Compare Generators Side-by-Side

Generator

Generator

4000 W

178 lbs

120

120/240

212 cc OHV 4-stroke

300 cc OHV 4-stroke

Recoil

Recoil

3 years

2 years

4000 W

6875 W

CARB

CARB, EPA

743184017579

815683020036

3400

5500

10

15

60

60

OHV 4-stroke

OHV 4-stroke

SAE 30 or 10W-30

10

15

Low oil and overload protection

Wheel kit

Oil, funnel, tool kit, and wheel kit

502-3686

The ECHO EGi-4000 is a 3,400-watt inverter generator built around a 212 cc OHV 4-stroke engine. This wattage class handles essential household appliances during outages, job site tools, and RV systems. The 4,000-watt peak capacity means it can start larger equipment like air compressors or circular saws without stalling. Because the unit runs on gasoline with a 3.3-gallon tank, users will find refueling cycles manageable for weekend trips or short-term backup scenarios. The inverter technology protects laptops, phones, and other sensitive electronics from power fluctuations. A 10-hour runtime at 50% load means users can operate mid-range loads like a refrigerator or power tools for most of a workday without refueling. The 86-pound weight and included wheel kit make it movable for one person, though not effortless.

The Cat RP5500 is a 5500-watt gasoline generator built for homeowners, contractors, and outdoor enthusiasts who need reliable backup power without the complexity of larger units. This wattage tier handles most household circuits simultaneously, meaning you can run a refrigerator, well pump, and power tools at the same time, but not your entire home's air conditioning system. The 6875-watt peak capacity gives it the muscle to start high-inrush devices like compressors and sump pumps without stalling. Because the RP5500 runs on gasoline, fuel is available at any gas station, eliminating the supply chain friction of propane or diesel models. The 7.9-gallon tank paired with 15-hour runtime at half load means you refuel roughly once per day under typical use, not every few hours.