Champion Generator Reviews: Top 9 Picks Based on Category
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The yellow and black design of Champion generators stand out from the other brands but looks is not the only interesting thing. This portable energy producer is best known for releasing hybrid generators, also known as dual-fuel engines.
Most dual-fuel machines can run on both gasoline and liquid propane or in some cases on diesel and natural gas. This gives you more flexibility in running costs and often also means a longer run time before the engine needs refueling.
Another aspect that makes Champion Power Equipment a popular American company is their customer service which is one of their key selling points. This new innovative brand – established in 2003 – is one of the rare cases of an easy to reach and helpful after sales team.
Take a look at the best Champion generator models, ranging from compact and quiet inverters to powerful and sturdy portable generators, most of them being a hybrid. Is the technology as advanced as the company claims and does this put them ahead of the pack?
Inverter Generators
Many brands develop low capacity inverter generators but the best models from Champion range between 3000 – 4000 watts with technological advantages that makes them rank higher than similar models.
Champion 4000 Watt Digital Hybrid
This is the largest inverter that Champion has put out on the market and it is surprisingly very affordable, within the same price range as a conventional portable generator. The dimensions are much larger than the common inverter sizes but you get the benefit of being much lighter than a conventional portable generator with the same output thanks to its open frame design.
Champion calls this series a Digital Hybrid which refers to being quieter, lighter and having advanced fuel efficiency which gives it an incredibly long run time of up to 17 hours. This is also an version with parallel capabilities and you can connect any same brand generator with a capacity of at least 2800 running watts.
Overall, this is one of the best options from this brand showcasing their attention to advanced technology and portability.
- Advanced Open Frame Inverter Design – 50% quieter and 20% lighter than a traditional Champion 3500-watt generator, plus our Economy Mode feature saves fuel and extends engine life, No GFCI Outlets
- Quiet Technology and Extended Run Time – 64 dBA is great for RVs, tailgating, your next project or home backup, with 4000 starting watts and 3500 running watts for up to 17 hours run time on gasoline
Last update on 2020-03-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
| Product Information | Detail |
|---|---|
| Surge Power | 2000 watts |
| Running Power | 1600 watts |
| Tank Size | 1.06 gallons |
| Run Time | 7.7 hours on 25% load |
| Fuel | Gasoline |
Pros and Cons
- Lightweight open frame design
- Hybrid
- Affordable
- Long run time
- Parallel capabilities
- Larger than other inverters
- Relatively loud
Champion 3100 Watt Inverter
Hidden inside this compact design is a 1.6 gallon fuel tank which is enough to power 8 hours of run time at a quarter load. It is heavier than most generators in the same output category but the double handles and tires keep it portable enough.
This is one of the simpler Champion models with only a manual recoil system and engine that runs on gasoline alone. However, it is a dependable and user-friendly design, as well, thanks to the fully assembled delivery and clear control panel.
Inverter generators are generally more expensive than conventional portable generators but this makes sense considering the technology. This is not the cheapest option either but it is one of the more powerful inverters on the market.
- Quick Touch Panel – Access all your controls in one spot, plus Champion’s safe design includes a low oil shut-off sensor and holds 0.6-quarts of oil (recommended 10W-30)
- Ultra-Quiet Operation – 58 dBA is perfect for RVs, tailgating, your next project or backup power for your home, featuring 3100 starting watts and 2800 running watts with up to 8 hours run time
Last update on 2020-03-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
| Product Information | Detail |
|---|---|
| Surge Power | 2200 watts |
| Running Power | 1700 watts |
| Tank Size | 1.2 gallons |
| Run Time | 10.75 hours on 25% load |
| Fuel | Gasoline |
Pros and Cons
- Wheels and 2 handles
- Economy mode
- Low oil shutoff
- Heavy for an inverter
- Recoil starter
2,000 Watt Stackable Inverter
The coolest and most practical generator design is definitely the Champion 73536i stackable inverter. The box-like lightweight shape is perfect for storage and super handy to bring along on camping trips and other outdoor activities.
