Predator vs Honda generators are the titans of the portable generators industry in the USA. They are similar in shape and design, but their products differ entirely.
This article will compare performance, durability, and price to help you decide which is ideal for your power needs.
Understanding Portable Generators and their types
Before diving into the specifics of the Predator and Honda generators, let’s take a moment to understand the portable generators and the different types available in the market.
Portable generators, as the name suggests, are designed to be easily moved around and are ideal for situations where you need power on the go. These generators are commonly used for camping, outdoor events, and as a backup power source during power outages.
Further, there are two main types of portable generators. “Inverter generators” and “Traditional generators”; in short, inverter generators are ideal for sensitive electronics, and traditional generators are not.
Now that we have a basic understanding of portable generators let’s move on to the showdown between the Predator and Honda generators.
Overview of the Predator Generator
The Predator generator, manufactured by Harbor Freight Tools, has gained popularity among outdoor enthusiasts, DIY enthusiasts, and homeowners looking for an affordable yet reliable power solution. The Predator series offers a range of portable generators with varying power outputs to suit different needs.
One of the key advantages of the Predator generator is its affordability. Compared to the Honda generator, the Predator generator offers similar performance at a fraction of the price. This makes it an attractive option for those on a tighter budget.
However, does the lower price tag compromise on quality? Let’s find out.
The Predator Generator is considered to be Honda’s biggest competitor in the US, and it is a fact that many Honda customers now buy Predators. Because it looks like a Honda, uses as much oil as a Honda, makes no more noise than a Honda, weighs no more than a Honda, is excellent for long-term use, and, best of all, you can buy three Predator generators for the price of one Honda generator.
Overview of the Honda Generator
Honda is a household name when it comes to power generators. Known for their exceptional quality and performance, Honda generators have been the go-to choice for many homeowners, businesses, and outdoor enthusiasts for years.
The Honda generator series offers various models with varying power outputs and features so that you can find the perfect generator for your needs. Whether you need a generator to power your home during a power outage, to run your tools on the job site, or to keep your campsite powered up, Honda has a generator that will meet your needs.
Honda generators are built to last, with durable construction and reliable performance. They are also fuel-efficient so that you can save money on your energy costs. And because Honda is committed to quality, you can be sure your Honda generator will provide years of trouble-free service.
Honda competitor Predator generator has shown its good performance. But one feature of the Honda that the Predator can’t compete with is load handling. Although the Predator generator works like the Honda, when the load is high, it shuts down much faster than the Honda.
Power Output and Performance Honda vs Predator Generator
Regarding power generators, the most essential factor to consider is the power output and performance.
Both generator companies have various generator models to meet your energy needs. We have adopted a straightforward method to check energy consumption. We selected two popular generators from both companies designed to produce 2200 watts of power and tested them at the same load.
When we increased the load on both generators in echo mode, the output of both generators decreased significantly, where the Honda performed exceptionally well. The output volts of the Honda fell from 120 to 112, while the volts of its competitor, the Predator, fell to 98. Undoubtedly.
We then examined the recovery time of both generators to see how long it takes them to return to their original volts. Believe it or not, cheap generators like the Predator performed well this time, too, spending only half a second longer. The Honda recovered itself in 2.7 seconds, while the Predator took 3.4 seconds.
After that, we applied a load of 13 amp and noticed the output volt of both generators. Honda continuously supplied 122 output volts; on the other hand, Predator was at 119.5 volts.
We conducted another test of both generators without eco load to check the voltage drop; as a result, the Honda dropped to 121.8 volts, while Predator dropped to 117 volts. After all the results, Honda won this power output test.
In the end, we tested them on 1500 watts of load to check which generator stood for long, the Predator generator shut down in 13 minutes, and Honda didn’t run out of fuel.
| Honda EU2200i Generator | Predator 2000W Generator | |
| Power Capacity | Running on a 150Watt load | 2000 watts |
| Voltage Drop on High Load eco mod | 112 volts | 98 volts |
| Voltage Recovery Time | 2.7 seconds | 3.4 seconds |
| Voltage Drop With 14 amp of load | 122 volts output | 119.5 volt output |
| Voltage Drop on High Load without eco mod | 121.8 volts | 117 volts |
| Running on a 150Watt load | Not shut down until out of fuel | shutdown in 13 minutes due to load |
If we only look at the power output after these tests, Honda is the winner. But what about the price? Remember, 1 Honda generator = 3 predator generators.
