There’s no better way to produce silent, portable, efficient power while camping or RV-ing then with a quiet, fuel-efficient inverter generator. There’s a good reason why inverter generators have been the popular choice for many in recent years; they’re super quiet, efficient, extremely portable, lightweight and produce clean power on demand. Everything most conventional generators are not!
This inverter generator guide aims to focus on the best 2000 watt inverter generators for 2018, and will hopefully help you choose which brand suits your portable power needs best. For comparison purposes, we’ll be reviewing each inverter generator based on the focus points below:
- Overall Quality/Dependability
- Noise Output
- Weight
- Power Generation Quality
- Price
- Fuel Efficiency
So, why choose an inverter generator over a conventional portable generator in the first place? Well, it all comes down to 3 important factors – size, efficiency and noise output. Most people who are looking to buy an inverter generator are drawn to these features. They’re great for camping, the travel trailer, RV users, off-grid enthusiasts and those just looking for a quieter, more portable option for producing power while off grid.
What’s the difference between a conventional generator and an inverter generator? Below are some of the pros and cons of each:
Conventional Generator
PROS
- Ability to Generate 10,000+ Watts of Power
- Portable
- Can handle significant electrical load
- Relatively Affordable
CONS
- Expensive to operate
- Noisy
- Costly to maintain
- Heavy
Inverter Generators
PROS
- Relatively Quiet (Great for camping, and RV users)
- Affordable to Operate
- Light and Compact
- Generates Clean Power (Safe for Electronics)
- Affordable Maintenance
CONS
- Generate less power than Conventional Generators
- Less run time on full tank of fuel
- Higher price point
As you can see, the inverter generator does have its downfalls. However, they have been designed for those looking for a quieter, more efficient and portable alternative to the standard generator. While most inverter generators cannot handle the power load of a 10,000 watt air conditioner, most can operate a variety of smaller electronics without any issues.
On that note, which is the best 2000 Watt Inverter Generator for 2018? Let’s look at the most reviewed I-gen units and compare each one. By the end of this guide, you should have a general idea of which inverter generator suits your needs best.
Top Reviewed – 2000 Watt Invertor Generators for 2018
Preview – Our Top Choices
Westinghouse WH2200iXLT Super Quiet Portable Invertor Generator
WEN 56200i Super Quiet 2000 Watt Portable Invertor Generator
Champion 2000 Watt Stackable Portable Inverter Generator
Westinghouse iGen2200 Super Quiet Portable Inverter Generator
Generac 7117 GP2200i 2200 Watt Portable Inverter Generator
Pulsar PG2000iS 2000 Watt Portable Inverter Generator
Honda EU2000i 2000 Watt Portable Inverter Generator
Briggs & Stratton 30651 P2200 PowerSmart 2200 Watt Inverter Generator
Yamaha EF2000iSv2 2000 Watt Portable Inverter Generator
Rockpals 2000 Watt Super Quiet Portable Inverter Generator
Energizer eZV2000S 2000 Watt Portable Inverter Generator
Atima AY2000i 2000 Watt Portable Inverter Generator
Which one of these super quiet inverter generators made the top of our list for 2018? Let’s have a look at the features and pitfalls of each of these highly-reviewed generators below.
Westinghouse WH2200iXLT Super Quiet Portable Inverter Generator Review
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At first glance, the Westinghouse WH2200iXLT offers an impressive array of specifications and features that easily rivals other more expensive inverter generators in its class. With a price point of at least $500 less then Honda and Yamaha inverter generators, this cool unit seems to be the best bang for the buck. However, the Westinghouse WH2200iXLT does suffer from a few setbacks which will be explained below.
Let’s have a look at a few pros and cons that this affordable, high-performing inverter generator has:
Pros
- 2200 Peak Wattage/1800 Running Watts.
- Affordable ($400 – $500).
- Super Quiet (52 dBA).
- Long Run Time (13 Hours on 1.3 Gallons @ 25% Load).
- Very light (43 lbs).
- Parallel Capability.
- EPA/CARB Compliant.
- Produces Clean Power, Low THD (Total Harmonic Distortion) of < 3%.
Cons
- Limited 2 Year Warranty, for Personal Use (2 years Parts, 1 Year Labor).
