Best Quiet Camping Generators

Being off-the-grid doesn't necessarily mean being without electric power and without all devices, appliances, and gadgets that are run by electricity.

Camping generators provide electric power to run appliances like refrigerators, lights, TVs, fans, even AC units, but they also have their own features and limitations.

Published: December 7, 2021.

On This Page:

• Intro to Camping Generators
• What Is The Best Portable Generator For Camping?
• Best Inverter Power Generators
• Best Solar Generators - Power Stations
• Best Quiet Camping Generators Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
• Few Final Words 

---

Intro to Camping Generators

Power and energy requirements differ greatly when camping - some people have the need just to run a refrigerator and perhaps a few LED lights, while others have large RVs with AC units, with a full set of kitchen appliances and various tools and multimedia devices that require electric energy 24/7.

For people looking for power generators to run their RVs, please check our articles (both links open in the new windows):

- What Size Generator for 30 Amp RV?

- Top 5 Best 50 Amp Portable Generators - 50 Amp RV Generators

Smaller camping generators range in power from a few hundred watts to 3000-4000W and as such they differ not only in output power but also in type, fuel, noise levels, runtime, size, etc.

Solar Generators (Power Stations) vs Power Generators

There are two main types of generators used for camping: power generators and solar generators (power stations).

Power generators feature internal combustion engines that burn fossil fuels (gas (gasoline), LPG, natural gas, diesel...) and convert their energy into electric energy.

Power generators MUST be operated outdoors since they emit fumes that contain dangerous Carbon Monoxide (CO) and other gasses and smoke.

In order to "recharge" the power generators, users just have to fill their fuel tanks again or attach a full LPG bottle.

Power stations use internal lithium batteries to store the energy and can be operated both indoors and outdoors.

In order to charge their internal batteries, most power stations use mains chargers, car 12V cigarette lighter adapters, or solar panels - and that is the reason why power stations are often called "solar generators".

Technically speaking, a power station with solar panels is a solar generator, while a power station on its own is just a - power station.

But, these terms are often used interchangeably :)

Fuel Types

Most camping power generators use gasoline (gas), although some models also support the use of propane gas (Liquid Propane Gas - LPG) - dual-fuel power generators.

Power stations use lithium batteries where the energy is stored chemically and they don't require oxygen from the air.

But, the energy density in fossil fuels is still much larger than the energy density in lithium batteries and as such, power generators can run much longer on a single fuel tank than the power stations on a single battery charge.

But, if You have a solar generator (power station with enough solar panels), You don't depend on the constant source of fossil fuels - You just need a sun.

Note: solar panels provide electric energy even during cloudy days, but not as much as during fully sunny days. During the night, output energy from solar panels is practically zero!

In order to improve the fuel economy, smaller power generators are often made as inverter power generators, allowing the engine to run according to the power requirements. Also, inverter power generators usually feature very low THD levels, usually below 3%, making them suitable even for sensitive electronics. Or for charging the batteries of power stations.

Since they feature lithium batteries, power stations/solar generators have very low THD levels, often below 1%, and are also suitable for sensitive devices.

Noise Levels

In order to keep the noise at acceptable levels, power generators suitable for camping feature high-quality mufflers and sound insulation around the engines.

Also, such power generators feature enclosed construction, keeping the noise levels around or even below 50-53 dB at 25% load from the 20-23 feet distance.

Larger power generators, especially ones with 50 Amps receptacles are usually designed as open-frame power generators and are much noisier.

Solar generators are not noiseless, but they create very quiet humming or buzzing sound that is really hard to hear from just a few feet distance.

Note: some camping sites that don't feature mains power have hours when power generators are forbidden to run - usually from 10 PM to 6 AM. Solar generators, on the other hand, can operate 24/7, if they have enough energy stored in their batteries.

Starting Power/Running Power

Running power is the maximum power that the power generator or solar generator can provide continuously.

Starting power is the maximum power that the power generator or solar generator can provide for a shorter period of time, which is very important for the loads that feature electric motors - they require more power when starting.

Runtime

The runtime of the power generators is given in hours and is measured at a certain load, usually at 25% load.

