Honda Power Generator Review: Brief History and Their Best 6 Generators

The last thing any of us wants is to be stuck without power. Whether it’s a power outage caused by a major storm, an off-the-grid camping trip in the woods, a remote construction site, or a tailgate party at your favorite team’s stadium, it’s important that we have backup access to power when we need it most.

This is where Honda’s wide selection of top of the line portable power generators comes in!

Honda’s Generator History

Honda has been building quality portable generators since 1965, making them a pioneer and leader in the industry. The first Honda generator, the E300 portable generator, set the stage in Honda’s history for a series of technological advancements by the company, leading to more innovation down the line in their portable generator production.

Today, Honda produces more than 46,000 compact gasoline generators in the United States, Japan, China, France, India, and Thailand, supplying various countries with access to portable power sources.

Power Generator Buying Guide

Choosing the Right Honda Generator

Finding the right Honda power generator for your needs might seem like a lot of work, but don’t worry – it doesn’t have to be! Below, we’ll walk you through a few questions you should ask yourself as you narrow down what kind of Honda generator you’d like to purchase.

How Will You Use the Generator?

This is probably the most important question you’ll ask yourself as you start your hunt for an efficient, high-quality Honda portable generator. Portable generators are used for a variety of different reasons: emergency power backup in the case of a power outage at your home, recreational use (like camping, boating, tailgating, and long RV trips), and industrial operations (like construction work). 

Choosing a Honda generator is a worthwhile investment, so you’re going to want to have a good idea of exactly how you’d like to use it. If you’re concerned about having a reliable backup power source at home, you should search for a Honda generator in their EU and EM series. If you’re an avid adventurer in need of portable power while off the grid, EU is the series for you. And if you do a lot of construction work where heavy duty power tools are used, whether professionally or at home, Honda’s EB power generators are a great, durable option. 

Don’t worry – we’ll go into more detail about models in all of these series later on!

What Noise Level Are You Comfortable With?

Now that you’ve figured out how you’d like to use your new Honda power generator, it’s time to start thinking about the dreaded noisiness often associated with gas-powered generators. Many of Honda’s generators are manufactured to run quietly, or with little to no noise at all, but it’s important to know which model will suit your needs best.

For example, if you’re purchasing a Honda generator with the intention of using it recreationally – like on a campground or at a tailgate – you probably don’t want it to be churning out high decibels of noise the entire time. And if your new generator is for at-home use, you should be aware of neighborhood noise ordinances that may restrict the number of decibels your equipment can produce. 
Luckily, Honda has created a handy decibel chart to help you compare the noise level of their different generators to everyday sounds, like the noise made by a vacuum cleaner versus the noise of a fire truck driving by your home.

How Important is Portability to You?

Figuring out how you’re going to transport your Honda generator can be tricky, because you need to know ahead of time if it’s compact enough to be easily carried by yourself or if it’s a model that needs to be wheeled around. Determining how important portability is to you is directly related to how you plan on using your new generator. Lighter weight EU series Honda portable generators are ideal for transporting to and from recreational activities like camping, whereas more robust models in the larger EB series require a bit more capacity to transport.

How Long Do You Want Your Honda Generator to Run?

Finally, you should ask yourself how long of a run time your new Honda generator will need. All of Honda’s power generators are very fuel efficient, which means they can run for longer than other models on the market. Honda’s EU Inverter generators, which we’ll cover in more detail later on, feature an Eco Throttle in their engines that adjusts the speed of the engine to match the output of power that you need, saving you a lot of fuel. In fact, these generators can run for as long as 20 hours on just one full tank of gas!

Additionally, Honda’s EB and EM series generators boast larger gas tanks, making it easy to run your Honda generator for an extended period of time without needing to stop and refill the tank.

Where Do You Buy a Honda Power Generator?

Honda’s generators are available on Amazon, the Honda website, and other retailers, like Home Depot.

How Much Do Honda Power Generators Cost?

Honda power generators generally cost between $900 and $4000, depending on the model, series, and where you’re purchasing it from.

Safety Tips

Of course, the most important thing you’ll need to learn is how to use your Honda power generator safely. Before you start operating your generator, make sure you read the instruction manual carefully, and follow all the safety instructions. 

