The Quietest Generator on the Market Today! [RV/Campers/Motorhomes]

“Dual fuel generator”, “RV Air Conditioners-Ready”, “High Running Wattage” and many more labels accompany different models of gas-powered generators. However, knowing what the best RV generator for your energy needs takes a bit more than a fancy sticker. So, stick with us, and let’s see what generator is the best for your RV or off-grid application. 

What is an RV Generator?

RV generators are generally among the quietest generators. They are likely to be used by many RV owners unless we are talking about RVs moving in areas with a moderate climate, little use of AC, and a solar power bank as a main source of electric power. Every quiet RV generator can be categorized based on: 

• The power output, 
• The kind of generator (single or dual fuel generator for RV), 
• Standard or inverter RV generator, 
• Fuel tank capacity – smaller fuel tank capacity means lower run time and less convenience, but these models are lighter like camping generators, 
• Noise levels – the bigger the noisier, but the kind of fuel, engine, and the presence of inverter technology may easily change the noise readings), and 
• Extra features and extra power they are able to supply (the max or starting power reading). 

How Does It Work?

All RV generators are gas-powered. They use gas to power the engine that delivers electricity to your RV and all the devices and appliances you may have in it. They are reliable devices that can run for a long time, for as long as there is enough gas in the tank. However, as everyone’s energy needs are different, so are the perfect generator solutions for them. 

Benefits of an RV Generator

Many campsites in the US have power and water connections. For this reason, it may seem a bit obsolete to use an RV generator, but the thing is that there are so many places you may want to visit that do not have a power supply readily available. For this reason, camping generators are a must for all serious RV-ers. They offer many benefits: 

• Recharging your RV’s house batteries, 
• Recharging your power station, if you have one, 
• Running your rooftop air conditioner, and 
• Preserving your RV’s lead-acid batteries. 

Recharging Your RV’s House Batteries

Every RV has batteries. However, they are usually wired in such a way that they cannot be recharged when the RV is in motion or when the RV is moving downhill. After all, these are different batteries compared to the batteries found in an EV. The DC power that they supply is often translated to AC before use and before being sent to the power outlets. With this in mind, it is easy to see why you need a backup power supply, such as a quiet RV generator. 

Recharging Your Power Stations

Even the quietest RV generator can also be used to recharge your power stations. Power stations are batteries that can store a significant amount of power, although not enough to power an air conditioner, for example. Although they could deliver the necessary running watts, the starting wattage and the length of operation could be a problem, especially as it can be difficult to store that much power – it would take a lot of space, as Li-Ion batteries are not nearly as energy-dense as fuels are. Furthermore, they would cost a lot, as a 10kWh configuration can cost above $6,000 and pose a lot of added weight to your RV, decreasing its mileage. 

Running Your Rooftop Air Conditioner

Running the rooftop air conditioner in your RV can take a lot of power. Sometimes that much power actually that a quiet RV generator may not be enough to provide all the power needed. For this reason, your quiet camping generator should preferably be a portable inverter generator, which can deliver all the power RV air conditioners may need, while at the same time being economical with the fuel. Picking quiet generators just on the basis of their noise levels is simply not enough and may leave you without sufficient running wattage to power all your appliances. 

Preserving Your RV’s Lead-Acid Batteries

Every RV has Lead-Acid batteries. Sometimes this is just the battery used to ignite the engine, and sometimes, these are also the batteries used to power the RV and its outlets. As it goes, all batteries have a certain number of cycles that they can run through, so if you want to preserve their lifetime, you should consider purchasing a quiet generator for RV or off-grid use and using it to power whatever you need whenever you are parked. 

In addition to this, many RVs today are generator-ready, which means that they have optimized power usage, and can easily fit generators for camping in special compartments, saving time and your back from too much work. Dual-fuel generators can also provide more stability, especially if you move inter-state and can benefit from fluctuating fuel prices. Beware that these usually have limited running watts and that you need to consider them carefully before making the purchase. 

Silent/Quiet RV Generators

Silent/quiet RV generators are a necessity in most cases. Even if you are looking for an RV generator that can provide backup power in case of an outage, going for the quietest generator can be the best option for you. This is because even the best quiet generators can make a lot of noise – sometimes in the excess of 70 dB. Although as a number it may not seem much, a generator like this can damage hearing and interrupt most activities for as long as it is on for too long. 

For this reason, going through the generators in search of the best quiet generator is a must. You should also consider the eco-mode, the ability to pair two lower-wattage generators (as they will produce less noise than a single generator of double the capacity), and your energy use and needs. This way, you will make sure that you get to enjoy all the benefits of a quiet RV generator without having to worry that it will disturb your permanent or temporary neighbors. 

