Are you looking for a nontoxic generator that results in less emission? If the answer is yes, you are looking at the right place because this post is about propane generators.
However, a generator also needs to produce enough power for your needs without making too much noise. So we will help you balance all of these factors by showing you how to choose the best quiet propane generators.
Here are the best quiet propane generators you can buy in 2024:
- Best Overall: Champion Power Equipment 76533
- Best Budget Option: Baja BAI911LP
- Best For Backup: Champion 3400-Watt Inverter Generator
- Best For Camping: Firman 2900W Running / 3200W Peak Electric Start Dual Fuel Inverter Generator
- Fuel-Efficient: DuroMax XP2000EH
- Most Powerful: DuroMax XP4850EH
| 6 Best Quiet Propane Generators | ||
|---|---|---|
Best Overall | Champion Power Equipment 76533 | |
Best Budget Option | Baja BAI911LP | |
Best For Backup | Champion 3400-Watt Inverter Generator | |
Best For Camping | Firman 2900W Running / 3200W Peak Electric Start Dual Fuel Inverter Generator | |
Fuel-Efficient | DuroMax XP2000EH | |
Most Powerful | DuroMax XP4850EH | |
Best Overall: Champion Power Equipment 76533
- Convenient to operate – dual-fuel construction
- Safe and reliable – feature a low oil shut-off sensor & backed by a 3-year limited warranty + free lifetime technical support
- Multifunctional – feature two 120V 20A household outlets & One 120V 30A RV outlet
- Wish it had some USB ports for ease of charging electronic devices
Of all of the propane generators that we tested, the Champion Power Equipment 76533 proved to be one of most consistent across the board.
It’s powerful, easy to maneuver, and the price can’t be cheaper. The dual-fuel construction allows it to run by either propane or gasoline, which is ultra-convenient for journeys. But what we appreciate the most is its quiet operation regardless of its size.
At 23 feet away, the noise is only 68 decibels.
What’s more, it is multifunctional. You can use this generator for home backups, RVs, or camping. Just rest assured to use it because it’s equipped with a low oil shut-off sensor.
| Champion Power Equipment 76533 Specifications | |
|---|---|
Peak Watts/Running Watts | 4750/3800-Watt |
Noise Level | 68 dBA from 23 ft. |
Max Runtime | Gasoline: 9.0 at 1/2 Load (h.) Propane: 10.5 at 1/2 Load (h.) |
Highlight Features | A 3-year limited warranty + FREE lifetime technical support Feature two 120V 20A household outlets + One 120V 30A RV outlet Volt Guard built-in surge protector + a low oil shut-off sensor Intelligauge + Electric Start |
Besides, the product is backed by a 3-year limited warranty with free lifetime technical support from Champion’s experts.
Best Budget Option: Baja BAI911LP
- Fuel-efficient & long runtime – inverter technology + an auto-idle feature
- Safe and quiet - CARB compliant & feature overload protection fuel tank, muffler, and low oil shutdown
- No transportation wheels
- Poor directions
This propane generator is very fuel-efficient because 1) it is an inverter type and 2) it’s built with an auto-idle feature. For those who are new to this feature, it helps save fuel when less power is required to hence extend the total runtime.
On a full 20-pound tank running at ¼ load, it can last up to 60 hours.
Regardless, feel peace in mind when using this propane generator because it’s under a manufacturer’s 2-year limited warranty. The device itself is CARB compliant.
We also love it for safety and quiet operation, which is a big thank you to the overload protection fuel tank, muffler, and low oil shutdown.
| Baja BAI911LP Specifications | |
|---|---|
Peak Watts/Running Watts | 900W/700W |
Noise Level | 61 dB |
Max Runtime | A 20 lbs. propane tank: 60-hours A 1 lb. propane tank: 3-hours |
Highlight Features | inverter technology + an auto-idle feature CARB compliant & feature overload protection fuel tank, muffler, and low oil shutdown |
If your power needs are basic and you are on a tight budget, Baja BAI911LP fits the bill.
