Table of Contents
Think of all the times and all the activities that would be easier and more enjoyable if you had power. From DIY to camping, a powered portable inverter generator can conveniently solve many problems.
We are going to compare two of the Wen portable generators, the Wen 56200i vs 56202i. We will look at a range of their specifications from design to power, noise level and value for money. After we include a side-by-side chart and some pros and cons, we will decide which is the better portable generator.
There are a few similarities between the Wen 56200i and the Wen 56202i. We will start with these features.
Wen 56200i vs Wen 56202i – Similarities
Quick Glance
The following comparison chart will help to review the specifications of the Wen 56200i and the Wen 56202i.
Wen 56200i | Wen 56202i | |
| Image |  |  |
| Size | 18 x 11 x 18 inches | 18.7 x 12.4 x 18.7 inches |
| Weight | 48lbs | 38.6lbs |
| Wattage | Rated-2000W, Surge-1600W | Rated-2000W, Surge-1700W |
| Engine | 4-stroke, 79.7cc, single-cylinder, forced air cooling system | 4 stroke, 79cc, single-cylinder, forced air cooling system |
| Engine Speed | Not Stated | 4350 RPM |
| Eco Mode | Yes | Yes |
| Run Time | Half load- 6 hours | Half load 7- hours |
| Connections | X1 12V DC Cigarette plug, X2 AC NEMA 5-20, X1 5V USB sockets | X1 12V DC Cigarette plug, X2 AC NEMA 5-20, X2 5V USB sockets |
| LED Indicators | Power, overload, low oil level | Power, overload, low oil level |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 1 gallon | 1 gallon |
| Noise Rating | 51dB at 22 feet | 58dB at 22 feet |
| Parallel Kit Compatible | Yes | Yes |
| Warranty | 2 years | 2 years |
| Price |
Engine Type
The engines of the Wen 56200i and the Wen 56202i are 4-stroke single-cylinder engines. They have a forced air-cooling system. The Wen 56200i is a 79.7 cc engine and the Wen 56202i a 79cc engine, not enough of a difference to impact the decision.
Eco Mode
On Eco Mode, the Wen 56200i and the Wen 56202i are quieter and you can take advantage of better fuel consumption.
LED Indicators
There are three LED lights on the Wen 56200i and the Wen 56202i. These lights will indicate when the power is on, overload and low fuel indicators.
Fuel Tank Capacity
The fuel tanks have a capacity of 1 gallon.
Parallel Generators
Both the Wen 56200i and the Wen 56202i are compatible with the Wen Parallel Kit. If you need added power, you can run two generators simultaneously.
There are still a good number of differences between the Wen 56200i and the Wen 56202i. We will move on to those now.
Differences Between Wen 56200i vs Wen 56202i
Appearance
The portable generators are black with orange features. They both have a large carry handle on the top for easy transportation.
Wen 56200i
The generator measures 18 x 11 x 18 inches and weighs 48 pounds. It has a more modern design.
Wen 56202i
The size is fairly similar at 18.7 x 12.4 x 18.7 inches, but it does weigh significantly less at 28.6 pounds.
The Winner Is- A Tie
Wattage
This is quite possibly one of the more important specifics as it will determine the power available.
Wen 56200i
It is rated at 2000W with a surge rating of 1600W.
Wen 56202i
The rating is the same 2000W, but the surge rating is higher at 1700W
The Winner Is- The Wen 56202i
Engine Speed
The speed of the engines is measured in revolutions per minute.
Wen 56200i
There is no product information regarding the revolutions per minute.
Wen 56202i
The RPM is 4350.
The Winner Is- The Wen 56202i
Run time
The run time has been calculated based on half-load use and may vary depending on the devices connected.
Wen 56200i
The run time is approximately 6 hours.
Wen 56202i
You get a greater run time of approximately 7 hours.
Connections
Another important feature, you want to know that you have enough outlets to connect your devices.
Wen 56200i
There is a DC 12V cigarette plug, two AC NEMA 5-20 outlets and a 5V USB socket.
Wen 56202i
The connections are all the same, but you have an additional USB outlet.
The Winner Is- The Wen 56202i
Value for Money
These portable generators are well-priced for both the brand Wen and compared with other brands.
Wen 56200i
It’s the cheaper of the two portable generators and you might be able to save around $80. It comes with a 2-year warranty.
Wen 56202i
Although it is more expensive, you do get the same 2-year warranty.
The Winner Is- The Wen 56200i
Pros and Cons
We will now look at some pros and cons of the Wen 56200i and the Wen 56202i to further help our decision.
Wen 56200i
Pros:
- The choke knob is easy to use
- It’s very quiet when you switch to Eco Mode
- It’s a hard worker, can handle hours of daily use
Cons:
- The overload is a little sensitive
Wen 56202i
Pros:
- It is still very quiet to run
- It’s a better choice for transportation
- It has a spark arrestor so it’s safe to use in wooded areas
Cons:
- There is no fuel gauge on the top of the generator, you have to rely on the LED indicator
The Final Verdict
One thing you need to remember with the Wen 56200i and the Wen 56202i is that you shouldn’t leave fuel in the generators if you aren’t going to use them for a while. Doing so can lead to damaging the carburetor. For maximum performance, it is also advisable to follow the maintenance instructions included in the manual.
Today’s overall winner was the Wen 56202i. It was a little more expensive and possibly a little louder but there were enough advantages to overlook this. First off, you have a higher surge rating and more power. Next, you have a longer run time and finally, there is the additional USB outlet. There was nothing wrong with the Wen 56200i and it will do exactly as advertised, but the Wen 56202i is better.