On average, inverter power generators feature a runtime of 8-12 hours at 25% load.

On the other hand, the runtime of the solar generators is much harder to define, since most of them can be charged (for example, via solar panels) and discharged at the same time - so-called "pass-through charging".

Weight and Dimensions

Power and solar generators intended for camping are usually compact enough to be easily carried over shorter distances by a single or two adults.

Also, all additional accessories are compact enough to fit into the car's trunk with no issues - even solar panels are designed as separate foldable packages that feature carrying handles.

However, if the weight and storage area are limited, be careful when choosing the most suitable power or solar generator, since both the weight and the volume quickly add up.

Price

High-quality power generators with inverter electronics, specially tuned mufflers, soundproof design, and similar, can't be cheap. Also, high-end power stations with large lithium batteries cost even more.

But, what You pay is usually what You get ...

Smaller power and solar generators can be found for a few hundred dollars, but with the increase in power, battery capacity, available receptacles, and similar, the price is increased - good power or solar generator may cost a few thousand dollars.

Receptacles

Most common receptacles include AC 120V 5-20R receptacles and 12V battery and 5V USB ports.

Also, some larger power generators feature AC 120V 30A L5-30R and 120V 30A TT-30R receptacles and can be used to power larger loads directly.

Some smaller power generators that support the parallel operation, can also be used for powering larger loads with the set of receptacles often depending on the available parallel ready kit.

Maintenance Procedures

Solar generators/power stations are much easier to maintain than power generators - it is often necessary to keep clean and to recharge the internal battery every few months when the unit is not in use.

On the other hand, in order to maintain power generators, the user has to regularly change oil, check/change spark plug, check/change the air filter, check/clean carburetor, etc.

For most power generators, it is highly recommended to keep the Owner's Guide with all maintenance procedures with the unit, just in case.

---

What Is The Best Portable Generator For Camping?

There is no simple answer to this question - different people have different requirements and thus will look for different units.

First of all, it is important to pick between power generators and solar generators (power stations).

While power generators offer longer runtime and store much more energy in the form of fossil fuel, solar generators are quiet, clean, and can operate both indoors and outdoors. But, during the night, solar generators rely only on the energy stored in their internal batteries, which may be rather limited when compared to a tank of gasoline or LPG.

Also, when looking for your new generator, be sure to check the output power, receptacles, weight, size, warranty, maintenance, etc.

After that, You will know what is your best portable generator for camping...

Here are some of the best inverter power generators and solar generators, suitable not only for camping, but also in emergencies, during blackouts, and similar.   

---

Best Inverter Power Generators

Best camping power generators are portable, inverter power generators with fuel tanks large enough to power at least 400-500 watts for at least 8-10 hours with the noise levels of at most 50-53 dB @25% load.

Also, such units should have very low THD levels so that they can power sensitive electronics directly.

Personally, a good power generator should also be able to recharge a good power station (solar generator) using its wall charger several times using a single fuel tank - one never knows when cloudy weather can slow down solar generator charging via solar panels.

The following comparison table lists some of the most popular, quiet, portable inverter power generators that are more than suitable as camping generators - some of them even have 120V 30A receptacles, but that was not a requirement:

Again,  people looking for power generators to run their RVs, please check our articles (both links open in the new windows):

- What Size Generator for 30 Amp RV?

- Top 5 Best 50 Amp Portable Generators - 50 Amp RV Generators

And here are our reviews of some of the portable inverter generators, suitable for various purposes, camping included:

Westinghouse iGen4500 Super Quiet Portable Inverter Generator

Westinghouse iGen4500 portable inverter generator is an example that a relatively strong power generator doesn't have to be loud.

Westinghouse iGen4500 is powered by a 224cc 4-stroke OHV engine, featuring standard manual recoil start, electric push-button start, and a remote start via fob.

Westinghouse iGen4500 provides 3700 Running Watts and 4500 Surge Watts, with very low Total Harmonic Distortions (THD) levels of ≤3%.

The unit is a true inverter power generator and thanks to very low THD levels, it can be used for powering sensitive tools and appliances directly.

