: 48.5 lbs.Dimensions: 19" x 11.5" x 18.2" | Weight: 48.5 lbs
  • Extremely quiet 53 dB operation comparable to the sound of a normal conversation according to the US Department of Health and Human Services
  • EPA III and CARB-Compliant 79.7cc 4-Stroke OHV engine produces 2250 surge watts and 1800 rated watts
  • Fuel shutoff maximizes the generator’s lifespan by using up the remaining fuel in the carburetor before shutting down
  • Produces clean power to safely operate and prevent damage to sensitive electronics such as phones, tablets, televisions and computers
Bestseller No. 8
Miniature DC 3.6~6V to 20KV High Voltage Transformer Boost Step up Inverter, Arc Pulse Generator, Power Module, Black
  • 【Miniature Arc Pulse Booster】This high voltage generator is a finished module of transformer/booster for small scientific production
  • 【High Efficiency】The high voltage converter can output high voltage arc, small size and high efficiency
  • 【Widely Applications】This high voltage pulse generator can be used for high voltage experiment, teaching, and product development
  • 【Working Range】The input voltage of the arc generator is DC 3.6-6V and will output DC20KV high voltage
  • 【Application Principle】Two high voltage wires can light up paper, single high voltage wire can discharge to any metal quietly
Bestseller No. 9
WEN 55201 Magnetic Oil Dipstick for Inverter Generators (compatible with WEN, Yamaha, Predator)
  • Preserve your inverter generator by keeping metal out of the engine
  • Industrial-strength magnetic tip collects metal shavings floating in your generator’s oil tank
  • Machined to fit the WEN Inverter Generators between 1000 and 4000 watts (check model number compatibility below)
  • Universal design measures in at M18 x 2.5, making it compatible with the majority of inverter generators on the market
  • Fits the WEN 56125i, WEN 56200i, WEN 56202i, WEN 56203i, WEN 56225i, WEN 56235i, WEN 56310i, WEN 56310i-RV, WEN 56380i, WEN GN400i, WEN DF400i, Yamaha EF2000iS, Yamaha EF1000iS, Generac IQ2000, Powerhorse 42411 and the Predator 2000
Bestseller No. 10
AIVOLT 1600W Super Quiet Inverter Generator, Ultra Lightweight Gas Powered Portable Generator for Camping & Home Use, EPA Compliant
  • Safe For Sensitive electronics - This AIVOLT gas powered generator with inverter technology produces clean and reliable power (less than 3% THD), safe for your sensitive electronics such as phones, game consoles, projectors, laptops, small power tools, etc
  • Plenty of Power & High Fuel Efficiency - This super quiet inverter generator uses the exclusive AIVOLT 60cc 4- strokes OHV air-cooled 100% copper winding engine with the latest technology to deliver 1600 starting watts and 1260 running watts. With the eco switch, the fuel tank can run for up to 8 hrs at 25% load, helping to save money on fuel costs and is perfect for camping, RV, tailgating, party, work, or power outage
  • Extremely Quiet & Lightweight Design - The ultra-quiet outdoor generator comes with 57 dBA noise at 23 feet, make it extremely to operate and comparable to the sound of a normal conversation. Only 28 pounds, 20% lighter and 10% smaller than others, ultra lightweight and compact, making it easy to store. The sturdy handle makes it easy to carry over long distances
  • Multifunction Control Panel & Parallel Capability - Comes with two 120V 20A outlets, one 5V type-A, and one 5V type-C outlet to meet different requirements. With the 3 indicator lights and an hour meter, you can monitor the status of the machine at any time. Simply use a parallel kit to connect two AIVOLT VS1600101 quiet inverter generators together to double your power. (parallel kit not included)
  • CO Protect & Low Oil Shutoff - This power inverter generator is equipped with CO Alert technology, which can help protect you and your family by automatically shutting down the generator if unsafe levels of carbon monoxide are detected. The low-fuel automatic shutdown combines with built-in overload protection and indicator lights to safeguard both your generator and your electronics from damage
Bestseller No. 11
WEN DF475T Dual Fuel 120V/240V Portable Generator with Electric Start Transfer Switch Ready, 4750-Watt, CARB Compliant
  • Switch between gasoline (4750 surge watts, 3800 running watt) and propane (4350 surge, 3500 running) with the simple turn of the selection dial
  • Voltage easily goes from 120V to 240V, perfect for transfer switches and emergency backup
  • Electric start powers the 224cc 4-stroke OHV engine with the turn of a key
  • 4-gallon tank provides up to 11 hours of half load run time