Best For Backup: Champion 3400-Watt Inverter Generator
- Convenient to power your home appliances - one 12V DC outlet with a dual USB adapter and two 120V 20A household outlets
- Safe to use - a low oil shutoff sensor
- Easy to monitor and control - a quick touch panel
- No gas gauge
Compared to the previous Champion version, this one is more specialized for home backups.
It highlights one 12V DC outlet with a dual USB adapter, two 120V 20A household outlets, and one 120V 30A RV. Besides, it features a quick touch panel for easy one-spot control, an electric start with a three-position ignition switch, and a low oil shutoff sensor.
There are, on the other hand, some similarities to its previous sibling, such as the warranty policies, transportation wheels, and duel-fuel construction.
Particularly, it is very quiet, only 59 decibels at 23 feet away.
| Champion 3400-Watt Inverter Generator Specifications | |
|---|---|
Peak Watts/Running Watts | 3400W/3100W |
Noise Level | 59 dBA |
Max Runtime | 14.5 hours on propane 7.5 hours run time on gasoline |
Highlight Features | one 12V DC outlet with a dual USB adapter and two 120V 20A household outlets a low oil shutoff sensor a quick touch panel |
The Champion 3400-Watt Inverter Generator houses everything needed for home backup, in terms of both functionality, safety, and convenience.
Best For Camping: Firman 2900W Running / 3200W Peak Electric Start Dual Fuel Inverter Generator
- Safe for outdoor use – meet USDA FS certified spark arrester standards
- Great maneuverability - a U-shape high-leverage foldable handle and two heavy-duty non-flat wheels
- Quiet – a muffler
- Not for RVs
- A bit expensive
- Heavy
This propane generator is powerful enough for short camping trips where you need to charge some certain electric appliances, such as a freezer, cooking stove, and electronics.
It is constructed with a 1.8-gallon fuel tank for 9 hours of the operation time, 3200 peak watts, and 2900 running watts. Despite the heavyweight, it strikes back with a high-leverage U-shape folding handle and two heavy-duty non-flat wheels for higher maneuverability.
The one-spot control panel comes in handy when you want to track an indicator or adjust something. It’s also easy to use.
The biggest selling point is it meets USDA FS certified spark arrester standards for safety and is built with a muffler for quiet operation to not disturb other campers.
| Firman 2900W Running / 3200W Peak Electric Start Dual Fuel Inverter Generator Specifications | |
|---|---|
Peak Watts/Running Watts | 3200W/2900W |
Noise Level | 58dB |
Max Runtime | 9 Hours |
Highlight Features | meet USDA FS certified spark arrester standards a U-shape high-leverage foldable handle and two heavy-duty non-flat wheels a muffler |
For short camping trips, this Firman propane inverter generator is your best bet.
Fuel-Efficient: DuroMax XP2000EH
- Fuel efficient – the Eco Mode and idle control
- Able to double the power output if wanted - parallel compatibility
- Easy to carry around – lightweight & a handle
- No transportation wheels
- The parallel kit is sold separately
While all inverter generators are fuel-efficient, we find the DuroMax XP2000EH makes it to the next level. It emphasizes an Eco Mode for lowering its idle speed to the minimum propane consumption.
In addition to that, it has idle control to lower its RPMs when less power is required, and as the result, it lasts up to 6.5 hours at ½ load.
Another big bonus is its parallel compatibility, which allows for bridging two XP2000EH generators at a time for higher power output.
You might see that this unit doesn’t have transportation wheels (which is a pity!), in turn, it highlights a handle and the total weight is only 47 pounds. It’s easy to lift up and carry around – perfect for camping, tailgating, or emergency power.
| DuroMax XP2000EH Specifications | |
|---|---|
Peak Watts/Running Watts | 2000W/1600W |
Noise Level | 61 dB |
Max Runtime | 6.5 hours at 50% load |
Highlight Features | an Eco Mode and idle control parallel compatibility lightweight & a handle |
Despite its modest size, the DuroMax XP2000EH is ready to afford your desired power needs, mostly thanks to its decent fuel efficiency design.
