The Honda 2200w generator has arrived. The big question is: how does it compare to other similar models on the market? Our generator testers got to work to find out.
Honda has long held the crown for one of the best portable leisure generators word wide. Just look at the Honda EU20i - fuel efficient, durable and insanely portable. But the Honda team have realised that the EU20i isn't enough: people need more power when they go camping and caravanning. Enough for lights, a kettle, laptop, mobile, TV and more.
That's where the new Honda 2200w generator comes in. The EU22i packs more power than its predecessor - 10% more to be precise - while still being small, compact and impossibly quiet.
But the thing about Honda generators is that they also come with a price-tag that will make your eyes water. So, we wanted to know whether there are any inverter generators on the market that can match up - without the price tag.
The answer is YES.
The Honda 2200w generator has met its match in the Briggs & Stratton P2400.
Here's how they compare:
Power
Both the Honda 2200w generator and Briggs & Stratton P2400 feature advanced 4-stroke engines for a peak power output of 2200 watts and 2400 watts. Both Generators have a continuous rated output of 1800 watts.
It's worth noting that for both generators, we're talking about invertor generator technology, which produces smoother power for sensitive electronics (such as laptops and smart devices).
As a bonus, both the Honda and Briggs & Stratton models can be linked up with another generator for even higher output (known as "parallel capacity"). For instance, pair two Briggs & Stratton P2400 generators and you can get almost double the output. Not too shabby!
Weight
The Honda 2200w generator weighs in at 21kg, while the Briggs & Stratton P2400 comes in slightly heavier at 22.8kg. The Briggs & Stratton also includes a carry handle designed for two people (if required) to easily share the load when moving the generator.
Noise
The Briggs & Stratton P2400 operates at 58dB, which is quieter than normal conversation, so it blends into the background. The challenge here is that Honda has used a different measurement to rate the Honda 2200w generator, so we can’t easily compare the volume. But we can tell you it’s rated at LwA 91dB(A), which they promise is “whisper quiet”.
Fuel economy
The Honda 2200w generator has a built-in Eco Throttle, which adjusts the engine speed to meet the load demand. With its 4-litre fuel tank and the Eco Throttle switched on at 1/4 output, the Honda EU22i can run for up to 8 hours continuously.
Because the engine doesn't run at full capacity unless needed, this also reduces generator noise.
The Briggs & Stratton P2400 has a slightly smaller fuel tank (3.7 litres), but don’t let that fool you: it can run at 8 hours at 25% load. That’s because, like the Honda model, it has a Powersmart mode which automatically adjust the engine speed to save fuel and run longer.
Starting
Both units have an easy recoil start. The Honda 2200w generator has been designed with metal reinforcement around the recoil starter handle, something that was lacking on the legacy EU20i model. The idea is that even the most heavy-handed users won't damage the unit when pulling the cord.
Top Features
Honda has added a few handy details to its new EU22i model, which make the generator more user friendly than the previous EU20i model. For example, the Honda 2200w generator features a colour-coded vent cap, a "run dry switch" that lets you literally run the generator out of fuel before you put it into storage, and a larger oil filler for improved draining and catching of oil.
The Briggs & Stratton P2400 isn’t short of user-friendly features either. Top features include its parallel capability, safe for sensitive electronic appliances, 5-amp DC outlet, two 15-amp outlets and a very handy USB adapter.
Verdict
We won’t deny it – the new Honda 2200w generator has certainly got the goods. But you will also pay big dollars for it (around $1,800 give or take). If you’re looking for a portable generator for your RV or camping, the Briggs & Stratton P2400 is a great alternative for at least $500-$600 less. So, unless you’re a die-hard Honda fan, start thinking about what you can do with the savings…
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Check out our full range of Caravan / Camping Generators HERE.
DISCLAIMER* Please note, this advice is general in nature and we strongly recommend consulting the product manual and where relevant, a professional installer.
