Top 10 Best Portable Generators For Tailgating – Reviews

Last Updated on October 18, 2022 by Manager Access

Whether you are pregaming for your favorite team’s football game or just hanging out with some friends by the beach, your tailgating experience isn’t complete without entertainment.

In order to power up your TV, radio, or electric smoker, you are going to need a portable generator.

Finding the perfect generator may seem like a task, but by following my quick guide on the top 10 best generators for tailgating, you can easily see which is the best for your application.

Below are the best tailgating generators ranked and compared:

1. Honda EU2200I – My #1 Choice

For those looking for an all-in-one solution to tailgating power needs, the Honda EU2200i is here to solve them.

When tailgating, you are going to need a generator that is quiet, easy to transport, and has a long run time.

This generator does all of this and more!

When looking at the wattage needs of your tailgating essentials, you will notice you will not need a large generator unless you are trying to power large appliances.

With the EU2200i putting out 1800 running watts and 2200 starting watts, you will have plenty of power to keep your party going.

With an impressive list of features, it’s no wonder this generator has over 100 reviews on Amazon at the time of this article.

The light weight of 46.5lbs makes transporting this generator super easy!

A .95 gallon fuel tank allows for up to a little over 8 hours of run time at 25% load to power through any tailgating event.

Honda EU2200i Generator Features

• 121cc GXR120 Engine
• Running Watts: 1800 Watts
• Starting Watts: 2200 Watts
• Weight: 46.5 lbs
• .95 Gallon Capacity Fuel Tank
• 8.1 Hour Runtime @ 25% Load
• (2) 120V-20A GFCI Outlets
• (1) 12V DC Battery Charging Outlet
• Parallel Capabilities
• Sound Level: 57 Decibels From 23 Feet Away
• Eco-Throttle Switch
• 3 Year Commercial/Residential Warranty

Honda offers a 3 year residential and commercial warranty on the EU2200i generator for peace of mind that you are always taken care of.

IMHO: In My Humble Opinion
This is the best portable generator for tailgating parties. Honda eu2200i generator has everything that you could ask for in a portable generator that would be used for tailgating. The lightweight, low noise level, and long run time allows you to keep the party going without any worries at all! For more details on this portable inverter, see my review of the Honda eu2200i

2. Westinghouse IGen2200 – Cheaper Alternative

Topping the list for the best generator for tailgating is the Westinghouse IGen2200.

This generator goes above and beyond what you will need it for when tailgating and it has the most reviews out of every generator on this list.

The IGen2200 isn’t the most powerful generator when comparing this list side by side but it does still put out an impressive 2200 starting watts and 1800 running watts.

This amount of power can easily power multiple TV’s, fans, electric cooking appliances, and more!

Weighing in at only 46lbs, you can easily transport this generator to and from your vehicle to keep noise levels and gas fumes away from your party.

The low 52-decibel noise level means you will not have to worry about bothering any neighbors at your tailgate event.

This generator also features an efficiency mode to aid the 1.2-gallon fuel tank in running your generator for up to 12 hours.

Westinghouse IGen2200 Generator Features

• • • 79cc OHV Engine
    • Running Watts: 1800 Watts
    • Starting Watts: 2200 Watts
    • Weight: 46 lbs
    • 1 Gallon Capacity Fuel Tank
    • 12 Hour Runtime @ 50% Load
    • 2-120V outlets (Household Style Outlets)
    • 2 – USB Style Outlets
    • Efficiency Mode
    • Sound Level: 52 Decibels From 23 Feet Away
    • Recoil Style Start

Westinghouse offer a 3 year limited warranty on this generator. There is a one year unit exchange period and a 2-3 year replacement part coverage.

IMHO: In My Humble Opinion
The Westinghouse is our top pick for a reason. This generator has all of the capabilities and features I would want from a comprehensive solution in a tailgating situation. I would not think twice about ordering one. – For more details on this one, see my review of the Westinghouse igen2200

3. Briggs & Stratton P2200 – Quiet Power Technology Equipped

With being in close quarters at a tailgate party, not to mention trying to watch the pre-game, you are going to want a generator that is relatively quiet.

That is where this Briggs & Stratton P2200 inverter generator shines!

Operating at only 59 dBa with its quiet power technology, you can enjoy a generator that is quieter than a normal conversation.