- Limited 6 Month Warranty, for Commercial Use (Parts and Labor).
- High Reported Rate of Quality Issues from many users (inverter, carburetor, engine).
- Reports of Unreliable Customer Service (when it comes to warranty issues, Westbro uses a 3rd party insurance company).
- No 5v USB Ports.
Judging from the reviews, it seems that approximately 1 in 7 buyers of the Westinghourse WH2200iXLT are experiencing quality and customer service issues. This is very unfortunate, as this impressive unit would easily be our top choice among the 12 inverter generators reviewed in this article.
On the positive side, there are many users who have nothing but great things to say about the Westinghouse 2200 watt inverter. The specs make this perfect unit for camping, RV use and tailgating – on a casual basis. However, we’d definitely stay away from using this i-gen for any commercial application.
WEN 56200i Super Quiet 2000 Watt Portable Invertor Generator
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The first thing that stands out with the WEN 56200i, is that it’s powered by a Yamaha engine. With this in mind, you’ll notice that this high performing inverter generator is quality focused and super quiet – almost just as quiet as the Yamaha and Honda competitors. And, at just a fraction of the price! The WEN 56200i is a popular choice for campgrounds, tailgating and RV users due to its super quiet operation and dependability. Even though WEN isn’t one of the most common brands out there as far as generators are concerned, they’re sure making a name for themselves by producing quality units such as this.
Below are some pros and cons of the WEN 56200i, based on our research:
Pros
- Yamaha Powered Performance
- Very good value for the money.
- Super quiet operation (just 51 dBA).
- Excellent durability.
- Two 120V outlets.
- One 5V USB outlet.
- One 12V DC outlet.
- 6 Hours runtime at 50% load (1 gallon of fuel).
- Just 48 lbs.
Cons
- Some customers complain of missing/broken parts out of the box.
- Reports of lack of customer service when issues arrive.
- Quality and dependability not quite as good as Honda and Yamaha, but close.
While the WEN 56200i may not be up to par with quality as its Honda and Yamaha competitors, the price is very hard to beat. And with specs that are comparable on every level compared to higher priced models, this unit would be one of our top picks for best 2000 watt inverter generator for 2018.
Champion 73536i 2000 Watt Stackable Portable Inverter Generator
The Champion 73536i 2000 Watt stackable portable inverter generator is ranked high in the mix in our reviews. With its quiet operation (just 53 dBA) and excellent fuel economy (9.5 hours of run time at 25% load), this excellent performing inverter generator competes with the best out there. While Champion may not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about quality and performance, they’re sure making a name for themselves with the rising popularity of their impressive lineup of portable generators. With a price that’s much lower than most of its competitors, the Champion 2000 Watt inverter generator is an excellent value for the money.
Below is a detailed list of pros and cons for the Champion 73536i:
Pros
- Priced much lower than many similar units, a great value.
- Very fuel efficient.
- Extremely quiet (53 dBA at 23 feet).
- Very light at just 48 lbs.
- Has a 30A RV outlet (standard option).
- Two 120V, 20A outlets.
- One 12V DC outlet.
- Clean sine wave power (3% THD), safe for sensitive electronics.
- Stackable with other Champion 73536i units, a great space saving design.
- Perfect for camping, tailgating, and RV users.
- 3 Year Limited Warranty.
Cons
- Quality issues are common as well as performance issues.
- Many customers complain that the unit is louder than advertised.
- Not recommended for commercial use or prolonged operation.
- No 5v USB ports.
We have mixed feelings about this generator due to the mixed reviews it receives due to poor quality issues. While about 70% of users are very happy with the unit’s operation, there are many users complaining of engine performance issues/failures and excessive noise issues. While customer service seems to be good, Champion still needs to do some work to get our thumbs up.
Westinghouse iGen2200 Super Quiet Portable Inverter Generator
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The Westinghouse iGen2200 inverter generator is an impressive little unit with even more impressive features and performance. At just 46 lbs, it’s one of the lightest inverter generators in its class, which makes it a great choice for travel trailers, camping, tail gating and RV enthusiasts. It’s also one of the quietest portable inverter generators in its class at just 52 dBA. The iGen2200 is also extremely fuel efficient, with a 12 hour run time at 25% load (1.2 Gallons). With impressive capabilities such as parallel connectivity, 2 USB ports and an “Efficiency Mode” for even greater fuel efficiency, this portable inverter generator is a top contender.