• Because Honda’s generators are gas-powered, you should always be aware of the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning. The exhaust of a Honda generator produces this deadly chemical, exposure to which can cause serious health issues, including death. Because of this risk, you must always run your generator outside and away from open windows and doors to promote constant airflow. 
• Misusing a generator, which produces a high amount of electricity, can also lead to electrocution. Honda recommends that you always ensure your generator is connected to power correctly, and to never operate your generator in wet or rainy conditions, as these both can increase the risk of electrocution. 
• Another safety issue to look out for when operating a Honda power generator is heat. These are very powerful machines producing a lot of electric power, so, naturally, they can get hot quickly, and stay hot even after the generator has been turned off. Avoid touching certain parts of the generator, like the muffler, as you could easily be burned. Additionally, keep all flammable materials away from the generator while it’s operating and never refill your generator’s tank while it’s running to avoid the risk of fire. 

How to Use a Honda Generator

First and foremost, you must always read your Honda power generator’s user manual before you start using it. This will ensure that you know exactly what to expect when you fuel up your generator for the first time, and reduce any risks that come with using a powerful machine like this. 

As we mentioned earlier, you should always run your generator outside and away from open windows and doors to prevent the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. Giving your generator plenty of ventilation space will help it run efficiently, too. Again, it’s imperative that you keep your Honda generator dry, so don’t operate it in the rain or snow, or near any pools, sprinkler systems, lakes, or ponds. 

Your generator should always be placed on a steady, level surface, and should be run at least once a month to ensure that it’s working properly. To transport your generator safely, the machine’s fuel valve must be turned off and the generator should cool down for at least 15 minutes. The generator should also always be stored and transported in the upright position to prevent any oil leaks that could cause damage to the integrity of the engine later on. 

Honda generator engines are designed to run on unleaded gasoline, so always use unleaded gasoline with a pump octane rating of 86 or higher to fuel your Honda generator. To start a Honda power generator, check the fuel and oil levels and refill them as necessary and check that the air filter is clean. Then, before you turn on the fuel valve and start the generator, make sure you turn the circuit breaker off. Once the machine has had some time to warm up, turn the circuit breaker back on before connecting the appliances you need to charge to the generator.

Now that we’ve covered the basics of choosing and operating a Honda generator, let’s take a deeper look at six of their best generators!

The 6 Top-Rated Honda Power Generators

1. Honda EB2200iTAG 2200-Watt Portable Inverter Generator

First, let’s take a look at Honda’s EB2200i Super Quiet Portable Industrial Inverter Generator. This power generator is the one for you if you’re looking for portable power for your job or construction site. The EB2200i produces 10% more power than its preceding model, the EB2000, so you can power more of what you need without sacrificing the compact, lightweight build the EB2000 was known for. This industrial portable generator is also incredibly popular among users, with a five star rating on Amazon. It’s also ranked 20th on Amazon’s list of the best outdoor generators!

The EB2200i can operate a number of industrial tools, like air compressors, saws, drills, industrial motors, and more, making it an ideal choice for someone looking for a portable generator for construction projects. The EB2200i is also equipped with Honda’s inverter technology, which means you can safely and easily charge more sensitive equipment, like computers, with the same power as a typical home outlet. 

Weighing just under 50 pounds, the EB2200i generator is easily moved from location to location, so you can be flexible with your construction projects. While this generator is compact, it doesn’t lack any power. The EB2200i produces 2200W of electricity, so you know you’ll be able to power up heavy duty machinery with no trouble.

As its name suggests, the Honda EB2200i Super Quiet Portable Industrial Inverter Generator runs smoothly and without any excess noise. This is because it’s equipped with Honda’s GXR120 engine, an exceptionally quiet and fuel efficient engine that only produces 48 to 47 decibels (dBA), which is quieter than a normal conversation!

The EB2200i generator is also engineered with Honda’s Eco Throttle System, which means it’s incredibly efficient when it comes to using fuel. In fact, the EB2200i can run for up to eight hours on less than a gallon of fuel, depending on the energy load. And when it comes to safety, Honda has your best interests at heart. The EB2200i is programmed with the CO-MINDER carbon monoxide detection system, which will cause the machine to automatically shut off if it detects dangerous levels of carbon monoxide near the generator. It’s also completely covered with GFCI protection, making it OSHA compliant, so you can safely use this at construction or industrial sites without worry.

As you’ll learn as you keep reading through our guide, some of Honda’s power generators are equipped with Bluetooth connectivity through Honda’s My Generator app, which allows users to run their generators remotely. Unfortunately, the EB2200i does not come with Bluetooth, which may be a downside if you’re looking for more flexibility when it comes to operating your Honda generator.

The EB2200i is also made to last, with high quality, durable technology installed. For example,  the stamped metal recoil rope insert on the EB2200i helps reduce potential damage to the body of the generator. It’s also engineered with an increased ventilation area, preventing potential overheating. 

