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I recently bought one of these generators as a backup to my EU2000i which crapped out (the EU2000i was fixed for $35 and is better now
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). I live 100% off grid and there are a good number of things I rely on a generator for, but I am not your typical user, so take what I say with that in mind.Ordering
I ordered my unit for $271 but they are now up to $314 on Amazon. This generator has a cult-like following and is becoming very popular. The prices have been rising since its release here in the US.
I have Amazon prime and the unit arrived in 3 days double boxed and in perfect condition. The generator packaging is outstanding for a Chinese made device. After removing the product from the box I noticed that there was a tiny bit of fuel and oil in it which indicated it had been tested prior to shipment. I guess it could also mean that it was used and returned, but I don't think so.
The thing that impressed me the most after unpacking was the build quality. Even the screwdriver they included is of decent quality. If this had a Honda logo on it I could have been convinced. I opened the panels and looked for loose fasteners and the only thing I found was that the spark plug boot was not fully seated.
Startup
I filled the unit with gas and 10-30 oil. The oil fill on this unit is *much* better than the Honda. You can fill straight out of a standard oil bottle without spilling any. The fuel goes in the top and has a cap with mechanical vent that is more substantial than my Honda.
This unit has a primer bulb which is handy when you run out of fuel (wish my Honda had one). With the unit primed, and choked, it started with 2 pulls of the starter. In fact the entire time I have owned it, only two pulls gets it started.
Operation
My immediate need was to run the tiny Haier HLP21N washing machine. The generator performed this task perfectly. I also needed to charge some power tool batteries and my laptop both worked fine. The documentation says that this unit is a true sine wave output. I have not been able to verify this with a scope, if true it makes this unit a real deal.
The next thing I wanted to power was a small 700 watt microwave oven. I have been without a microwave for 2.5 years and I have decided to get one. Unfortunately, this generator is NOT capable of powering it....very sad. This is a perfect generator otherwise.
The last task I need a generator for is to charge the main battery bank for my house. I use an external 30 amp microprocessor controlled battery charger. The Earthquake generator powers this and uses very little gas doing it. I ran it last night for 3 hours and I could not tell that it used any fuel.
Noise Level
I have run this unit side by side with the Honda EU2000 and I can't tell the difference in noise level. The Eco-throttle does not quiet the unit to the same degree as the Honda. At low loads the Honda might be a tick quieter but not $700 quieter if you only need a few hundred watts of power.
Size & Weight
This is the units strong point. Its only about 20 pounds filled with gas and is super portable. Its about 30% larger than a 6 pack of 16oz soda bottles....the size of a small portable lunch cooler. Would make a great addition to an emergency battery box or to carry in your truck box.
Bottom Line
I highly recommend this generator for low load applications. I would say that you can power 500-550 watt loads without any problem at all. Higher loads will be hit or miss depending on the startup surge. Its a great little $300 generator.
I will post followups to this thread over time.
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