  • Includes two 120V GFCI outlets (5-20R), a 120V/240V NEMA 30A twist lock (L14-30R), a 12V DC cigarette-lighter-style plug, a bottle of oil, a wheel and handle kit, a 47-inch LPG connection hose, and a 2-year warranty
SaleBestseller No. 12
Pulsar G2319N 2,300W Portable Gas-Powered Inverter Generator with USB Outlet & Parallel Capability, CARB Compliant, Gray
  • 2,300 peak watts/ 1,800 running watts
  • Capable of up to 4.8 hours of operation at Half Load on 1.18 gallons of fuel
  • Compact suitcase design, weighing less than 47 lbs For easy handling
  • Stable sine WAVE Technology provides pure, safe electrical power for powering and charging laptops, cell phones, and other sensitive electronic devices
  • Ideal for Tailgating, Camping, and Small 120V Appliances
SaleBestseller No. 13
Westinghouse 4650 Watt Portable Generator, RV Ready 30A Outlet, Gas Powered, CO Sensor, CARB Compliant
  • 3600 Running Watts and 4650 Peak Watts; Recoil Start; 4 Gallon Fuel Tank With Fuel Gauge; Up to 14 Hours of Run Time Per Tank
  • Feature Two 5–20R 120V Household Duplex Receptacle, One RV-Ready TT-30R 30 Amp Receptacle, and One L5-30R 30 Amp Receptacle; All Outlets Have Rubber Covers for Added Safety
  • Plug-and-Play: Comes With Oil, an Oil Funnel, a Tool Kit, and a User’s Manual to Get You Started Right Out of the Box (Minimal Assembly Required)
  • Powered by a 212cc Westinghouse 4-Stroke OHV Engine Featuring a Long-Lasting Cast Iron Sleeve With Automatic Low Oil and Carbon Monoxide (CO) Shutdown
  • All Westinghouse Portable Generators are Functionally Tested in the Factory and May Contain Minimum Residual Oil and/or Fuel Odor; EPA and CARB Compliant; Backed by 3-Year Limited Service, Labor, and Parts Coverage with Nationwide Customer Service Network
SaleBestseller No. 14
PowerSmart Portable Generator, 2200 Watts Inverter Generator gas powered, Super Quiet for Outdoor Camping & Home Use, CARB Compliant PS5025
  • STRONG POWER FOR LONGER RUNTIME - This 2200W inverter generator equipped with 4 stroke OHV single cylinder engine and forced air cooling system that give you better supprt once in use. Spark plug gap 0.024-0.031 inch, displacement 79cc and fuel tank capacity 1.05 gallons oil capacity 16.9fl.oz. Rated wattage 1900W, surge wattage 2200W.
  • PORTABLE POWER STATION FOR OUTDOOR CAMPING & HOME USE - The portable inverter generator specially designed for charging laptops, mini-cooler, drone, other outdoor electronics and backup for few home essentials. It features with 2* AC outlet(120V), 2*USB-A ports(5V) and 1* DC car port(12V). Quarter load can run up to 10.5hrs, power your wherever you go.
  • SIMPLE TO USE AND CARRY EVERYWHERE - This generator is portable with ulta-lightweight 42.5 pounds. The dimension of the power generator is 20.9'' length x 13.8'' width x 19.9'' height. More compact than you imagine. Parallel ready design enables this inverter to connect with 2 PowerSmart generator for double your output support up to 3800W. Great solution for your outdoor needs.
  • SUPER QUIET GENERATOR WITH CLEAN POWER - This portable inverter generator works under low volume with 58dBA from 23feet, which is perfect for camping, emergency home use. It comes out with clean electricity less than 1.2 harmonic distortion. Provie you a peaceful and eco-friendly environment.
  • WE CARES EACH OF YOU - PowerSmart is always aiming on providing great consumers value with the absolute best value and quality entire line of products. We committed to provide 3 YEAR WARRANTY and premium customer service to all of you. ATTENTION: Please read and follow the instruction through manual before operating the generator.
SaleBestseller No. 15
Rainier R2200i Super Quiet Portable Inverter Generator - 1800 Running & 2200 Peak - Gas Powered - CARB Compliant
  • 1800 Rated Watts and 2200 Peak Watts; Gasoline Powered; Up to 13 Hours of Run Time; Gasoline Powered; 1.3 Gallon Fuel Tank
  • Rainier 79cc OHV 4 Stroke Engine with Easy Access Recoil Start; Features “Eco (Economy) Mode” for Conserving Energy and Maximum Fuel Efficiency
  • Super Quiet Operation; Enjoy a Hushed Hum of as Low as 52 dBA While Providing A Stable Power Source for All Your Sensitive Electronics Such as Smartphones, Tablets, Televisions, and Computers (noise rating obtained at a distance of 7 meters in a controlled environment)
  • Control Panel Includes Low Oil Alarm, Overload Alarm, and Output Indicator; Two 5-20R 120V 20 AMP Household Outlets; One 12V 15 AMP DC Outlet; One Neutral Floating Grounding Port; Stop and Reset Buttons
  • Equipped with Built-In Handle at a Lightweight 44 Lbs.; Ultra Compact and Portable to Make Transporting Your New Generator Effortless Wherever You Go