Fuel Efficiency and Runtime Comparison
When choosing a power generator, fuel efficiency is a crucial consideration, especially if you anticipate long power outages or extended periods of use. Predator and Honda generators are excellent in this regard, but there are some key differences to be aware of.
Once again, we check both Honda and Predator generators with 500 watts of load with one ltr of fuel without eco mode. In this test, Predator got the lead with 55 minutes of run time, while the Honda generator ran for only 43 minutes.
After the Predator won, we decided to test both generators without eco mode, and the result is the Honda generator runs for 61 minutes, and the Predator runs for 62 minutes.
| Honda EU2200i Generator | Predator 2000W Generator | |
| 500 Watt of load without eco | 43 minutes | 55 minutes |
| 500 Watt of load with eco | 61 minutes | 60 minutes |
In this test, we can decide that Predator wins the fuel economy title this time.
Noise Levels and Portability Comparison
Noise levels and portability are important factors to consider, especially if you plan on using the generator in residential areas or during camping trips where noise pollution may be a concern. Both the Predator and Honda generators offer models that address these concerns.
But let’s check both Honda and Predator from 25 feet and take an average from all directions. In the test, the Honda generator produced an average of 59 dBA noise, while the Predator generator produced 69.5 dBA noise.
| Honda EU2200i Generator | Predator 2000W Generator | |
|---|---|---|
| Noise from a 25′ distance | 59 dBA | 69.5 dBA |
Additional Test to Compare Honda with Predator Generator
We measured both Honda and Predator generators for the required force to start the generator with the recoil starter. The Honda generator needs 24 kg of power to use the recoil starter. The Predator generator requires only 12.5 kilograms of force to start.
And while testing the generator’s vibration, we notice that the Honda generator vibrates 9 meters per square and the Predator vibrates 16.5 meters per square.
| Honda EU2200i Generator | Predator 2000W Generator | |
|---|---|---|
| Require force for Recoil Starter | 24 kg | 12.5 kg |
| Vibration while running | 9 meter/square | 16.5 meter/square |
Price Comparison and Value for Money
Price is a significant factor when choosing a power generator. It’s essential to find one that fits your budget and needs. Predator and Honda generators offer different price ranges to find one right.
Predator generators are typically more affordable than Honda generators. They’re a good option if you’re on a tight budget or only need a generator for occasional use. Honda generators are more expensive, but they’re also more reliable and durable.
They’re a good option if you need a heavy-duty generator or want peace of mind knowing that your generator will last.
Ultimately, the above-tested generator’s prices are. Honda is $1199, and Predator’s price is $450.
Suggested Article: Cummins vs Generac Generators.
Customer Reviews and Satisfaction
Customer reviews help determine product reputation and reliability. Predator and Honda generators are reliable and robust, as evidenced by positive customer reviews.
Predator generators are easy to use, durable, and affordable.
Honda generators are reliable and long-lasting, with many customers reporting years of use without issues. They are also fuel-efficient and quiet.
You may also like to read: Generac vs Honda Generators.
Conclusion: Predator vs Honda Generator Which One Is Best
After carefully comparing the features, specifications, and customer reviews, it’s clear that Predator and Honda’s generators are reliable, high-performance power solutions. Your best choice will ultimately depend on your needs, budget, and preferences.
If you’re looking for an affordable and easy-to-use generator, the Predator is a great option. It’s lightweight and portable, perfect for camping, tailgating, and other outdoor activities. The Honda, on the other hand, is a more robust and durable generator. It’s a good choice for people who need a generator for heavy-duty tasks like running tools and appliances.
Ultimately, the best way to decide which generator is right for you is to consider your needs and budget. Suppose you need help determining which generator is right for you. In that case, I recommend reading more reviews and talking to other people who have used both generators.
My choice is Predator, as we tested it side to side with Honda it has done remarkably well.
FAQs:
Are Predator engines reliable?
Yes, Predator engines a reliable, but in comparison with Honda, they are not reliable as Honda.
Which is the most dependable generator Honda or Predator?
Honda is the most dependable generator compared to Predator generators.
Which generator has the cleanest power Honda vs Predator?
In inverter technology, both Predator and Honda did an excellent job.
Predator vs Honda which is best in fuel consumption?
In the fuel consumption, both Honda and Predator generators are great compared to others of their kind.
Predator or Honda which is the quietest generator?
While comparing we found that Honda has the quietest generators.
Predator and Honda which is best for portable use
Predator and Honda have almost the same weight while considering the same size of generators.