This generator puts out 1700 running watts and 2200 starting watts which allows you to easily power TV’s, electric smokers, griddles, and other tailgating essentials with ease.

It also has the parallel capability to add another P2200 for twice the power!

Not only does it perform well, but it also has plenty of features that make it an ideal addition to your next tailgating event.

Easily transport this generator to where you need it with its lightweight of 54 lbs.

The 1-gallon tank allows for an 8-hour run time at ¼ load, meaning you can keep the party going all day long!

With 2 120V 20A receptacles, you can easily hook up your common household appliances or tools.

Briggs & Stratton P2200 Generator Features

• • • • 111cc OHV Briggs & Stratton Engine
      • Running Watts: 1700 Watts
      • Starting Watts: 2200 Watts
      • Weight: 54 lbs
      • 1 Gallon Capacity Fuel Tank
      • 8 Hour Runtime @ 25% Load
      • 1 – 12v DC Cigarette Lighter Style Receptacle
      • 2 – 120v 20A Receptacles (Household Style Outlets)
      • 1 – Parallel Capability Outlet
      • Sound Level: 59 Decibels From 23 Feet Away
      • Recoil Style Start
      • 2 Year Residential/90 Day Commercial Warranty

Backed by a 2-year residential warranty, the Briggs & Stratton P2200 is sure to be a trustworthy buy with all of the customer service support you could need.

IMHO: In My Humble Opinion
The Briggs & Stratton P2200 isn’t the quietest or lightest on the list, but it is one of the cheapest and can easily give you the power you need to entertain your next tailgate crowd! For more details, see my review of the Briggs & Stratton P2200 Inverter.

4. Yamaha EF2400ISHC – 171cc workhorse

If you are needing a bit more power and don’t mind paying for it, then the Yamaha EF2400ISHC generator needs to be on your list.

For tailgating, you may not need too much power as TVs and fans don’t really use up too much wattage, but once you start adding air conditioning units and multiple appliances, you are going to need something with a little more starting wattage capabilities.

This Yamaha generator does just that by providing 2400 starting watts and 2000 running watts. This is enough to power most 13,500 BTU air conditioners, convection ovens, and even the largest hair blow dryers.

When looking at the generator, you will notice two handles. This will be needed as the generator itself has a dry weight of 75lbs.

Add in the weight of the fuel in its 1.6 gallon tank and you may need a hand moving this generator.

Although it puts out more wattage than most on this list, it is still relatively quiet at only 56-60 decibels.

Power up most household appliances through the two GFCI outlets for up to 11 hours with this highly efficient 171cc Yamaha engine.

Yamaha EF2400ISHC Generator Features

• • • • • 171cc Yamaha Engine
        • Running Watts: 2000 Watts
        • Starting Watts: 2400 Watts
        • Weight: 75 lbs
        • 1.6 Gallon Capacity Fuel Tank
        • 11 Hour Runtime @ 25% Load
        • (2) 120V-20A GFCI Outlets
        • (1) 12V DC Battery Charging Outlet
        • Sound Level: 56-60 Decibels from 23 Feet Away
        • Recoil Style Start

Yamaha offers a 3 year limited warranty for this inverter generator, making it one of the longest warranty periods on this list.

IMHO: In My Humble Opinion
This Yamaha inverter generator is a great choice for those looking to power large appliances at tailgate parties. However, it will most likely need two people to transport it, as it is heavier than most on our list.

5. Atima AY2000I – Affordable Inverter With Yamaha Engine

One of the lesser-known generators on our list, the Atima AY2000I is quickly climbing the ranks and becoming a brand to know.

Powered by a Yamaha motor, this generator has many of the same great features as most of the popular generators on this list.

I myself like trying out new products or brands to see what I may be missing by only shopping brands I know.

The Atima AY2000i is a prime example of not judging a book by its cover as it goes toe to toe with the best portable generators.

This Yamaha-powered generator pumps out 1600 running watts and 2000 starting watts to power just about any appliances you may use around your tailgating party.

Hook up TVs, crock pots, electric smokers, and more with its 2 120V 20A receptacles and single DC cigarette lighter style outlet.

Weighing in at only 47 lbs and having a built-in handle, you can easily move this generator around to wherever you may need it.

With a 10-hour run time, you will not have to worry about refueling anytime soon.

Producing only 52 dBa makes it quieter than many on this list which is a plus when in a crowded parking lot.

