A generator is used to convert mechanical energy into electrical power and can be used in a range of settings whether this is domestic, commercial, or industrial.
A generator comes in particularly handy in instances where you are faced with a power shortage as you have a backup option available.
WEN is a reliable brand that is popular for manufacturing generators that have you covered in all situations. Buying a generator isn't an easy task but one that should be done following extensive research into the different available models.
If you are struggling to find the best generator for your needs, not to worry as we have delved into the brand WEN and browsed through the selection of generators that they have on offer.
We have reviewed our top 5 picks of the best ones available. Below, we have also included a handy buyer's guide.
Here we have provided lots of additional guidance for making the best purchase for your needs.
If you are in a hurry, we have selected our top pick below.
OUR TOP PICK
If the sound that a generator produces is of particular concern, this could be an ideal choice for you.
When operating it produces a minimal 53dB of sound which is going to cause little disruption.
For a generator, it is also pretty lightweight weighing a minimal 50 Ibs.
Besides this, it also features a carry handle for greater user convenience and easy portability in between locations.
If you are new to using a generator of this kind, fear not as it has a clear control panel that displays each of the settings for easier use.
Something we particularly like about this generator is that it is EPA III and CARB compliant, producing 2000 surge watts and 1600 rated watts.
The run time is also impressive at 9.4 hours when the generator is on a quarter of a load.
This generator also features an eco mode that helps you to save some money by enabling the motor to adjust the fuel consumption automatically.
This generator is a must have for campgrounds and construction sites or if you simply want to have it to hand should you ever be faced with a power shortage.
It can also be used to power a range of electronic devices including phones, computers, and tablets.
Pros
- This generator features multiple ports for greater user convenience.
- It is lightweight for easy portability.
- When operating it produces a low level of sound.
- It has an eco-friendly mode which can help you save money while the generator is running.
- It has a generous run time so you don't have to be without power.
Cons
- Changing or checking the oil can be a tricky process.
EDITORS CHOICE
Another portable option that offers a reliable power supply is the WEN 56380i portable inverter generator.
The engine produces 3800 surge watts of power and 3400 rated watts.
Aside from this, when running on half a load this generator has an 8.5 hour run time which is the equivalent to 50% of the 2.2 gallon tank.
It is EPA III and CARB compliant which means that it is clean functioning.
It is slightly heavier than our previous pick weighing 110.8 lbs.
However, it is designed with wheels that make it much easier to transport between locations when needed.
Similarly to other WEN generators, the 56380i has an eco mode which allows for greater fuel efficiency while helping to reduce your costs as it runs.
This is further benefited from the fuel shutoff feature that preserves the lifespan of the generator by using any remaining fuel before turning off.
The power that is produced by this generator is also clean and safe to use to power sensitive electronics in particular.
As a 3800 watt inverter generator, it produces less than 1.2% of harmonic distortion.
Pros
- The simple user-friendly design allows you to turn the generator on with a simple click of a button.
- It operates quietly producing less than 57 decibels of sound.
- It comes with plenty of ports so it has a generous capacity for powering many appliances and electronics.
- It has an eco mode and fuel shutoff feature that allows for greater fuel efficiency.
- It has an LED display for greater user convenience.
Cons
- The wheels are a little small and ineffective in allowing the generator to be moved easily.
BEST VALUE
As a dual fuel generator, you are provided with the option of alternating between gas and propane.
Using gas will produce 11,000 surge watts of power and 8,300 running watts, while propane will produce 9,500 watts of surge power and 7,500 watts of running power.
Unlike many generators, this generator is designed with an electronic start system that allows you to operate it with a simple click of a button.
It also features a generously sized 6.6 gallon tank that runs for an impressive 8.5 hours when on half a load.
The power panel boasts many impressive and useful features including a multimeter and fuel switch along with the electric start button for ease of use.
Besides this, it also features multiple outlets that are going to cater to all of your power needs.
A great thing about this generator is the digital LED hour counter and automatic voltage regulator as well as the overload protection for improved safety.
Pros
- The generously sized wheels allow for easier transportation to different locations.
- The design is very user-friendly thanks to the fold down handles that make it easier to transport.
- It is a dual-fueled generator that can be powered by gasoline or propane.
- It has a decent run time when it has reached half a load.
- The engine start feature makes it much easier to use and operate.
Cons
- It weighs quite a lot and therefore may be more difficult to handle.
RUNNER UP
The Wen 56475 may be a portable generator but it is certainly packed with power.
Equipped with a 223cc engine, you are provided with 4,750 watts of surge power and 3,750 watts of rated power.
Aside from this, it is also CARB and EPA 111 compliant, which recognizes the smaller carbon footprint making it suitable for sale in 50 states.
Thanks to the digital display, you are provided with a visible indication when the oil needs to be changed, so your safety is accounted for.
This also keeps you updated with the maintenance schedule.
At half a load, this tank will run for a generous 10 hours and features an automatic voltage regulator for clean power that makes it suitable for powering sensitive electronics.
The unit is also protected against damage thanks to the low oil shutdown feature, and it is also equipped with overload protection.
For easy user convenience, the electric start function makes the generator easier to power.
It also comes with a wheel kit and foldable handles for greater convenience when it comes to transporting the generator.
Pros
- The digital display informs you when the oil needs changing.
- It is suitable for powering a range of appliances.
- You are provided with plenty of power at a relatively affordable price.
- It has a generous 10 hour run time on half a load.
- It is easy to assemble and set up.
Cons
- This generator is a little loud which some may find off-putting.