Westinghouse iGen4500 features physical dimensions of (L x W x H) 24.5 x 17.5 x 20 inches (~62.2 x 44.5 x 50.8 cm) and it weighs 104.7 pounds (~47.4 kg) without fuel - it is a portable generator, but it is not small and lightweight.

The unit comes with a pair of smaller transport wheels and a foldable handle, allowing the user to move it to short distances.

Fuel tank capacity is 3.4 gallons (~12.8 liters) providing the runtime of 18 hours @25% (925 watts) load, featuring very low noise of only 52 dB @25% (925 watts) load.

The list of receptacles includes:

- 120V 20A AC 5-20R Duplex,

- 120V 30A AC TT-30R,

- 2x 5.0V USB (2.1A, 1A).

Note that all receptacles feature physical protection from sand, dust, and even moisture/rain.

Nonetheless, the Westinghouse iGen4500 generator should NOT be used exposed to rain, snow, and similar weather conditions.

Westinghouse iGen4500 comes with a so-called LED Data Center showing fuel level, power output, remaining runtime, current and voltage output, and the unit's lifetime hours, helping the users with the operation and with the maintenance of the unit.

Westinghouse iGen4500 power generator is a parallel ready generator, allowing the user to combine two compatible units in order to provide more power - compatible units include Westinghouse iGen4500, Westinghouse iGen4500DF, Westinghouse iGen2600, Westinghouse iGen2500, Westinghouse iGen2200, and Westinghouse iGen1200.

Westinghouse iGen4500 features a 3-year limited residential warranty and a 1-year commercial warranty.

Note: Westinghouse also offers a very similar Westinghouse iGen4500DF unit which is somewhat more expensive, but it is a dual-fuel (DF) unit, allowing the user to use either gas or LPG.

Westinghouse iGen4500 is an excellent inverter, portable power generator - it is not a cheap unit, but there are more expensive units in its power class as well.

But, if You are looking for a well-balanced design that can be used as a quiet camping power generator (or for any other purpose where such power generator is needed), consider this unit.

For more reviews and recommendations, feel free to check the Westinghouse iGen4500 Super Quiet Portable Inverter Generator Amazon link (link opens in the new window).

Honda EU3000IS Portable Power Generator

Honda EU3000IS Portable Power Generator is a typical Honda power generator - it is an expensive unit, but worth every (euro)cent.

Honda EU3000IS is powered by a very efficient 196cc Honda GX200 engine, ensuring 2800 Running Watts and 3000 Starting Watts.

The engine features manual recoil start and electric start - there is no remote start option.

The unit comes with a 3.4 gal fuel tank and features a 20(!) hour runtime @25% of nominal power (700 Watts) and 6.9 hours at nominal power (2800W).

Physical dimensions of the unit are 25.9 x 17.6 x 22.0 inches (~65.8 x 44.7 x 55.9 cm) and it weighs 130.7 pounds (~59.2 kg) dry - it is anything but a lightweight unit.

By default, Honda EU3000IS doesn't feature transport wheels, but the user can order a 2- or 4-wheel kit, to help with transporting the unit. Or one can rely on two handlebars for carrying it around when required (again, it weighs ~131 pounds!).

Thanks to the high-quality muffler and overall design, Honda EU3000IS is a very quiet power generator - it features noise levels of only 50 dB @25% and 57 dB at full power, making it ideal for camping, tailgating, construction sites, in emergencies in residential areas, and similar.

The list of receptacles includes:

- 120V 20A AC Duplex,

- 120V 30A AC L5-30R.

As one can see, there are no DC ports.

If more power is required, note that the Honda EU3000IS is a parallel ready unit allowing the user to connect two units in parallel to provide more power.

Honda EU3000IS is a heavy and expensive unit, but it also comes with a 3-year residential and commercial warranty.

If You need to charge the 12V batteries, just connect the battery charger to the one of ports and charge the battery with much more Amps than the typical 12V ports usually offer.

For more reviews and recommendations, feel free to check the Honda EU3000IS Portable Power Generator Amazon link (link opens in the new window). 