Atima Generator Features

• • • • • • 4 Stroke Yamaha Engine
          • Running Watts: 1600 Watts
          • Starting Watts: 2000 Watts
          • Weight: 47.41 lbs
          • 1 Gallon Capacity Fuel Tank
          • 10 Hours At 25% Load
          • 1 – 12v DC Cigarette Lighter Style Receptacle
          • 2 – 120v 20A Receptacles (Household Style Outlets)
          • 1 – Parallel Capability Outlet
          • Sound Level: 52 dBa
          • Recoil Style Start

The Atima AY2000i generator comes with an industry average 2 year warranty that protects you against faulty parts or craftsmanship.

IMHO: In My Humble Opinion
While Atima is not as well known as many of the other generators on our list, the amount of positive reviews it has received proves that it is a great generator to have. If you are not needing to power large appliances, the Atima will be worth looking into with it’s low price! For more details, see my review of the Atima AY2000I

6. Energizer EZV2000P – Decent Budget Option

When you think of supplying power, Energizer is a name you will always recognize.

However, you may not have known that they offer portable inverter generators as well.

Their EZV2000P has started to climb the popularity ranks among 2000-3000 watt generators.

Producing an industry average for mid-power generators, the Energizer can keep your party powered with its 1600 running watts and 2000 running watts.

I personally like the parallel capabilities to hook up another EZV2000P inline to get twice the power for the larger stadium parking lot parties that need more appliances.

Coming in as one of the lightest generators on our list at 44lbs, this Energizer generator can easily be transported by just about anyone.

It also produces very little noise, making it one of the quietest generators I have reviewed at only 50-59 decibels.

Energizer EZV2000P Generator Features

• • • • • • • 79cc Energizer Engine
            • Running Watts: 1600 Watts
            • Starting Watts: 2000 Watts
            • Weight: 44 lbs
            • 1 Gallon Capacity Fuel Tank
            • 11.5 Hour Runtime @ 25% Load
            • 2 -120V Outlets (Household Style Outlets)
            • 2 – USB Style Outlets
            • 1 -12V DC Outlet
            • Sound Level: 50-59 Decibels From 23 Feet Away

Energizer offers a 3 year limited warranty to keep your investment covered.

They also have a skilled customer service team that is available to help you with ordering parts, answering question, or helping with any technical support you may need.

IMHO: In My Humble Opinion
For the low price that this generator is being offered at, you are getting some great features that you normally only see on more expensive generators. This is a great generator for tailgating as it has a very low weight, it is very quiet, and it can run for up to 11.5 hours! For more details, see my review of the Energizer EZV2000P inverter.

7. Champion 3400 Watt Dual Fuel – Gasoline or Propane

While most tailgating events will only need around 1500-2000 watts max, sometimes you will want more to charge RV accessories and appliances.

That is where the Champion 2400 dual duel generator comes in.

Putting out an impressive 3100 running watts and 3400 starting watts, this Champion 3400 watt generator can power just about anything you can throw at it in a tailgating situation.

This generator has a dual fuel feature that allows it to be run off of gasoline or propane (Also see my post about the best dual fuel generators)

This is a great feature to have as many people find themselves without enough gas after they have run through their tank.

This generator operates for up to 7.5 hours on gasoline and 14.5 hours on a 20lb tank.

It is relatively quiet for its power output, putting out only 59 dBa at 23 feet.

Champion 3400 Generator Features

• • • • • • • • 192cc OHV Engine
              • Running Watts: 3100 Watts
              • Starting Watts: 3400 Watts
              • Weight: 95.7 lbs
              • 1.6 Gallon Capacity Fuel Tank
              • 7.5 Hours Gas/14.5 Hours w/ 20lb Propane Tank At 25% Load
              • 2-120V outlets
              • 1- 240V twist-lock outlet
              • 1- 12V DC outlet
              • Sound Level: 59 dBa
              • Recoil Style Start

The Champion generators are supported with a 3 year warranty and a lifetime of expert technical support.

IMHO: In My Humble Opinion
One of the most important aspects of a good tailgate experience is having fun and not having to worry about anything else. With the dual fuel capabilities of this Champion generator, you can easily switch between fuels to keep the party going without having to go out for more gas. I would suggest this generator to anyone who needs a larger power output. For more details, see my review of the Champion 3400w dual-fuel generator.

8. Wen 56200i – Low-Cost Alternative

If you are trying to spend the least amount of money, then the Wen 56200i needs to be on your list.

