Whether it’s electricity for recreational activities or simply having backup power in case of power outages, owning a portable generator is fast-becoming a staple among home owners. However, noise levels from these machines can be enough to upset neighbors or even fellow campers, deterring most potential buyers.
This is where the Generac iQ3500 and the Honda EU3000iS enter the picture. Beloved for their portability, these generators also deliver a surprisingly quiet performance that should assuage apprehensions in buying them. But which one should you get? Below, we compare the two generators based on their key features.
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Generac iQ3500 vs Honda EU3000iS Comparison Chart
| Model | Generac iQ3500 | Honda EU3000iS |
 |  | |
| Price | View Price on Amazon | View Price on Amazon |
| Type | Gas Powered | Gas Powered |
| Engine | Generac OHV | Honda GX200 |
| Starting Watts | 3,500 | 3,000 |
| Running Watts | 3,000 | 2,800 |
| Displacement | 212 cc | 196 cc |
| Fuel Capacity | 2.6 gallons | 3.4 gallons |
| Noise Level | 57 dB at 25% load | 50 dB at 25% load |
| Run Time at 25% Load | 14 hours | 20 hours |
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | 23.7″ x 18″ x 21.7″ | 25.9″ x 17.6″ x 22.0″ |
| Product Weight | 109.1 lbs | 131 lbs |
| Warranty | 3 years | 3 years |
Design and Portability
Both generators come with a durable, enclose designed and weigh over 100 lbs, which makes moving them around difficult.
The Generac iQ3500 and Honda EU3000iS are solidly built inverter generators that come in a sturdy, enclosed design. This not only lends the devices durability but also a sleeker aesthetic compared to more conventional, open frame generators.
On the Honda EU3000iS, the arrangement of the controls and outputs are rather straightforward. It also comes with an easy-to-access door for changing the oil, adding to its user-friendliness. Similarly, the Generac iQ3500 comes with an intuitive dial that integrates the generator’s operating functions in one place.
Despite being portable generators, the iQ3500 and EU3000iS are pretty hefty machines. The Generac iQ3500 weighs 109 lbs. while the Honda EU3000iS is just slightly over 120 lbs. Given their bulk, moving them around manually can be a challenge.
Nonetheless, both devices do feature double handles that should improve grip. And while the they don’t come with wheels out-of-the-box, you can at least purchase a separate wheel kit for the Honda EU3000iS to make it more mobile.
Power
The Generac iQ3500 delivers more power but the Honda EU3000iS has a higher fuel-tank capacity and runtime.
When it comes to power, the Generac iQ3500 boasts a 212 cc OHV engine. This delivers a 3,500W starting wattage and 3,000W running wattage — enough to power a 15000 BTU air conditioner. You can even double the output by linking the iQ5000 with a compatible or similar generator, thanks to a parallel function feature. Keep in mind, however, that the parallel kit is purchased separately.
In contrast, the Honda EU3000iS comes with a 196 cc GX200 engine, which puts out a starting wattage of 3,000W and a running wattage of 2,800W. While it’s lower than the Generac’s, the EU3000iS is more fuel efficient with a 0.17 GPH consumption compared to the iQ3500’s 0.18 GPH. Likewise, the Honda EU3000iS has a larger fuel tank capacity, making it ideal for overnight use. At 25% load, the Honda EU3000iS also offers a longer 20-hour runtime compared to the Generac iQ3500’s 14.1 hours.
All of this translates to the Honda EU3000iS being one of the quietest inverter generators you can get. The machine’s two-layer enclosure really helps muffle noise, and the fuel-efficient engine delivers an impressive 50 to 57 dB noise level depending on load. It’s a slight advantage over the Generac’s louder 55 to 65 db rating.
Features
Unlike the Honda EU3000iS, the Generac iQ3500 comes with its own data center.
Aside from its intuitive dial, the Generac iQ3500 also has number of convenient features. The generator, for instance, sports a digital display that provides users insights about fuel level, wattage output, and the remaining runtime. The Honda EU3000iS, on the other hand, doesn’t come with its own data center, although you can still monitor fuel levels through an analog fuel gauge.
The iQ3500 also boasts what Generac calls Power Rush technology. This feature gives the iQ3500 a 40% boost in starting capacity while also boasting better fuel economy. Likewise, the Honda EU3000iS is equipped with Eco-Throttle technology that does a similar job as Power Rush — deliver a fuel-efficient and quiet performance.
Both generators work with an electric starter, but they also have a manual recoil starter as backup. Although you don’t get GCFI outlets here, the Generac iQ3500 and Honda EU3000iS both come with 3 AC outlets and a DC output.
Verdict
The Generac iQ3500 is ideal for those who put a premium on power and portability. On the other hand, the Honda EU3000iS should be great for those who value fuel-efficiency and runtime.
If you’re looking for a quiet, portable inverter generator, then the Generac iQ3500 and Honda EU3000iS are strong choices. Both come in a durable design and are fairly easy to operate. However, the Generac iQ3500 is at least twenty pounds lighter compared to the Honda EU3000iS, making it easier to move around. To make it more mobile, you will need a separate wheel kit for the 130-pound Honda generator.
Between the two, the Honda EU3000iS is better if you plan to use a generator overnight or for extended periods. Its lower engine displacement and larger fuel-tank capacity translates to a higher runtime as well.
Nonetheless, if you need extra power to start appliances, you’ll find the Generac iQ3500 a more practical option. It may not be as quiet as the Honda EU3000iS, and its runtime is certainly lower; however, you will enjoy the benefits of higher starting and running watts, alongside its useful data center.
FAQs
The Generac iQ3500 is lighter than the Honda EU3000iS, while also offering a higher starting and running wattage. However, the Honday EU3000iS comes with a larger fuel-tank capacity for a longer yet more fuel-efficient runtime.
The residential and commercial warranty policies of the Generac iQ3500 are good for three (3) years.
The Honda EU3000iS does not come with an hour meter. However, it can monitor fuel levels through an analog fuel gauage.
Owing to its weight, the Honda EU3000iS is compatible with both Honda and third-party wheel kits. These kits can either be 2 or 4 wheel configurations.
