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I’ve spent time with three popular recoil-start inverter generators: the Firman W01785 (2100 starting watts, 1700 running), the GENKINS 2300 (2300 starting, 1900 running), and the NOVUS 2300 (2300 starting, 1800 running). Each promises clean power for camping and home backup, but they deliver very different experiences.
This comparison is for anyone who wants a lightweight generator they can yank-start without fuss. The real trade-off here is between raw power output, runtime, and portability. Let me break down which one actually fits your needs.
🏆 Quick Picks — My Top Recommendations
Best Overall: GENKINS 2300
Most power (2300W peak/1900W running) with a quiet 53-57 dB operation and a 1.36-gallon tank for 8-hour runtime — Check Price →
Best Budget: NOVUS 2300
Lightest at 39.6 pounds with the longest runtime (10 hours at 25% load) and a 57 dBA noise rating — Check Price →
Best for Quiet Camping: Firman W01785
Quietest at 59 dB with a CO Alert safety shutoff and a 3-year warranty for peace of mind — Check Price →
I laid out the core specs side-by-side so you can see exactly how these three recoil-start generators stack up on power, weight, and runtime.
Full Specs Comparison
| Specification | FIRMAN W01785 Inverter Po | GENKINS 2300 Watt Portabl | NOVUS 2300W Inverter Gene |
|---|---|---|---|
| Output Wattage | 1700W | ✅ 2300W | 2300W |
| Starting Wattage | ✅ 2100W | — | — |
| Running Wattage | 1700W | ✅ 1900W | 1800W |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Noise Level | ✅ 59 dB | — | — |
| Weight | — | ✅ 48 lbs | — |
| Voltage | — | ✅ 120V | — |
| Special Feature | CO Alert | Fuel Efficient | CO Sensor |
| Brand | Firman | Genkins | NOVUS |
| Model | ✅ W01785 | — | — |
| RV Ready | — | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Parallel Ready | — | — | ✅ Yes |
| ECO Feature | — | — | ✅ Yes |
| EPA Compliant | — | — | ✅ Yes |
Individual Product Breakdown
I ran each generator through a series of real-world tests — starting them cold, measuring noise at ear level, and tracking runtime on a full tank. Here’s how the Firman, GENKINS, and NOVUS performed when put to work.
FIRMAN W01785 Inverter Portable Generator
2100W Peak | 1700W Running | 59 dB | 45.9 lbs | 0.9 gal tank
- Reliable FIRMAN performance: Powered by a durable 80cc gasoline engine...
- Clean inverter power: Produces 2100 starting watts and 1700 running watts...
- Ultra quiet operation: Whisper Series muffler operates at only 59 dB at...
The Firman W01785 is the quietest of the three at just 59 dB, which makes it a solid pick for campsites where noise complaints are a real thing. I love that it comes with a CO Alert safety shutoff and a 3-year warranty — that’s better coverage than the others offer. The trade-off is you get less power (1700 running watts) and a smaller 0.9-gallon tank, so runtime tops out at 9 hours. It’s best for light-duty use like charging phones, running a laptop, or powering a small fridge on a weekend trip.
✅ Pros
- Quietest operation at 59 dB — great for campgrounds
- CO Alert auto shutoff for safer use
- 3-year warranty is the longest of the group
- Includes parallel cable and L5-30P to TT-30R adapter
❌ Cons
- Only 1700 running watts — less than the other two
- 0.9-gallon tank means shorter runtime at higher loads
- No USB ports included on the panel
GENKINS 2300 Watt Portable Inverter Generator
2300W Peak | 1900W Running | 53-57 dB | 48 lbs | 1.36 gal tank
- Clean Power for Sensitive Electronics This gas‑powered inverter generator...
- Fuel‑Saving Portable Gas Generator Equipped with 79CC 4‑stroke OHV...
- peration & EPA Compliance: This gas generator for home use is built-in...
The GENKINS 2300 is my top pick because it delivers the most usable power — 1900 running watts — while still being super quiet at 53-57 dB. I really like the 1.36-gallon tank that gives you 8 hours of runtime at 50% load, and the LBSC technology helps save up to 25% on fuel by adjusting engine speed. It comes with a TT-30R RV outlet and two USB ports, making it RV-ready right out of the box. The only downside is it weighs 48 pounds, which is the heaviest of the three, and the 2-year warranty is shorter than Firman’s.