Last update on 2023-03-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

How to find the best inverter generator under $500?

Here, we’ll be going over a number of factors that you can use to ensure that you’re purchasing the best inverter generator under $500 for you.

Regardless of which type of item you’re looking to buy, chances are that there are existing buying guides on the internet, all of which aim to give you good inverter generator under $500 recommendations.

Despite these recommendations, however, it’s always a good idea to do your own research. In addition to this research, asking yourself the following questions is also super helpful:

  • What features does the inverter generator under $500 need to have to be perfect for my needs?
  • What is my budget?
  • Do I need to purchase a certain brand?

Once you’ve answered these questions and have a good idea of what you’re looking for and the buying process becomes much easier. Keep in mind that when looking for the best product, there’s no need to rush. In fact, very rarely are the ideal products found by choosing the first one you see or by basing your decisions on only one factor. Take your time and enjoy the process!

Now, with the answers to the previous questions in mind, we urge you to use our upcoming buying guide for inverter generator under $500 to find what you’re looking for:

Brand

In some cases, the brand of inverter generator under $500 is very important. For example, if you’re looking for an item that works in tandem with another, you might very well need both products to be the same brand. If this is the case, it’s vital to pay attention to this factor, as choosing the wrong product can mean the difference between wasting your money and buying a great product that functions as it should.

Features

The features in any given inverter generator under $500 are important because they can dictate which version of an item you need and how much money you need to spend. Consider all the key features that you want your item to have and don’t settle for anything that doesn’t check at least ¾ of your boxes.

Reviews

Customer reviews about inverter generator under $500 are crucial – especially when you’re buying a product that costs a lot of money or serves a big importance. Luckily, most products can be found online, which means that it’s common for there to be scores of customer reviews from those who have already purchased any given product.

Pay attention to these reviews. Take note of the pros and cons that they mention, and factor these into your big decision. In some cases, you’ll be forced to sacrifice one con in order to gain a particular pro, but being aware of the potential con is going to be beneficial in either case.

Quality

Of course, quality is key. You don’t want to purchase a low-quality product. If you do, you run the risk of your item breaking, not working properly, or otherwise proving to be very disappointing, as well as a waste of money.

You can compare inverter generator under $500 quality by researching what your potential purchases are made from, contrasting the individual items against each other to discern which one is made of the best materials.

Warranty

Warranty isn’t always going to be important, but it definitely can be. This is especially true if the item in question is tech-related or expensive. A good warranty will be valid for an extended time after purchase and cover a variety of problems ranging from item defects to random accidents, water damage, and other miscellaneous events that could ruin your product.

Conclusion

The quest to find the best inverter generator under $500 can be daunting – but it doesn’t have to be. It can be made much easier by asking yourself a few simple questions and then thinking critically about the items you want to buy. Consider their features, quality, brand, warranty, and customer reviews and you’re more likely to make a great purchase.