Westinghouse iGen12500
Score: 78/100
WEN 56360i
Score: 72/100Rankings
The Westinghouse WGen9500DF is a powerful dual-fuel portable generator designed for whole-home backup, offering up to 12,500 peak watts on gasoline. It features convenient remote start and transfer switch readiness, though its heavy weight and open-frame design limit portability and weather protection. It is best suited for homeowners requiring robust backup power for essential appliances and RV owners needing a 50-amp connection.
The WEN 56360i is a lightweight, RV-ready portable inverter generator delivering clean power with 2900W running and 3600W surge capacity. It features ultra-low THD for sensitive electronics and CO Watchdog auto-shutdown safety, making it an ideal budget-friendly choice for camping and tailgating. However, its short runtime and lack of electric start are notable trade-offs for users needing extended or convenient operation.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
9,500 wattsbest | 2,900 watts | |
12,500 wattsbest | 3,600 watts | |
| ↓ lower better | 74 dB(A) | 65 dB(A)best |
12 hoursbest | 5 hours | |
| ↓ lower better | 210 lbs | 46.3 lbsbest |
6.6 gallonsbest | 1.6 gallons | |
457 ccbest | 149 cc |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Power Output(2) | ||
Running Watts (watts) | 9500 watts | 2900 watts |
Starting Watts (watts) | 12500 watts | 3600 watts |
Performance(1) | ||
Noise Level (dB(A)) | 74 dB(A) | 65 dB(A) |
Portability & Design(1) | ||
Weight (lbs) | 210 lbs | 46.3 lbs |
Usability(1) | ||
Starting System | Electric/Recoil | Recoil |
Fuel & Runtime(3) | ||
Runtime @ 50% Load (hours) | 12 hours | 5 hours |
Fuel Tank Capacity (gallons) | 6.6 gallons | 1.6 gallons |
Fuel Type | Dual | Gasoline |
Electrical Features(1) | ||
Output Voltage | 120/240V | 120V |
Expandability(1) | ||
Parallel Capability | false | true |
Connectivity(1) | ||
Outlet Configuration | 5-20R, L14-30R, 14-50R, USB | 5-20R, TT-30R, 12V, USB-A |
Safety & Compliance(2) | ||
GFCI Protection | true | false |
Certifications | CARB, EPA | CARB |
Engine & Performance(1) | ||
Engine Displacement (cc) | 457 cc | 149 cc |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers praise the Westinghouse WGen12000DF and its variants for delivering powerful output suitable for whole-home backup and RV connections. Experts highlight the convenience of remote start, the safety inclusion of a CO sensor, and the robust build quality with cast iron engine sleeves. However, reviewers consistently note that the non-inverter open-frame design lacks weatherproofing and parallel capability found in newer competitor models.
Everyday users appreciate the reliable power output for running essential appliances like refrigerators and air conditioners during storms. The remote start feature and dual-fuel flexibility are frequently praised for their convenience and value. Recurring complaints focus on the heavy weight making transport difficult, shorter runtime on propane compared to gasoline, and occasional difficulties with the recoil backup start mechanism.
Professional reviewers praise the WEN 56360i as an inexpensive, RV-ready, and parallel-capable inverter generator that serves as a solid entry-level choice. While experts highlight its lightweight design and safety features like CO shutdown, they consistently note weaknesses regarding noise levels at 65 dB, short runtime of 5 hours, and lower fuel efficiency compared to premium brands.
Everyday users commonly praise the generator for being quiet enough for camping, powering entire RVs with AC and microwaves, and offering great value due to its lightweight build. Recurring complaints focus on the short runtime requiring frequent refills, noise bothering light sleepers, small screen text that is hard to read, and low fuel efficiency despite eco-mode.