Generac 7127 iQ3500-3500 Watt Portable Inverter Generator

Generac 7127 iQ3500 portable inverter power generator is powered by a 212cc OHV engine, providing 3000 Running Watts and 3500 Starting Watts.

The unit features a 2.6 gallons gas tank which is enough for 8.9h @50% load (1500 watts) and 14.1h @25% load (750 watts).

Generac 7127 iQ3500 comes with both manual and electric start - there is no remote start option.

As a power generator, the unit features very low THD (<3%), making it safe for powering sensitive electronics, gadgets, and appliances.

According to the manufacturer, Generac 7127 iQ3500 is 5 dB quieter than the Honda EU3000IS - that would be around 45 dB @25% load (750W), which would be a fantastic result. However, we didn't have the opportunity to test it ourselves - and no, smartphone apps that measure noise levels are not accurate enough for such testing.

But, Generac 7127 iQ3500 is nonetheless one of the quietest power generators in its power class.

The unit features physical dimensions of 23.7 x 18 x 21.7 inches (60.2 x 45.7 x 55.1 cm) and it weighs 109 pounds (49.4 kg) dry - it doesn't come with transport wheels, but it features a pair of handlebars, allowing the user to move it manually.

The list of receptacles includes:

- 120V 20A AC Duplex 5-20R,

- 120V 30A AC L5-30R,

- 2x USB ports (5V/2.1A, 5V/1A).

Also, Generac 7127 iQ3500 is a parallel ready power generator.

Generac 7127 iQ3500 power generator comes with a 3-year residential and commercial warranty.

For more reviews and recommendations, feel free to check the Generac 7127 iQ3500-3500 Watt Portable Inverter Generator Amazon link (link opens in the new window).

WEN 56235i Super Quiet 2350-Watt Portable Inverter Generator

WEN offers several 562**i portable inverter power generators that feature very compact dimensions, lightweight design, low noise, and good overall quality.

One of them is WEN 56235i power generator.

WEN 56235i features a 4-stroke 79cc OHV engine, ensuring 1900 Running Watts and 2350 Starting Watts.

The physical dimensions of the unit are 17.3 x 11.5 x 17.7 inches (~44 x 29.2 x 45 cm) and it weighs just 39 pounds (~17.7 kg) dry.

With the fuel tank of 1.06 gallons (~4 liters), the unit may operate up to 10.5 hours @25% load (475 watts) with a noise level of just 51 dB @25% nominal power.

The list of receptacles includes:

- AC 120V 15A 5-20R Duplex port,

- 12V DC port,

- 2x 5V USB ports (1A and 2.1A).

Also, note that the WEN 56235i is a parallel ready inverter generator, allowing two compatible units to be connected in parallel. Such parallel connection kit provided by WEN also comes with one AC 120V 50A (NEMA 14-50R) and one AC 120V 30A (NEMA L5-30R) port, which are both suitable for RV applications.

WEN 56235i comes with a 2-year warranty.

For more reviews and recommendations, feel free to check the WEN 56235i Super Quiet 2350-Watt Portable Inverter Generator Amazon link (link opens in the new window).

Energizer eZV2000P 2000W Gas Powered Portable Inverter Generator

Energizer eZV2000P is a lightweight and compact inverter power generator featuring a 79cc engine and ensuring 1600 Running Watts and 2000 Starting Watts. The engine features just a manual engine start.

The unit features physical dimensions of 20.1 x 11 x 17.7 inches (~51 x 28 x 45 cm) and it weighs 44 pounds (120 kg) dry.

Energizer eZV2000P comes with a 0.9 gal (3.4 liters) fuel tank, ensuring the operating time of 11.5 hours @25% load and 4.2 hours @100% load.

The unit also features the following power receptacles:

- 2x 120V 20A 5-20R,

- 1x 12V 5A DC.

Also, it comes with one eZV Parallel Port, allowing the users to connect it in parallel with any compatible unit.

Energizer eZV2000P is very quiet unit, featuring noise levels of 50 dB @25% load, 56 dB @75% load, and 59dBa @100% load

The unit features a 3-year limited warranty.

For more reviews and recommendations, feel free to check the Energizer eZV2000P 2000W Gas Powered Portable Inverter Generator Amazon link (link opens in the new window).

