If you’ve been on the market for reasonably priced generators, you must have come across the WEN and Predator brands. Given how highly these two generator brands are rated, there is no doubt that you would enjoy using them. They will constantly offer you the highest strength and reliability needed to handle various applications and can serve you for a long time.
To see how good these units are, we compared Predator 3500 vs WEN 56380i. Let’s dive right in.
Predator is a brand that sells generators from Harbor Freight, a US-based company that started in 1977. The company is well known for producing a wide range of generators that provide a dependable backup power option for homes, camping and construction sites. Besides generators, it also produces other equipment, including high-pressure washers, water pumps and pump bodies.
WEN, a company founded by Nick Anton in 1951, is among the popular brands in making generators. Whether you want a generator for power backup during emergencies, industrial or even recreation needs, WEN has you covered. Like Predator, Wen also offers reliable, high-quality generators at a reasonable price.
| Predator 3500 | WEN 56380i | ||
| Type | inverter | inverter | |
| Peak Watts | 3500 | 3800 | |
| Rated Watts | 3000 | 3400 | |
| Engine | 212cc | 212cc | |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 2.3 gal. | 2.2 gal. | |
| Runtime | 11 hrs @ 1/4 load | 8.5 hrs @ 1/2 load | |
| Outlets | (2) 120VAC grounded, (1) 120VAC twist lock, (1) DC-12V two Pin | (2) three-prong 120V, (1) AC 120V NEMA TT-30R RV, (1) 12V DC receptacle, (1) 5V USB port | |
| Start Type | recoil, electric | electric | |
| Dimensions | 22.75 x 17.3 x 20 in. | 23.2 x 18 x 20.1 in. | |
| Weight | 102 lbs. | 99.2 lbs. | |
| Warranty | 2 years | 2 years | |
| VIEW ON HARBORFREIGHT | VIEW ON AMAZON |
WEN 56380i vs Predator 3500? With both being so excellent, picking one that suits you will definitely be a challenge.
However, both generators have advantages and disadvantages, helping you narrow your search. For instance, the WEN 56380i is lighter, has higher running and starting watts and can allow you to connect with a USB. Conversely, the Predator 3500 has CO-secure technology.
Here is a detailed comparison of both generators.
The Predator 3500 comes with a 212cc OHV engine which produces a peak wattage of 3500. When the generator starts running, the power drops down to 3000 watts. The WEN 56380i also has a 212cc OHV engine that produces a surge wattage of about 3800W and a running power of 3400w. This power enables the equipment to run several home operations and boost powerful motors.
Both generators have an electric start type. All you need to do is press the power button to turn the generator on or off. However, the Predator 3500 has an optional recoil starter.
Both the WEN 56380i and Predator 3500 use gasoline. This fuel offers several advantages since it’s cost-effective and lasts longer. Gasoline also doesn’t gum up when stored, making it the best option for people who plan to camp Trusted Source Why Camp? - Camping (U.S. National Park Service) landing page to describe why camping is important. www.nps.gov for several days. This feature also makes it safe for your engine since it doesn’t leave residues.
The Predator 3500 has a fuel tank capacity of about 2.3 gals, while the WEN 56380i requires about 2.2 gals.
A full Predator 3500 fuel tank can run for 11 hours at quarter load. On the other hand, the 2.2-gals WEN 56380i fuel tank can serve you for up to 8 hours at half load.
The WEN 56380i and Predator 3500 are among the best inverter generators which means that they produce clean energy. Therefore, you can use the devices with sensitive devices such as your phones, TVs, and laptops without worrying about damage.
Both generators also come with a fuel gauge that lets you know the amount of oil in the tank. If the oil level is too low, fill the tank to avoid damaging your generator and other connected devices. However, the Predator 3500 model is more secure since it has CO secure technology which monitors the amount of carbon monoxide the equipment produces and shuts it off automatically when the levels become unsafe.
These two portable generators have a data center that enables you to monitor certain aspects of the power output easily. They also feature 3AC outlets and one DC outlet. Nevertheless, the Predator 3500 does not offer USB connectivity.
Using the WEN 56380i and Predator 3500 generators is quite easy since they come when they’re fully assembled. Also, starting them is not complicated since they have an electric start type. Just press the power button to switch them on or off.
Generally, the WEN 56380i and Predator 3500 operate quietly, reducing noise pollution Trusted Source Environmental Noise Pollution in the United States: Developing an Effective Public Health Response - PMC Tens of millions of Americans suffer from a range of adverse health outcomes due to noise exposure, including heart disease and hearing loss. Reducing environmental noise pollution is achievable and consistent with national prevention goals, yet there is no national plan to reduce environmental noise pollution. www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov . On average, both generators produce a noise level of 57dBA.
Portability is not an issue for the two generator models due to their relatively lightweight. The WEN model weighs about 99.2 lbs. while the Predator model weighs 102lbs. Besides weight, they have in-built wheels that improve maneuverability even on rough terrain and handles that allow you to lift them.
The WEN 56380i and Predator 3500 generators can serve you for a long time due to the safety features that prevent them from damage.
If your equipment gets damaged soon after buying, don’t get stressed. Both brands have a 2-year warranty that caters to the damages.
The WEN 56380i costs around $642, whereas the predator 3500 model goes for $700. However, the prices usually vary depending on the retailer. To enjoy favorable prices, do your research well or ask for a referral from family and friends who use portable generators. Nevertheless, these prices are quite friendly, considering the features they offer. If your budget is tight, consider buying the WEN 56380i since it’s cheaper.
Portable generators are essential, especially if you live in a hurricane-prone area or go camping. Nowadays, there are various brands producing portable generators, so it can become difficult to choose the best. However, if you search for the best generators online, the WEN and Predator are likely to come up.
As you can see from our WEN 56380i vs Predator 3500, both predators are great. Therefore, the mode you choose depends on your budget or just preference.
