Portable generators help you power up your appliances when you are travelling in your RV, camping or when you experience temporary power outages in your home. The generators are compact, and easy to use. The produce less noise hence allowing you to operate your appliances. Portable generators are also lightweight and this enhances their portability. Some will even come with wheels and handles to help you move them around. If you are uncertain as to which brand of generator to get, this review compares the Wen 3800 and Predator 3500 we tell you which is the best.
What are the differences between the Wen 3800 and Predator 3500?
Model | Wen 3800 | Predator 3500 |
|---|---|---|
Running watts | 3400w | 3000w |
Starting watts | 3800w | 3500w |
Weight | 99.2lbs. | 99.2lbs. |
Noise levels | 57dBA | 57dBA |
Fuel capacity | 2.6 gallons | 2.2 |
Run time | 8.5hours at 50% load | 11 hours 25% |
Fuel consumption | 2.6GPH | 2.6GPH |
Wen 3800 vs Predator 3500 – How do they compare
Power
The Wen 3800 offers more power output than the predator 3500. It has a running and starting watts capacity of 3400w and 3800w compared to the predator 3500 3000w and 3500w respectively. The extra power is vital if you have multiple appliances that you want to operate. The generators have similar run times with the predator 3500 being able to operate for 11 hours at 25% load capacity. The Wen 3800 has a run time of 8.5 hours at 50% load capacity. Both generators are parallel compatible meaning you can connect them to a similar generator for more power output.
Fuel capacity and noise levels
The predator 3500 has a slightly larger 2.6 gallon tank compared to 2.2 gallon for the Wen 3800. However, the fuel consumption is similar at 0.26GPH. The generators have the same noise level output of 57dBA. They also have relatively low THD with the Wen 3800 coming in at <1.2% while the predator has <5%.
Portability
Both generators weight the same so none is better in terms of portability. The generators weight 99.2lbs and also come with transport wheels for easier movement. The handles are different with the Wen having a folding handle while the predator comes with a double handle. You can also start the generators either via an electric starter or a pull and start mechanism. Both generators feature 3 AC outlets and do not come with GFCI outlet. The generators also come with digital data centers and built-in fuel gauge.
Wen 3800 vs Predator 3500 – A Comparison Overview
Wen 3800 – Overview
The Wen 3800 is a quiet and portable generator ideal for RV travellers, campers and for household use during blackouts. The generator is easy to operate and is quite portable with its set of wheels. It also produces less emissions hence making it environmentally safe.
The Wen 3800 is run by a 212cc 4-stroke OHV engine that is capable of running watts of 3400w and starting watts of 3800w. The generator is parallel capable meaning you can easily connect it to another similar generator for more power.
The Wen is a quiet generator with a noise output score of 57dBA. This makes it ideal for many outdoor recreational activities as it is not overbearing to the point you can’t hold a conversation. It also produces a clean sine wave of <1.2% THD which is quite adequate for running some of your sensitive electronics. The inverter generator has a fuel capacity of 2.2 gallons which allows it to operate for 8.5 hours at 50% load capacity. The generator has a fuel consumption of 0.26GPH.
Operation of the generator is via 3 AC outlets. You have two AC outlets (120V 20A) and one AC (120V 30A). You also get three DC outlets and two 5V USB ports. The later allow you to easily charge your tablet and other mobile electronics. The Wen 380 is trailer ready thanks to its TT-30R receptacle.
The Wen 3800 is highly portable courtesy of its compact design, lightweight at 99.2lbs. and the fact it comes with transport wheels. You also get a folding handle to carry the generator around. Operation of the generator is via its control center that features a digital center and indicator lights. With the digital center you are able to get information in regards to the generator lifetime run hours, power output and voltage. You also have indicators for when the oil is low and when the generator is good for use or overloaded.
The generator also comes with a digital fuel gauge, overload circuit breaker, and automatic low oil shut off. It is compliant with the CARB and is EPA approved.
What we liked:
- RV ready
- Multiple DC outlets
- USB connectivity
- Portable
- Sleek design
What we did not like:
Lack of information on load times
Predator 3500 – Overview
The predator 3500 has slowly emerged as one of the most popular inverter generators due to its amazing power output, low noise levels and efficient fuel consumption. The generator is ideal for RV travellers, homeowners, and for powering outdoor events.
The predator 3500 is run by a 212cc 4-stroke engine that allows it to produce running watts of 3000w and starting watts of 3500w. The generator is parallel capable meaning you can connect it to a comparable unit for more power. The inverter generator is easy to start courtesy of its electric starter. You also get the option for a manual pull and start mechanism.
On a full tank of 2.6 gallons the generator can run for up to 11 hours with a consumption rating of 0.24GPH. The generator is low on noise levels with an output of 57dBA. It also has a low THD of <5% which means it is safe for operation for sensitive electronics.
The predator 3500 comes with three AC outlets – 2 120V -20A and one 120V – 30A. It also comes with one DC outlet. The generator is not RV ready but you do have an adaptor for this. The predator is highly portable due its weight at 99.2lbs. and comes with transport wheels and double handle. Operation of the generator is via its digital center where you get information concerning voltage, power output, and run time hours. The generator also has indicator lights for low oil levels and when the generator is overloaded.
What we liked:
- High power output
- Low noise levels
- Highly portable with transport wheels
- Fuel efficient
What we did not like:
Is not RV ready
Verdict: So, which is better – Wen 3800 vs Predator 3500
Our winner is the Wen 3800 due to its higher wattage rating compared to the predator 3500. Both generator are similar in many aspects like having similar noise outputs, come with transport wheels, low noise levels, highly portable and even the fuel consumption is similar. However, the Wen 3800 has more DC outlets and is RV ready.
FAQ
Can one use the Wen 3800 with a RV?
The Wen 3800 unlike the predator 3500 comes RV ready and this is due to its TT-30R receptacle.
Is the predator 3500 safe for use in forested areas?
The generator comes with a spark arrestor that protects it in such areas. The generator also comes with various safety features like overload circuit breaker and automatic low oil shut off