---

Best Solar Generators - Power Stations

When power stations are combined with solar panels, they become independent power sources, relying only on sunlight, with no fossil fuels being required.

Unlike power generators which must be operated outdoors, solar generators can be used both indoors and outdoors, thanks to the high-capacity lithium batteries.

But, the amount of energy even in lithium batteries is limited and the runtime of solar generators on a single battery charge is usually much shorter than the runtime of power generators on a single fuel tank.

Since solar generators/power stations emit only very quiet noise, often below 40 dB, they are practically silent and can be freely used even on camping sites with the limited allowed operating time for power generators.

The list of solar generators/power stations suitable for camping is a long one, but here are a few of our favorites - since different people have different requirements and needs, You may agree with us or not :)

EF ECOFLOW DELTA Portable Power Station

EF ECOFLOW DELTA Portable Power Station is a rather versatile power station/solar generator that can be very useful in many situations, not just camping.

EF ECOFLOW DELTA Portable Power Station feature physical dimensions of 15.7 x 8.3 x 10.6 inches (40 x 21 x 27 cm) and it weighs 30.9 pounds (14 kg).

Energy is stored in the internal 1260 Wh lithium battery which can be if required, expanded using an external battery module.

On average, a single battery charge allows the unit to recharge/power:

- Drone (40 Wh): ~29 recharges,

- CPAP (40W): 21 hours,

- Laptop (60 Wh): 19 charges,

- Projector (65W): 13 hours,

- Mini Fridge (60W): 14 hours,

- TV (110W): 8h,

- PS5 (200W): 4.5h,

- Gaming PC (500W): 2.2h,

- Coffee Maker (1000W): 1.1h,

- Air Fryer (1500W): 0.7h.

The unit can be recharged using an AC wall adapter (1200W max.), using solar panels (400W max.), and/or a car 12V charger - when the AC wall adapter is used, the battery can be recharged up to 80% in 1 (one) hour and up to 100% in two hours.

One of the very interesting features of the EF ECOFLOW DELTA Portable Power Station is that it also doubles as an Emergency Power Supply (EPS - sometimes also called Uninterruptible Power Supply, UPS) with a switch time of ~30 ms (milliseconds).

Regarding output ports and power, EF ECOFLOW DELTA Portable Power Station is able to provide 1800 watts continuously, and 3300 surge watts. Also, it can provide 1800-2000 watts for up to 3 minutes, after which the unit automatically shuts itself off.

EF ECOFLOW DELTA can power up to 13 external devices simultaneously:

- 6x AC outlets,

- 4x USB-A,

- 2x USB-C,

- 1x 12V car port.

EF ECOFLOW DELTA Portable Power Station is not without noise due to the fans and the electronics that make humming noise - noise levels are less than 50 dB from the distance of 2 meters (less than 7 feet), making it a very quiet unit.

It is almost needless to say that the unit provides practically pure sine wave output, allowing the unit to power sensitive electronics directly.

Note: If the power consumption is less than 20W, the EF DELTA AC power will be automatically turned off in 12 hours!

The display screen on the front side provides all relevant information about the unit - the unit features a broad range of features and is easy to use, but when it arrives, be sure to read the manual and to keep it near the unit, just in case.

EF ECOFLOW DELTA MAX power station is not a cheap unit, especially not when being used as a solar generator with 400W solar panels, but again, it can be used to protect sensitive electronics when the mains power is present, it can be used as an excellent power station during emergencies and blackouts, and in the end, it can also be used as a versatile solar generator when - camping.

For more reviews and recommendations, feel free to check the EF ECOFLOW DELTA Portable Power Station Amazon link (link opens in the new window).

Westinghouse iGen1000s Portable Power Station

Westinghouse iGen1000s Portable Power Station is one of the most popular mid-range power stations/solar generators, featuring physical dimensions of 12.4 x 8 x 12.3 inches (~31.5 x 20.3 x 31.2 cm) and the weight of 31.1 pounds (~14.1 kg).

Westinghouse iGen1000s features an internal 1008 Wh lithium battery and is able to provide 1500W continuously and 3000W peak.