2000 watts is not exactly a powerhouse but if you are looking to charge sensitive electronics like a laptop, mobile phone or DSLR then the clean energy from this inverter is all you need. Or, connect a second Champion inverter since this is model has parallel capabilities so you can literally stack up on your electricity requirements.
Run time is quite good with over 9 hours at a quarter load which should be plenty to light up your camping area throughout the night. On top of that, for such an innovative inverter, the price tag is quite reasonable and worth it.
Last update on 2020-03-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
| Product Information | Detail |
|---|---|
| Surge Power | 3000 watts |
| Running Power | 2300 watts |
| Tank Size | 1.6 gallons |
| Run Time | 5.8 hours on 25% load |
| Fuel | Gasoline |
Pros and Cons
- Lightweight
- Stackable
- Parallel capable
- No USB port
- Vibrates when running
3400-Watt Dual Fuel RV Ready Portable Inverter Generator with Electric Start
As mentioned, Champion tries to push the envelope on what is possible with portable generators and this 3400 watt inverter is a good example of that. This version has an electric start (rare for smaller generators) and is a hybrid which means it can run on both gasoline and propane.
Depending on the area where you live, propane tends to be cheaper than gasoline which lowers the running cost of this model. In addition, propane is easier to store so you can keep a better fuel stock at home, in case of emergencies.
Another advantage of this model is the portable design with never-flat tires, two carrying handles and large space for the control panel. Also, it holds decent power for an inverter and is parallel capable which makes it a good option for tailgating.
- Dual Fuel – Operate your 3400-watt portable generator right out of the box on either gasoline or propane, plus the unit holds 0.6-quarts of oil (recommended 10W-30) and has a low oil shut-off sensor
- Convenient Electric Start with 3-Position Ignition Switch – Battery included, plus Quick Touch Panel allows you to access all your controls in one spot.Noise Level :59 dBA at 23 feet. Frequency 60 Hz
Last update on 2020-03-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
| Product Information | Detail |
|---|---|
| Surge Power | 3000 watts |
| Running Power | 2300 watts |
| Tank Size | 1.6 gallons |
| Run Time | 5.8 hours on 25% load |
| Fuel | Gasoline |
Pros and Cons
- Dual fuel
- Electric start
- Portable design
- Parallel capable
- Heavy for output
- Limited run time on gasoline
3100-Watt Portable Inverter with Wireless Start
As an upgrade to 3100 watts version before comes an almost identical design and spec sheet but with the added ease of a wireless remote start. The package includes a key fob that lets you turn on the generator from a distance of up 80 feet away.
One difference is that this alternative is slightly heavier than the original, weighing about 13 pounds more but the handles and little wheels make sure that it is still suitable as a small portable generator.
- Wireless remote start – Included key fob allows you to start and stop your generator from up to 80 feet away
- Convenient electric start with 3-position ignition switch – Battery included, plus Quick Touch Panel allows you to access all your controls in one spot
Last update on 2020-03-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
| Product Information | Detail |
|---|---|
| Surge Power | 3000 watts |
| Running Power | 2300 watts |
| Tank Size | 1.6 gallons |
| Run Time | 5.8 hours on 25% load |
| Fuel | Gasoline |
Pros and Cons
- Wireless remote start
- Portable
- Heavy compared to others in class
Portable Generators
Compared to their inverter options, the Champion Power Equipment portable generators are not the most powerful on the market. Although they do release a few models with higher capacity, their most popular ones are in the 3500 – 4000 watts range.
7500 Watt Dual Fuel with Electric Start
This ready out of the box hybrid generator is one with one of the higher capacities that Champion produces. On gasoline, it has 9375 watts surge power and 7500 watts running power while on propane it has an output of 8400 surge watts and 6750 continuous power.
This is another example of a simple user-friendly design thanks to the straightforward control panel, portable design and electric starter switch. The control panel also sports an Intelligauge which shows hertz, run time and voltage for quick monitoring and as an indicator for when it is time for the next maintenance session.
