6 Best Lifan Generators — Get Excellent Value for Money

By
Rodney Nestor
Rodney Nestor
Research Writer
Rodney holds a Master’s degree in Arts and apart from working as a freelance writer, is a rather successful author of science fiction stories published in several literary read more
Last updated: August 25, 2023
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Lifan is a company that has taken the world by storm time and again through its excellent product innovation. The primary manufacturing facilities are located in China, and the Lifan products always meet the company’s highest standards. If you are looking for a generator that will last you a while and give you high performance, then you will love the Lifan generators. Lifan has been in the industry for a fairly long time, and they have gained enough experience to stand taller than their competitors. The strict quality control policies of the company ensure that you never spend your money on a product that was not worth the price. Lifan is known to price its products reasonably, and most of them are affordable.

We have compiled Lifan generator reviews so that you can make a choice about which generator to buy. If you are looking for the best Lifan generator for you, the first step is to list out your requirements. We have taken into consideration features such as the generator type, rated/maximum output, fuel type, tank capacity, and runtime when writing the reviews. All these factors play important roles in determining the efficiency of the generator. Customer and expert reviews have also helped us understand each product better.

The table below will give you brief information about each generator and how we rate them. Read on for more detailed product reviews with pros and cons included. If you’re not sure what to look for, check out our buying guide and FAQ sections below.

Quick Summary

  • Editor’s Choice: Lifan ES4100
    "Reliable and relatively quiet for a conventional generator, this 4000-watt model is able to run for a whopping 12 hours at 50% load"
  • Quietest Generator: Lifan ESI 4000iER EFI
    "This 4000-watt inverter generator is incredibly quiet at 57 dB and boasts of electric and remote start in addition to recoil"
  • Best Heavy-duty Generator: Lifan Platinum Series LF8500iEPL
    "A more powerful option able to produce up to 8500 surge watts, with a long run time and electric start"
  • Best Value: Lifan ES6600
    "A fairly powerful but affordable option with a 10-hour runtime on half load and up to 6600 watts of surge power"
  • Best Inverter Generator: Lifan Energy Storm ESI 2000i
    "A portable inverter generator with up to 2000 watts of power with a great performance for the price"
  • "A compact and portable conventional generator that can run up to 6 hours at 50% load and is very budget-friendly"

Top 6 Lifan Generators Review 2024

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Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 5100 people in the past 30 days
9.8
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.4
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.7
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.6
9.8
1
Editor’s Choice

Lifan ES4100

Features
  • Generator type: conventional
  • Peak/rated watts: 4100/3500
  • Engine: 212cc 4-Stroke OHV
  • Fuel tank: 4 gal.
  • Run time: 12hours (50% load)
  • Outlets: (1) 12V 8.3amp DC, (3) 120V 20amp AC, (1) 120/240V 30amp AC
  • Start type: recoil
  • Sound rating: 65 dB

If you are looking for a generator that will give you plenty of run times, then this model will surely impress you. You will be able to store 4 gallons of gasoline in this generator, and the machine can run for 12 hours at 50% load. The ES4100 is a wonderful choice as it comes with three 120-volt receptacles and one 30 amp 120-volt receptacle. The model also has 6 120-volt receptacles; each duplex contains two receptacles.

This model does not make a lot of sound when operating, which makes it perfect for users who just want some peace and quiet. It is rated at just 65 dB, and you will be able to continue with your work easily. However, there are quieter models on the market if that is a priority for you. Powered by a 7HP EPA-approved gasoline engine, the generator will give you your money’s worth. The low oil shut-off feature helps to provide additional protection to the engine. The model creates 4100-watt surge watt and 3500-watt continuous power.

You will find that the generator is rather lightweight, which makes it easy to carry from one place to another. As a result, it can be easily used as a source of emergency power. The model comes with a 3-year residential warranty and a year of commercial warranty.