The Honda EB2200i portable generator is priced between $1,299 and $1,419. 

SUMMARY

Downloads:

• Manufacturer’s Website
• Owner’s Manual

2. Honda EU1000i Inverter Generator, Super Quiet

The Honda EU1000i Inverter Generator is the model for you if you’re looking for a lightweight generator to power small appliances. Out of all the generators we’re looking at today, the EU1000i is the smallest and has the lowest wattage, but that doesn’t mean it’s lacking in power or reliability! This model is one of Honda’s more popular generators, with an average Amazon rating of 4.5 stars. 

The EU1000i can operate a number of small appliances, like fans, lights, televisions, smaller microwaves (up to 650W), and smaller power tools. This generator is a great option for those looking for a small generator to bring along to campsites, or to help power smaller home improvement projects. Weighing less than 30 pounds, this model is easily moved from place to place. And with an electronic capacity of 1000W, you’re guaranteed to be able to efficiently and quickly power up your appliances without having to worry about lugging around a heavy machine. If you need more power, the EU1000i is also equipped for parallel capability, so you can effectively double your output by connecting it with another EU1000i generator!

The EU1000i generator is also equipped with inverter technology, ensuring that the power capacity of the generator is just as powerful as your outlets at home. This generator was also developed with the Eco Throttle System, so it’s fuel efficient, too! The EU1000i can run for just under seven hours on one tank of gas, depending on the current load of the generator. 

Another key feature of the EU1000i is its discreteness. This Honda generator operates at a quiet 42 to 50 dBA, so you won’t need to worry about any loud buzzing when you power up the EU1000i. 

The Honda EU1000i generator is also engineered with the CO-MINDER carbon monoxide detector system, as well as an electronic circuit breaker, which protects the generator from overloading. Unlike other models on this list, though, the EU1000i generator is not equipped with Bluetooth connectivity, so Honda’s My Generator app can’t be used to control this unit remotely.

The Honda EU1000i Inverter Generator costs between $949 and $1,099. 

Compatible accessories:

To connect your EU1000i to another generator, we recommend using Honda’s HPK123HI Parallel Cables. These are compatible with Honda’s EU2200i, EU1000i, and EU3000i models.

SUMMARY

Downloads:

• Manufacturer’s Website
• Owner’s Manual

3. Honda 664270 EU3000iS Portable Inverter Generator

Are you ready to meet one of Honda’s powerhouse portable generators? The EU3000iS Portable Inverter Generator is one the most powerful generators on this list. If you’re looking for a reliable back-up source of power for your home or for RV camping trips, the EU3000iS is the model for you. This generator is very popular on Honda’s website, with an average rating of 4.5 stars. 

With an electronic capacity of 3000W, the EU3000iS is built to operate just about any appliance you can throw its way. It can easily power an RV air conditioner up to 13,500 BTU, Energy Star refrigerators and freezers, microwaves, lights, fans, televisions, and so much more. And, like the previous models, the EU3000iS is equipped with Honda’s inverter technology, so you don’t have to leave your more sensitive appliances, like computers, at home. 

While the EU3000iS may not be very compact or easy for just one person to carry (it weighs 130 pounds!), it makes up for its bulk with it’s incredibly long run time. In fact, because it’s also engineered with Honda’s Eco Throttle System, the EU3000iS can run for up to 20 hours on less than 4 gallons of fuel! And if you need even more power, this model is also equipped with parallel capacity, so you can hook up another EU3000iS and have 6000W of power at your disposal. 

And if it’s high power capacity isn’t enough, the EU3000iS also runs unbelievably quietly! Operating at 50 to 57 dBA, the EU3000iS is an ideal option for RV camping and home use, because you’ll barely notice it’s running in the background. Unlike the previous models, the EU3000iS stands out because it offers electric starting, a much more convenient way of operating your new portable generator. However, you can still easily start the generator with Honda’s traditional recoil starter as a back up. 

As with all of the Honda portable generators on our list, the EU3000iS is engineered with CO-MINDER carbon monoxide detection. It also has circuit protection built in, so you don’t need to worry about the generator being overloaded. Unlike the next generator on this list, the EU3000iS generator is not equipped with Bluetooth connectivity, so Honda’s My Generator app can’t be used to control this unit remotely.

The Honda EU3000iS Portable Inverter Generator is among the higher costing generators offered by Honda, costing between $2,529 and $3,291.

Compatible accessories:

• To connect your EU3000iS to another generator, we recommend using Honda’s HPK123HI Parallel Cables. These are compatible with Honda’s EU2200i, EU1000i, and EU3000i models.

