When it comes to off-grid and RV living, one of the most important things to have is a high-quality portable generator. After some time spent researching different options, we stumbled upon two great generators, the Honda EU3000i Handi and the Honda EU3000is Handi. Even though they have similar model numbers, there are some significant differences between these two options
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Honda EU3000i Handi – Spec Table
| Product information | Details |
| Starting watts | 3000 |
| Running watts | 2600 |
| Fuel | Gasoline |
| Tank Capacity | 1.6 Gallons |
| Run Time | 7 hours |
| Weight | 78 lbs |
| Noise Level | 52 dBA – 58 dBA |
5 Key Features – Honda EU3000i Handi
Let’s review the 5 important features to keep in mind for the EU3000i Handi:
1. Quietness
In terms of quietness, the Honda EU3000i Handi is one of the best you can find. Even during peak use, the generator still stays pretty silent. You can leave it running in the background when you go to sleep, or even stand next to it and hold a normal conversation while the generator is running.
2. Fuel Economy
Due to its fuel consumption efficiency, with the Honda EU3000i Handi, you can get 7 hours of power on a single tank of fuel.
3. Portability
Unlike the traditional Honda 3000 watt generator, this model weighs only ~78 pounds, making it a great lightweight, portable option. It also has two fixed handles and a durable wheel kit that make moving this product even easier.
4. Double Power
Parallel capability is a feature that can really come in handy. For example, you can easily link two EU3000i generators together using a special cable, which increases your overall power without having to invest in a larger generator. By taking advantage of this feature, you can get a lot more power and still maintain portability.
5. Oil Changes
Finally, changing the oil on this 3000-watt generator is a piece of cake. The whole process only takes about 5 minutes, and is recommended to be completed every 100 hours.
Honda EU3000is Handi – Spec Table
| Product information | Details |
| Starting watts | 3000 |
| Running watts | 2800 |
| Fuel | Gasoline |
| Tank Capacity | 3.4 Gallons |
| Run Time | 10 hours |
| Weight | 131 lbs |
| Noise Level | 50 dBA – 57 dBA |
5 Key Factors – Honda EU3000is Handi
By comparison, the Honda EU3000is Handi is great option if you are in need of a portable generator that’s quiet without compromising on power. Let’s review 5 important features of the EU300is Handi to compare with the EU3000i.
1. Price
The EU3000is Handi model is definitely more expensive than the other option and other similarly powered generators. On the other hand, it includes several notable features, including a much quieter performance and easier access to servicing and replacement parts.
2. Portability
Even though it is a bit heavier than the EU3000i Handi model, coming in at 131 pounds, the EU3000is is still fairly portable. It also features a handle and two wheels that improve ease of transportation. However, it’s important to note that one of the main reasons the EU3000i Handi model is lighter is because it’s a pull start-only version. On the other side, the EU3000is model has an electric starter motor built-in, which makes starting the generator a whole lot easier. The EU3000is also has a pull cord as back up, but the convenience of the electric starter could justify the added weight depending on your preferences.
3. Performance
The Honda EU3000is Handi may not be the quietest unit out there, but it is still a lot quieter than most of the competition, including the EU3000i. The generator has acoustic sound insulation better than most in its class, with a noise level between 50 dBA and 57 dBA. With the powerful 4-stroke engine that produces 2,800 running watts of power and 3000 starting watts, you won’t have any problems running big electric equipment with this generator. However, if you ever feel like you need more power, you can always buy a parallel kit and connect two generators together.
4. Fuel Tank
The Honda EU3000is Handi has a much larger fuel tank compared to the EU3000i Handi model, giving the user a better runtime for a tank of fuel. Unlike the EU3000i Handi that can provide about 7 hours on a tank of fuel, the EU3000is can provide about 10 hours. However, the engine of the Honda EU3000is is bigger and has a higher running load capacity.
5. Durability
Just like all the other Honda generators, the EU3000is model is a well-made machine. Powered by the GX200, one of the best small gas engines, this model has proven to be very durable. This OHV, 200cc engine is almost indestructible, even when pushed to its limits every day. The GX engine is the main reason why a lot of people in need of a heavy-duty machine choose the Honda generators.
Honda EU3000i Handi vs. EU3000is Handi – FAQs
In case you have further questions when comparing these two generators, we’ve answered some of the most commonly asked questions about each:
How many decibels is a Honda 3000 generator?
While both units are pretty quiet, the EU3000is generator operates at 50 to 57 dBA, while the other one is just a little bit louder and operates at 52 to 58 dBA.
Is the size of a generator important?
It is very significant that you get a generator that’s strong enough to handle all your power needs. Whether you’re looking for standby or prime power, if your unit doesn’t meet your requirements, it could lead to some serious damage on both the generator and the devices connected to it. Therefore, size of the generator will be important depending on your specific needs. If you also need to move the generator regularly, a smaller size can make a big difference.
What is the power factor?
The power factor (pf) is basically the ratio between kW (kilowatts) and kVa (kilovolt amps). Generators with higher power factor can transfer energy to the connected load more efficiently. For a point of reference, the standard power factor is .8.
Conclusion
After considering all the factors, Yorator can confidently say that we are quite satisfied with the quality of both the Honda EU3000i Handi and Honda EU3000is Handi. Not only are they both quiet, lightweight, and portable, but they also have many other cool features like the wheel kit and the handles that make them very convenient and easy to move.
The EU3000i model has the advantage of being a lot lighter and more portable, but it is also equipped with a smaller engine, the GX 160 (160cc). However, it is as durable as all the GX engines out there. So if it is the portability that you are looking for, the EU3000i engine is the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you are in the need of a little more powerful engine as well as the electric starter, you might want to consider buying the EU3000is.
