When it comes to portable generators, two of the most recognized brand names are Champion and Honda. Both companies make quality generators designed for a range of uses, from powering tools at a worksite to providing backup electricity during power outages.
In this article, we’ll take an in-depth look at two of their most popular models in the 2000-2500 watt range: the Champion 2500-Watt generator and the Honda EU2200i 2200-Watt generator.
We’ll compare the key features, performance, and reliability of each to help you determine which generator is the better fit for your needs.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Specs | Champion 2500 | Honda EU2200i |
| Max Power | 2500 watts | 2200 watts |
| Rated Power | 2200 watts | 1800 watts |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline or Propane |
| Runtime | 8 hrs @ 50% load | 8.1 hrs on gasoline, 18 hrs on 20 lb propane tank |
| Noise Level | 68 dBA | 48-57 dBA |
| Parallel Capable | Yes, with another Champion 2500 | Yes, with other compatible Honda models |
| Inverter | No | Yes |
| Weight | 95 lbs | 47 lbs |
| Warranty | 3 years limited | 3 years commercial and residential |
Overview of the Champion 2500 and Honda 2200
The Champion 2500 and Honda EU2200i occupy the mid-size section of each brand’s generator lineup.
With max power output of 2500 watts and 2200 watts respectively, both models offer enough power to handle RV and campsite basics as well as most household appliances and jobsite tools.
However, there are some notable differences between the two generators:
- Fuel type: The Champion 2500 is gasoline-powered while the Honda EU2200i runs on propane. This gives the Honda an alternative fuel option, though gas is usually more convenient for portable use.
- Parallel capability: Both generators can be paired with another unit of the same model to double the available power output. But only the Honda EU2200i can also be paralleled with other Honda generator models of different wattages.
- Inverter technology: The Honda EU2200i is an inverter generator, which produces cleaner “sinewave” AC power that is safe for sensitive electronics. The Champion 2500 is a conventional, non-inverter generator.
- Noise level: The Champion 2500 operates at 68 dBA while the Honda EU2200i has a noise rating of just 48 dBA at 1/4 load, making it significantly quieter.
Now let’s take a closer look at each generator’s design, features, and performance specs.
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Detailed Comparison of The Champion 2500 and Honda 2200
Portability
When it comes to portability, both generators are compact and manageable for individual use. But the Honda EU2200i’s lighter weight gives it an edge.
- Champion 2500 – Weighing 95 lbs, the Champion 2500 isn’t overly heavy but is still bulky. The foldable handle helps for maneuvering.
- Honda EU2200i – At just 47 lbs, the EU2200i is less than half the weight of the Champion. This makes it very easy to carry and transport.
So for applications where the generator needs to be regularly moved, such as camping or work sites, the Honda EU2200i’s minimal weight is a major advantage. The Champion 2500 is fine for stationary backup power where transport isn’t a big concern.
Power Output
When you’re choosing a generator, power output is obviously an important specification. Both models offer solid performance for their compact sizes:
- Champion 2500 – With 2500 starting watts and 2200 running watts, the Champion 2500 can handle most household appliances including fridges, pumps, some AC units and multiple devices simultaneously.
- Honda EU2200i – The EU2200i offers 2200 peak watts and 1800 rated watts. So while its running capacity is a bit lower than the Champion’s, it can still power a wide range of appliances and tools.
The Honda’s inverter technology also gives it a big advantage for running sensitive electronics since it supplies clean, stable power. The Champion 2500’s power, while fine for universal motors and basic corded tools, can potentially damage electronics.
Fuel Efficiency
Since generators burn through fuel to create electricity, fuel efficiency is a key point of comparison:
- Champion 2500 – Run time per tank is roughly 8 hours at 50% load. This gives the Champion 2500 good fuel economy for a mid-size gasoline-powered generator.
- Honda EU2200i – The EU2200i shines when it comes to fuel efficiency, able to run for up to 8.1 hours on a single tank of gas. If you purchase the propane conversion kit, it can run an astonishing 18 hours on a 20 lb tank!
So the Honda wins hands-down on fuel economy, especially if utilizing its propane capability. This can save a lot of money on fuel costs with long-term use.
Noise Level
Excessive noise can make generators unpleasant to be around. Here’s how the Champion and Honda models compare:
- Champion 2500 – With a noise rating of 68 dBA at 23 feet, the Champion 2500 produces a moderate noise level that some users may find irritating over extended periods.
- Honda EU2200i – The EU2200’s inverter technology helps make it remarkably quiet for a 2000+ watt generator. It produces just 48-57 dBA during operation, allowing for conversation nearby. This makes it highly appealing for camping and residential areas.
For applications where noise is a major concern, the Honda EU2200i’s quiet operation is a huge selling point over the louder Champion 2500.
