Glad you’re here to check out our Wen Generator Review. Having a portable or backup generator is just smart, period. Taking a generator on a camping trip makes life easier. Having a big generator to keep your refrigerator running after a storm is a lifesaver.
OUR TOP PICKS
# | PREVIEW | PRODUCT | RATING | VIEW |
1 | WEN 56200i 2000-Watt Gas Powered Portable | |||
2 | WEN 56225i 2250-Watt Gas Powered Portable Inverter Generator | |||
3 | WEN 56380i 3800-Watt Gas Powered Portable Inverter Generator | |||
4 | WEN DF475T 4750-Watt 120V/240V Gas, Propane Generator with Electric Start | |||
5 | WEN DF1100T 11,000-Watt 120V/240V Gas, Propane Portable Generator |
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In our review, we compare 5 models of Wen generators. Each model offers different power levels and features. Some have two fuel options: propane and gasoline.
We’ll show you the features of each generator. With each product, we also include the specs and pros and cons to give you the information you need to choose the right generator. We’ll also give you some background on the Wen company so you’ll know if you can trust them.
If you’ve checked out our reviews before you probably already know that we don’t list prices. We don’t include prices in our reviews because prices can change between the time we write this article and the time you see it. And, we strive to give you the most up to date accurate information we can.
But, we do provide link(s) to every product we review, more than one retailer whenever possible, so you get the best current price.
More Details On Our Wen Generator Review
Keep going to learn more about each of the generators we reviewed. There is a big range of sizes and wattages so you’ll be able to find the best generator for your needs. All the generators we tested have some level of portability, but some will be easier to transport than others.
Our Top Overall Pick
WEN 56200i 2000-Watt Gas Powered Portable Inverter Generator
First up we have the Wen 56200i. This is a 2,000 watt portable gas powered generator. Perfect for short term use around the house or taking with you to the beach, cabin, camping or hunting. Very smooth running it has a 79.7cc engine with 2,000 watts of starting power, 1,600 watts of running power. The one gallon gas tank will generally last slightly under 10 hours if running at a quarter load.
It has two 3 prong 120V plugins, one 12V DC plugin and one 5V USB port.
You can link two Wen generators together for even higher wattage with a Wen Parallel kit.
SPECS:
- Brand WEN
- Wattage 1600 watts
- Fuel Type gas powered
- Power Source Gas Powered
- Item Weight 48 Pounds
- Voltage 240 Volts
- Output Wattage 2000 Watts
- Special Feature Portable
- Included Components Spark Plug Wrench, Flathead Screwdriver, Instruction Manual
- Color Black & Orange
Pros
- Clean, stable power for sensitive devices
- Quiet
- Lightweight for easy portability
- Different plugin options
Cons
- Some user complained of the height of the unit
- Users thought adding oil was a hassle due to the design
Top 2250 Watt Pick
WEN 56225i 2250-Watt Gas Powered Portable Inverter Generator with Fuel Shut-Off
Next up we have the WEN 56225i 2250-Watt Gas Powered Portable Inverter Generator. Quiet operation with power to safely charge all your electronic devices. No voltage spikes, or drop, very portable and a reasonable noise level make this a great option for all your outdoor adventures.
This unit products up to 2250 surge watts and 1,800 rated watts. The engine is 79.9 cc 4 stroke OHV that is only 53 dB when running at quarter load. To put that into perspective, that’s quieter than most conversations! And quiet is what you want when you’re enjoying a relaxing time in nature.
The fuel shutoff feature means that the unit automatically turns off the fuel and uses whatever fuel is still in the carburetor before it shuts down. This way you don’t have to worry about stagnant fuel in the carburetor so maintenance is easier and the lifespan is longer.
The fuel tank holds one gallon of gas and will provide about 6 hours of half load run time. The panel has two 3 prong 120V outlets, and two 5V USB ports. It also comes with an eco mode option so you can maximize your fuel usage. When eco mode is engaged, the unit will automatically monitor fuel consumption and adjust as necessary depending on the number of things plugged into the panel. You can also use more than one Wen generators with a parallel connection kit which is sold separately.
SPECS:
- Brand WEN
- Wattage: 2250 watts
- Fuel Type: gas powered
- Item Weight: 48.5 Pounds
- Voltage: 120 Volts
- Output Wattage: 2250 Watts
- Special Feature: Portable
- Included Components: Inverter Generator
- Color: Black/Orange
Pros
- Quality, full featured generator at good price
- Very good fuel economy
- Quiet
- Clean, stable power
- Lightweight and easy to carry
Cons
- Users complained it needs a lot of oil refills
- Some users found the lifespan shorter than expected
Top 3800 Watt Pick
WEN 56380i Super Quiet 3800-Watt RV-Ready Portable Inverter Generator
Next up we have the Wen 56380i Super Quiet 3800-Watt RV-Ready Portable Inverter Generator with Fuel Shut-Off and Electric Start. This generator is portable, with it’s wheels and carrying handle, but you won’t want to be carrying it. It weights just under 100lbs and it’s dimensions are: 23.2″ L x 18″ W x 20.1″ H.
