Electricity is a fundamental part of our lives. As a result, people are always looking for ways to generate electrical power in case one method fails, and one such way is the use of generators.
There are various manufacturers in the market today producing generators, including Predator and Powerhorse leading to the predator vs powerhouse generator debate. These two leading producers have invented the Predator 3500 and Powerhorse LC4500i generators, which have impressive features. The two are for similar uses but come with distinct differences. The powerhouse has more running power but subsequently needs more starting power. They also have different tank capacities. With these and many other differences we thought it best to compare the two and help you make an informed decision.
Predator is a leading brand when it comes to producing generators. The company produces high-quality portable generators allowing you to carry them wherever you go. These devices feature a CO-secure technology that shuts them down immediately they detect high carbon monoxide levels. They also come with electric start-up features allowing you to start up your generator easily. Additionally, predator generators have an Electronic Speed Control, improving the equipment’s efficiency. Since the brand produces a wide range of generators, you can always find one that suits your needs and budget.
Powerhouse, on the other hand, produces equally high-quality generators. They come with an inverter technology just like those from Predator, which protects sensitive gadgets like laptops and flat-screen TVs from damage. Besides Powerhorse and Predator, there are other brands that produce the best inverter generators in the market. One of the notable features of generators from this brand is that they come with an automatic power-off feature that protects them from damage in case the oil level runs too low. Finally, most generators produced by Powerhorse are fuel-efficient, just like the Predator generators.
| Predator 3500 | Powerhorse LC4500i | ||
| Type | inverter | inverter | |
| Peak Watts | 3,500 | 4500 | |
| Rated Watts | 3,000 | 3500 | |
| Engine | 4-stroke OHV, 212cc | 212cc | |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 2.3 gal. | 2.6 gal. | |
| Runtime | 11 hrs @ 1/4 load | 10 hrs @ 1/4 load | |
| Outlets | (2) 120VAC grounded, (1) 120VAC twist lock, (1) dc-12v two Pin outlet | (1) NEMA 5-20R 120V-20A, (1) NEMA TT-30R 120V-30A, (2) USB | |
| Start Type | electric, recoil | electric, recoil | |
| Noise Level | 57 dB | 57 dB | |
| Dimensions | 22.75 x 17.3 x 20 in. | 22 4/5 x 17 3/10 x 20 in. | |
| Weight | 99.2 lbs. | 99.2 lbs. | |
| Warranty | up to 90 days | 2 years | |
| VIEW ON AMAZON | VIEW ON AMAZON |
Predator 3500 is a medium-sized generator that weighs around 99lbs. It comes with handles and wheels that ease portability.
This generator is an inverter model which boosts productivity, lowers noise, and protects your electronic devices from damage. As an off-grid power source, it’s perfect for camping, motorhomes, and tailgates.
Another feature worth noting about this generator is that it requires about 20 oz of oil to run, and the manufacturer recommends using 10w – 30 SAE engine oil. The generator also comes with a set of accessories, including charging cables for your battery, funnel, RV adapter, and tool kit.
Powerhorse LC4500i is a super-quiet generator that produces about 57dB. This device comes with a 212cc engine electric start, and you can rely on it to run your home appliances. If you plan to go camping or tailgating, the generator also comes in handy.
There are several features that make the Powerhorse LC4500i unique. First, it has a low oil alert feature that notifies you when oil is running low, protecting your equipment from damage. The generator also has a removable side panel that allows you to change oil quickly.
The Powerhorse LC4500i is a powerful generator with a 4-stroke OHV, 212cc engine. This engine produces 4500 watts of starting power, making it suitable for running appliances that require an extra boost for their motors to start. When running, it produces 3500 watts, enough to run several appliances at the same time.
The Predator 3500, on the other hand, comes with a 212cc engine type that produces 3500 watts of starting power. During operation, the power drops down to 3000 watts. Nevertheless, the power is still enough to run multiple appliances.
A generator’s fuel type is an important factor to consider when comparing two generators. It’s important to buy a generator that allows you to use different fuel options for convenience. Tank capacity also matters because a generator’s run time depends on the size of its fuel tank.
Both the Predator 3500 and Powerhorse LC4500i operate using unleaded gasoline Trusted Source Gasoline explained - U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) Energy Information Administration – EIA – Official Energy Statistics from the U.S. Government www.eia.gov . When it comes to fuel tank capacity, the former has a capacity of 2.3 gals while the latter can hold up to 2.6 gals of fuel.
Gasoline consumption for the Predator 3500 is about 0.24 GPH (Gallons Per Hour), while for the Powerhorse LC4500i, it’s about 0.26 GPH. This means that the Predator 3500 is more fuel efficient compared to the Powerhorse LC4500i.
The Predator 3500 is certified by EPA (Environmental Protective Agency) and CARB (California Air Resources Board). This means that the generator produces emissions within the required range. Additionally, the generator comes with a CO-secure technology that automatically shuts the equipment when it produces high carbon monoxide levels.
The Powerhorse LC4500i is also EPA and CARB certified. However, it doesn’t come with the CO secure technology feature.
Both generators’ control panels come with straightforward controls and an LCD information screen. The information panels are important since they help you know the runtime duration, output, and overload. You can also know when the amount of fuel in the tank is running low through the control panel. All this information makes it easy to operate your generator and enhances safety.
The generators’ outlets are another important factor to look at. The Predator 3500 has two 120VAC grounded, one 120VAC twist lock, and dc-12v two Pin outlets. Conversely, the Powerhorse LC4500i has two USB, one NEMA 5-20R 120V-20A and TT-30R 120V-30A outlets.
Both the Powerhorse LC4500i and Predator 3500 are easy to use. To start the devices, you can use the electric starter or the pull start mechanism. They also have a control panel that displays the cumulative runtime, oil pressure, engine speed, battery voltage, and unit frequency. However, the generators don’t have a fuel gauge showing the fuel amount left in the tank.
Generators with lower decibels are preferable since they produce less noise. If you choose a loud generator, it will cause noise pollution disturbing you and your neighbors.
The Powerhorse LC4500i and Predator 3500 have a noise level of 57dB at quarter load. This means that they produce less noise during operation.
Portability is not an issue when it comes to the Powerhorse LC4500i and Predator 3500. Both generators have wheels that allow you to push them around. They also have double handles making them easy to carry around.
In terms of durability, both generators can serve you for a long time without needing replacement. The main reason these generators last long is because they have low fuel shut-down features, which protect your engine from damage when fuel levels go down. Moreover, they have circuit reset options and electric overload protection. However, the Powerhorse LC4500i is more durable since it comes with copper-wound heads that prevent engine overheating
If your generator develops issues soon after buying, you can return it to the manufacturer for repair since these devices come with a warranty Trusted Source Warranty Warranties can be among the most confusing part of a consumer transaction.Several types of warranties may apply at the same time.Retailers, especially of certain products, also sell extended warranties. portal.ct.gov . The Predator 3500 has a 90 days warranty, while the Powerhorse LC4500i has a 2-year warranty.
When comparing generators, price should not miss in your list. The Powerhorse LC4500i is relatively cheaper compared to the Predator 3500. Therefore, if you are on a tight budget, consider buying the Powerhorse LC4500i since it offers great features, just like the Predator 3500 but at a friendly price.
The Powerhorse vs. Predator generator debate is an endless one since both generators offer great features, and they also have their set of disadvantages and advantages. However, choosing the right generator is a personal decision depending on your preference, needs, or even budget.
When deciding which equipment to buy, you need to be careful since both generators are significant investments. If you go through our Powerhorse vs. Predator review, you will be able to make the right decision in the end.