Let’s have a look at some of the good and not so good features of the iGen2200:
Pros
- Weighs just 46lbs – one of the lightest in its class.
- Extremely quiet at just 52 dBA.
- Very fuel efficient (12 Hours run time at 25% load, using just 1.2 Gallons of fuel).
- Features two 5V USB ports.
- Parallel capability.
- Three year warranty and free lifetime customer support.
Cons
- Some customers have complained of hard starting in cold weather.
- Reports of fuel leaking issues soon after purchase.
- Customer service is only 8-5, rather than 24 hours per day.
Overall, the iGen2200 is one of our top pics for best 2000 watt inverter generators for 2018. With a price point in the $500 – $600 range, it’s also quite affordable.
Generac 7117 GP2200i 2200 Watt Portable Inverter Generator
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The Generac 7117 2200i 2000 watt inverter generator is one impressive unit when it comes to quality, performance and durability. With very few quality issues reported and its super quiet operation, the Generac 7117 is one of our top picks for best 2000 watt generator for the price. This trusty little generator has been depended upon in the direst situations for many people, most who have been without power for weeks and even months after losing power due to recent hurricanes. With this level of reliability and performance, this inverter generator is one of our top picks. If you’re looking for the perfect inverter generator for your camping, RV or off-grid needs, the Generac 7117 2200 watt inverter generator should be on the top of your list.
Pros
- Very few negative customer reviews.
- Good price point ($550 – $600).
- Very quiet in normal and economy mode.
- Can run 10.75 hours at 25% load (1.2 Gallons).
- Parallel ready (run 2 in parallel for twice the power!)
- Very light at just 46.6 lbs.
- Easy to maintain and service.
- Two Year Parts and Labour Limited Warranty.
- One 5V USB Port.
Cons
- Slightly higher price point then similar models (but worth the extra $$)
- A few reports of surging when under higher loads.
The Generac i7117 is currently our front runner for best 2000 watt inverter generator, and for good reason. With an affordable price, and very few negative reviews, and impressive specifications, this awesome little generator is an amazing value.
Pulsar PG2000iS 2000 Watt Portable Inverter Generator
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At first glance, the Pulsar PG2000iS 2000 watt inverter generator seemed to be one of the units that wouldn’t make the top of our list, due to its extremely low price point (just over $400). However, as we did our research and sifted through hundreds of customer reviews online, we were pleasantly surprised that this highly affordable and well equipped inverter portable generator was giving the rest of its competitors a run for their money! Great for camping, tailgating, off-grid and RV enthusiasts, this cool little inverter generator impressed us more than any other we’ve reviewed. Below are some of the plus and minuses of the Pulsar PG2000iS we’ve discovered – have a look.
Pros
- Most affordable unit of the bunch.
- Well equipped (two 120V outlets, one 12V DC outlet, one 5V USB outlet)
- Parallel ready.
- Weighs just 47 lbs.
- 3 hours runtime at 50% load (1.2 Gallons)
- Pretty quiet at just 59 dBA at 10 feet.
- 2 Year Warranty, replacement parts readily available nationwide.
Cons
- Some quality issues reported right out of the box (but quickly dealt with by manufacturer).
- Pulsar is not a well-known brand in the generator industry.
Overall, the Pulsar PG2000iS is a pretty solid performer, even amongst the mighty Yamaha and Honda brands. We’re willing to give this robust little inverter generator a shot at being the top performer, but the stiff competition with years of proven experience and performance may have the Pulsar beat to the finish. A good value for a great little generator for occasional camping or off-grid/RV use.
Honda EU2000i 2000 Watt Portable Inverter Generator
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The mighty Honda EU2000i is all you’d expect from a company that’s been designing and building quality products for well over 50 years. However, be ready to pay for it! The Honda EU2000i is the most expensive inverter generator of the bunch, but one of the top performing. The Honda EU2000i 2000 watt inverter generator has been around for over 10 years, and has proven itself to be one of the most reliable inverter generators out there even after all this time. The EU2000i has no problem running larger energy star appliances, such as refrigerators and freezers as well as small air conditioners. All in all, if you’re looking for a quiet, high performing generator that won’t let you down while camping, off-gridding or out in the RV, this is the generator for you – if you have the cash.