Benefits

Besides the obvious benefit of running quietly, quiet generators usually use less fuel and have inverter technology – which will provide just enough power as is needed – sparing your fuel, your wallet, and your ears. If you plan on camping in nature, a high noise output may scare off the wild animals, leaving you with only the landscape or trees to admire. Quiet operation is a must, especially as it signals that your generator is an energy-efficient model. 

Technology/Features that Lessen the Noise of an RV Generator 

As generators have always been noisy, the market need for quieter models arose and the market provided them. Today, generators are silent, can run for longer, and use less fuel. Here are the technologies that enabled that transition: 

• Inverter technology, 
• Using four-stroke gasoline engines, 
• Using diesel engines, 
• Installing mufflers, and 
• Installing the baffle box around the generator. 

Inverter Technology

Inverter generators are simply generators with inverter technology. These are among the quietest generators, as they have technology and hardware upgrades that enable this. Inverter generators in general feature performance monitoring, and eco-mode functionality and are the best generator for camping. Mufflers and other sound-damping technology will enable them to operate at nose levels of 45-60 dB, making them incredibly quiet. 

Four-Stroke Gasoline Engine

Your generator for camping should also have a four-stroke gasoline engine. Engines like this are usually smaller than what can be found in your car but they are very quiet as well. In general, they will operate by producing less smoke, lower noise levels, and will operate more efficiently – giving you more power for each gallon of fuel they consume. For noise comparison, a grass trimmer has a two-stroke engine – therefore a lot of noise and high fuel consumption. In addition to being among the quietest RV generators, four-stroke engines will also emit less carbon monoxide, and fewer PM particles, polluting less and making less of a burden on your health. 

Diesel Engine

Diesel engines have many advantages over four-stroke gasoline generators, including being quieter and more fuel efficient. However, they are usually much larger and more expensive, which can limit their use to large vehicles and RVs. In any case, what may be off-putting to many looking for a new generator for camping is the fact that these generators are more difficult and costly to repair once they break down. However, if you are only looking for generators that will be used sporadically, a diesel-engine RV generator can be a good solution for you. 

Muffler

A muffler on an RV generator has the same function as the muffler on your car. Mufflers will in general be placed on any noisy generator and will reduce the noise output of the generator itself. They do not have a big say in how energy-efficient a quiet RV generator is but will reduce the noise to the point that you can feel comfortable staying close to them even for longer periods of time. 

Baffle Box

There are two general types of generators: open-frame and closed-frame generators. Both kinds are available on the market, but only one should really be considered for RV application. That is the closed-box generator. Open-box generators have all their parts exposed to the outside air. 

That means that they will always have a higher noise output compared to closed-box generators. A loud generator will make a lot of noise when it starts its operation, but without the baffle box around it, it will keep producing a lot of noise even when it supplies on the running wattage (usually ⅓ lower than starting wattage). To protect your ears and those of your neighbors, you should consider going for a closed-box generator or a baffle-box generator. 

These quiet generators have all the same parts as their open-box counterparts. However, all the parts are more neatly stacked and can provide a better experience because they have a single surface, let less noise escape the casing, and are better protected from water and air humidity. With a generator like this, you are certain not to disturb anyone, unless you need to produce power in the excess of 5-7 kW. 

How to Measure Noise Level in Generators?

We’ve mentioned over and over again how important noise levels in generators are. This is because they are a necessary component of any camping trip, but they may as well ruin that trip if they are too loud. As most camping sites provide ample social activities, disturbing those could label you “a bad neighbor” and could even stop some of them. If you also plan on powering your AC unit during the night, using loud generators to power the air conditioner may disturb your and your neighbors’ sleep. For these reasons, let’s consider some factors that are important in determining the quiet generators’ noise levels. 

Measurement Distance

First of all, the measurement distance needs to be understood. When measuring the noise levels, the tools used are never placed close to the machines or generators making the noise. Rather, they are placed exactly 23 feet away (~7 meters away), and then the measurements are made. Even the best quiet generators will provide more noise when operating if the measurements are taken very close by. 

Measurement Tool

The measurement tool used to measure noise levels is also important. All the tools need to be properly calibrated and set so that there are no false or inaccurate readings. Here are some commonly used tools to measure how quiet generators are: 

• SLM – Sound Level Meter, 
• ISLM – Integrating Sound Level Meter, and 
• The Noise Dosimeter. 