RUNNER UP
The Wen 56225i Portable Inverter Generator may not be packed with the most power, but it is still a great option for camping, job sites, or simply as an emergency backup when required.
Just like other models of WEN Generators, this unit features an eco mode that will not only save you money in return but will also allow the motor to automatically adjust the fuel consumption for improved run time and engine life.
When operating this unit produces a minimal 53 decibels of sound, providing a non-invasive power source that isn't likely to be disruptive to those surrounding you, particularly important if you intend to use this generator at a campsite.
Impressively, this generator is suitable for powering sensitive electronic devices with minimal harmonic distortion.
The fuel shutoff is a great feature that also helps to prevent the build-up of blockages. It also uses up the remaining fuel before automatically shutting down.
Pros
- This generator is EPA III and CARB Compliant.
- Equipped with multiple ports for greater convenience.
- Clean power prevents sensitive appliances from getting damaged.
- Fuel shutoff accounts for greater fuel efficiency and helps to prolong the lifespan of the generator.
- Weighing a minimal 48.5 pounds it is lightweight and easy to transport.
Cons
- It may not be powerful enough to cater to everyone's needs.
Best WEN Generators Buying Guide
Before selecting your generator, there are several important factors that you will need to consider.
Although the generators in our guide are manufactured by the same brand, the specifications can differ depending on the model.
For this reason, you may find one particular model to be better suited to your needs than another.
If you are unfamiliar with purchasing a generator not to worry as we have outlined our top tips for selecting the best product below.
We have also highlighted some features of generators that are worth accounting for before making your purchase.
The Type of Generator
There are many different types of generators to choose from and it is important to select the best one for your needs before making your purchase.
A conventional generator features an engine that is connected to an alternator. The generator then functions to a speed that produces the desired level of AC frequency.
Conventional generators tend to be more powerful as their sole purpose is to produce AC electricity. The running of an inverter generator tends to be a little more complex than that of a standard generator.
A generator of this kind produces high-frequency AC electricity before converting it to DC power and then back to a stable source of AC power.
An inverter generator works by throttling the engine to meet the levels as and when it is required. In comparison to a conventional generator, an inverter generator emits lower emissions.
A standby generator is pretty self-explanatory. A generator of this kind functions automatically as a backup when it is required.
Following an electrical outage, the generator will then detect this and transfer the energy to the standby generator so that it can continue working. Many units manufactured by WEN are inverter generators or portable generators.
Portability
For many, the portability of the generator is an important factor to consider. Those that are larger are going to be much more challenging to maneuver if required.
WEN produces portable generator models that can be used in an outdoor and outdoor environment at a safe distance of 20 feet away from any close structures or objects etc.
A generator of this kind tends to be sought after by those who do not have a standby generator. Here you are provided with a convenient way of restoring the power courtesy of the portable model.
The Wattage
If you intend to power a variety of electronics using your generator it is important to consider the start-up and running watts.
Selecting a generator that is incompatible with your needs is going to mean that it is insufficient in powering your appliances.
Before selecting your generator it is important to consider the appliances that you intend on powering using it.
You can then base your search upon finding a generator that is sufficient for powering all of your devices with ease.
Single Fuel or Dual Fuel
A single fuel generator can be run using a range of different fuels but the fuel has to be one type and not mixed.
A dual fuel generator uses two types so you can use any fuel source to power your generator, so long that it is safe to do so. As the name suggests, you can use double the amount if needed.
The Sound
The sound that is produced by the generator can differ between models. While some are known to produce a higher volume of sound, WEN is also praised for manufacturing generators that produce a low volume of noise.
It is important to consider the sound levels and the environment that surrounds you. If the generator is going to be used at your home or on a campsite it is important to consider your neighbors.
A generator that produces a lot of noise is going to be distracting and could see you receiving complaints.
The Tank Size
The tank size of your generator is going to determine how long it can run. Conventional generators tend to have larger fuel tanks that allow them to run for longer.
This is important as an insufficient size tank is going to do a poor job in running for the amount of time that you require.
Although inverter generators are known to have smaller tanks they tend to be the more energy-efficient option as they can last for longer on a smaller amount.
Digital Display
You will find that some generators have digital displays that keep you informed in regards to the oil levels and maintenance.
It is beneficial to know when the oil requires changing so that the generator doesn't become damaged or loose power.
This is also likely to be favorable amongst those that are new to using this type of generator as you can see the status of your generator as it functions.
The Cost
The cost of the generator can vary significantly depending on the model. Although the WEN range offers some pretty affordable options, others are considerably more expensive.
Of course, the amount that you spend is going to be largely dependent on the budget that you have in mind.
Standby and inverter generators tend to be a lot more expensive than portable generators and conventional generators, and this can be for several reasons such as the way that they run.
It is important to select the best generator for your needs while ensuring that you don't compromise on the performance.
WEN is known for producing many affordable options that perform just as well as the expensive models with there, of course, being differences in the build style, power outage, etc so these are necessary elements to consider.
We have included a range in our guide above with examples from varying price points to highlight the available variety.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are WEN generators good?
WEN Generators are praised for their quiet operation making them a great choice for those who are likely to find a loud generator distracting.
They are also praised for their convenient portability as they are lightweight and easy to carry.
Is it safe to let your generator run overnight?
It is safe to allow your generator to run overnight if it has the run time that can do so. For example, a generator with a run time of 8 hours is going to be capable of running through the night, however, it is preferable to choose a generator that runs for longer than this if possible.
What is the difference between a regular generator and an inverter generator?
There are noticeable technical differences between both types of generators that make them easier to distinguish. A standard conventional generator produces AC electricity, unlike an inverter generator that produces 3 phase electricity.