    What do we love it for?
  • Comes with a 7MHP, 212cc 4-Stroke OHV engine
  • Massive 4-gallon fuel tank
  • Will run for 12 hours at a stretch
  • Relatively quiet for a conventional generator of the size
  • Comes with low oil engine shutdown protection
  • EPA approved
    What were we disappointed with?
  • There are quieter options on the market
Read full review: lifan es4100
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 7253 people in the past 30 days
9.7
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.5
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.4
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.5
9.7
2
Quietest Generator

Lifan ESI 4000iER EFI

Features
  • Generator type: inverter
  • Peak/rated watts: 4100/3800
  • Engine: 270cc 4-Stroke OHV
  • Fuel tank: 3.5 gal.
  • Run time: 4 hours (50% load)
  • Outlets: (4) 120V 20amp AC
  • Start type: recoil, electric, remote
  • Sound rating: 57 dB

This generator is another great option if a long runtime is not one of your high priorities. Belonging to the Electronic Fuel Injected (EFI) Digital Inverter Generator Series, this model is easy to use, and there is no doubt that you will love using it. The ESI4000iER comes with the Electric Start and Remote Start/Stop Control so that you do not have to put in a lot of effort in order to make the generator work.

The model is expected to produce “Clean Power” with a Sine Wave Distortion of below 2%. If you love using sensitive audio and video electronics like laptops, televisions, video game consoles, and computers, then you will absolutely love this generator because it will reduce any chance of damage. You will find that this model is perfect for all those times when you want to go on a trip. You can take it for Camping, Tailgating, or RVing so that it can be used as a backup power source.

Lifan offers a strong warranty policy for this model. The Key Fob270cc 4-Stroke OHV Gasoline engine works well and gives a consistent flow of power. The AC overload protection keeps you safer from accidents.

    What do we love it for?
  • Has the auto-idle feature
  • Comes with the low oil engine shutdown protection feature
  • Comes with advanced inverter technology which makes it highly efficient
  • Runs quietly at 57 dB sound rating at 23 feet so that you are not disturbed
  • Has options for both electric and remote start
    What were we disappointed with?
  • Runtime is rather short
Read full review: lifan esi 4000ier efi
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 8201 people in the past 30 days
9.6
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.3
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.1
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.5
9.6
3
Best Heavy-duty Generator

Lifan Platinum Series LF8500iEPL

Features
  • Generator type: conventional
  • Peak/rated watts: 8500/7500
  • Engine: 420cc 4-stroke OHV
  • Fuel tank: 6.5 gal.
  • Run time: 8 hours (50% load)
  • Outlets: (4) 120V 20amp AC GFCI, (1) 120V 30amp AC Twist Lock, (1) 12V 8.3amp DC
  • Start type: recoil, electric
  • Sound rating: 75 dB

If you have been in the market for a heavy-duty generator that will not let you down, then the Lifan Platinum Series LF8500EPL is a popular choice. Users love it because of its incredible power and versatility. This model has the ability to supply up to 8500 surge watts of power which means that you will be able to run all your necessary home’s appliances on the emergency power from this generator. This is among the very few high-power generators which have 5% or less harmonic distortion. You will be able to use this generator for your household electronics like sound systems and televisions.

The 15 HP 420cc engine is designed to give you plenty of power to run your home in case the power goes out. With 7500 running watts of power, you will have the flexibility of using as many machines as you want at a time. This Lifan generator is a favorite among users because it provides clean power. This means that all your sensitive gadgets will be perfectly safe.

While the model is rather big in size, it is still portable, and you can transfer it inside your house easily. You will also appreciate the massive 6.5-gallon tank which will allow you to get a continuous supply of power continuously for 10 hours.