SUMMARY

Downloads:

• Manufacturer’s Website
• Owner’s Manual

4. Honda 662220 EU2200i 2200 Watt Portable Inverter Generator

If you’re looking for a quiet, easily transportable, and reliable portable generator, the Honda EU2200i Super Quiet Portable Inverter Generator is the product for you. Like the industrial EB2200i, the EU2200i produces 10% more power than its predecessor, the EU2000i. Where the EB2200i is ideal for construction work and industrial tools, the compact EU2200i is a great option for those looking for alternative power sources at home, at work, or on the go. This model is also positively rated by consumers, with an average rating of 4.8 stars on Amazon and ranking 17th on their list of the best outdoor generators.

The EU2200i can operate a number of different appliances, like microwaves, mini-fridges, small air conditioners, and more, making it an ideal choice for someone looking for a multi use power generator. The EU2200i is also equipped with Honda’s inverter technology, which means you can safely and easily charge more sensitive equipment, like computers, with the same power as a typical home outlet. 

At just under 50 pounds, this model is easily transportable from place to place, but also operates perfectly in one location. And with a huge electronic capacity of 2200W, the Honda EU2200i gives you the ability to power everything you need in a compact package. Need even more power? Not a problem! You can double your power with Honda’s parallel capability, which allows you to connect two EU2200i generators for up to 4400W of power. 

But long-lasting power and portability aren’t the only highlights of the Honda EU2200i – it’s also, as the name suggests, super quiet! With this generator, you won’t need to worry about bothering your neighbors, whether they’re the family next door or the birds and bees on your camping ground. The EU2200i operates around 48 to 57 decibels (dBA), which is actually quieter than a regular, in-person conversation! 

Thanks to Honda’s Eco Throttle System, the EU2200i is also very energy efficient, with the ability to run for up to eight hours on less than a full tank of gas. This generator is also powered by Honda’s fuel efficient GXR120 Commercial Series engine, which was originally designed for construction equipment, so you can rest assured knowing the EU2200i’s engine is both durable and reliable. 

When it comes to safety, Honda has guaranteed that users of the EU2200i will be protected with the trademarked CO-MINDER carbon monoxide detection system. In the case of an emergency, the EU2200i will automatically shut down if this system detects dangerously high levels of carbon monoxide. The EU2200i generator is also equipped with an electronic circuit breaker, which protects the generator from overloading.

Honda EU2200i users are also able to control this generator remotely using the My Generator app, so you can monitor your generator from anywhere, any time! Connected via Bluetooth, the My Generator app allows users to remotely stop the generator and even sends reminders for needed services to the unit. However, some users have reported issues connecting their smartphones to the generator.

The Honda EU2200i Super Quiet Portable Inverter Generator costs between $1,099 and $1,199.

Compatible accessories:

• To protect your EU2200i from bad weather and exposure to moisture, check out the GENSKINS Weatherproof Cover. This cover is compatible with a number of Honda’s power generators, including the EU2200i. 
• To connect your EU2200i to another generator, we recommend using Honda’s HPK123HI Parallel Cables. These are compatible with Honda’s EU2200i, EU1000i, and EU3000i models.
• For easy oil and fuel changes, check out BougeRV’s Easy Fill Oil Change Funnel. It’s mess-free, and is compatible with Honda’s EU2200i generator!

SUMMARY

Downloads:

• Manufacturer’s Website
• Owner’s Manual

5. Honda EM6500S Generator

If you thought the EU3000iS was a powerhouse, wait until you learn more about the Honda EM6500S Generator. The EM6500S is not only the biggest generator on our list, but is also the most powerful. This is the generator for you if you want to ensure that you’ll always have the power you need in the case of an emergency. And other users agree – the EM6500S has an average rating of 4.6 stars on Amazon!

While the EM6500S is rated with 6500W, Honda’s exclusive iAVR (Intelligent Automatic Voltage Regulation) technology allows this generator to produce up to 7000W for 10 seconds in order to start larger equipment, like full-size refrigerators, freezers, sump pumps, and furnace fans. Honda’s iAVR technology ensures a consistent and stable flow of power regardless of what appliances you’re operating with the EM6500S. Because of the iAVR technology, the EM6500S can also operate sensitive appliances, like microwaves, televisions, coffee makers, hair dryers, lights, and even computers. 