The unit can be charged using a wall adapter (using mains power or using a power generator), solar panels (up to 400W, not included), and car adapter.

When the unit is recharged using a wall adapter, it takes ~2 hours to charge the battery up to 80%.

Output ports include:

- 6x AC ports,

- 2x USB-A,

- 2x USB-C,

- 2x USB-A Quick Charge,

- 1x 12V car port.

The LCD display screen on the front of the unit provides vital information of the unit, including remaining charge time, battery failure warning, battery charge level indicator, high- and low-temperature indicator, fan indicator, current input, output power, overload warning, and the port usage indicator.

Westinghouse iGen1000s provides pure sine wave output and is suitable for powering sensitive devices while working almost silently - fan noise and gentle humming noise are really hard to hear, especially if some multimedia device like TV is being used.

For more reviews and recommendations, feel free to check the Westinghouse iGen1000s Portable Power Station Amazon link (link opens in the new window).

BLUETTI AC200P Portable Power Station

Bluetti AC200P is a relatively large and heavy, but also sturdy, powerful, and rather versatile power station/solar generator and one of the most sought-after power stations on the market featuring physical dimensions of (L x W x H) 16.5 x 11 x 15.2 inches (~42 x 28 x 38.6 cm) and the weight of 60.6 pounds (~27.5 kg).

The unit comes with large Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO₄) battery which is able to store up to 2000Wh of energy.

The battery is designed to withstand 3500(!) charging/discharging cycles, while still retaining ~80% of the initial capacity - similar power stations feature batteries that are rarely able to withstand more than 1000 charging/discharging cycles!

As a power station, Bluetti AC200P is able to provide up to 2000W continuously, up to 2500W for two minutes, and is able to provide 4800 surge watts, making it ideal for camping, fishing, and any similar off-the-grid trips.

Bluetti AC200P features an efficiency of ~88% and is able to power:

- CPAP (40W): 43 hours,

- Ceiling Fan (50W): 34 hours,

- Laptop (60W): 28 hours,

- TV (110W): 15.5 hours,

- Home Refrigerator (200W): 8.5 hours,

- Coffee maker (600W): 2.8 hours,

- Microwave (900W): 1.9 hours,

- Hairdryer (1600W): 1.1 hours, etc.

 Bluetti AC200P features 5 different ways of charging, including:

- AC Adapter (One Included): 500W (5.5h), 2x500W (3h),

- Car Charger (Included): 12V/24V (20/10h),

- Solar Panels (Not included): 35-150V, max. 700W, max 12A; 3-9 hours, depending on the configuration and weather conditions,

- Power Generator (Not included): gasoline, propane, or diesel (3-6 hours),

- Lead-acid battery（max 8.2A, not included): 20 hours.

The Bluetti AC200P power station/solar generator comes with an advanced MPPT charge controller featuring maximum power of 1200W, allowing the user to quickly recharge the battery using one or several charging methods combined.

Also, the unit supports pass-through charging.

As a power station/solar generator, Bluetti AC200P features 17(!) different power outlets:

- 6x AC ports,

- 1x DC 12V/25A port,

- 1x DC 12V/10A port,

- 2x DC 12V/3A ports,

- 4x 5V USB-A ports,

- 1x 60W USB-C port,

- 2x 15W Wireless Charging Pads.

 

So, is Bluetti AC200P expensive? Yes and No, depending on the view - but, it is another excellent power station/solar generator not just for camping.

For more reviews and recommendations, feel free to check the BLUETTI AC200P Portable Power Station Amazon link (link opens in the new window).

EGO Power+ PST3040/PST3041/PST3042 3000W Nexus Portable Power Station

EGO Power+ 3000W Nexus Portable Power Station is a large and powerful power station with batteries being attached to the unit externally.

 

Depending on the battery configuration, the EGO Power+ Nexus power station may be offered as:

- EGO Power+ PST3040 Nexus: power station with no batteries,

- EGO Power+ PST3041 Nexus: power station with four Ego POWER+ BA2800T 56V 5.0 Ah batteries, with a total capacity of 1120 Wh,

- EGO Power+ PST3042 Nexus: power station with two Ego POWER+ BA2800T 56V 7.5 Ah batteries, with a total capacity of 840 Wh.