    What makes it special?
  • Offers clean power so you can use different kinds of gadgets
  • Allows for efficient fuel usage
  • Massive tank which will give you up to 10 hours of runtime
  • Gives an immense amount of power
    What cons did we find?
  • Does not come with detailed instructions
  • Replacement parts can be hard to find
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 9811 people in the past 30 days
9.5
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.3
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.4
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.4
9.5
4
Best Value

Lifan ES6600

Features
  • Generator type: conventional
  • Peak/rated watts: 6600/6000
  • Engine: 389 cc
  • Fuel tank: 6.5
  • Run time: 10 hours (50% load)
  • Outlets: (4) 120V 20amp AC GFCI, (1) 120V 30amp AC Twist Lock
  • Start type: recoil
  • Sound rating: 75 dB

If you’re looking for a high-end Lifan generator that combines excellent functionality with great value for money, then the Lifan ES6600 is for you. This impressive machine is only second to the Lifan Platinum Series LF8500iEPL on the list in terms of power output. Users love its capacity to power multiple appliances simultaneously while being less than half as expensive as its LF8500iEPL counterpart. Ultimately, the green-colored machine offers 6600 watts of surge power, with the output dropping to 6000 watts once it gets into its groove. This should prove sufficient for most homes.

The power is provided by a 389 cc engine with the fuel capacity standing at 6.5 gallons. With a 10-hour total runtime for 50% load when the tank is full, this should be more than enough for overnight use in an emergency. Output options are also numerous, including four 120V 20 amp options and one 120V 30 amp variant. That said, chances of overvoltage are minimal with an automatic voltage regulator as part of the machine.

Its portability is ensured by the two large wheels, so even if you can’t lift it, you can navigate it like a wheelbarrow into your garage when it’s not in use. Nevertheless, sound is not one of its strong suits, with the 75 dB rating being one of the higher outputs on the list.

    What makes it stand out?
  • Power is well regulated; therefore minimal chances of overvoltage
  • Multiple outlets to work with
  • 10 hours of runtime at half capacity
  • Immense power output
    Which disadvantages must you keep in mind?
  • One of the louder options on the list
  • No electric start option
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 5382 people in the past 30 days
9.4
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.1
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.1
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.3
9.4
5
Best Inverter Generator

Lifan Energy Storm ESI 2000i

Features
  • Generator type: inverter
  • Peak/rated watts: 2000/1600
  • Engine: 105cc 4-stroke OHV
  • Fuel tank: 0.92 gal.
  • Run time: 7 hours (50% load)
  • Outlets: (2) 120V 20amp AC
  • Start type: recoil
  • Sound rating: 60 dB

If you are not looking to spend a lot, then you can opt for a budget generator. While that will not give you a high-power output, it will serve your basic purposes. This model gives a 2000-watt maximum AC output, and 1600-watt rated AC output. If you think that will be sufficient for you, then you should go ahead. Moreover, the model is affordable, and you will get value for your money. With this machine, you will get what you pay for, and nothing more.

However, one has to acknowledge that the generator does have some significant disadvantages. The machine makes a lot of noise at the time of operation. It can only run for around seven hours at 50% load, which is very decent for the price.

If you are looking for unmatched efficiency, this generator is not for you. The 125cc 4-stroke OHV gas-powered engine will not leave you overwhelmed, but it will get the job done most of the time.

The power-sensitive electronic equipment will allow you to get the most of your machine. The 60 dB sound limit is advertised as ultra-quiet, but that is not the case. You can rely on the 0.92-gallon fuel tank to never give you a running time of less than 7 hours.

