Generators are useful for a variety of purposes, from providing backup power during an outage to powering tools and other equipment at a worksite.
Inverter generators are a type of generator that is becoming increasingly popular, due to their many advantages over traditional generators.
Two of the most popular inverter generators on the market are the Predator 3500 and the Honda 3000. It’s important to know how they compare so you’ll be able to choose the best one for your needs.
Here is our very detailed comparison of the Predator 3500 inverter generator vs Honda 3000 to help you decide on the best option.
Honda eu3000is vs Predator 3500 Comparison Chart
| Predator 3500 | Honda 3000 | |
| Engine displacement | 212cc | 196cc |
| Fuel type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Fuel capacity | 2.3 gallons | 3.4 gallons |
| Running watts | 3000 | 3000 |
| Electric start | Yes | Yes |
| Overload protection | Yes | No |
| Low oil shutoff | No | Yes |
| RV outlet | Adapter included | 30-amp |
| Runtime | 11 hours at 25% capacity | 20 hours at 25% capacity |
| Noise level | 57 dB | 49-58 dB |
| Eco-throttle | No | Yes |
| LCD screen | Yes | No |
Predator 3500 Generator vs Honda 3000
These two generators are very similar, but there are some key differences that you’ll need to know about so you can choose the right one for your needs.
Many people gravitate toward the name brand Honda because they know it’s a quality product. However, the Predator 3500 is a newer model that has some features that may make it a better choice for you.
Plus, a lesser known name may offer the same quality at a more affordable price.
Here’s a rundown of some of the areas in which they differ.
Portability
The Predator 3500 is slightly lighter, at 99.2 pounds, and more compact than the Honda 3000, which weighs 130.7 pounds.
This makes the Predator a bit easier to transport. It also has built-in wheels and a folding handle, which the Honda 3000 lacks. To move the Honda 3000, you’ll need some serious muscle.
So, if portability is a key concern for you, the Predator 3500 may be the better choice because it comes with components that allow you to move it on your own without having to lift it off the ground.
You can roll it around the campsite, nearer to your hookups, or move it in and out of storage with ease whenever you need to use it.
The Honda 3000 does have handles attached to both sides, but they don’t fold and there are no wheels, so lifting is required to move it.
While the handles make moving it easier, it’s still quite heavy, so you’ll need to enlist some help. However, if weight and size are not major concerns, either generator will work for you.
Power
Both generators produce 3000 watts of power, but the Predator 3500 can surge up to 3500 watts. This extra power can come in handy if you need to start a motor or power a tool that has a high initial draw.
The Honda 3000 also has a slightly higher rated voltage (120v vs. 115v) and can run for longer on a tank of gas (up to 20 hours at 25% load vs. 11 hours at 25% load).
So, if you need a generator that can run for extended periods of time, the Honda 3000 may be the better choice. The Predator 3500 has a 2.3-gallon fuel capacity, which contributes to its shorter runtime. You’ll have to fill it up more often, but it costs less to fill it up each time.
The Honda’s fuel capacity is 3.4 gallons, so it will run longer before needing a refill, but it’s also more expensive to keep it running.
Features
Both generators have several features that make them useful for a variety of purposes. Electric starts, automatic shutoffs, and plenty of outlets are just some of the features you’ll enjoy on these machines.
The Predator 3500 comes with:
- 212cc air-cooled OHV gas engine
- Electric start
- 11-hour run-time at 25% capacity
- Digital LCD screen
- Overload and output light indicators
- Integrated smooth-rolling casters for portability
- Electronic overload protection
- (2) 120VAC grounded outlets
- (1) 120VAC twist lock outlet
- (1) dc-12v two Pin outlet
- RV adapter included
The Honda 3000 comes with:
- Operates at 49 to 58 dB (A)
- Runs up to 20 hours on 3.4 gallons of fuel
- Eco-throttle for excellent fuel efficiency
- Low oil shut-off feature
- (2) 120-volt 20-amp outlets
- (1) 120/240-volt 30-amp outlet
Convenience
As previously mentioned, the Predator 3500 comes with wheels and a handle, so it’s easier to move. These are great features if you need to move the generator frequently or you take it with you when you go to the job site.