At just less than $500, you can get a generator that puts out enough power to get you through your party while staying carb compliant and quiet at the same time.

While the low price may scare some, it has a large number of great reviews and even has most of the features that more expensive generators have.

It features parallel capability, 2 120V AC outlets, battery charging connections, a USB port, and an Eco mode for more fuel efficiency.

The Wen 56201i Generator Features

• • • • • • • • • 79.7cc OHV Engine
                • Running Watts: 1600 Watts
                • Starting Watts: 2000 Watts
                • Weight: 48 lbs
                • 1 Gallon Capacity Fuel Tank
                • 6 Hour Run-Time At 50% Load
                • 2-120V outlets
                • 1- USB Port
                • 1 – 12v DC Port
                • Sound Level: 51 dBa
                • Recoil Style Start

Wen offers a 2 year warranty on this generator with a customer satisfaction guarantee.

IMHO: In My Humble Opinion
This Wen generator is a great competitor among many of the generators on this list. It has many of the same features and is easy to transport. If you are not brand loyal to the bigger brands, the Wen 56200I should be on your list. For more details, see my review of the Wen 56200I.

9. Yamaha EF2000iSv2 – Lightweight, Portable Inverter

This Yamama EF2000iSv2 is a great generator for tailgating as it puts out just enough to power any small appliances you need to entertain your party.

The Yamaha EF2000iSv2 can put out up to 2000 starting watts and 1600 running watts.

With a built-in handle, easily take this generator anywhere with its low weight of 44 lbs.

With a 10-hour run time and only 51.5 dba noise level, you will not have to worry about much when you are grilling out at the arena’s tailgate party!

The Yamaha EF2000iSv2 Generator Features

• • • • • • • • • • 79cc OHV Engine
                  • Running Watts: 1600
                  • Starting Watts: 2000
                  • Weight: 44 lbs
                  • 1.1 Gallon Capacity Fuel Tank
                  • 10 Hour Run-Time
                  • 2 -120V outlets
                  • Sound Level: 51.5 dBa
                  • Recoil Style Start

Yamaha offers a 3 year warranty on their inverters to give you protection for years to come!

IMHO: In My Humble Opinion
With a 3 year warranty and a 10 hour run time, it’s hard to say no to this Yamaha generator. I could not find anything that I did not like about this generator and believe it would be a great addition to any tailgating event. For more details, see my review of the new EF2000ISV2.

10. Generac 7117 GP2200I – Best value for tailgating

Last but not least on our list is the Generac 7117 2200 watt portable inverter generator.

This generator is priced very competitively and features the same if not more great features as most on this list.

This generator puts out up to 1700 running watts and 2200 starting watts for more than enough power for your tailgating party.

Weighing in at only 46.6 lbs and featuring a built in handle, you can take this generator just about anywhere.

The 10.75 run time allows you to keep your party going all day long.

The Generac 7117 Generator Features

• • • • • • • • • • • 4 Stroke OHV Engine
                    • Running Watts: 1700 Watts
                    • Starting Watts: 2200 Watts
                    • Weight: 46.6 lbs
                    • 1.2 Gallon Capacity Fuel Tank
                    • 10.5 Hour Run-Time
                    • 2 -120V outlets
                    • 1- DC Cigarette Style 12V Outlet
                    • 1- USB Port
                    • 1 – Parallel Port
                    • Sound Level: 58 dBa
                    • Recoil Style Start

Generac offers a 2 year limited warranty on this generator.

IMHO: In My Humble Opinion
Despite having multiple reviews stating that they regret their purchase, many customers have had great success with this generator. Being one of the cheapest on our list, I wouldn’t hesitate to suggest this generator to anyone looking for a mid-level generator for tailgating.

Buyer’s Guide – Frequently Asked Questions

Wrapping it up

So there you have it, a complete guide on which generators are best suited for tailgating.

The main things to remember are to research how much wattage you are going to be demanding, keep you and your guests safe, and properly research each generator to ensure it has everything that you need.

The best thing about inverter generators is that you won’t be using it just for tailgating.

These make a great backup power source in the event of a blackout. So get out there and get your party powered with a new generator!

Are you currently running a generator for your tailgating party? If so, what size, and what appliances are you running with it?

Please consider sharing this post with anyone you know who might be in the market for a tailgating generator!