Different configurations also mean different prices, of course.

The runtime of the Ego POWER+ Nexus power station depends on the number and the size of the batteries connected and the actual load.

Battery Configuration	4x 7.5 Ah (1680 Wh)	4x 5.0 Ah (1120 Wh)	2x 7.5 Ah (840 Wh)	2x 5.0 Ah (560 Wh)
60W LED Light, 80W 40" LED TV, 6W WiFi Router	8h 48min	5h 52min	4h 24min	2h 56min
80W 40" LED TV	16h	10h 42min	8h	5h 35min
1000W Electric Load	77 min	52 min	38 min	26 min

A very interesting feature is that the unit supports the use of batteries of different sizes/capacities, but it is highly recommended to use batteries of the same capacity.

Also, maximum output power depends on the number and size of the attached batteries and can be 600W, 1200W, and 2000W.

For example, when using two Ego POWER+ BA1400T (56V 2.5Ah) batteries, power is limited to 1200W.

But, the unit features a very advanced control panel allowing the user to see the unit's status at the moment's notice.

As a power station, Ego POWER+ Nexus features physical dimensions of 18.33 x 13.26 x 14.51 inches (~46.6 x 33.7 x 36.9 cm) and it weighs 30.2 pounds (~13.7 kg) without attached batteries.

As the batteries are added, Ego POWER+ Nexus weight increases, for example, Ego POWER+ PST3041 Nexus with 4x 56V 5.0 Ah BA2800T weighs ~50 pounds (~22.7 kg), while Ego POWER+ PST3042 Nexus with 2x 56V 7.5 Ah BA4200T weighs ~43 pounds (~19.5 kg).

Note: Ego POWER+ batteries compatible with the Ego POWER+ Nexus power station are also compatible with the broad range of the Ego POWER+ cordless tools, allowing the user with several high-capacity Ego POWER+ batteries to purchase tools as "bare tools" at very acceptable prices.

Output ports include:

- 3x 120V AC ports,

- 4x USB 5.0 2.1A ports.

By default, Ego POWER+ Nexus comes with the Ego POWER+ CH1700 battery charger that is rated at 170 watts and if the battery pack consists of, for example, four 56V 5.0Ah batteries, the CH1700 battery charger will need at least 7-8 hours to fully recharge them - too long in situations when the mains power is unreliable.

Hence, the faster EGO Power+ chargers are recommended:

Having faster battery chargers significantly decreases the battery charging time.

Ego POWER+ Nexus Cons

Ego POWER+ Nexus is an excellent power station and if You like DIY activities and have Ego POWER+ batteries and tools, Ego POWER+ Nexus is a great choice.

However, Ego POWER+ Nexus doesn't support direct solar charging which would make Ego POWER+ Nexus owner independent from the AC power source.

As one can see, Ego POWER+ Nexus is a very interesting power station that can't accept solar panels directly - it can't be used as a "classic" solar generator, but can be very useful in many situations, camping included.

For more reviews and recommendations, feel free to check the EGO Power+ PST3040 Nexus, EGO Power+ PST3041 Nexus, and EGO Power+ PST3042 Nexus Amazon link (link opens in the new window).

Jackery Explorer 1500 Portable Power Station

 

Jackery Explorer 1500 Portable Power Station is compact and versatile power station/solar generator featuring physical dimensions of 14 x 10.4 x 12.7 inches (35.6 x 26.4 x 32.3 cm) and the weight of 35.27 pounds (16kg).

The unit comes with a 1534Wh lithium battery (combined with the unit's ~85% efficiency) and is able to provide 1800W max.

Output ports include:

- 3x AC ports,

- 1x 12V 10A car port,

- 1x USB-C 5V 2.4A port,

- 2x USB-A Quick Charge ports.

All relevant information about the unit and its operation is presented on the easy-to-read display.

Jackery Explorer 1500 features an advanced MPPT charge controller, allowing the user to recharge the battery using the wall adapter, car adapter, or solar panels.

