Portable generators are your answer to frequent power outages. The generators are mid-sized and this makes them ideal for carrying around during camping trips and outdoor recreational events. The generators are powered by gasoline or liquid propane gas and can power up most of your appliances while producing minimal noise. The generators will come with some awesome features like circuit breakers, digital displays, transport wheels, larger fuel tanks and low tone mufflers to reduce noise pollution. If you are looking for an ideal portable generator for your next camping trip check out our review of the predator 3500 and Westinghouse 4500.
What are the differences between the predator 3500 and Westinghouse 4500?
Model | Predator 3500 | Westinghouse 4500 |
|---|---|---|
Running watts | 3000w | 3700w |
Starting watts | 3500w | 4500w |
Noise output | 57dBA | 52dBA |
Weight | 99.2lbs. | 98lbs. |
Run time | 11 hours | 18 hours |
Fuel efficiency | 0.24GPH | 0.19GPH |
Dimensions | 22.8”L x 17.3”W x 20”H | 24.5”L x 17.5”W x 20.5”H |
Predator 3500 vs Westinghouse 4500 – How do they Compare?
Power
The Westinghouse iGen4500 offers a higher power output than the Predator 3500. While the predator 3500 produces a running wattage of 3000 and a starting watts of 3500 the Westinghouse iGen4500 goes further with a running watts of 3700w and starting watts of 4500w. The higher watts means you can power more appliances with it. You also do need so much of a boost to start it.
Fuel capacity and run time
The Westinghouse iGen4500 has a higher run time at 25% load of 18 hours compared to 11 hours for the predator. What this means is that with the Westinghouse you can power more appliances for longer. This makes it an ideal portable generator for home use. The Westinghouse iGen4500 is also more fuel efficient with a consumption rating of 0.19 GPH compared to 0.24GPH for the predator. Fuel efficiency is a big deal in today’s world of rising gasoline prices.
Noise output and portability
The Westinghouse iGen4500 is also quieter than the predator 3500 with a noise output of 52dBA compared to 57dBA for the predator. A quiet generator is a big plus when you are out camping and are looking for some quiet time. The Westinghouse also has a more quieter THD of <3% compared to <5% for the predator. This means it is more suited for powering your sensitive electronic equipment. However, the predator 3500 is more compact with its dimensions but is slightly heavier than the Westinghouse weighing in at 99.2lbs. against 98lbs. Both generators come with a set of wheels for easy transportation but the Westinghouse iGen4500 comes with a telescopic handle as opposed to the double handle in the Predator 3500.
Predator 3500 vs Westinghouse 4500 – A Comprehensive Overview
Predator 3500 – Overview
The predator 3500 is a powerful inverter generator with a running watts of 3000 and a starting wattage of 3500w. The generator is ideal for RV travellers due to its quiet design and its portable enough for campers or outdoor recreational activities.
A 212cc 4-stroke OHV engine powers the predator 3500 and this attributes to its powerful output. The generator also allows you to parallel it with another similar unit for more power. Starting the predator is simplified via its electric starter and you also have a manual pull and start system.
The generator is quiet enough with a noise output of 57dBA and this allows you to operate your appliances without the noise that most generators produce. You also enjoy fuel efficiency with the generator as it can operate for 11 hours at 25% load capacity with a fuel consumption of 0.24GPH. The fuel capacity is high at 2.6 gallons.
To power up your appliances the predator comes with two 120V 20A outlets, one 120V 30A receptacle and one DC outlet. The predator 3500 stands out due to its portability and compact size. You have four wheels to move the generator around plus double handles. The control center is well laid out with a digital data center that shows you information concerning your run time, voltage, and output. You also have various indicator lights for when the generator is ready for operation, overloaded and for low oil levels. You also have a built-in fuel gauge to know when you are running low of fuel. The predator is low on emissions and is certified by the CARB and EPA. It also comes with a spark arrestor which makes it ideal for use in forested areas.
What we liked:
- Highly portable and compact generator
- Easy to operate with its elegant electric starter
- High power output
- Fuel efficient
What we did not like:
Lacks USB ports
Westinghouse 4500 – Overview
The Westinghouse iGen4500 is quiet yet powerful inverter generator. It comes with a running wattages of 3700w and a starting wattage of 4500w. This gives you enough wattage to power most of your household appliances. The generator is perfect for camping, connecting to your RV and for various outdoor recreational activities. You can also use it as a backup generator in your home during blackouts and when there is long periods of power loss due to hurricanes and storms.
A 224cc 4-stroke OHV engine powers the Westinghouse iGen4500. This helps it deliver a higher wattage than most portable generators in the market. You can connect the generator to a similar unit for more power output. The generator also comes with the advantage of reduced noise levels of 52dBA. You can start the generator through a simple electric starter or use the traditional pull and start manual system found in most generators.
One key benefit of purchasing the Westinghouse iGen4500 is that it is very fuel efficient. With a consumption rating of 0.19GPH the generator can go on for 18 hours at 25% load capacity. The generator does not need constant refueling as it comes with a 3.4 gallon tank. It also generates a low Total Harmonic Disruption score of <3% which allows it to power more of your delicate electronics.
For the control panel you have two 120 V 20A outlets, one 120v 30A receptacle, two DC outlets and the best part you get two 5v USB ports for charging your electronics like laptops and phones. The generator is highly portable courtesy of its two wheels and telescopic handle. At the back you have your digital center that gives you information on run time hours, fuel level and power output.
What we liked:
- Powerful wattage output
- USB ports for charging electronics
- Low noise levels
- Fuel efficient
What we did not like:
A bit bulky
Verdict: So, which is better – Predator 3500 or Westinghouse 4500
Our winner is the Westinghouse iGen4500. We were impressed with its higher wattage output compared to the predator 3500, its reduced noise levels and its fuel efficiency. The generator also spots two USB ports which come in handy for charging electronic devices like laptops, phones and tablets. The generator is highly portable with its transport wheels and telescopic handle.
FAQ
How do I power my laptop with the Westinghouse iGen4500?
The generator comes with two USB ports for this
Can I use the predator 3500 in forested areas?
Yes, you can as it comes with a spark arrestor. The generator also comes with various safety features like generator overload indicator