The Predator 3500 also comes with an automatic low-oil shutdown feature, which protects the engine from damage.
Both generators have an electric start, which is a great convenience feature. This allows you to start the generator with the push of a button, instead of having to pull on a cord.
The Honda 3000 also has an Eco-Throttle feature, which automatically adjusts the engine speed to match the power needs of the equipment that’s being used.
This conserves fuel and reduces noise. It also has a fuel gauge, so you can easily see how much gas you have left.
Noise
The Predator 3500 operates at 57 dB and the Honda operates between 49 and 58 dB, so both are very quiet and ideal for campsites. While the Honda has a tendency to be quieter overall, at times, it can exceed the noise level of the Predator.
The variation in noise with the Honda 3000 is due to its Eco-Throttle feature. When the generator is first started, it runs at a higher RPM to charge the battery and build up power. Once it’s running smoothly, the engine speed slows down and the noise level decreases.
The Predator 3500 doesn’t have this feature, so it runs at a consistent noise level. However, because it’s a bit louder to begin with, it evens out to be about the same as the Honda in terms of overall noise. If noise is a major concern for you, either of these options should serve you well.
Running Capacity
The Predator 3500 can run for 11 hours at 25% capacity while the Honda 3000 can run for 20 hours at 25% capacity. If you need a generator that can run for extended periods of time, the Honda 3000 is the better choice.
However, gas consumption changes with the load on the generator. So, if you’re going to be running the generator at full capacity most of the time, the Predator 3500 may actually use less gas overall.
That means the Predator 3500 is the better option for users who need a generator that can handle long run times but will mostly be operated at lower loads, while the Honda is a great choice for users who need a generator that can be run at full capacity for long periods of time.
Cost
The Predator 3500 costs less than the Honda 3000. If price is your main concern, the Predator may be the better choice.
However, keep in mind that the Honda 3000 is a more popular model and may hold its value better over time. It’s a higher quality generator.
The Predator sells for about $1,100 on Amazon while the Honda ranges from $2,400-2,700, depending on where you get it.
Things To Consider When Choosing A Generator
When you’re looking for the right generator for you, keep in mind what you’ll be using it for.
If you need a generator that can power your entire home in an emergency, you’ll need a different generator than someone who just needs a camping generator.
Think about how often you’ll use the generator and what you’ll use it to power. If you only need it for occasional power outages, a small generator may be all you need.
But if you’re using it for work or recreation, you’ll need a generator that can handle your power needs. It’s incredibly important that you evaluate the type and number of outlets on the generator. You need to make sure the generator has enough outlets to power everything you need.
And you need to make sure the outlets are the right type for your equipment. If you’re using sensitive electronic equipment, you’ll need outlets that have circuit breakers to protect them from surges.
Noise is another important consideration. If you’ll be using the generator in an urban area, you’ll need to make sure it’s quiet enough not to disturb your neighbors. And if you’re using it for camping or recreation, you don’t want a generator that’s so loud it will ruin the experience.
Consider the size and weight of the generator. You need to be able to move it and store it easily. If you’ll be taking it camping or hiking, you need a generator that’s light enough to carry. And if you’re using it at home, you need to make sure it will fit in the space you have for it.
Think about the fuel type. Gasoline is the most common fuel for generators, but there are propane and diesel options as well.
If you’re using the generator in an area where gasoline is hard to come by, you may want to consider a propane generator.
And, of course, consider your budget. Generators can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand, so find one that fits your needs and your budget.
But don’t sacrifice quality for price. A cheap generator may not be a good investment in the long run.
Conclusion: Predator vs Honda Generator
The Predator 3500 and Honda 3000 are both great generators. They’re both quiet, efficient, and well-made. But which one is right for you?
If budget and portability are concerns for you, the Predator 3500 will be the best option, but if you are more interested in a generator with a long run time and higher quality, go with the Honda 3000.
No matter which generator you choose, you’ll be getting a great machine that will serve you well for years to come.
Through this blog, I want to share all of my hints and tips, along with reviews of the best RVing accessories. I hope this blog will help others with their RV trips, and make traveling easier for you.
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