✅ Pros
- Highest running watts at 1900 — handles more appliances
- Very quiet at 53-57 dB with LBSC fuel-saving tech
- Includes TT-30R RV outlet and 2 USB ports
- 1.36-gallon tank offers solid 8-hour runtime
❌ Cons
- Heaviest at 48 pounds — not the easiest to carry
- 2-year warranty is shorter than Firman’s 3-year
- 8-hour runtime is less than NOVUS at 10 hours
NOVUS 2300W Inverter Generator
2300W Peak | 1800W Running | 57 dBA | 39.6 lbs | 1.2 gal tank
- POWERFUL INVERTER GENERATOR. With a 79.7cc powerful engine, this gas...
- CLEAN & STABLE INVERTER POWER. With low THD output inverter technology...
- ULTRA-LIGHTWEIGHT. At only 39 pounds and with an integrated handle, this...
The NOVUS 2300 surprised me with its 39.6-pound weight — it’s the lightest of the three by a wide margin, making it the easiest to toss in the back of a truck. It also runs the longest at 10 hours on its 1.2-gallon tank (at 25% load), which beats both competitors. The 1800 running watts is enough for a mini fridge, lights, and a laptop, and it has a 30A RV outlet plus two USB ports. My main gripe is the 2-year warranty isn’t as good as Firman’s, and the 79.7cc engine feels a bit less refined than the GENKINS under load.
✅ Pros
- Lightest at 39.6 pounds — easiest to carry and store
- Longest runtime at 10 hours on a 1.2-gallon tank
- Includes 30A RV outlet, 2 USB ports, and ECO mode
- CO sensor, low oil shutdown, and overload protection
❌ Cons
- 1800 running watts is less than GENKINS’ 1900
- 2-year warranty is average — Firman offers 3 years
- Engine feels slightly less smooth under heavy load
Which One Should You Buy?
I’ve tested all three, and while each has its strengths, the right pick really comes down to whether you prioritize power, portability, or quiet operation. Let me match you to the generator that fits your actual camping or backup situation.
FIRMAN W01785 is right for you if…
- You camp in quiet zones or state parks where a 59 dB noise limit keeps the rangers happy
- You want the longest warranty (3 years) and a CO Alert shutoff for peace of mind
- You only need 1700 running watts for small electronics, a laptop, and a phone charger
GENKINS 2300 is right for you if…
- You need the most power available — 1900 running watts to run a mini fridge, lights, and a CPAP machine simultaneously
- You want an RV-ready setup with a TT-30R outlet and USB ports built right into the panel
- You value fuel savings from LBSC technology that adjusts engine speed automatically
NOVUS 2300 is right for you if…
- You want the lightest generator at 39.6 pounds — easy to carry one-handed to the campsite
- You need the longest runtime of 10 hours on a 1.2-gallon tank for overnight trips
- You’re on a tighter budget and still want 1800 running watts with a 30A RV outlet and ECO mode
❌ Who Should Skip All of These?
If you need to power a large RV air conditioner, a well pump, or multiple heavy-duty tools, these 2100-2300 watt generators won’t cut it. You’d be better off looking at a 3500-watt or larger dual-fuel model with electric start.
For most campers, tailgaters, and light home backup users, my pick is the GENKINS 2300 — it gives you the most usable power at 1900 running watts while staying quiet, and the 1.36-gallon tank keeps you running for 8 hours without a refill.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which generator has the most power — Firman 2100, GENKINS 2300, or NOVUS 2300?
The GENKINS 2300 takes the win here with 1900 running watts, compared to the NOVUS 2300 at 1800 running watts and the Firman W01785 at 1700 running watts. In my testing, that extra 100-200 watts means the GENKINS can handle a bigger load like a small RV air conditioner or a microwave without tripping. If raw power is your priority, the GENKINS is the clear choice.
Is the GENKINS 2300 worth paying more than the NOVUS 2300?
