There are several benefits to having a generator on hand which include the need to power your home during a power outage.
The power rarely goes out but it’s always better to be prepared in the event it does.
Moreover, portable generators can be a great tool for your RV or when you go camping.
However, the one issue with generators that most people have is the amount of noise they generate.
You do not want to be the one house on the block that is disturbing the neighborhood.
In this instance, you need the best quiet generator.
The quietest generator will serve its purpose without annoying you or your neighbor.
Let us have a look at some of the quiet generators available today.
You can also check out our quiet sump pump review guide if you are dealing with flooding in and around your home to eliminate any electrical issues.
7 best quiet generators for silent operation
- Noise level: 49 dB
- Running Watts: 2800W
- Weight: 144 pounds
The Honda Super Quiet EU3000IS1A is possibly the sturdiest and quietest generator on the market.
Unlike other models, this particular quiet generator can power a variety of appliances including televisions, microwaves, and refrigerators among others.
It can even power a 15,000 BTU AC and still have enough wattage to power other appliances.
What is more, is that this unit does not exceed 50dB which is perfect for those who need a generator to use at RV campsites or just a quiet generator.
The fuel tank capacity is 3.4 gallons which lasts a fairly long time due to the Eco-throttle mode that saves fuel.
A single tank of fuel can run from 7.2 to 20 hours depending on the load.
On the plus side, this Honda generator as all others comes with a parallel capacity which allows you to connect two EU3000IS1A and double up your total output.
It also comes with a 3-years limited warranty period for repairs and damages due to manufacturer’s defects.
- Noise level: 51 dB
- Running Watts: 2000W
- Weight: 39 pounds
The Wen 56203i has a decibel rating of 51dB which means that it is fairly quiet and won’t disturb those around you.
What makes this unit stand out is its ability to power laptops, cellphones, tablets, and other sensitive electronic devices that are damaged easily.
Alongside its quiet nature, this quiet portable generator conserves gasoline with a full tank offering over five hours of power at half-load.
The eco-mode throttle not only conserves energy but also detects when your items are plugged in or not which allows it to manage fuel effectively.
Low fuel and low oil settings automatically shut off the unit while indicator lights keep you updated on what”s happening with the unit.
Also included with its purchase is a two-year warranty.
If you need more power you can link two Wen 56203i generators with a separate connection kit.
- 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...
- Produces 2000 surge watts and 1700 rated watts of clean power for safe charging of sensitive...
- Noise level: 53 dB
- Running Watts: 1600W
- Weight: 46.2 pounds
The Generac 6866 iQ2000 super quiet generator allows you to customize the output to suit various needs.
This can be done by switching between the three modes(Turbo, Standard, or Economy) by toggling the PowerDial.
These modes help to save energy and allow the unit to produce as little noise as possible.
It is also equipped with great display features with the PowerDial and PowerBar showing the exact wattage you are producing so you know what can and cannot be plugged in.
The Generac IQ2000 comes with a 1.06-gallon fuel tank and a run time is about 7.7 hours on ¼ load.
While it may not be the quietest generator on the market, it is very handy for someone who is always on the move due to its portable design.
The warranty period for this unit is 3 years for defects in materials and workmanship.
- AC Rated Output(Running/Starting): 1600/2000 Watts; AC Rated Voltage: 120V
- PowerDial integrates start/run/stop functions into 1 easy-to-use dial
- PowerBar monitors and displays wattage used; Electronic Fuel Gauge displays remaining fuel; Runtime...
- Noise level: 52dB
- Running Watts: 1000W
- Weight: 35 pounds
Westinghouse quiet generators are a great option if you are on a budget and need a durable generator.
Despite their low price range, they have the same functionalities and sturdy designs as the more expensive brands.’
The Westinghouse iGen1200 super quiet generator is a lightweight and quiet portable generator that weighs just 35 pounds.
Due to its lightweight nature, it is perfect to provide a source of power when camping.
It can power a few gadgets, camping lights, and other small devices since the power output is just 1000W.
This means it won’t be able to power an ac unit or portable heating.
The fuel capacity of this silent generator is 0.8 gallons that run for 9 hours at 25% load.
The Westinghouse iGen1200 generator is parallel capable with the Westinghouse Parallel cable which you have to purchase separately.
It comes with a 3-year limited warranty.
- 1000 Rated Watts and 1200 Peak Watts at Less Than 3% THD – Weighs Only 33 Lbs. – Gas Powered –...
- Great Choice for Home Use as an Emergency Backup in a Power Outage – Strong Enough to Run Most...
- Extremely Quiet, Extremely Fuel Efficient: As Low as 52 dBA Noise Output and Up to 9 Hours of Run...
- Noise level: 53dB
- Running Watts: 2000W
- Weight: 75 pounds
The Yamaha EF2400iSHC portable inverter generator comes with the ability to increase motor starting capability as well as enhanced air conditioning starting.
The consumption management system on this silent generator regulates the engine speed to exactly match the load.
To further reduce damage, the Yamaha’s Oil Watch Warning System alerts you when the oil is low which can save you from costly repairs and reduces downtime.
This quiet generator is not the lightest but it can be carried around without struggling too much.
You can use it to power a 13,500 BTU RV air conditioner, microwave/convection oven, or even the biggest hair blow dryer.
The 1.6-gallon gas tank can give you 8.6 hours run time at ¼ capacity load.
It includes a 3-year warranty from the date of purchase.
- Noise level: 64 dB
- Running Watts: 3500W
- Weight: 81.6 pounds
The Champion 4000W RV ready generator is 50% lighter and 50% quieter than its predecessor.
