The Generac iQ5200 DF is the better inverter generator overall, rated 3.9 to 3.3. The Generac iQ5200 DF leads on fuel options, starting and run time. The Champion 5500W Open Frame CARB wins on value. The Champion 5500W Open Frame CARB costs $340.75 less ($699 vs $1,039.75).
A dual-fuel inverter with enough surge for an RV air conditioner and long propane run time. A good fit for home essentials and 30 A campers willing to use an adapter.
Amazon $1,039.75 Amazon (50-state G0089470) $1,249A gas-only open-frame inverter for California RV owners who want clean power for a 30 A RV at a low price per watt.
Amazon $699Prices were last checked October 28, 2026 and are subject to change; the price and availability shown by the retailer at the time of purchase apply.
Each factor is scored 0-100 against the same fixed reference points for every mid-size inverter generator; a clear win is highlighted. How we rank explains each one.
| Factor weight | Generac iQ5200 DF | Champion 5500W Open Frame CARB |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 3.9/5 | 3.3/5 |
| Value 30% | 71 $0.27 per running watt | 94 $0.17 per running watt |
| Quiet 20% | 50 noise level not published (neutral score used) | 0 70 dBA at light load, maker rating |
| Run time 15% | 75 15 hours on a tank at 25% load | 58 13 hours on a tank at 25% load |
| Fuel options 10% | 70 gasoline or propane | 0 gasoline only |
| CO safety 10% | 100 shuts off when carbon monoxide builds up | 100 shuts off when carbon monoxide builds up |
| Warranty 10% | 50 3-year warranty | 50 3-year warranty |
| Starting 5% | 80 push-button electric start | 0 pull start only |
| Generac iQ5200 DF | Champion 5500W Open Frame CARB | |
|---|---|---|
| Output | ||
| Gasoline | 3,900 W running, 5,200 W starting | 4,000 W running, 5,500 W starting |
| Propane | 3,500 W running, 4,700 W starting | - |
| Outlets | 4 × 120 V, L5-30, USB | 2 × 120 V, TT-30 (RV) |
| Parallel capable | Yes | Yes |
| Total harmonic distortion | under 3% | - |
| Price per watt | $0.27 | $0.17 |
| Fuel and run time | ||
| Fuel | Gasoline, propane | Gasoline |
| Tank | 3.2 gal | 2.9 gal |
| Run time (gasoline) | 15 hr at 25% load | 13 hr at 25% load |
| Run time (propane, 20 lb tank) | 20 hr | - |
| Engine | 223 cc | 224 cc |
| Noise and safety | ||
| Rated noise (light load) | - | 70 dBA |
| CO shutoff | Yes | Yes |
| CARB compliant | Yes | Yes |
| Build | ||
| Starting | Electric and recoil | Recoil (pull) |
| App | No | No |
| Wheels | Yes | No |
| Dimensions | 24.6 x 20.3 x 22.5 in | 21.3 x 17.9 x 17.9 in |
| Weight | 107 lb | 81.6 lb |
| Warranty | 3 years | 3 years |
| Released | 2025-03 | 2026-06 |
