Inverter vs Generator (What’s The Difference and Which Is Best?)

The inverter vs. generator question is typical among those looking for a convenient way to power a building or electronic device. They perform related functions but are entirely different pieces of technology that have unique benefits and disadvantages.

Generators are necessary for a variety of different reasons. Sometimes you can’t trust or don’t have access to the main power grid and need an alternative energy supply.

Whether you’re going camping, preparing for a major weather event, or simply stocking up in case of an unexpected catastrophe, conventional and inverter generators can come in handy. But before you make a purchase, it’s essential to understand the difference and which makes the most sense for your situation.

Key Takeaways

Fundamental Functions: Generators create power through mechanical energy, usually in the form of AC electricity. Inverters, on the other hand, convert one form of electrical power (DC) into another (AC).
Types of Current: AC (Alternating Current) is the standard for most household devices, while DC (Direct Current) is commonly found in cars and needs to be converted to AC for household use.
Quality of Power: Inverters produce a cleaner, more stable form of AC power, making them ideal for sensitive electronic devices. Generators can produce “dirtier” power and are generally noisier.
Historical Context: The “Current Wars” between Thomas Edison and Nikola Tesla led to the widespread adoption of AC over DC, mainly due to AC’s efficiency in long-distance power transmission.
Applications: Inverters are commonly used in cars to convert DC to AC for various devices. They are also integral to renewable energy systems like solar panels. Generators are often used in power outages and at construction sites.
Power Conversion vs. Power Generation: While generators are designed to create power, inverters are designed to convert it. Your choice between the two depends on whether you need to create or convert electrical power.
Environmental Considerations: Inverters are increasingly used in green power generation systems, converting DC power generated by solar and wind energy into AC.
Scale and Capacity: Generators can be designed for a wide range of power outputs, making them versatile for various needs. Inverters are generally of smaller capacity but are ideal for households using solar panels.
Noise Levels: If noise is a concern, inverter generators offer a quieter alternative to traditional generators.
Choice Depends on Need: Ultimately, whether an inverter or a generator is better for you depends on your specific power needs—whether you need to create power or convert it for use.

By understanding these key points, you can make an informed decision on whether a generator or an inverter is more suitable for your specific needs.

Here is a closer look at the benefits of an inverter vs generator, so you can make the right choice when making a purchase.

Table of Contents

What is a Generator?

A generator can produce electricity by converting mechanical energy into electrical energy. This energy can then be stored in a battery or used to power anything that requires electricity, including lights, heaters, appliances, medical devices, etc.

This mechanical energy is created using any one of many different mechanisms, including steam turbines, gas turbines, water turbines, wind turbines, internal combustion engines, and even occasionally, hand cranks.

Generators supply energy to the power plants that feed electrical grids. But you can also purchase a portable generator to power your home, office, or storefront.

A portable generator can be an essential power source when there is an outage or an electrical problem in the building. They can also come in handy if you are going off the grid (either on vacation or as a lifestyle choice) and need a reliable power source to bring.

What is an Inverter Generator?

An inverter generator is a type of generator that works a little differently from conventional generators. An inverter is an electronic device that can convert DC power into AC power. An inverter generator is a device that generates AC, converts it into DC, and then converts that back into AC of the type that comes out of your wall outlets at home.

This “cleans up” the energy, making it safer and more efficient for your appliances. This is especially true of electronic devices, which may be sensitive to the voltage fluctuations commonly seen in conventional portable generators. To better understand how an inverter generator works, let’s take a closer look at the difference between DC and AC power.

Tip: Check out our How Does An Inverter Generator Work for more information about inverter generators.

What is the Difference Between AC and DC?

DC power means that the energy flows all in one direction. AC power means that the flow of energy periodically changes. AC power is the standard electrical energy that comes from wall outlets. It features a greater capacity for traveling long distances, which is needed when moving from a powerplant into a home. DC is typically found in energy supplies kept at close range, such as a battery or solar panel.

Generator vs. Inverter: What’s the Main Difference?

So you may still be wondering: what is the primary difference between an inverter vs generator?

A generator converts mechanical power into AC power. They feature an engine that must be powered by some form of fuel, typically either propane or gasoline.

An inverter converts electricity from direct current (DC) to alternating current (AC), so it needs an external power source. Click on the following link to learn more about the difference between a generator and an inverter.

What is an Inverter Generator? An inverter generator combines these things: it produces AC power in the same way as a conventional generator but converts it into DC using a rectifier and then back to AC using an inverter. That process smooths out the spikes and fluctuations that occur during power generation, mainly due to the engine speed not being perfectly constant.

Both devices are used to convert energy into a form that is usable by standard household devices. But they do so in slightly different ways, so one is more suitable than the other for different situations.

What’s the Difference Between Inverters and Conventional Portable Generators?

A portable generator is simply a generator that is small and compact enough to be transported easily. Typically, it will feature wheels or a handle that makes it easy to move around.

Generators run the gamut from small compact devices to giant industrial machines.