    What makes it stand out?
  • On the affordable side
  • Dependable
  • Long runtime for the size
  • Inverter generator
  • Parallel capability
    Which disadvantages must you keep in mind?
  • Noisy for an inverter model
Read full review: lifan energy storm esi 2000i
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 9720 people in the past 30 days
9.1
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
8.8
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
8.8
Features & Benefits
Product Review
8.9
9.1
Features
  • Generator type: conventional
  • Peak/rated watts: 1500/1200
  • Engine: 79cc 4-Stroke OHV
  • Fuel tank: 1 gal.
  • Run time: 6 hours (50% load)
  • Outlets: (1) 120V/20amp AC, (1) 12V/8.3amp DC
  • Start type: recoil
  • Sound rating: 63 dB

If you are willing to make some compromises in order to save some money, then you will like this model. LIFAN Power USA’s Energy Storm ES1500 is classified under the company’s Energy Storm Portable Generator Line. While it does not give you an immense amount of power to use up, it is efficient. Since the generator weighs very little, it can be transported from one place to another easily. If you are looking for a generator that you can carry with yourself on trips so you can have a backup power source, then this model fits the bill. The best part is that it is EPA-approved so you can be assured of your safety.

This high-quality generator is also ideal for events. It has one 120-volt 20-amp AC outlet and one 12-Volt 8.3 amp DC receptacle. You will learn how to use the generator without much trouble. The model offers 1500-watt maximum AC output and 1200-watt rated AC output. The 3 HP Lifan industrial grade OHV gas engine is bound to work well if you maintain it properly. The 1-gallon fuel tank will give you a runtime of 6 hours at 50% load.

    What stands out?
  • Comes with a 1-gallon fuel tank which will allow you to run the generator for 6 hours at a stretch
  • 97cc 4-stroke OHV industrial duty engine makes the machine efficient
  • Has an automatic voltage regulator that comes with excitation windings
  • EPA-approved
    What cons did we manage to find?
  • Noisy for a small generator
Read full review: lifan energy storm es1500


Things to Consider

It is easy to get confused about which model to buy considering all the above options are excellent. We have compiled a buying guide for you to that end so you can come to a decision.

What you should know about Lifan generators

Based in China, Lifan offers premium products all over the world. The company has been in this industry for a long time, and they have picked up on what their customers want. You will have access to products that meet your requirements, and you will never be disappointed. They also have a strong warranty policy accompanying all their products so that you can test the quality for yourself. The company has strict quality control policies which ensure that the generators which hit the market are efficient and worthy of the price tag. The proprietary technologies of Lifan are time-tested and loved by consumers.

Generator type: inverter or conventional?

6 Best Lifan Generators — Get Excellent Value for MoneyMany users spend a significant amount of time trying to decide whether they should buy a traditional generator or an inverter generator. Your budget will play a major role in this decision because the latter tend to be more expensive. If you are looking for a machine that works and provides you with power, then you can go for traditional models. However, if you want to splurge, you should opt for inverter generators because they are lighter and more portable. They also tend to make much less noise as compared to traditional generations.

The best thing about inverter generators is that they produce much less THD, which is great for sensitive electronics.

How much power do you need?

When you are looking to invest in the perfect generator, you should take into consideration how much power output you will actually need in daily life. You should not buy a generator that does not meet your needs in terms of power. On the other hand, it makes little financial sense to invest in a product that you will not use to its full potential. To make your search easier, you need to calculate the amount of power that you use up in a day through your appliances. The voltage and the amps will allow you to calculate the amount of power used so that you can buy a generator with sufficient output.

How long you need to run your generator?

6 Best Lifan Generators — Get Excellent Value for MoneyIt is important that you decide how much time you will be running a generator for at a stretch. As you might now, generators come with a specific fuel tank capacity. Accordingly, a generator can run for any time between 4 to 10 hours and more, like out top pick ES4100. If you are looking to use the machine for long stretches of time, then it is imperative that you opt for a machine that has a high fuel tank capacity. Otherwise, the generator will stop working in the middle of your activity. Having a generator which can provide 8 hours of runtime is good enough if you do not have any exceptional usages.

