Yamaha vs Honda: Which Generator is Best?
Both Yamaha and Honda create wonderful power generators.
These are essential items to provide power during an outage whether it’s at home or business. Power outages are frequent in the United States and Canada (click here to see a real-time map). It’s a pain to hours (if not days) without electricity.
These generators are also handy for those in a trade or profession that requires power tools. They’re used for recreational events, too.
Usage is important when comparing Yamaha vs Honda generators.
Different wattages power a specific range of electrical devices:
- 2,000 – 3,500-watt range – Small devices such as microwaves, coffee makers, or a small air conditioner
- 3,500 – 7,000-watt range – Small to medium devices such as a washing machine, air conditioners, well pump, or power tools
- 7,000 – 10,000-watt range – Small, medium, and large devices such as large central air conditioners, dryers, or water heaters
Lower wattages are ideal for those spending time in cottages, out camping, or on a fishing trip. Higher end models can power the entire home.
This article will cover the basics:
- What to look for when buying a generator
- The differences between Yamaha and Honda options
These two manufacturers create highly-reviewed products so which should you buy? Let’s find out.
Comparing Yamaha vs Honda Generators: The Main Factors
Inverter generators are popular because they provide stability in how they produce electricity. The units produce AC power, it’s converted to DC, and then back to AC. This prevents ‘spikes’ in electricity which could damage sensitive electronics such as computers or televisions.
There are others factors to consider when debating the Yamaha vs Honda selection of generators:
Wattage
Knowing your power priorities will help develop a baseline on the amount of wattage you’ll need in the generator. Wattage in many models hovers around the 2,000 mark. This is more than capable of running refrigerators, tv’s, and other small electrical devices.
Small generators aren’t meant to power an entire house — only the essentials. Keep a log of your power consumption and needs to develop the smallest wattage needs.
Maintenance
What good is the thing if it keeps breaking down? Maintenance is essential to keep the unit running.
Your typical maintenance is to run the unit on occasion to clear the lines of ‘dirty’ fuel. It’s easy to forget the generator when it’s not needed. It would be a hassle if it fails to work during your time of need.
You can have it repaired by a professional if the troubles are out of your understanding.
Warranty
Generators are built to last.
They are at the brunt of harsh conditions like hurricanes and heavy usage at work. Sometimes these units fail. A warranty or extended protection from a big box retailer or direct from the manufacturer will create a quick replacement.
The warranty will have you back up and be running during your time of need.
Sound
Older models of generators are noisy. This isn’t ideal when you’re running them during outages or if you’re working in residential areas.
Inverter models such as those offered by Yamaha and Honda are quiet. Your best bet is to test the product to hear what you get.
Portability
The power goes out, it looks like it’ll be that way for a while, and the generator is in the garage. Do you want to lug it through extreme storms, cold weather, or intense heat by dragging the thing? No.
In the battle between Yamaha vs Honda — consider the portability.
These manufacturers include units with wheels and light-weight designs. Know your strength and stamina. Include this in your buying decision especially if you plan to take it on trips or outdoor expeditions like quadding.
Comparing Yamaha vs Honda Generators: The Secondary Factors
Let’s move on to the secondary factors. The factors which aren’t at the top of the list but remain important in your buying decision for a quality generator.
Tank Size
Consider the size of the fuel tanks. This will prevent frequent topping off. Some units have backup power options such as propane or natural gas.
Pricing
Your budget will matter. It’s always a factor. Though when it comes to quality — spending the extra gives you greater options.
Most generators are affordable when sourcing a small to a mid-size unit. In-store financing may be available. A whole-home generator is tax deductible! The same goes if you use one for work. This mitigates the cost.
Starter
Newer models of generators include a push-to-start button for easy operation. Older models use a pull start. Ask yourself if you’re going out in the rain to yank at the starter versus a simple press. Easy choice.
Size & Weight
It’s not a contributing factor to many but size does matter. Some have limited space in their homes or work vehicles. The weight matters if you plan to lug it when boating or camping or pull it out when needed.
Outlets
What good is the unit if there are one or two plugs when you need a dozen items going at once? You have to be selective in what you keep powered but there’s no sense in buying a unit that has too few outlets.
Emissions
Generators kick off a lot of exhaust and to many, this poses a concern for the environmental impact. Yamaha and Honda are EPA and CARB compliant if this is a deciding factor in your decision.