While inverter generators tend to be more portable than conventional generators, the defining feature is their ability to provide clean power, not their size. So, not all portable generators are inverter generators.

Benefits of Inverter Generators

While standard generators are more common, inverter generators have a variety of advantages. They may not make the most sense in every situation, but they are useful in many scenarios. Here is a closer look at the benefits of an inverter generator.

Inverter Generators Have Higher Quality Power Output

An inverter generator is better for supplying clean portable ac power to devices that may be negatively impacted by conventional generators’ “dirty” power.

The AC power that most of us get in our homes from the electrical grid has already been regulated and refined to produce a stable sine wave, the gold standard for use in appliances and other devices. But the power produced by a conventional generator isn’t quite as high quality. So an inverter generator is often needed to clean up that energy, so it’s safe for more sensitive items. Some devices won’t run at all if the power is not clean enough.

Many smaller electronic devices such as cellphones, laptops, or small televisions may be vulnerable to these swings in power, which could result in malfunctions. Inverter generators will control these fluctuations, preventing any potential damage to the device.

Electrical motors such as refrigerator compressors also benefit from clean power because they run more efficiently than they otherwise would. Running on unstable, dirty current can even shorten their working lifespans.

So inverter generators provide higher quality electricity that may make your appliances run more efficiently and is less likely to harm them than the electricity from conventional generators.

Inverter Generators Are More Fuel Efficient

Inverter generators tend to require less fuel. They feature an electronic throttle that automatically adjusts to meet the current energy demand rather than always running at high speed. This means they can run on less fuel and produce lower emissions in the bargain.

And the fact that cleaner electrical power can make appliances run more efficiently means the generator needs less fuel.

Conventional generators run at 3600 RPM to produce 60 Hertz electricity. As a result, they tend to burn a lot more fuel, which is expensive and harmful to the planet. The fact that they always run at full speed also means more engine wear, shortening their life expectancy.

Quick Tip: electronic fuel injection makes the Honda EU7000iS generator run even more efficiently!

Inverter Generators Are Not as Noisy

Conventional generators can often be very noisy, irritating, and disruptive if used in an area near people. While there are accessories available that can dampen the noise, they add to the cost of the generator and are often less effective than getting one that is designed from the start to run quietly.

Most inverter generators are designed to be much quieter and less disruptive. The same throttle used to control energy output can also control noise. Plus, inverter generators are usually fitted with a soundproof cabinet, further reducing noise.

This can be a massive bonus if you use it on vacation or in an area shared with others. So you can bring your inverter generator on a camping trip and not have to worry so much about disturbing the family next to you.

Noise Level Comparison: Inverter Generators vs. Traditional Generators

One of the most significant advantages of inverter generators over traditional generators is their lower noise levels during operation. This makes inverter generators a more suitable choice for applications where noise pollution is a concern, such as camping, tailgating, or use in residential areas.

Quieter Operation of Inverter Generators

Inverter generators are designed to produce less noise than their traditional counterparts. They typically operate at noise levels between 50 and 65 decibels (dB), which is comparable to the sound of a normal conversation. This is achieved through several design features:

Advanced mufflers and sound-dampening technology that reduce the overall noise output.
Slower engine speeds when the power demand is low, which results in quieter operation.
Enclosed casings are made from noise-absorbing materials that further minimize the sound.

The quieter operation of inverter generators makes them ideal for situations where noise needs to be kept to a minimum, such as in campgrounds, parks, or neighborhoods with strict noise regulations.

Louder Operation of Traditional Generators

In contrast, traditional generators tend to produce more noise, with typical noise levels ranging from 70 to 100 dB. This is similar to the sound of a lawn mower or even a chainsaw, which can be disruptive and unpleasant, especially in quieter environments.

The higher noise levels of traditional generators can be attributed to several factors:

Constant engine speed (usually 3600 rpm), regardless of the power demand, results in consistent noise output.
Less advanced muffling and sound-dampening technologies compared to inverter generators.
Open-frame designs that do not enclose the engine and alternator, allowing more noise to escape.

While some traditional generators can be fitted with acoustic cabinets to reduce noise, they still tend to be louder than inverter generators.

When choosing between an inverter generator and a traditional generator, it’s essential to consider the noise level requirements of your specific application. If you need a quiet power source for outdoor activities, camping, or use in residential areas, an inverter generator may be the better choice. However, a traditional generator might be more suitable if noise is not a primary concern and you require higher power output.

Inverter Generators Tend to be More Portable

Another impressive benefit of an inverter generator is its portability. Inverter generators tend to be the smallest and most lightweight portable generators. This is partly because they are more fuel-efficient and require smaller gas tanks.

While a conventional portable generator may also be an option, they are often bulkier.

A portable inverter generator can still produce plenty of power when needed. But the energy can be curbed when full output is not necessary. And greater efficiency means less space is required to store fuel. This power and portability make them great for people going on a road trip or camping excursion.