Pros
- Proven track record for reliability, quality and performance.
- Very quiet (59 dBA at 10 feet).
- Powerful 98.5CC Honda Engine.
- 1 Hours Run Time at 25% Load (.95 Gallons).
- 3 Year Warranty.
- Low Oil Alert Light.
- Only 45.6 lbs.
- Parallel ready.
Cons
- Only two 120V outlets (no 5V USB or 12V DC).
- Pricey (cost 2x the average competitor).
While the Honda 2000 watt generator may be the best performer of the bunch, it certainly does have its downfalls. With a price point of over $1000, and lacking a few features most other 2000 watt inverter generators have, the Honda EU2000i isn’t running away from the competition.
Briggs & Stratton 30651 P2200 PowerSmart 2200 Watt Inverter Generator
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The Briggs & Stratton 20651 P2200 watt inverter generator has the power and efficiency to run a variety of small and large appliances for a very long period of time. In fact, there have been reports of this cool little inverter generator running 12 hours at about 25% load – fuel efficiency at its best! Perfect for camping, tail-gating and RV users, this generator has the performance and reviews to back it up! While there have been reports of quality issues from a few users, many are very happy with their purchase. The Powersmart 2200 is also very quiet at just 59 dBA at 10 feet – even with its beefy 111cc engine! Briggs and Stratton has always made quality motor products, and this trend seems to have carried on to their impressive line of generators.
Let’s have a look at the pros and cons of the Briggs and Stratton P2200 Powersmart:
Pros
- Run up to 8 Hours at 25% Load (1 Gallon fuel).
- Very affordable.
- Powerful and robust 111cc OHV engine.
- Features quiet power technology, reducing engine speed and fuel.
- Two 120V outlets, One 12V DC outlet and USB adapter.
- 2 Year Limited Warranty.
- Parallel Capability.
- Can be carried easily by two people (H handle Design).
- Weighs 54.6 lbs.
- Parallel ready.
Cons
- A little heavier than many of its competitors.
- A little louder than many of its competitors.
- Quality issues (no starts, broken/missing parts out of the box, premature failure) are present.
The P2200 Powersmart is a great value for the performance and features it offers. If you’re not too worried about the extra 5-6 lbs or 5-6 dBA in noise, the P2200 is a great choice for those looking for a solid performing inverter generator for the camping trailer or RV.
Yamaha EF2000iSv2 2000 Watt Portable Inverter Generator
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People sure love the Yamaha EF2000iSv2 2000 watt portable inverter generator, and for good reason! It performs as awesome as it looks with its very impressive features and super clean power. Just like Honda, the Yamama EF2000 is a super solid performer backed with years of experience designing and building quality products, and this generator is no different. Capable of powering up appliances large and small, this generator can do all this while using very little fuel – just 1.1 Gallons over 10.5 hours of use at 25% load. How’s that for fuel efficiency? Even better, this unit is extremely quiet at just 51.5 dBA at 10 feet under light load, quiet efficiency at its best. The Yamaha EF2000 is also parallel ready, produces extremely clean sine wave power (just as good as public utility power) and features an auto decompression system making it easier to start and warm up. Overall, the Yamaha EF2000 is a top performer, but priced quite a bit higher than the competition.
Pros
- Very light at just 45 lbs.
- Extremely fuel efficient (10.5 hrs run time at 25%, using 1.1 Gallons fuel).
- Very quiet (51.5 dBA at 10 feet).
- Smart throttle technology, saving fuel.
- High quality and durable engine components.
- CARB Compliant.
- Auto warm up feature for quicker warm up in colder temperatures.
- Fuel Gauge and carburetor petcock.
- 3 Year Warranty.
Cons
- Heavy price tag.
- No 5V USB port.
- Reports of oil consumption over time.