Most Powerful: DuroMax XP4850EH
- Powerful enough to run a fridge or heavy loads from light - offer 4850 peak watts, 3850 running watts, and 8-hour runtime
- Easy to use – include all tools needed for assembly and transportation & an electric start
- Bulky and heavy
- Instructions could be better
The DuroMax XP4850EH is our solid go-to for large job sites, long-term outdoor activities, natural disasters, or serious home backups.
It’s powerful, offering 4850 peak watts and 3850 running watts. Besides, this dual-fuel generator features a 20-gallon propane tank and a 3.96-gallon gas tank for up to 8 hours of constant runtime.
What we appreciate the most is its ease of use.
That’s a big thank you to the DC charging cables, handle kit, wheels, toolset, spark plug wrench, oil funnel, and an electric start included in the package.
| DuroMax XP4850EH Specifications | |
|---|---|
Peak Watts/Running Watts | 4,850W/3,850W |
Noise Level | 69 dB. |
Max Runtime | 8 hours |
Highlight Features | offer 4850 peak watts, 3850 running watts, and 8-hour runtime include all tools needed for assembly and transportation & an electric start |
If you’re looking for something more powerful for heavy loads, we suggest the DuroMax XP4850EH.
How To Choose The Best Quiet Propane Generator?
Noise level
When you’re seeking a quiet generator, the noise level should always be the highest priority. The noise level is measured in dB, the higher the value, the nosier the machine.
There isn’t a generator that’s completely quiet, but you can find a machine that makes noise lower than the conversational level. As a rule of thumb, a noise rating between 55 and 65 dBA is considered quiet for a propane generator.
Power output
No matter how quiet a generator is, you still need enough output power to run your tools and appliances. The more power produced, the more appliances you can run.
However, you need to first figure out how much power you need by taking into account the essential tools and appliances to use. Then, when shopping, you just have to find the power you need or higher.
For example, a generator as a home backup power source should produce about 8000W to run appliances for a good amount of time.
Runtime
The runtime refers to the duration that a generator can run on a certain amount of fuel, often measured at 25 or 50 percent of the load. A generator with a low runtime tends to consume less fuel, but you should look at this indicator on the machine and choose the one that fits your needs.
Which Brands Make The Best Quiet Propane Generator?
Champion
Founded in 2003, Champion has become a leading brand in the power tool industry. Here, you will be able to find a machine with excellent performance.
Firman
If you are looking for a generator-focused brand, this is the one for you. It makes some of the best generators in the market that are long-lasting, durable, and efficient.
DuroMax
Since its establishment in 2003, this brand has earned a reputation in the power equipment business. Its products deliver quality, durability, and reliability for you.
FAQs
Are propane generators any good?
Yes, propane generators are cleaner and quieter than gas generators. And though they are generally less powerful, you can still find models that produce enough energy for your demand.
What are the disadvantages of propane?
The following are the drawbacks of propane:
- It’s not as popular as gasoline or diesel.
- It has a lower energy density than gasoline and diesel.
- Propane is also sensitive and won’t work in low temperatures.
- It’s highly flammable.
How long will a generator run on a 20lb tank of propane?
A propane generator with a 20lb tank can work for 8 hours.
How long does a generator last on propane?
In general, a generator can last from 1,000 to 2,000 hours of operation, meaning 10-20 years. And considering that propane is a clean-burning fuel, the machine requires lower maintenance and can last longer.
Is it cheaper to run a generator on propane or gas?
Typically, running a gas generator is cheaper than running a propane one, unless you live in a place where propane costs much less than gasoline.
Conclusion
We hope that through this complete guide, you have figured out what to look for in the best quiet propane generators that meet your needs.
Remember that noise level should be the first thing to look at and you cannot compromise it if you really want quietness. If you have more questions or need guides on other products, don’t hesitate to come back here.
Harry RamosI’m Harry Ramos, who's crazy about all things green. I’m here to share some experience in my gardening adventure and how to choose the best products for your garden. Let's dig in, get our hands dirty, and celebrate the simple, earthy pleasures of the garden together!