Inverter Generators Have Better Parallel Compatibility

Inverter generators often offer compatibility with other inverter generators to increase output by pairing the generators together. So, if you’re worried that one won’t supply the power you need, you can buy a second inverter generator that is compatible with the first and pair them together for more juice.

This is a more flexible and efficient way to access more power than using one big conventional generator. Conventional generators can also be paired, but it’s so tricky that you practically have to be an electrical engineer to do it safely.

Just keep in mind that they must be compatible models with the same voltage and frequency. If they are not, it could cause either one or both to malfunction.

Which Should I Choose: Inverter or Conventional?

Whether you start shopping for inverters or conventional generators largely depends on a few key factors. Before making your decision, you should ask yourself the following questions.

What Are You Looking to Power?

What are you looking to power with the generator? There are scenarios where one option works better than the other.

Conventional generators are best for large projects that require a lot of wattage where power quality is not much of an issue. Conventional generators may be the only way to supply enough power if you want to power a large house, office space, or another type of property. If you have sensitive electronics, you may have to get a power conditioner to supply electrical power to them.

But suppose you are looking for something more efficient and quieter to power smaller items like electronics or mid-sized appliances. In that case, an inverter generator may be a better option. Inverter generators offer many benefits, but they aren’t available at the higher wattages that larger conventional generators provide.

What Type of Activity Are You Planning?

It’s also important to take stock of the activity you’re planning.

For instance, are you going camping or preparing for a power outage? Also, think about how much space and storage you will have. Conventional generators offer more power but may also take up more space and be harder to move.

Inverter generators are typically better for recreation, whereas conventional generators are best for emergencies and survival.

If you’re going on an RV trip and need to power things like your cell phone and a coffee maker, an inverter generator will do. On the other hand, if you’re going on some serious off-the-grid living and want to ensure you have an adequate power supply, you may want to go with a conventional generator. So, it all depends on how much power you need and how much space and quiet you’re willing to sacrifice for higher power output.

What Budget Are You Working With?

This can easily be the critical factor because of the significantly higher cost of inverter generators. They can be considerably more expensive, especially for the higher-wattage generators. An inverter generator can cost anywhere from four hundred to over two thousand dollars, depending on how much wattage you’re looking for.

So, before you decide on a particular generator, you should figure out how much you’re willing and able to spend.

Price Comparison: Inverter Generators vs. Traditional Generators

In general, inverter generators tend to be more expensive than traditional generators with similar power output ratings. However, the price difference can vary depending on the specific models and features.

Higher Cost of Inverter Generators

Inverter generators typically come with a higher price tag compared to traditional generators. This is due to several factors:

Advanced technology: Inverter generators incorporate more sophisticated electronics and microprocessors to regulate the power output and engine speed, which adds to the overall cost.
Compact and lightweight design: The smaller size and portability of inverter generators require more advanced engineering and materials, which can increase the price.
Additional features: Many inverter generators come with extra features, such as parallel capability, electric start, and LCD displays, which can further increase the cost.

The price of inverter generators can range from a few hundred dollars for smaller, portable models to several thousand dollars for larger, more powerful units.

Lower Cost of Traditional Generators

Traditional generators are generally less expensive than inverter generators with comparable power output. This is because they have a simpler design and use more basic components. The lower cost can be attributed to:

Simpler technology: Traditional generators rely on a straightforward combination of an engine and an alternator to generate power, without the need for complex electronics.
Larger size and weight: The bulkier design of traditional generators allows for the use of less expensive materials and components.
Fewer additional features: Traditional generators often have fewer bells and whistles compared to inverter generators, which helps keep the cost down.

The price of traditional generators can range from a couple hundred dollars for small, portable models to several thousand dollars for larger, standby units.

When deciding between an inverter generator and a traditional generator, it’s essential to weigh the price difference against your specific power needs and application requirements. While inverter generators may have a higher upfront cost, their advanced features, fuel efficiency, and lower noise levels can make them a worthwhile investment in the long run. On the other hand, if you have a limited budget and don’t require the additional benefits of an inverter generator, a traditional generator may be a more cost-effective choice.

Inverter vs. Generator – Which Is Better?

Ultimately, neither device is necessarily better or worse than the other; they make different tradeoffs. Inverter generators are more energy-efficient and produce cleaner power. But they are also more expensive and aren’t available in sizes large enough to power a large home or office (however, they are available up to 7,000 watts continuous).

Conventional generators are cheaper and available at higher wattages. For instance, the Duromax XP13000EH puts out 13000 watts. In contrast, the DuroMax XP9000iH puts out 9000, but the XP9000iH costs almost twice as much. However, a conventional generator can be more expensive over the long term because it requires more fuel to power (under most conditions) and will wear out more quickly because it always runs at high speed. Plus, they typically are bulkier and make more noise. Which device you choose depends on the circumstances in which it’ll be used and your priorities.

Now that you know what an inverter is, you may be interested to learn its role in solar systems. Check out our article “How Does A Solar Generator Work?”