Last updated on August 30th, 2021
Yamaha EF2000isv2 Review & Buyers Guide
Table of Contents
Yamaha EF2000isv2 Review & Summary
Product Name: Yamaha EF2000isv2
Product Description: The Yamaha EF2000isV2 is the updated version of their EF2000is model. At first sight, these generators look completely the same but this is because the main difference between these inverter generators is the higher power output of the newest model.
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Noise Level
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Reliability
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Value vs. Cost
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Ease of Use
Summary
This Yamaha model has an unusual appearance for a generator. The rounded edges and slimmer design reminds you of an old-school radio but in this case it delivers electrical current instead of sound waves.
It is a popular inverter generator with many positive consumer reviews and high ratings by experts. Its winning features are how quiet it is, how lightweight it is and its informative control panel.
The Yamaha EF2000isV2 is the updated version of their EF2000is model. At first sight, these generators look completely the same but this is because the main difference between these inverter generators is the higher power output of the newest model.
So, is this newer model truly the better competitor when comparing to other brand’s 2000 watt inverter generators? Does this Yamaha generator hold more promise in its specs and performance than just a cool and retro look?
We studied expert reviews, user comments and the product spec sheets and manuals very carefully to give you this complete review of the best-looking generator on the market; the Yamaha EF2000isV2. Read on to learn more.
This review is not based on any personal tests done on the machine but rather a comprehensive overview of the Yamaha EF2000isV2 derived from expert reviews, customer comments and the specifications provided by the manufacturer. Any conclusions drawn in this review are based on a comparison of these three different sources of information.
About the Yamaha EF2000isV2
This Yamaha model has an unusual appearance for a generator. The rounded edges and slimmer design reminds you of an old-school radio but in this case it delivers electrical current instead of sound waves.
It is a popular inverter generator with many positive consumer reviews and high ratings by experts. Its winning features are how quiet it is, how lightweight it is and its informative control panel.
Its power output is quite standard for a generator in the same 2000 watt category. Its running power of 1600 watts is a much needed improvement of the 900 watts running power in the older Yamaha model.
With this model, Yamaha focuses on delivering a user-friendly portable generator. This type of generator is best for light use during camping trips, tailgating and off-grid outdoor activities.
EF2000isV2
Product Information Detail
Running Watts 1,600 watts
Surge Wattage 2,000 watts
Tank Size 1.1 gallons
Run Time 10.5 hours at 25% load
Fuel Gasoline
Noise Level 51.5 - 61 dB at 25% load
Weight 56 lbs
Compact, lightweight and quiet are three of the best characteristics of the Yamaha EF2000isv2. Compared to similar inverter generators, this model is slimmer making it easier to carry by its u-shaped handle.
This inverter generator weighs just over 44 lbs making this one of the more lightweight models in the 2000 watt category. This is a very welcome feature because it is parallel capable and so taking 2 of these with you on your trip does not defeat the purpose of buying a lightweight portable generator.
For recreational purposes, a more quiet machine is always welcome because you do not want to be disturbing in a public nature setting. The EF2000isv2 is extremely quiet for a portable generator with a rated noise level of only 61 dB and only 51.5 dB at a 25% load.
At a 25% you also get the best run time from this off-grid power source with an expected run time of 10.5 hours. This is quite a long time for inverter generator of this size so this is one of your best bets when looking for a generator that you can leave running overnight.
The power output is what you would expect for an inverter generator with 2000 watts surge power. Its running power output is registered at 1600 watts which is more than enough for charging personal electronics and a few household appliances.
Taking into account its power and run time, it is surprising that this model has a fuel tank capacity of only 1.1 gallons. This means that the fuel efficiency on this inverter generator is excellent.
Inverter generators are known for delivering clean electricity but Yamaha takes this notion to a whole new level. The pure sine wave technology on this model has Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) which translates to a voltage stability of around 1% and frequency stability of around 0.1 hertz.
Other indicators of good control on this generator are the Smart Throttle system that guarantees fuel efficiency and the centralized control panel. The control panel features a fuel gauge, Oil Watch Warning System, overload indicator light, circuit breakers and a simple turning knob for easy starts.
Another way starting this generator is made easier is with the auto-decompression system and auto-warm up system. The former reduces compression to make the pull start easier and the latter increases engine speed so that you can connect high power demand devices quicker.
Also on the control panel are its 3 power outlets. The EF2000isv2 has two 120 volt ac power outlets and one 12 volt DC outlet. There are no USB ports on this model.
Finally, the Yamaha EF2000isv2 is approved for use in California meaning it is both EPA and CARB-compliant. This seal of approval is given to generators that fall within the required Emission Engine Durability Rating.
EF2000isv2 vs EF2200iS
The next level up from the EF2000isv2 is the Yamaha EF2200iS. This newer model has just 200 watts more surge power and 200 watts more running power, as well.
The look of these two generators are clearly different. The EF2200iS which was releases in February 2019 no longer has the retro radio look and has larger dimensions of 21.9 x 11.8 x 18.5 inches.
However, looks are probably the least important feature for a portable generator unless it directly impacts its portability. The new 2019 model is heavier by about 11 pounds but Yamaha is making up for this extra weight by adding 2 more handles, one at each end, so that it is easier to carry this inverter generator with 2 people.