Honda also offers more flexibility with the EM6500S. Users are given the option of a 120/240V Selector Switch, which allows you to choose between using both 120 and 240V, or just 120V, enabling you to power appliances with higher wattage requirements. The EM6500S is also equipped with Honda’s powerful iGX commercial engine, a computer-powered engine that makes operating the EM6500S simple and fast, and can be started with either an electric starter or with Honda’s traditional recoil starter. It also features multiple front panel covered outlets so you can easily connect appliances to the EM6500S without worrying about exposure to the elements.

While this generator is the heaviest on our list, weighing more than 230 pounds, the EM6500S is still relatively easy to transport, with easy folding handles and wheels that make moving the generator more convenient. And like the EU2200i, the EM6500S is equipped with Bluetooth, so you can operate and monitor the generator remotely using Honda’s My Generator app!

In terms of safety, the EM6500s features full frame protection, so the integrity of the generator is constantly protected. It’s also equipped with Honda Oil Alert, so the engine will automatically shut down when low oil is detected by the EM6500S computer system, with two duplex outlets outfitted with GFCI protection, and with electronic circuit breakers to help protect the generator from overloading. Unfortunately, the EM6500S is not equipped with CO-MINDER carbon monoxide detection.

One downside to the EM6500S is its noise level – unlike the previously mentioned models, this Honda generator operates at 64 to 66 dBA, which isn’t terribly loud, but reviewers have noted that it is more noticeable. Keep this in mind if you’re looking for a quiet generator!

The Honda EM6500S Generator is the most expensive model on our list, priced between $3,299 and $4,999.

SUMMARY

Downloads:

• Manufacturer’s Website
• Owner’s Manual

6. Honda 663640 EM5000SX 120V/240V 5000-Watt

And finally, we have Honda’s EM5000SX Portable Generator, the final powerhouse on our list. The EM5000SX is almost identical to the EM6500S, so if you’re looking for a generator that can easily act as a back-up to power your home, you’ll want to pay attention to these two models the most. Like the EM6500S, the EM5000SX generator is highly rated on Amazon, with an average rating of 4.3 stars. 

The EM5000SX is rated with a maximum output of 5000W, but is engineered with Honda’s exclusive iAVR technology, which allows this generator to produce up to 7000W for 10 seconds in order to start larger equipment, like full-size Energy Star refrigerators, freezers, sump pumps, and furnace fans. Like with the EM6500S, the inclusion of iAVR technology ensures that you can also safely operate sensitive equipment and smaller appliances, like computers and televisions, with the EM5000SX generator.

Like the EM6500S, the Honda EM5000SX generator includes the 120/240V Selector Switch, giving you flexibility in how much power you want to run through the unit. It’s also equipped with the iGX commercial engine, which keeps it running smoothly and efficiently. Similarly to the EM6500S, the EM5000SX generator operates at a noise level of 63 to 66 dBA, making it slightly louder than the other smaller models on our list. However, this model is also able to run for up to 10.5 hours when operating at half load and 7 hours at full load, making it a great option if you need to run power overnight. 

When it comes to safety, the EM5000SX also features full frame protection, Honda Oil Alert, two duplex outlets outfitted with GFCI protection, and electronic circuit breakers to help protect the generator from overloading. Unlike the EM6500S, the EM5000SX model is equipped with CO-MINDER carbon monoxide detection, so you can rest assured knowing this model will automatically shut down as soon as it detects dangerously high levels of carbon monoxide near the generator, keeping you and your loved ones safe.

This generator is second to the EM6500S as one of the heaviest on our list, weighing just under 230 pounds, the EM5000SX is also relatively easy to transport, with easy folding handles and wheels. And, it’s also equipped with Bluetooth, so you can operate and monitor the generator remotely using Honda’s My Generator app!

The Honda EM5000SX Portable Generator is one of the most expensive models on our list, priced between $2,749 and $2,899. If it comes down to price between the EM5000SX and the EM6500S, the EM5000SX may be the model for you.

SUMMARY

Downloads:

• Manufacturer’s Website
• Owner’s Manual

Accessories for Honda Power Generators

GENSKINS Weatherproof Cover for Honda

Honda Power Equipment HPK123HI Parallel Cables for EU1000i, EU2200i, and EU3000i

BougeRV Fits Honda EU2200i Generator Easy Fill Oil Change Funnel

Final Word: Our Pick

While Honda has an incredible selection of power generators to choose from, the best, most versatile option we’ve covered here is the Honda EU2200i Super Quiet Portable Inverter Generator. Here’s a quick breakdown of why:

• It runs quietly;
• It’s very easy to transport;
• It can be operated remotely using Honda’s My Generator app;
• And, at under $2,000,  it has the best bang for your buck.

FAQs