- Dual Fuel – Operate your 7500-watt portable generator right out of the box on either gasoline or propane, plus the unit holds 1.2-quarts of oil (included) and has a low oil shut-off sensor
- Electric start – Power up the 439cc Champion engine with the handy toggle switch, battery included
Last update on 2020-03-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
| Product Information | Detail |
|---|---|
| Surge Power | 3750 watts |
| Running Power | 3250 watts |
| Tank Size | 3.35 gallons |
| Run Time | 10.25 hours on 25% load |
| Fuel | Gasoline |
Pros and Cons
- Hybrid
- Reasonably high capacity for price category
- Short run time on propane
- Big difference between surge watts and continuous power
- Loud
3800 Watt Dual Fuel Portable with Electric Start
This rugged looking design is another hybrid with over 4000 watts surge power and 3800 watts and 3250 watts running power on gasoline and propane, respectively. This dependable model is a good choice as an emergency electricity source for powering the basic household essentials or for connecting power tools on a work site.
Another good use for this machine is on an RV. Simply connect it to a propane tank with the included hose and you got yourself enough power for the stove, lighting, fan and TV.
The run time in either fuel option is pretty good with a full tank of gasoline being enough for 9 hours and a 20 lbs. propane tank lasting 10.5 hours on a 50% load. This shows how fuel efficient the engine is which also means that your running costs are lower.
- Dual Fuel - Runs on GAS or PROPANE straight out of the box. Engine type: 4-stroke, wheel diameter: 8.0 inches
- 4750 starting watts, 3800 running watts with up to 9 hours run time on a full tank of gas and up to 10.5 hours on a 20 lb. propane tank
Last update on 2020-03-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
| Product Information | Detail |
|---|---|
| Surge Power | 6875 watts |
| Running Power | 5500 watts |
| Tank Size | 7.2 gallons |
| Run Time | 10 hours on 50% load |
| Fuel | Gasoline |
Pros and Cons
- Fuel-efficient
- Hybrid
- Affordable
- CARB-Compliant
- Loud
- Not powerful enough as whole house generator
8000 Watt with Gasoline / Liquid Propane Engine
The biggest capacity comes from the 100297 model which reaches an impressive 10 kW of surge power and 8kW of continuous power. It is a good choice as a home backup generator for small households since most household appliances can run on it as long as you keep an eye on the load.
This is one of the heavier models because of the 6.1 gallon fuel tank and built-in battery for the electrical start so it is a good idea to add the wheel kit which features a foldable u-handle and never flat tires. The downside is that you would expect a longer run time from a generator of this size, on both types of fuel.
Also, the fact that there are 6 power outlets on the control panel suggest that you can connect all the devices that you need at once but you will do so at higher running costs because this is not a fuel-efficient engine.
- Dual Fuel – Operate your 8000-watt portable generator right out of the box on either gasoline or propane, plus the unit holds 1.2-quarts of oil (included) and has a low oil shut-off sensor
- Electric start – Power up the 459cc Champion engine with the handy toggle switch, battery included
Last update on 2020-03-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
| Product Information | Detail |
|---|---|
| Surge Power | 22,500 watts |
| Running Power | 15,000 watts |
| Tank Size | 16 gallons |
| Run Time | 10 hours on 50% load |
| Fuel | Gasoline |
Pros and Cons
- Hybrid
- Electric start
- Good wattage
- Not fuel-efficient
- Short run time
3500-Watt RV Ready Portable Generator (EPA)
This simple portable generator is your best bet if you are looking for a safe alternative power source for your home. It is EPA approved, has a volt guard against overloading, an automatic low-oil shutoff and an Intelligauge for monitoring.
Another great feature is that it is optimized for starting in cold weather making this a safe choice for when you live in a cold climate with extreme weather conditions. Even though there is no electrical start, the cold start helps to make the recoil system less heavy.
- Designed for Safety – Includes a low-oil shut-off sensor and has a 0.6-quart oil capacity (recommended 10W-30)
- Reliable and Powerful – At 4000 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
Last update on 2020-03-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
| Product Information | Detail |
|---|---|
| Surge Power | 11,000 watts |
| Running Power | 10,000 watts |
| Tank Size | Connected to LP / Natural Gas Supply |
| Run Time | Unlimited |
| Fuel | Liquid Propane or Natural Gas |
Pros and Cons
- Cold start
- Long run time
- Affordable
- Not parallel capable
- Limited power for whole house purposes