Note: while wall adapters and car adapters are always included, solar panels are not included by default.

But, Jackery also offers Jackery Explorer 1500 with 4x 100W SolarSaga solar panels, making the user truly independent from the mains power and fossil fuels - an almost ideal camping companion.

Jackery Explorer 1500 is part of the very popular group of Jackery portable power stations/solar generators that can be used not only for camping, but in emergencies, during blackouts,  and similar.

When choosing the right Jacker power station/solar generator, choose according to your own needs and preferences.

For more reviews and recommendations, feel free to check the Jackery Explorer 1500 Portable Power Station and Jackery Explorer 1500 with 4 SolarSaga 100W Solar Panels Kit Amazon links (links open in the new window).

---

Best Quiet Camping Generators Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here are some of the very popular Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about camping generators and generators in general:

What size generator do I need for camping?

Actual power output and energy capacity depend on the individual needs - for some people, smaller 500-1000 Watts and 500-1000 Wh solar generators are more than enough, and some people require larger power generators to power their large RVs.

But, power generators in 2000-3000W are a very popular choice, featuring well-balanced design, output power, low noise, and mostly acceptable price.

What will a 2000 watt generator power?

A 2000 watt power generator can be used to power a broad range of tools, appliances, devices, gadgets, etc.

When connecting loads to the power generators, it is important to connect first larger loads, especially the ones with large Starting Power and then smaller loads.

In order to know the exact power requirements of your devices, the best thing to do is to check their labels, usually found at the bottom or at the back, stating maximum required power - after listing all the needed devices/appliances, calculate the minimum power that your new power generator must-have.

For more about this topic, feel free to check our What Can You Run on a 2000 Watt Generator? and Boat, Camping, RV, and Household Appliances Wattage Charts articles.

Do I need a portable generator for camping? Why do you need a generator for camping?

It all depends on your camping style and habits - some people are perfectly happy with a few LED flashlights and coffee made on a camp fire, while other people want their RVs to be fully operational regardless if they are connected to the mains power or not.

Also, some people have both power generators and solar generators, which give them the most freedom regarding their energy source while being completely off-the-grid.

What size generator do I need to run a refrigerator? What size generator do I need to run a refrigerator and light?

It all depends on the refrigerator size and energy class - for example, older larger units required up to 700-1000 running watts and 2000-3000 watts when starting.

Newer refrigerators are much more energy-efficient, with most larger home units requiring 100-500 running watts and 500-1000 starting watts.

Camping refrigerators, which are usually smaller than the normal size home units require even less power - the best thing to do is to check the documentation of your unit to check the exact power requirements.

If You are going to power only your refrigerator and perhaps a few LED lights, practically any 1000-2000W generator will do fine.

Can a portable power station run a refrigerator?

This depends on both refrigerator and the power station/solar generator, but generally, if the power station is strong enough, then yes, it can power a refrigerator.

For more about this topic, please check our Off-the-Grid: How Many Watts Does a Refrigerator Use? article. 

Do you need a generator for tent camping? Can you camp without a generator?

Again, it is all about your power requirements and camping habits. 

But, having a power generator or solar generator can make all the difference...

Is having a generator a good idea? What are the advantages of the portable generator?

Even if You are not a camping/outdoors enthusiast, having a good generator can be a good idea.

Personally, power stations with several foldable solar panels are easy to maintain, don't require much space, but can come in handy in emergencies and blackouts - at least to power refrigerators, few lights, and to recharge smartphones and other telecommunication devices!

Portable generators, power generators and/or solar generators, are compact and relatively lightweight devices that can be used in various situations, not just for camping...   

---

Few Final Words

Modern power generators and solar generators are designed to be easy to use and maintain.

However, they are not toys, on a contrary, they must be used as intended and recommended by their manufacturers.

Power generators should be used only outdoors, even if they have Carbon Monoxide (CO) automatic shut down safety features, and regardless of "how good" is the ventilation!

Often, the combination of power generators and solar generators offers the most, although such combinations are far from being cheap.

But, having freshly made coffee early in the morning far, far away from the nearest civilization is - priceless :)