This is all thanks to the open frame design which cuts out most of the bulk from the other models and the use of advanced quiet technology.
This DH Series generator offers clean electricity and 17 hours of run time with its 2.9-gallon fuel tank.
Economy Mode combines fuel-saving and product life extension features while creating a noise level of 64 dB.
It is not a very quiet unit but if you need the power, this is the most powerful quiet portable generator you will find.
Additionally, the Champion 4000W generator has a dual fuel section which allows you to use natural gas and diesel at the same time.
This is very different from most generators on the market so this is a great little advantage of purchasing this unit.
To kick it up a notch, Champion offers a 3 limited warranty with lifetime technical support for a value that cannot be beaten.
- Advanced Open Frame Inverter Design: 50% quieter and 20% lighter than a traditional Champion...
- Quiet Technology and Extended Run Time: 64 dBA is great for RVs, tailgating, your next project or...
- Clean electricity for sensitive electronics: RV Ready with a 120V 30A RV, plus two 120V 20A...
- Noise level: 59 dB
- Running Watts: 1700W
- Weight: 55 pounds
The Briggs & Stratton P2200 inverter generator is part of the Power Smart Series from the brand that packs plenty of power in a small package.
It utilizes a computer-controlled engine that ensures you receive efficient and consistent power during use.
This silent generator comes with a 1-gallon fuel tank when filled, gives up to 8 hours of run time at 25% load.
Operating of the unit is fairly simple and straightforward and it is easy to transport due to its portable design.
It can easily be moved by 1 or 2 persons.
If there is a need for more power, the parallel port connector makes it possible to connect to another unit for double the power output.
Be confident with your purchase of Briggs & Stratton P2200 that offers a 24-month limited consumer warranty.
Reasons why you should buy a silent generator
Noise level
Some cities and neighborhoods have a noise level limit that you are expected to follow.
Failure to do so can land you in many problems with your neighbors and the relevant authorities.
Sounds coming from your property exceeding that limit may result in a warning from the authorities if you’re lucky.
On the other hand, it can result in receiving a fine for going over the noise limit.
So to avoid problems with the authorities, the best quiet generator is your best bet.
Furthermore, you do not want a loud generator to disturb you when you are trying to sleep.
A loud generator can give you and others around quite the headache.
If you have a quiet generator and you are still annoyed by the sound then you can check out how to soundproof a room post.
RV or Camping
Most RV parks and campsites also have a very strict noise level limit that must be followed.
For most portable generators used in RV parks or campsites, the general rule is that the noise level must be around 65dB or less.
This makes sense because the whole idea of rolling in your R$V or camping is for some quiet relaxed time with family or friends.
You do not want to be yelling over the generator to be heard or be rude by disturbing others who are utilizing the same RV park or campsite.
Fuel Efficiency
Silent generators are equipped with the latest advanced technologies that conserve fuel thus saving you money.
If you have a generator that constantly needs to be refueled then you have an issue.
These quiet generators won’t ever have you worrying again about wasting gas.
The type of fuel you use as well can determine how effective your generator is.
For those of you who want to save even further, get a dual fuel generator like the Champion 4000W generator.
Super quiet generator buying guide
Before you rush into buying a super quiet generator, there are a few things to keep in mind.
Noise level
First things first, decide where you are going to be using your quiet generator.
This will help to determine the power and noise level you’re allowed.
Noise levels are measured in Decibel(dB) which is the measurement for sounds.
Note that the more power your generator outputs the louder it’ll be.
In cases where you need to power your home, a generator with a greater output power is needed while lower power output is needed when camping.
For homes, the noise level limit may be higher than the one when camping so determine what is it exactly you need your generator for before you purchase.
Fuel Capacity
You want a silent generator that has a fairly large fuel capacity so you do not have to be constantly filling it up.
That being said, if you only use your generator periodically and to power small appliances then a small fuel tank is fine.
Most of these quiet generators have fuel efficiency features installed that ensure that there is no wastage of fuel nor need to top up the tank frequently.
Wattage
Depending on what you plan to operate with your quiet generator, you will need to know how much power you need.
The power of generators are measured in Watts,
Most have both a starting watt and a running watt so pay special attention to this.
Generators have a high starting watt compared to the running watt and should be mentioned in the product description.
Too little power and your appliances will not work and too much power will overload and damage your sensitive devices.
Quietest generator FAQ’s
1. Why are generators noisy?
Generators are noisy for several reasons.
They use advanced electronics and magnets to create energy to produce a steady flow of power.
This process can sometimes be very noisy.
Another reason why generators are loud is because of the amount of power it supplies.
The more power a generator produces, the louder it’ll be.
However, the best portable quiet generator is designed in such a way to muffle as much noise as possible.
2. Is there any way to quieten my existing generator?
You can quieten your existing generator by building a generator quiet box.
For the entire step-by-step process, read this how to build a generator quiet box guide.
The guide also mentions a few other methods that you can try to help quieten your existing generator.
3. How quiet is a quiet generator?
You have to remember that a generator will make some noise no matter how quiet and silent it says it is.
However, the amount of noise that is produced can be controlled by implementing various advanced technologies and sound damping materials.
This is why you see manufacturers bringing out these quiet inverter units.
In our lists, we have listed some of the quietest generators on the market to make things a bit easier.
4. Can my quiet generator power my entire house?
Most quiet generators only have a limited amount of wattage.
They usually go up to 4000 watts which can only power a few heavy house hold equipment.
Usually when you use a generator, you don’t want it to power the entire house.
Select the few appliances that are most important to you and only run those on your generator.