Other important differences are in its specs. Surprisingly, despite having a slightly larger fuel tank of 1.24 gallons, the EF2200iS has the same run time at a 25% load.
Does this mean that Yamaha did not adjust the fuel efficiency of this newer model to compensate for the extra power?
This extra power is responsible for another important feature in inverter generators; its noise level. We expect a more powerful generator to also make more noise which is the case here, too.
The EF2200iS has a rated noise level 65 decibels and 57 decibels when running at a 25% load. On paper, a difference of around 6 decibels may not seem that much but keep in mind that decibels are an exponential measure of noise.
When comparing these two Yamaha generators, there are 3 main aspects to consider; portability, noise and power. Is 200 watts of extra power worth a heavier and noisier model?
We can see how these 200 extra watts can make a difference for professional purposes and in that case we think the slightly higher price tag is worth it. However, we don’t think this upgrade is necessary for recreational purposes where the EF2000isv2 should suffice.
Yamaha EF2000isv2 vs Similar Inverter Generators
Many expert reviews of inverter generators make comparisons with the Honda EU inverter generator range. This is because the Honda has a reputation of being one of the most reliable portable generators on the market making it a good reference point for quality of performance.
Production of the EU2000i has discontinued but Honda has replaced this model with the EU2200i which also has 200 watts extra power like the Yamaha EF2200is.
From the spec lists, it seems like the Yamaha model has several advantages of the Honda model and at a lower price, too. The EF2000isv2 is more quiet, has a longer run time and weighs a little less.
The Honda EU2200i is slightly louder with a noise level of 53 decibels compared to the 51.5 decibels of the Yamaha. The Honda also has a shorter run time of 8.1 hours at a 25% load which is over 2 hours shorter than the EF2000isv2.
The difference in weight is minimal with the EU2200i weighing about 3 lbs more. This difference is so small that you could say there is no significant difference in portability.
Another comparable 2000 watt inverter generator is the WEN 56200i which is much more affordable than both the Yamaha and Honda inverter generator. The power specs of the 56200i are the same as the EF2000isv2.
The WEN generator scores pretty similar in noise level rated at 51 decibels. Its weight is also not too far off from the Yamaha model at 48 pounds dry weight.
A notable difference is the expected run time. At only 6 hours at a half-load, the WEN inverter generator has a much shorter run time than the Yamaha.
You cannot fault the fuel tank size (which is the same) or the power output for this difference in run time so we conclude that this has to do with fuel efficiency. Since the Yamaha EF2000isv2 is more fuel-efficient, its running costs are also lower.
We cannot ignore the big gap in price between this WEN and Yamaha inverter generator. Looking at the warranty, the Yamaha is the safer bet with a limited warranty that lasts one year longer.
On the other hand, the WEN is still a great budget option for a 2000 watt inverter generator. This is a price vs quality gamble that you will have to take.
Advantages and Disadvantages
Silence is key when it comes to inverter generators and the Yamaha EF2000isv2 scores very well in this department. Use the economy control function and the engine will run more quietly but also more fuel-efficiently. Despite a standard size fuel tank, this generator has an impressive run time of over 10 hours at a quarter load. This shows off how fuel efficient this Yamaha is and gives you an indication of its lower running costs compared to many other brands. We also appreciate how Yamaha tried to make the EF2000isv2 more user-friendly. This is apparent in the auto-decompressor, auto-warm up and informative control panel for quick monitoring. This inverter generator is parallel capable and also lightweight and compact. This makes it a great choice for taking with you on camping trips or tailgating but this can be said for many models in the same category. Though no product is perfect, the extensive owner’s manual covers most of the common issues that are easily solved. This is a promising indicator of the product quality.
As always, there are few points of improvement for this generator. The marketing of the Yamaha EF2000isv2 often mentions the improved controller but it is missing one feature that is already a given for many similar inverter generators; USB ports. Inverter generators are often used for charging mobile phones, DSLR cameras and other sensitive electronic devices so it is surprising that Yamaha did not include a USB port in the design. At its price point, a USB seems like a basic feature should be included in the design. Speaking of price points, the Yamaha is not the cheapest model on the market, nearing the high price of the famous Honda EU2200i. One common complaint found in user comments is the oil consumption. The EF2000isv2 seems to consume a lot of oil while running and user might experience some issues with this in the long run.
Conclusion
For its price, we would expect the Yamaha EF2000isv2 to be a close competitor of the Honda EU series. After reading its specs and reviews, we think that they are very similar products.
If you are looking for quality and performance, this is a good bet. The EF200isv2 is well-rated by both consumers and experts with few performance complaints. Also, the issues that you may encounter are likely already covered in the troubleshooting section of the owner’s manual.
This is a very quiet inverter generator that is both EPA and CARB-compliant. This means that is safe for use in public places without disturbing your neighbors or the nature with loud noise and heavy exhaust fumes.
It is also a very portable model and a practical choice for when you want more power without carrying a large conventional portable generator with you.
The main downsides to this model are the price tag and the lack of a USB port. The former is forgivable if you are looking for a high quality product and have the budget for it.
The latter depends on purpose. Are you looking to charge sensitive electronics with this inverter generator or is it for general purpose?
Last update on 2024-07-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API