The Yamaha EF2000 is a pretty solid performer overall, albeit with a high price tag. While the Honda EU2000i seems to have fewer quality issues, the Yamaha EF2000 does have a few more features then its main competitor. With that being said, these two high performing units are also 2x the money as their lower priced competitors, but for good reason.
Rockpals 2000 Watt Super Quiet Portable Inverter Generator
The Rockpals 2000 Watt inverter generator isn’t the first thing that comes to mind when shopping for portable power, but this new kid on the block has some impressive features and performance to help it make out list. This fuel efficient unit can run up to 8 hours at 50% load and runs fairly quiet at just 58 dBA at 10 feet. This portable inverter generator is safe enough to charge up sensitive electronics as well (laptops, cell phones, tablets, cameras, etc.) with its pure sine wave inverter. The Rockpals 2000 isn’t the most well-known brand when it comes to generators, but from our research, it hasn’t stopped many people from buying and testing this cool little unit out – and with mostly positive reviews to report! The Rockpals 2000 inverter generator also has some impressive features, which includes an economy mode, two 5V USB ports and two 120V, 3 prong outlets. From what we see, the Rockpals 2000 is in the running for best 2000 watt inverter generator for 2018!
Pros
- Very few negative user reviews.
- Fairly quiet, at just 58 dbA at 10 feet.
- Features an “economy mode” to reduce noise and fuel consumption.
- Features two 5V USB ports (most others have just 1 or none at all).
- Dual 120V household outlet.
- One 12V DC outlet.
- Includes a set of 12V DC battery charging cables.
- Includes tools and a funnel.
- Weighs just 47 lbs.
- 3 Year Warranty.
Cons
- Fairly new product and brand, so not tested thoroughly.
- Does not come with oil, user must buy separately.
- Owner’s manual difficult to interpret.
All in all, the Rockpals 2000 is quite an impressive unit with some fantastic features! Too bad it hasn’t been around long enough for some more rigorous testing, or we’d be giving this unit 2 thumbs up! However, based on our research, this unit seems to be a great choice for a back up generator, camping generator or for RV use.
Energizer eZV2000S 2000 Watt Portable Inverter Generator
The first thing that comes to mind when we think of Energizer is batteries. However, Energizer has expanded its line of portable power products with its line of generators – and for good reason. Energizer is well known for its high-quality, long lasting battery production all over the world. But, does the Energizer eZV2000S portable inverter generator live up to its name? At first glance, we noticed it’s super lightness at just 44 lbs – the lightest in its class. It also has an impressive run time at 11.5 hours at 25% load (400 watts). It’s also very quiet at just 50 dBA (at 25% load from 10 feet). With this amount of power and efficiency, does the eZV2000S have the features to impress? Let’s find out below:
Pros
- Very light at just 44 lbs.
- Super quiet at 50 dBA at 25% load (59 dBA at 100% load).
- Two 5V USB outlets.
- Dual 120V household 3 prong oulets.
- One 12V DC Outlet.
- Economy mode for fuel savings.
- 5 hours runtime at 25% load (.9 gallon fuel tank).
- Has a remote starting feature (with exceptions).
Cons
- Not recommended for commercial or continual use.
- A few quality issues were reported but immediately handled by Energizer Customer Support.
The Energizer eZV2000S has really surprised us with its excellent quality, performance and features. While it’s not the cheapest of the bunch, it’s certainly not the most expensive! This excellent unit gets our thumbs up if you’re looking for a reliable inverter generator for camping, tailgating or for the RV.
Atima AY2000i 2000 Watt Portable Inverter Generator
At first glance, we were taken back by the higher price of the Atima AY2000i due to its new branding. However, once we learned that this 2000 watt inverter generator was powered by a Yamaha engine, we quickly changed our minds! At almost half the price of the Yamaha EF2000, this impressive unit is built to perform, and it doesn’t disappoint! While it’s not the lightest of the bunch coming in at just over 47 lbs, it is fairly quiet at 52 dBA (at 7 meters). The Atima AY2000i also looks great with its ergonomic and stylish design. It also features a fuel saving “smart throttle technology” which automatically adjusts engine speed in accordance to load. One thing that the Atima AY2000i is lacking, is a USB port – very disappointing! All in all, a very solid inverter generator for a great value.
Pros
- Powered by the Yamaha MZ80 engine.