We now have a baseline to determine the features and requirements. Let’s move on to two series of generators provided by these companies which have been popular choices and are bound to do what you need.
Yamaha vs Honda at the 2000 Series
The 2000 series of generators is at the heart of the Yamaha vs Honda debate.
Read reviews and forums. The dedication to the brands reaches a fever pitch!
The dedication to the brands reaches a fever pitch! The EF2000iS by Yamaha and EU2000i by Honda are direct competitors. At first glance, they may seem similar but under the hood tells a different story.
Yamaha EF2000iS Specs:
- Maximum AC output: 2000 watts
- Rated AC output: 1600 watts
- Dimensions: 19.3 x 11 x 17.9 in
- Weight: 44.1 lb
- Fuel tank capacity: 1.1 gal
- Noise level: 51.5 – 61 dBA
- Continuous operation (at 1/4 rated load): 10.5 hours
- Warranty: 3 years limited
- Price: $989
Honda EU2000i Specs:
- Maximum AC output: 2000 watts
- Rated AC output: 1600 watts
- Dimensions: 12 x 21 x 19 in
- Weight: 46 lbs
- Fuel tank capacity: .95 gal
- Noise level: 53 – 59 dBA
- Continuous operation (at 1/4 rated load): 9.6 hours
- Warranty: 3 years residential and commercial
- Price: $999*
The 2000 series is a tough battle with Yamaha vs Honda though both make excellent choices. Those needing additional input should consider the…
Yamaha vs Honda at the 3000 Series
Those needing an extra “oomph” of power will find themselves scouring the 3000 series. The Yamaha vs Honda differences begins to take shape.
How do the competitors add up on paper?
Yamaha EF3000ISEB Specs:
- Maximum AC output: 3000 watts + 500 watts boost
- Rated AC output: 2800 watts
- Dimensions: 26.8 x 17.5 x 21.9 in
- Weight: 154.3 lbs
- Fuel tank capacity: 3.4 gal
- Noise level: 53 – 60 dBA
- Continuous operation (at 1/4 rated load): 18.6 hours
- Warranty: 3 years limited warranty
- Price: $2,222*
Honda EU3000iS Specs:
- Maximum AC output: 3000 watts
- Rated AC output: 2800 watts
- Dimensions: 25.8 x 18.9 x 22.4 in
- Weight: 134 lbs
- Fuel tank capacity: 3.4 gals
- Noise level: 49 – 58 dBA
- Continuous operation (at 1/4 rated load): 20 hours
- Warranty: 3 years residential and commercial
- Price: $2,049*
The 3000 series are serious contenders in the Yamaha vs Honda battle. These units are highly-rated. They provide exceptional output for homes and on-the-job needs throughout the days and weeks.
It all comes down to this…
The Consensus
Yamaha vs Honda. Both make great machines but…
Yamaha takes the prize.
This is due to the fuel switch features which prevent problems when a generator hasn’t been used for months or years along with the affordable price tag.
There are no losers, though, either of the selections is more than capable of providing the needed power to your devices. Both companies have created a robust series of generators to keep you powered and going.
Consider the options and find a balance between budget, needs, and wants.
When in doubt: Touch base with a professional.
Generator contractors can provide a detailed rundown of how best to use a generator for your home or business. Then shop online, browse the selection of Yamaha and Honda options, and make the purchase!
One More Thing: Safety
Generators can be lifesavers but need caution in their operation. Refer to the instructions before you begin using the unit. Read every line to understand its operation and safety warnings.
Here are other safety tips to remember:
- Keep the unit in a well-ventilate space since exhaust produces carbon monoxide which is deadly. Never place the unit within a close space. Use carbon monoxide monitors as an extra precaution if you’re unable to place the unit an adequate distance from your living/work location.
- Be careful when handling gasoline when fueling the generator. Avoid smoking near the generator and do not add fuel while it is running.
- Give the unit enough time to cool down. Some generators become hot which could cause burns during contact.
- Never connect the generator to the household wiring since this will create a feedback to the powerlines which could harm you, neighbors, and utility workers.
- Avoid overloading the generator — adhere to the maximum wattage.
- Provide routine inspections and maintenance to the unit to find and fix faults.
Most are common-sense items but they’re worth noting. A lapse in judgment could be harmful. Better safe than sorry.
Which generator would you choose for your outdoor activities or powering your living space during an outage?