This generator is fairly quiet during operation and it is EPA lll and CARB compliant. It has a 212cc 4 stroke OHV engine that can create up to 3800 surge watts and 3400 rated watts. It has a run time of just over 8 hours at half load.
A fuel shutoff means that before turning off, the unit will use whatever fuel is still in the carburetor which means less gunking up and engine wear. That leads to overall longer engine life.
Clean power for safe use with delicate electronic equipment like computers, phones and tablets. The generator has two 3 prong 120 V outlets, one AC 120V NEMQ TT-30R RV receptacle and one 12V DC outlet. This, along with the two 5V USB ports means you can plugin virtually anything you need to.
It comes with a two year warranty.
SPECS
- Wattage: 3800 watts
- Power Source: Gas Powered
- Item Weight: 99.2 Pounds
- Voltage: 120 Volts
- Output Wattage: 3800 Watts
Pros
- Good for RV
- Quiet operation
- Portable
- Durable design
Cons
- The higher the load, the louder it becomes
- Not easily transported over rough terrain
Top 4750 Watt Pick
WEN DF475T Dual Fuel 120V/240V Portable Generator with Electric Start
This model, the WEN DF475T Dual Fuel 120V/240V Portable Generator with Electric Start, is the first of two dual fuel options we reviewed. Dual fuel allows you to choose how to power your generator – gasoline or propane. No matter what you’re using your generator for: worksite, home backup, camping or cabin, having the ability to choose between fuel types provides maximum flexibility.
You just need to choose which form of fuel you want, and turn the generator on with the electric start. The propane option gives you 4350 surge and 3500 running watts. With gas you’ll get up to 4750 surge and 3800 running watts.
With a full featured control panel that gives you two 120V GFCI outlets, a 12V DE cigarette type plugin and voltage selection switch so you can go between 120V and 240V so you always have the power you need for whatever you want to power.
Adding wheels and a handle makes transporting this generator a little easier. The included 47″ LPG hose makes it easy to connect to a propane tank. CARB and EPAIII compliant. The gas tank holds 4 gallons of gas for up to 11 hours of 1/2 load runtime. Perfect for power outages or camping. Small size for easy storage.
SPECS
- Wattage 4750 watts
- Power Source: Fuel Powered
- Item Weight 105.8 Pounds
- Voltage 120 Volts
- Output Wattage 4750 Watts
- Included Components: Dual-Fuel Generator
- CARB Compliant
Pros
- Use both gas and propane, easy to switch from one to another
- Long runtime
- Both 120v and 240v
- Electric start for easy starting
Cons
- Not very portable due to heavy weight
- Wheels don’t lock, generator may move when in operation on some surfaces
- Electric start needs battery (does have pull start backup)
Top 11,000 Watt Pick
WEN DF1100T 11,000-Watt 120V/240V Dual Fuel Portable Generator
And last, we have the biggest, most powerful generator of our review, the WEN DF1100T 11,000-Watt 120V/240V Dual Fuel Portable Generator. The wheels and pull handle make this generator portable. Extra power is available while camping, at the beach, at a worksite or after a storm.
Electric start makes starting easier. Dual fuel for flexibility in use. 47″ LPG hose makes hooking your generator up to a propane tank easier. With propane you get 9,500 surge and 7,500 running watts for your devices and appliances whether at the campsite or home.
Gasoline gives you 11,000 surge and 8,300 running watts. Gas tank holds 6.6 gallons of gas which will give you about 8.5 hours of operation at half load. The engine is 457cc. providing 240 volts. You get 4 120V GFCI outlets and a 120V 30A twist lock outlet and a 12V cigarette style plugin.
SPECS
- Power Source: Propane, gas
- Item Weight: 214 Pounds
- Voltage: 120 Volts
- Output Wattage: 11000 Watts
- Start: Electric Start
Pros
- Dual fuel
- Power meter
- Transportable
- High power
Cons
- Complaints of wires unhooked on first operation
- Recommended to run on propane first then switch to gasoline
- High oil consumption
What Features To Consider Before Buying a Wen Generator
Before you click on a link and make a purchase of a Wen generator, it’s important to know what overall options are available. That way you can decide which unit, and which options, are important to you and which ones aren’t. That helps you avoid paying for a more expensive generator with options you’ll rarely use.
Here are the most common features available:
The amount of power. Power is measured in watts. Each generator shows 2 power measurements: the surge power and the rated power. The surge power is what you’ll use when starting your generator while the rated power is the wattages your generator can create on a continuous basis, such as what you’ll need to power your refrigerator, for example.