Environmental Factors

Even if you have one of the aforementioned devices for measuring the noise levels, the readings of most generators will be much higher, depending on how much power they can supply and the current power load. Also, the readings will be higher because the sound meter will pick up all the other noses in your surroundings, including the nearby traffic, a creek, wildlife, wind, rain, neighbor’s TV, and all other noises that may be heard around you. 

It is still useful to know what different noise levels mean and how to compare them. Here is a table comparing dB noise levels to some common, relatable noise sources: 

• Blue hues – safe noise levels 
• Red hues – unsafe noise levels – you may suffer hearing damage after prolonged exposure

Generator Load 

As a general rule, manufacturers will list a noise output figure for their generators at different load levels – usually 25% and 50% load. What this means is that the generator is operating at a quarter or half of its full capacity. So, for example, a 10000W generator running at 25% and 50% load would have output levels of 2500W and 5000W respectively. 

You should, however, understand that your actual energy usage and energy use habits will differ from those listed by the generator manufacturer. As you may want to blast your AC as soon as you park your RV, you should consider that the power output and noise levels will be higher than those that manufacturers list. For this reason, it is always best to assume that even a quiet RV generator will produce noise levels closer to the upper limit listed by the producer. 

The reason manufacturers tend to do this is that lower numbers look better on the spec sheet. Additionally, it’s based on the assumption that you’re not going to be running the generator at full capacity all the time – which, of course, depends on your specific needs. To reduce the overall noise that you are exposed to, you should always consider purchasing a quiet generator – the best quiet generator will be able to produce a significant power output but will be able to vary the engine speed – you need an inverter generator to do this. 

Power-to-Noise Ratio

Another way to approach the issue of noise and power output is to consider the power-to-noise ratio. Under this ratio, you will generally be able to better understand power production and where the power goes. With a consideration like this to make, you can easily compare different RV generator models and secure the best one for you. 

Always bear in mind that looking for the quietest RV generators may not always provide enough power for you. Sure, there are solar batteries, but high production of power demands some noise, and solar batteries simply may not pack as much energy as you need. For this reason, it is necessary to find a balance between the power generation capacity, noise levels, and price. 

Calculation

Power-to-noise ratio is simply a way to see how much power you get from a generator for every dB of noise it generates. In general, more powerful models will produce more noise, but the issue is that most readings will be set for the max volume of noise. When you compare noise levels of a 5,000-Watt generator running at 50% of its power capacity and supplying 2,500 Watts of power to a 2,500-Watt generator producing 100% of its listed capacity, the latter is likely to be quieter, but its max running watts may not be enough for your needs. 

Here are our top 10 quietest RV generators on the market today: 

• The higher the Noise-to-Power ratio, the better the model and the more power you will be able to get per each dB of noise generated 

dB Ranges Based on Wattage

Although this can still not be enough for some, we’ve done some more calculations. The following table outlines the average or acceptable noise levels per each energy capacity category. Here are some common noise levels, based on the wattage of your RV inverter generator: 

Factors to Consider Before Buying an RV Generator

Simply going out and purchasing a generator is not enough. As everyone’s energy needs are different, there is no single approach or single power generator that works for everyone. You may need to consider running watts, several types of generators for camping, push-button electric start, or possible integration into a system with solar panels. In any case, here are factors to consider before buying an RV generator: 

• The wattage, 
• The noise level, 
• The weight, 
• The portability, 
• Runtime, 
• Fuel efficiency, and 
• Any extra features your generator may have. 

Wattage

The wattage of an RV generator should be enough to supply a sufficient amount of power to the RV and all devices which you plan on using, without overloading it. An overloaded generator makes more noise (sometimes more than it is certified to) and is likely to break down at a certain point. In most cases, you want to consider your power needs: 

But you should be careful because using multiple appliances at the same time will result in a sum of the power needed to run a single of the appliances listed above. In any case, you should consider contacting an expert or asking for an opinion. Larger RVs will also consume more power because it is recharging their lead-acid batteries. 

Noise Level [dB]

A quiet generator is easy to understand, but not so much when you are confronted with a reading of let’s say 57 dB. Sure, the number is there, but what do we compare it to? The noise levels are expressed in decibel levels – with an abbreviation of ‘dB’. This reading should be enough to determine the volume of the noise emitted when the generator is powered up. Beware that running a generator close to smooth surfaces can increase the noise level, as the surface will reflect some of the noise back to you. 

In general, you want a quiet generator because: 

• It will not disturb you, 
• It will not disturb wildlife, 
• It will not disturb the neighbors, and 
• It can be used as a backup power supply in case of a power outage in your home, without worrying that the neighbors will complain. 