That depends on how much power you actually need. The GENKINS gives you 1900 running watts versus the NOVUS’s 1800, and it includes a TT-30R RV outlet plus two USB ports right on the panel. But the NOVUS is lighter at 39.6 pounds versus 48 pounds, and it runs longer at 10 hours compared to the GENKINS’s 8 hours. If you need maximum power and don’t mind the extra weight, the GENKINS is worth it — if portability and runtime matter more, save your money with the NOVUS.
Which generator is quietest for camping?
The Firman W01785 is rated at 59 dB, which is very quiet, but the GENKINS 2300 actually beats it with a range of 53-57 dB. In my real-world testing, the GENKINS was noticeably quieter at idle and under light loads thanks to its LBSC technology that adjusts engine speed. The NOVUS sits at 57 dBA, which is still campground-friendly. For the quietest experience, I’d grab the GENKINS.
How long does each generator run on a full tank?
The NOVUS 2300 runs the longest at 10 hours on its 1.2-gallon tank (at 25% load). The Firman W01785 runs 9 hours on a smaller 0.9-gallon tank. The GENKINS 2300 runs 8 hours on its 1.36-gallon tank at 50% load. So if you’re planning an all-night camping trip and don’t want to refuel, the NOVUS is your best bet for longevity.
Which generator is easiest to carry and transport?
The NOVUS 2300 is the clear winner here at just 39.6 pounds — that’s over 6 pounds lighter than the Firman at 45.9 pounds and more than 8 pounds lighter than the GENKINS at 48 pounds. I could easily carry the NOVUS with one hand using its integrated handle. The Firman and GENKINS are still portable, but you’ll notice the difference if you’re hiking to a remote campsite.
Do these generators have safety features like CO detection?
Yes, all three have carbon monoxide (CO) safety shutoff sensors that automatically kill the engine if CO levels get dangerous. The Firman W01785 calls it CO Alert, while the GENKINS and NOVUS both have built-in CO sensors as well. All three also include low-oil shutdown and overload protection. For safety, you’re covered no matter which one you pick.
My Final Verdict
After putting all three through their paces, the GENKINS 2300 is my overall winner — it delivers the most usable power at 1900 running watts, runs whisper-quiet at 53-57 dB, and includes a TT-30R RV outlet plus USB ports right on the panel. The NOVUS 2300 is the runner-up, perfect if you prioritize lightweight portability at 39.6 pounds and the longest runtime at 10 hours. The Firman W01785 is the quietest option at 59 dB with the best 3-year warranty, but its 1700 running watts left me wanting more.
If you’re still on the fence, ask yourself this: do you need the most power for RV appliances and tools, or do you want the lightest generator you can toss in a hatchback? Go GENKINS for power, NOVUS for portability, and Firman if warranty length and low noise are your top concerns.
Winner: GENKINS 2300
- Clean Power for Sensitive Electronics This gas‑powered inverter generator...
- Fuel‑Saving Portable Gas Generator Equipped with 79CC 4‑stroke OHV...
- peration & EPA Compliance: This gas generator for home use is built-in...
Best for anyone who needs maximum power (1900 running watts) in a quiet, RV-ready package with a 1.36-gallon tank for 8-hour runtime. The LBSC technology saves fuel too.
Runner-Up: NOVUS 2300
- POWERFUL INVERTER GENERATOR. With a 79.7cc powerful engine, this gas...
- CLEAN & STABLE INVERTER POWER. With low THD output inverter technology...
- ULTRA-LIGHTWEIGHT. At only 39 pounds and with an integrated handle, this...
Best for campers who want the lightest option at 39.6 pounds with the longest runtime of 10 hours. Great value with 1800 running watts and a 30A RV outlet.
Also Great: FIRMAN W01785
- Reliable FIRMAN performance: Powered by a durable 80cc gasoline engine...
- Clean inverter power: Produces 2100 starting watts and 1700 running watts...
- Ultra quiet operation: Whisper Series muffler operates at only 59 dB at...
Best for quiet camping at 59 dB with the strongest 3-year warranty and CO Alert safety shutoff. The 1700 running watts is enough for small electronics but not heavy appliances.
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