Below is an overview of the main differences between regular portable generators and inverter generators. Notice that there are mechanical differences and secondary differences that are a result of the mechanical differences.
In other words, the difference in how a regular fuel-powered portable generators runs and how an inverter generator runs gives different possibilities in design and use. Scroll further down to find out how these differences pose advantages and disadvantages for specific tasks.
DIFFERENCE #1: CURRENT
The main technical difference between inverter generators and regular generators is what kind of electricity is produced. regular generators only produce AC electricity while an inverter generator produces electricity in 3 phases (high frequency AC to DC back to a stable AC current).
The stable sine wave is what makes inverter generators so unique: it is considered a ‘clean electricity source’. This means that there is minimal harmonic distortion and so is a safer energy source for sensitive electronics like a mobile phone, tablet or laptop.
In comparison, a regular portable generator has a much more messy sine wave which causes more harmonic distortion. Though still a suitable power source for many electrical appliances, the more sensitive personal devices that have microprocessors can be damaged but this type of current.
DIFFERENCE #2: POWER AND FUEL EFFICIENCY
regular portable generators are able to produce more power than inverter generators. This has to do with a number of factors including the size of the fuel tank and the mechanical difference in electricity production.
Inverter generators are more energy efficient thanks to how the final AC current is produced. The engine of an inverter generator automatically adjusts to the load which a regular portable generator cannot do.
The greater fuel efficiency of inverter generators allows for smaller fuel tanks. Greater energy efficiency means less fuel is need for similar run times and so the fuel tank can be smaller, as well.
regular generators are not as fuel efficient so they tend to be bulkier because of the larger fuel tank. However, this larger fuel tank does allow for a larger power output.
The difference in power is often the deciding factor between an inverter generator and regular generator. Where inverter generators have an average power of 1200 watts to 4000 watts, regular portable generators can reach over 10,000 watts.
DIFFERENCE #3: PORTABILITY
Inverter generators are generally more portable than regular fuel-powered generators. This again has to do with the amount of power they produce.
regular fuel-powered generators which produce more power have a large fuel tank and larger engine so more material is needed to house the machine. This is why regular portable generators are bigger and heavier than inverter generators.
To still be portable, the larger regular generators tend to have wheels and handles for pulling. Still, this can be quite a task since many portable generators still weigh over 100 pounds.
Inverter generators are smaller because their fuel tank is smaller and don’t need as big an engine since there is a lower power output. This cuts a lot of weight which is inverter generators are often light enough to be hand carried with a handle.
Most inverter generators weigh less than 100 pounds. It is common for an inverter generator to only weigh around 40 – 60 pounds.
DIFFERENCE #4: NOISE
regular portable generators are infamous for the noise that they make. This has to do with its mechanics so even with noise-minimizing efforts, regular fuel-powered generators remain noisy.
In comparison, the technology used by inverter generators makes them run quieter. Inverter generators run at a steady 3600 rpm which removes the bulk of the noise.
How much noise a generator makes is usually mentioned in the product description. Most manufacturers will mention the amount of decibels the generator makes at either a half load or quarter load.
Many inverter generators produce around 54 – 58 decibels of noise. This is far quieter than most regular generators which tend to produce 64 decibels or more.
DIFFERENCE #5: PARALLEL CONNECTIONS
Manufacturers try to make up for the lower power output of inverter generators by installing a parallel connection. With a parallel connection, two separate inverter generators (of the same model) can be connected to deliver double the amount of power.
As of now, regular portable generators don’t offer the parallel connection. Considering they are already more powerful and less portable, it is not a surprise.
DIFFERENCE #6: EMISSIONS
Each state has its own regulations on the accepted greenhouse gas emissions of generators. These regulations can be stricter when the portable generator is to be used inside national parks or nature reserves.
In most cases, a portable generator must be at least EPA compliant. In the state of California the generator must also be CARB compliant.
Inverter generators already produce less greenhouse emissions than regular power-fueled generators. It is easier to find an inverter generator that meets the environmental requirements than to find a regular portable generator that does.
DIFFERENCE #7: PRICE
In general, regular portable generators are cheaper to buy than inverter generators. regular portable generators are the most affordable option, especially when a lot of power is needed.
The reason why inverter generators are more expensive is because they work on newer technology and have many extra benefits like being more quiet, greater fuel efficiency and producing an electrical current with minimal harmonic distortion. Regular portable generators are quite simple machines and have been available longer which is the main reason that the manufacturers can offer a lower price point.