Weight

Your quiet generator will usually be smaller in size than the full-blown home generator. However, even the quietest RV generator can be quite heavy, so it is necessary to understand that it needs to be moved around. A lot. In case there are several men in the family, this will not be too difficult, but you being alone and hauling a 100+ lbs RV generator can be a pain. For this reason, try to find a balance between what your power needs are and what you can move, even when alone. 

Portability

Considering that even a quiet generator can be quite heavy, with some models on our list exceeding 260 lbs (heavier than a plus-size person), it is necessary to consider their portability as well. Please note that heavier generators will always produce more power, but that does not mean that you should go for the heaviest one. If you have a small RV with only a few appliances, you may not need a powerful generator at all. 

Likewise, if you mostly visit camp and trailer sites that have water and power connections already, you may be better off purchasing a smaller and more portable generator model. Quiet generators, in this case, will help you by providing additional power when power is not provided at the site already. 

Luckily, most quiet generator models have wheels or handles positioned in such a way that two persons can carry them. We still suggest you go for a smaller, lighter, and more portable model or a power station, so that you can carry them by yourself – the odds are that one day you may have to. Another option is to go for power stations. 

Although they do not have a high power capacity and cannot provide as much power as a quiet RV generator can, they are still a great option for many of your needs, so that you may not have to run the generator at all times. In fact, a power station is noiseless compared even to a quiet RV generator and can provide some added benefits such as USB ports for powering up your devices. This is a much better auxiliary power option than running a generator always – imagine having to run a generator for two hours straight simply to recharge your smartphone. 

Runtime & Fuel Efficiency

Runtime and fuel efficiency are interrelated. This is because a more efficient generator, such as an inverter generator will use the fuel more efficiently and provide a higher (or longer) run time. Another factor to consider here is the tank capacity. 

A larger fuel tank will provide a longer runtime since it will have more fuel to run on. The kind of fuel used will also have a say, since not all fuels are equally energy-dense and may provide different run times. For example, 1 gallon of gasoline has 124.000 BTU of energy. It can provide over 35 kWh of electricity if it were 100% efficient. On the other hand, 1 gallon of petroleum has ~91,000 BTU of energy and can produce more than 25 kWh of electricity at a 100% efficiency rate. 

Needless to say, no generator is 100% efficient. Most car models are around 55% efficient, and they have a much better, and much more fuel-efficient engine than even the quietest generator has. With this in mind, it is easy to see why efficiency matters so much – because it will squeeze out as much energy from the fuel as humanly possible. 

In general, a gasoline generator will have a third of the runtime than a petroleum generator would. This is because the fuel they use is simply more efficient and more energy-dense. Another way to increase runtime and provide more power with the same amount of fuel is to opt for an inverter generator. 

An inverter generator is probably the best way to go to supply power to your RV. They can provide the so-called ‘clean power’, can power sensitive electronics, and can vary the speed of the engine, using only as much fuel as is really needed. A traditional portable generator may not be able to do that, especially as they always run at full power output, use a lot of fuel, and cannot power sensitive electronics. Finding USB ports on one of them is not the best solution for charging your devices, but if you have one already, you may couple it with a solar generator and a solar power station to provide that smooth energy flow that your devices will love. 

Extra Features

Extra generators can be found on most RV generators, regardless of whether they have inverter technology or not. These include an RV plug – so that you can power your RV batteries without the need for adapters or extension cords. They may also include eco-mode, USB ports, and handles for easy moving around. As an inverter generator can get quite heavy, it is necessary to consider these extra features as well. 

RV Generator Safety Tips

As generators are powerful tools, they should not be taken lightly. They can also cost a lot and so, any damage to them should be prevented. In most cases, common sense will do the trick, but here are some RV generator tips that you should never forget: 

• Always operate a generator in open spaces, 
• Always use undamaged extension cords, 
• Use the generators only where and how they were supposed to be used, 
• Always protect your RV generator from rain, humid environments, and freezing temperatures, 
• Avoid contact with any exposed metal parts, wiring, and connectors. 

The Quietest Generators For RV in 2024

As there are hundreds of RV generators out there, we’ve decided to go through them and choose the best that the market has to offer. We’ve purposefully excluded solar batteries and power banks, as they simply do not provide enough power for most RV uses. Here are some of the quietest generators today: 

Generac iQ3500

The Generac iQ3500 power generator is a top-quality product that is perfect for those who need a reliable and efficient power source for their RV. This generator provides 3000 watts of power, making it more than capable of handling most power needs. The generator is also very quiet, with a noise of only 45 dB. This makes it perfect for use in an RV, where peace and quiet are often at a premium. The Generac iQ3500 also has a 2-gallon tank capacity, which gives it a run time of 8 hours. 