Safety features

You should feel safe when you are using your Lifan generator. You need to ensure that the model you are buying is able to protect you against mishaps. Firstly, you should go to a generator that offers clean energy so that you are not exposed to voltage surges. It will give you a steady current flow even when you are charging sensitive devices. The low-oil shut off safety feature is also a must because it will stop your generator from working too hard when the lubricating oil drops too drastically. The engine will be saved from excessive wear and tear. There are some generators which have an automatic shutoff feature in case of overload. They will be cut off from the power supply immediately.

Tips and tricks

If you want to get the most out of your generator, then you can use the following tips.

  • Ideally, you should refrain from using your generator indoors because it can emit poisonous gases. In case you have to do so, make sure that there is enough airflow in the room.
  • Generators should always be kept dry because they will have a breakdown if they come into contact with water.
  • Make sure that you never confuse between the two capacity ratings. The rated/continuous rating and starting/maximum rating are meant to convert different things,
  • Refuel your generator once the machine cools down. Make sure you are patient so that you can prevent spillage.
  • You should not back-feed a portable generator.
  • Check the engine once a week.

Lifan generator prices

Lifan generators come in a variety of price ranges. There are affordable options for anyone who wants high performance at a reasonable price. On the other hand, Lifan also has advanced models which are priced a little higher, but they are much more premium than other models in that range.

FAQ

What is the difference between inverter and conventional generators?

A generator is an electrical equipment which is used to convert mechanical energy into electrical power. It cannot create any electrical energy of its own, and its operation is based on the principles of electromagnetic induction. Generators can produce electricity from various sources of mechanical energy. On the other hand, an inverter is able to change direct current (DC) to alternating current (AC). They come with extra electronic circuits which allows for better load management. While we tend to use generators to provide emergency power source at home, inverters are great for converting direct current from batteries, or solar panels.

Can I run Lifan generators on liquid propane gas?

Lifan prides itself on providing customers with a lot of choices. Lifan generators tend to be versatile, and you will definitely find a model that suits your requirements. Some of them are able to run on gas, while others can run on liquid propane without any difficulty. There are some generators which can also operate on multiple fuels. This means that you can choose a generator based on the fuel supply that you can access most conveniently. Lifan does not believe in restricting its customers, and they love up to their belief. You can also get your hands on conversion kits which will allow you to change the fuel source of a generator.

How long is the warranty for Lifan generators?

Lifan has an elaborate warranty policy that you should know about. You can rely on their customer support for help at every step of the way. Almost all generators and inverters come with 3 years of warranty for residential use. You will get the warranty services on full unit parts and labor for the first year. During the second year, you will be able to avail the warranty on just full unit parts. For the third year, the warranty will cover just the engine. If you want a Lifan generator for commercial use, then you will get a warranty for 300 hours or 12 months for the full unit.

Our verdict

All the Lifan generators mentioned above are worth your attention. Our Lifan generator reviews are unbiased and thoroughly researched. However, we do have some favorites, and we think that it is our duty to let you know about them.

The Lifan ES4100 is a conventional generator that is exceptionally powerful. It provides a solid runtime of 12 hours and is powered by a 7MHP, 212cc 4-Stroke OHV engine. The low oil engine shutdown protection is a useful feature.

The Lifan ESI 4000iER EFI is an inverter generator which runs on a 270cc 4-Stroke OHV engine. You will only get around 4 hours of run time, but that should not bother you if you will not use it for long at a stretch. It is very quiet and has a sound rating of 57 dB.

The Lifan Platinum Series LF8500iEPL is the powerful generator you need if you want 8 hours of run time. You will be able to power multiple machines at the same time.

References

1.
LIFAN ES1500 OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS AND OWNER'S MANUAL Pdf Download | ManualsLib
View and Download Lifan ES1500 operating instructions and owner's manual online. PORTABLE GENERATOR. ES1500 portable generator pdf manual download.
2.
Difference Between Generator and Inverter | Difference Between
Irregularity in electricity distribution has increased dramatically over the years which influenced a sudden surge in the power generation industry.
9,8
Total Score
Lifan ES4100 - Editor’s Choice
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