A portable generator is a necessity these days. As we become more dependent on our devices, even a short power interruption can be extremely frustrating.
The right generator can provide you supplemental electricity to still operate various appliances and electronics like your laptops and personal computers. It’s also a good investment if you love exploring the rugged outdoors and you need a power source to work and connect.
It’s not every day that you buy a generator, so we completely understand why you might find it incredibly challenging. You probably have spent some time on Google by now, searching for the best brands. Most likely, you’ve encountered Yamaha and Honda quite a few times. Well, it’s not surprising.
Even though there are many less-popular brands, Honda and Yamaha have had a long history in the industry. Many people choose them for their quality and powerful performance.
But of course, you’re only buying one. That is why we made a detailed Yamaha generator vs Honda comparison to help you make an informed buying decision.
Note that both brands feature different models of generators. For this comparison, we’ll focus on Honda EU2200i and Yamaha EF2000iSv2, which are both suitable for home and outdoor use.
We’ll dig deeper into their pros and cons, similarities, differences, and features. This way, we can carefully and unbiasedly assess which one is better.
Direct Comparison
Table could not be displayed.Breaking It Down
Both Yamaha EF2000iSv2 and Honda EU2200i are inverter-type generators which means they draw power from a DC source and convert it into AC power. Inverter styles are more energy-efficient and quieter than conventional models.
Despite belonging in the same category, these generators have strikingly unique features. For this comparison, we’ll consider which is more efficient and reliable by comparing their power, fuel efficiency, portability, THD, features, and overall performance.
Learn more details about AC vs DC generator here.
Power and Wattage
Choosing the right size of generator is your starting point to finding the right equipment for your needs.
You don’t need very high power or wattage if it’s for home use or recreation. However, it doesn’t hurt to go a little above the recommended wattage because you never know when you need to power up more appliances or electronics.
Yamaha EF2000iSv2
This latest version of the highly-rated Yamaha EF2000is has starting watts of 2,000 and running watts of 1,600, a 200 watts difference from the earlier version.
A 1,600-watt generator is categorized as “light-duty” and capable of supporting various appliances, like a refrigerator, computer, television, and stereo equipment.
This power capacity is perfect for activities like camping, hunting, tailgating, and outdoor parties where you need to run just a handful of basic equipment.
Honda EU2200i
This Honda generator has starting watts of 2,200 watts and running watts of 1800. It works well for a refrigerator, a small RV air conditioner, kitchen appliances like a microwave and electric frying pan, computer, and more.
Winner: Honda EU2200i
Hats off to Honda generator for offering a higher power capacity in a compact build. While we’re just looking at a 200-watt difference, it makes a substantial difference, especially when connecting heating appliances.
As you may know, heating appliances require a higher surge power than other types of appliances. Additionally, having 200 watts more means you can still squeeze in an additional device, such as laptops and small TVs.
Tank Size
Generally, the bigger the tank size, the longer the running time of a generator. On the other hand, a bigger tank can add up to the heaviness of the machine.
Weighing the pros and cons, we will go with a generator that has a bigger fuel tank.
Yamaha EF2000iSv2
This portable generator has a tank size of 1.1 gallons, which is smaller than the earlier version. Still, it gives you an adequate running time of 10.5 hours if used at a quarter load.
That’s good enough to provide you with comfort overnight when you’re camping or during a temporary power outage.
Honda EU2200i
Meanwhile, the Honda generator has a tank capacity of 0.95 gallons. It’s not much of a difference from the Yamaha model. A full tank should give you 8.1 hours of continuous power when used at a 25% power capacity.
Winner: Yamaha EF2000iSv2
Despite the 0.5 difference in the tank size, we’re giving the credits to the Yamaha generator because it has a longer running time and is more fuel-efficient.
Note, though, that the more load or appliances you connect to a generator, the faster the gas runs out. To achieve the maximum running time, limit its power usage to 25%.
Noise Level
Since both Yamaha and Honda generators are inverter types, they are both incredibly quiet compared to conventional generators.
Yamaha EF2000iSv2
This model has a noise rating of 51.5dB, which is very quiet; you won’t hear it from a reasonable distance if used at the minimum capacity of 25%. For comparison, this noise level is as loud as a normal conversation at home.
It will get louder, though, if you increase the load. If used at 100% max load, the noise level of Yamaha EF2000ISv2 reaches 61dB, which is as loud as the background noise in a restaurant.
This unit comes with Yamaha’s most technologically sophisticated muffler, which contributes to the minimal noise. In addition, it’s equipped with rubber vibration isolation feet that further reduce the noise.