Reliability and Durability
Reliability is always crucial when choosing a backup generator. You want a model that will start up effortlessly year after year.
- Champion 2500 – Featuring Champion’s Dependable Power technology, the Champion 2500 is designed for consistent, trouble-free startup and power generation. The steel frame protects components from damage. It’s a well-made generator but reports of quality control issues are not uncommon. The included 3-year limited warranty is decent but not great.
- Honda EU2200i – The EU2200i continues Honda’s reputation for outstanding reliability and durability, made possible through high-quality components and precise engineering. It can operate for thousands of hours with proper maintenance. And it’s backed by Honda’s excellent 3-year commercial and residential warranty for total peace of mind.
Between the two, Honda generators are widely considered the most reliable in the industry. So the EU2200i likely edges out the Champion in terms of dependability and longevity. But the Champion 2500 still delivers ample value given its lower price point.
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Ease of Use
For safe, trouble-free operation, a generator needs to offer intuitive controls and easy maintenance access:
- Champion 2500 – With features like Intelligauge power output and voltage monitoring, fuel level gauge, and push-button electric start, the Champion 2500 aims for user-friendly operation. The plastic body panels also provide quick access to the inside for maintenance. However, the manual could be clearer on proper operation and troubleshooting.
- Honda EU2200i – From its streamlined control panel to easy oil and spark plug access, the entire EU2200i is designed for effortless use. The Eco-Throttle system automatically adjusts engine speed to match power demand for optimal fuel efficiency. Overall, customers find the EU2200i simpler to operate and maintain than the Champion 2500.
While not drastically different in usability, testimonials suggest the Honda EU2200i holds an advantage in user-friendliness due to its thoughtful design and documentation quality. But the Champion 2500 still offers easy power management and maintenance access.
Pros and Cons of the Champion 2500 and Honda EU2200i
To recap the key advantages and disadvantages of each generator:
Champion 2500
Pros:
- Powerful 2500 starting/2200 running watts
- Electric start for easy startups
- Fuel efficient at 8 hour runtime
- Parallel ready to double power output
- Much more affordable than Honda
Cons:
- Heavy at 95 lbs
- No inverter technology
- Louder operation at 68 dBA
- More frequent quality control issues reported
- 3-year warranty but not best in class
Honda EU2200i
Pros:
- Super lightweight and portable at 47 lbs
- Extremely quiet at 48-57 dBA
- Features inverter technology for safe electronics use
- Up to 18 hours runtime on a propane tank
- Can parallel with other Honda models
- Legendary Honda reliability and durability
Cons:
- Lower running wattage of 1800 watts
- More expensive purchase price
- Propane conversion kit sold separately
As the pros/cons breakdown shows, the Honda EU2200i clearly holds advantages in noise level, portability, fuel economy and overall quality. But this comes at a higher price. So the Champion 2500 warrants consideration for budget-conscious shoppers wanting decent power and runtime without all the bells and whistles.
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FAQ – Champion And Honda Generators
While Champion generators offer much greater affordability, most experts consider Honda’s offerings a cut above in terms of dependability, noise level, inverter technology and overall user experience. Champion makes quality generators, but Honda’s precision engineering gives them the reputation for being the best.
Champion Power Equipment makes mid-range generators that provide solid power and reliability at reasonable price points. They may not match Honda’s super-premium quality, but Champion generators can serve homeowners and professionals well for backup power and job sites at substantial cost savings.
No, Champion generators use proprietary Champion engines, not Honda engines. Champion does source some generator components from overseas suppliers to keep costs down. But they design and assemble the completed generators at their facilities in the US.
Yes, Champion Power Equipment is generally considered one of the better portable generator brands on the market. While not at Honda’s level, Champion makes dependable, affordably priced generators with good power output and runtime capacity. Their customer service is also responsive if any issues do arise. For budget-minded buyers, Champion represents a solid mid-range generator brand in the US market.
Final Thoughts
When choosing between the Champion 2500 and Honda EU2200i portable generators, there are good cases to be made for both options.
For those wanting top-level quality and generator refinement, the Honda EU2200i is easily the winner. Between its ultra-quiet operation, excellent fuel economy and undisputed Honda reliability, the EU2200i represents the pinnacle of inverter generator engineering. Just be prepared to pay a premium for such performance.
For shoppers on tighter budgets, the Champion 2500 still provides ample power and convenience in a more affordable package. It lacks some of the Honda’s sophisticated features but costs hundreds less while covering the critical functions of a mid-sized generator.
Ultimately your needs and budget will determine which generator is the better choice. But either the user-friendly Honda EU2200i or the value-driven Champion 2500 will make a trusty power companion on camping trips, job sites, or during emergency outages at home.