Fuel Types
All of the Wen generators we reviewed run on gas, but some of the bigger ones also have the option to run on propane, they are dual fuel models. Tank size as well as fuel consumption are important things to keep in mind when choosing your generator. For example, if you’ll be using your generator at a remote hunting cabin, you’ll want a generator that won’t use too much fuel since it won’t be easy to get more.
Transportability
All of the generators we reviewed above can be moved from place to place, some easier than others. Even the larger models have wheels and handles for portability. But, they are heavy and the wheels are small so they aren’t going to be portable over rough ground or for long distances.
The smaller, handheld models can be taken virtually anywhere but they will have limited power output so they won’t power as many things and they have smaller tanks so they won’t last as long as the bigger models.
Noise Level
The biggest complaint about these generators, actually all generators, is that they can be a little loud to run. The open frame styles are the loudest for two reasons: the open frame and the bigger motor.
Wen generators are actually quieter to operate than most other brands. And with the bigger, louder models, you can move them further away from you so the noise won’t be such an issue.
CARB Compliant
California passed laws restricting the amount of emissions allowed, the California Air Resource Board (CARB) along with the EPA sets these standards. All Wen generators are very low emission but may not be compliant, check before you buy.
Safety
Some safety features to look for are: low oil indicator, the ability to change between 120v and 240v depending on your need, voltage regulator, and automatic shutoff are a few features you’ll want.
Eco Mode
Having the choice to initiate an eco mode can be a fuel, and money saving, option. This allows your generator to adjust the usage based on the level of load needed. This also keeps your generator lasting much longer since it’s not working harder than it needs to
Top Features of Wen Generators
Many models and wattages are available ranging from portable to whole house larger models. Our reviewed models range from 2,000 watts up to 11,000 watts.
Two of our top pick generator models listed above have a dual fuel feature. You can use either propane or gasoline. Not all models have this feature though. Make sure you use the proper fuel with your Wen generator or it will be an expensive mistake. The owners manual will give you all the info you need.
There are different levels of portability with our reviewed generators. Some are small and fairly lightweight and have a carrying handle. The bigger, open frame models come with wheels and a longer handle so you can pull the generator.
Even with the wheels and the handle, the bigger generators aren’t going to be good at traveling for long distances or over rough terrain. The wheels are pretty small and won’t do well over a trail except for short distances.
Some models also feature a V.F.T digital meter display that shows Voltage, Frequency, and running Time.
It varies, but as a general rule Wen generators are competitively priced compared to other brands.
Are WEN Generators Worth It?
Yes. Wen generators have a reputation for quality. They make many models with different power levels and features. You can easily find a Wen generator for your specific needs.
Overall Wen generators are durably built for long life. Some models are dual fuel too using either propane or gasoline.
Wen builds their generators with a solid frame so they will last for many years to come. Most users like how easy to use the generators are. They are also easy to start and they don’t use much fuel.
The biggest complaint on the Wen generators is that they are loud. This isn’t just Wen generators though. I found that the average decibel range for any generator is between 50dB and 100dB. The higher end of the range is for the open frame style of generator.
The decibel range for Wen generators is 62dB to 82dB which is actually on the lower end of the scale.
TOP REASONS TO BUY A WEN GENERATOR:
- They are affordable
- Easy to use
- They run well and start easily
- High-quality construction
- The generators are pretty lightweight
- A dual fuel option on some models
DOWNSIDES OF WEN GENERATORS
- Some open-frame generators are loud to operate
- Some users complained of using a lot of oil in some models
About WEN
Wen is an American company that was started in 1951 by Nick Anton. Wen has been making a full line of power tools ever since. Located in Elgin Illinois, Wen is the first company to make power tools. Considered to be the father of todays jigsaws, chainsaws, wet wheel sharpeners and more.
Wen is the company that created the rotating part that you find in tools such as waxers, buffer and polishers. They’ve branched into lawn and garden tools too, no pun intended!
FAQ’s
Is Wen a good generator?
Yes, they are. Wen has been building generators since 1951. They have a full range of models and wattages to choose from. They are competitively priced against similar models of other brands.
Which generator is better Wen or Generac?
Both generators are well built and will work well for you.
Main differences between Wen and Generac generators:
- Wen generators are known for their compact size and portability.
- Generac generators are known for their durable construction and high quality parts.
- Wen generators are fuel efficient
How long will a Wen generator last?
Their quality means they should last for years.
Does Wen make a dual fuel generator?
Yes. Some models run off either propane or gas.
What kind of oil do you use in a Wen generator?
This will depend on the type of generator you have. This information is available in your owners manual.
Our Wen Generator Review – The Bottom Line
In this comprehensive review of many of the Wen generator lineup: Wen 3800 generator review the Wen 2000 watt generator review, 2250 watt, 4750 watt and 11,000 watt we covered a pretty broad range of power, fuel types and options.
Wen has a long reputation of building top quality generators. You’ll have a quality generator no matter which model you choose.
Enjoy!