- Fairly light at just 47 lbs.
- Fairly quiet at just 52 dBA (at 7 meters).
- Fuel efficient (10-11 hours run time at 25% load, for 1 gallon fuel).
- Mostly positive customer reviews.
- Comes with a tool kit for maintenance.
- 12V battery charging cables included.
- Parallel Ready.
Cons
- No 5V USB ports.
- Only 2 Year Limited Warranty available.
- Priced a few hundred dollars higher than similar models with similar features.
We love the fact that Atima chose the Yamaha MZ80 engine to power this inverter generator. However, due to its higher price point and lack of features, we’re hesitant to imply this unit as the best 2000 watt inverter generator for 2018.
Conclusion – Best 2000 Watt Inverter Generator for 2018
Which 2000 watt inverter generator made the top of our list for 2018? This was truly a close call, with so much to consider. Here’s how we rated each inverter generator based on points:
Run Time @ 25% Load: 5-6 Hours = 5 Points, 7 – 9 Hours = 7 Points, 9 -12 Hours = 10 Points
Noise Level: 40 – 44 dba = 10 Points, 45 – 52 dBA = 7 Points, 53 – 59 dBA = 5 Points
Price: $1000+ = 2 Points, $700 – $999 = 4 Points, $500 – $699 = 6 Points, $299 – $499 = 8 Points
Weight: 50 – 60lbs = 2 Points, 45 – 49 lbs = 5 points, 40 – 44 lbs = 8 points
Quality Issues: Many Issues = 2 Points, Some Issues = 5 points, Few Issues = 7 points
Warranty: 1 Year = 2 points, 2 Years = 5 Points, 3 Years = 7 Points
Each unit is rated based of a total of 50 points (50 being the most points one can achieve). In the case of a tie, extra points will be awarded for highest quality. Below are our results, rated from first to last:
1st Place – Yamaha EF2000iSv2 – It was a virtual tie for first, but Yamaha came out on top due to its excellent quality, performance and durability.
2nd Place – Westinghouse iGen2200 – If you’re not up for spending the big bucks on a Yamaha, the iGen2200 is the perfect alternative.
3rd Place – Energizer eZV2000S – The Energizer eZV2000S is lightest in its class, with an excellent warranty and stellar fuel economy. A really great price for such excellent performance.
4th Place – Westinghouse WH2200iXLT – If it wasn’t for the quality issues the WH2200iXLT has suffered, it would have made the top 3. Some really great features and performance otherwise.
5th Place – Rockpals 2000 Watt – If you’re not too picky about a few extra pounds of weight and a little extra noise, this excellent performing inverter generator is a super buy.
6th Place – Honda EU2000i – Oh, we wish we could have ranked the EU2000i higher on our list! The Honda would have made the top of our list if it wasn’t for the hefty price tag and the extra weight. Otherwise, one of the best performing i-gen units out there.
Generac 7117 GP2200i – Not the most affordable, lightest, or quietest – otherwise a great performer.
Champion 2000 Watt Stackable – The Champion 2000 is really suffering from quality and customer service issues. If they can up their game in this area, they’ll easily be a top performer.
Atima AY2000i – A few hundred bucks more than most other competitors and a few quality issues to work out. Otherwise, a nice little inverter generator – we just think there’s better units out there for a more affordable price.
WEN 56200i – Heaver and uses more fuel than most other units, and also some quality issues to work out. Their warranty isn’t on par with the top inverter gen-sets either. A quiet generator for a good price though!
Briggs & Stratton30651 P2200 – We wish we could have ranked the B & S P2200 higher. However, it’s heavier and produces more noise than many of its competitors. Fuel consumption is also a little higher than the top 5.
Pulsar PG2000is – The PG2000is inverter generator is the last on our list. Mainly due to the fact Pulsar only offers a 1 year warranty on this i-gen. Improvement on the warranty, fuel efficiency and noise output, and the Pulsar would be in the top 5.
Hope you found our guide on the best 2000 watt inverter generator for 2018 helpful! While all of these units are truly great inverter generators for camping, the travel trailer, off-grid use, a back-up generator or RV use, only the cream rises to the top – and here we have our picks for the absolute best.