Honda EU2200i Companion

The Honda generator is a great power generator for your RV. It has a 2,200-watt output and only weighs 53 pounds, making it very portable. The noise is also very low at only 48-57 dB, so it won’t disturb your peace and quiet while you’re enjoying the great outdoors. The tank capacity is 0.95 gallons, and it has a runtime of 8 hours, so you won’t have to worry about running out of power most of the time. It is perfect for smaller RVs and smaller families on the road. 

Honda EU3000IS

The Honda EU3000IS is a 3,000-watt generator that is perfect for anyone who needs a reliable source of power. It is very lightweight at only 144 pounds, and has a noise of only 49-58 decibels, making it very quiet. It also has a large tank capacity of 3.4 gallons and can run for up to 20 hours on a single tank of fuel.

WEN 56203i

The WEN 56203i is a portable inverter generator that produces 1700 watts of power. It has a weight of 39 lbs and a noise level of 51 dB. It has a tank capacity of 1 gallon and a runtime of 7 hours. This generator is perfect for camping, tailgating, or powering small appliances in an emergency. It is lightweight and easy to carry, making it perfect for on-the-go use. It is also very quiet, so you won’t have to worry about disturbing your neighbors or the wildlife. and a runtime of 7 hours. The WEN 56203i is a great choice for people who need a reliable, portable, and quiet generator.

Westinghouse iGen2200

The Westinghouse iGen2200 is a highly portable and quiet inverter generator. It’s ideal for camping, tailgating, RVing, and other recreational activities. It has a runtime of up to 12 hours and a noise of just 52 dB. The 1.2-gallon tank capacity is great for extended use. This generator is very easy to use and is a great value for the price. With 2,200 running watts, it is ideal for most outdoor enthusiasts. 

Westinghouse iGen4500

If you’re in need of a powerful and portable generator, the Westinghouse iGen4500 is a great option to consider. With a 4,500 running watts output, it can easily handle most of your power needs. And at only 93 lbs, it’s easy to transport. We were also impressed with the sound level. At only 52 dB, it’s one of the quietest generators out there. That’s important because you don’t want to be a noisy neighbor when you’re using it. The tank capacity is also generous. At 3.4 gallons, you can run it for up to 18 hours before needing to refuel.

Honda EU7000IS

The Honda EU7000IS is a top-quality generator. It offers 7,000 watts of power. It’s perfect for those who need a reliable source of power for their home or office. The generator is also very lightweight at only 261 pounds, making it easy to transport. Additionally, it has a very low noise level at only 52-58 decibels, so it won’t disturb your neighbors. Finally, it has a large tank capacity of 5.1 gallons, so it will run for a long time without needing to be refilled.

Predator 3500

The Predator 3500-watt portable gas generator is perfect for those who need a reliable and powerful source of energy. It has a noise level of only 57 dB, making it one of the quietest generators. Additionally, its 2.3-gallon tank capacity allows for a runtime of up to 11 hours. Weighing in at only 99 lbs, this generator is also very lightweight and portable. Whether you need it for camping, tailgating, or as a backup power source for your home, the Predator 3500 is a great choice. If you’re looking for a generator that is both powerful and quiet, the 3,500 running watts generator is a great option.

Wen 56380i

Wen 56380i is one of the most powerful and durable generators. It has a whopping 3,400 running wattage of power and a runtime of 8.5 hours, making it perfect for extended power outages or other emergency situations. It’s also relatively quiet for a generator, with a noise level of only 57 dB. Plus, it’s super lightweight at only 99 lbs, making it easy to transport. The Wen 56380i is an excellent choice for those in need of a reliable and powerful generator. It’s well-built, relatively quiet, and very easy to move around.

Westinghouse 55191

The Westinghouse 55191 is a professional-grade portable generator that is perfect for powering tools and equipment on job sites. It features a powerful 4,500 W engine and a large 3.4-gallon fuel tank, providing up to 18 hours of runtime. With a noise level of only 58 dB, it is one of the quieter generators, making it perfect for use in noise-sensitive areas, such as reserves, parks, and RV lots. 

FAQs

Conclusion

Whatever your energy needs may be, there is always a way to satisfy them with proper power output and low noise levels. In fact, RVs are becoming more popular and they offer more comfort with each passing year. For this reason, it is necessary to know how to choose the best Rv generator to ensure you can have a comfortable stay wherever you go. 

Updated on 02-08-23