Honda EU2200i
This portable generator has a noise rating of 48dB when used at 25% capacity. This makes Honda EU2200i virtually quiet or as loud as a low discussion in a library or quieter.
If you’re using this generator at an RV camp, you will hardly hear anything even when your vehicle is parked. It’s super quiet that the US Forest Department has allowed this particular model to be operated during the “non-quiet” hours.
But like the Yamaha model, it gets louder when running on higher outputs.
Winner: Honda EU2200i
Although they are both quiet, the 3dB difference is quite substantial. You won’t think twice about taking it to your camping adventures. It’s extremely quiet that your neighbors at the campsite won’t even notice that you’re running a generator.
Total Harmonic Disruption
Standard generators produce THD as high as 15%, which is acceptable for non-sensitive appliances. If you are connecting your laptop, mobile device, or personal computer, you want a portable generator set with a THD lower than 6%.
Yamaha EF2000iSv2
With an extremely low THD of <2.5%, you can use this portable generator to support appliances that require almost a pure sine inverter, such as microwaves, laser printers, cordless tool battery chargers, and medical equipment.
Honda EU2200i
This model has a THD of <3%, which is not a significant difference from the Yamaha. It’s also safe to use for powering sensitive appliances, including electronic devices.
Winner: Yamaha EF2000iSv2
Since a lower THD is preferable, we’re giving the throne to Yamaha.
Nonetheless, we like to emphasize that the distortion rate of inverter generators is between 3% and 5% (sometimes lower) creates safe (clean) electricity that is ideal for computers, laptops, TVs, and other electronics.
Therefore, they are both pretty impressive.
Technology and Features
While performance and efficiency are major considerations, modern generators may come with additional features that boost their performance.
Yamaha EF2000iSv2
This generator from Yamaha has a Smart Throttle system that varies engine speed based on load, improving fuel consumption and further reducing the noise. Meanwhile, the audio-decompression system makes starting the generator easier.
Lastly, the warm-up system enables the engine of appliances with a high starting current demand even during cold starts.
Honda EU2200i
An interesting feature of this generator is that using an app lets you operate and monitor its performance from your smartphone. It also has an advanced carbon monoxide detection system that automatically shuts down the machine when it detects dangerously high levels of CO.
Winner: Honda EU2200i
The two generators have strikingly different features that make them unique. In terms of comparison, we’ll give the credits to Honda.
Carbon monoxide, which is produced when fuel is burned, is highly toxic. Generators emit so much of it, so the Co-Minder technology is a great feature to have.
Final Recount
After considering the major factors affecting the overall performance of portable generators, let’s see which one is taking the lead.
- Power and Wattage Winner: Honda EU2200i
- Tank Size Winner: Yamaha EF2000iSv2
- Noise Level Winner: Honda EU2200i
- Total Harmonic Disruption (Cleanliness) Winner: Yamaha EF2000iSv2
- Technology and Features Winner: Honda EU2200i
We’re looking at a close fight here, with Honda EU2200i taking the lead at a score of 3/2. Let’s go ahead and check out the pros and cons of each model and see which will fare better.
Pros and Cons
Yamaha EF2000iSv2
Pros:
- Bigger fuel tank size
- Has throttle system
- Longer run time
- More lightweight
Cons:
- Lower power capacity
Honda EU2200i
Pros:
- Higher power capacity
- CO-Minder technology
- Extremely quiet
Cons:
- Slightly bulkier and heavier
Yamaha Generator vs Honda: The Verdict
While Honda EU2200i scored one point higher than Yamaha EF2000iSv2, in our opinion, these generators are equally great. Both of them perform excellently in many aspects.
The disparity in noise level, power, fuel efficiency, THD, and other factors is not extensive. If you compare them against other generators in the same category, they certainly belong to the upper class.
We highly recommend these brands. We would suggest, though, that you take into account your application needs.
For example, Yamaha is a great choice if you are using a generator mainly for electronics and highly sensitive appliances. The advantage of a longer run period is another reason to consider Yamaha.
Honda is a good choice if you’re buying a generator for outdoor use like camping, RVing, or bowfishing, and you want an extremely quiet gen set.
Both Yamaha Generator vs Honda is premium brands. Hence, they are both expensive. In terms of reliability, both these models won’t fail your expectations.
Yamaha generators have the longest emission engine durability ratings from The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Honda has also built a solid reputation for making some of the most heavy-duty generators in the market.
At the end of the day, if you’re in the market for a reliable, lightweight, and compact generator, you can’t go wrong with any of these two.
