Compare Generators Side-by-Side
Select up to 4 generators to compare specs, power output, noise levels, runtime and more. Your compare URL is shareable.
- NorthStar c5500
- Cat RP3600
Quick charts
Each chart uses its own Y-axis scale (so numbers are comparable within a chart).
Running watts
W
Starting watts
W
Noise
dB
Runtime @50%
h
Running watts by fuel
Shows how output changes across gasoline/propane/natural gas (when available).
| Specification | NorthStar c5500 | Cat RP3600 |
|---|---|---|
| General | ||
| Product type | Generator | Generator |
| Fuel | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Inverter | No | No |
| Parallel capable | No | No |
| RV ready | No | Yes |
| Running watts | Winner: Winner: 4500 W | 3600 W |
| Starting watts | Winner: Winner: 5500 W | 4500 W |
| Noise (lower limit) | Winner: Winner: 70 dB | 0 dB |
| Weight | 227 lbs | Winner: Winner: 125 lbs |
| Run time @50% load | Winner: Winner: 15.1 h | 13.5 h |
| Run time @25% load | Not available | Not available |
| Fuel tank | 8 gal | 4.5 gal |
| Fuel gauge | Yes | Yes |
| Approx. dimensions (L × W × H) | 41 x 32 x 29 | 28.4 x 25.2 x 23 |
| Electrical | ||
| Voltage (AC) | 120/240 | 120V 60 Hz |
| Voltage (DC) | Not available | Not available |
| GFCI outlets | Yes | No |
| Covered outlets | Yes | Yes |
| Automatic Voltage Regulation | Yes | Yes |
| THD | 5 % | Not available |
| Engine | ||
| Engine | 270 cc Honda GX270 OHV 4-stroke | 212 cc OHV 4-stroke |
| Alternator | Not available | Not available |
| Starting system | true | Recoil |
| Warranty | ||
| Warranty | 4 years | 2 years |
| Power by fuel | ||
| Gasoline | Not available | Not available |
| Running watts | 4500 W | 3600 W |
| Starting watts | 5500 W | 4500 W |
| Running amps (120V) | Not available | Not available |
| Running amps (240V) | Not available | Not available |
| Peak amps (120V) | Not available | Not available |
| Peak amps (240V) | Not available | Not available |
| Run time @50% load | 15.1 h | 13.5 h |
| Run time @25% load | Not available | Not available |
| Other | ||
| Data center | Not available | Not available |
| Indicators | false | false |
| Compliance | CARB, EPA | CARB, EPA |
| Security | Not available | Not available |
| Spark arrestor | Yes | Yes |
| Neutral | true | true |
| UPC | 840321737519 | 815683020005 |
| Core / High-priority specs | ||
| Running Watts (Gasoline) | 4500 | 3600 |
| Starting Watts (Gasoline) | 5500 | 4500 |
| Runtime @ 50% Load (Gasoline) | 15.1 | 13.5 |
| AC Outlet Types | 3x Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R) GFCI1x 120/240V 30A (L14-30R) | 2x Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R) 1x 120V 30A (TT-30R) |
| Electrical & power | ||
| Frequency | 60 | 60 |
| Engine & construction | ||
| Engine Type | OHV 4-stroke | OHV 4-stroke |
| Engine Displacement | 270 | 212 |
| Engine Oil Type | Not available | SAE 30 or 10W-30 |
| Runtime & fuel system | ||
| Runtime @ 50% Load (Gasoline) | 15.1 | 13.5 |
| Safety & compliance | ||
| Overload Protection System | Low oil and overload protection | Low oil and overload protection |
| Low Oil Protection | Yes | Yes |
| Carbon Monoxide Monitoring | Yes | No |
| Included equipment | ||
| Starting Components | Not available | Oil, funnel, tool kit, and wheel kit |
| Included Accessories | Funnel and wheel kit | Oil, funnel, tool kit, and wheel kit |
| Warranty & identification | ||
| Commercial Warranty | 4 | Not available |
| Part Number | 1654400 | 502-3684 |
| Additional specs | ||
| Summary | The NorthStar c5500 is a commercial-grade portable generator designed for demanding job sites, featuring a Honda GX270 OHV engine and Quiet Armor Technology for reduced noise levels. | The Cat RP3600 is a 3600-watt gasoline generator built for job sites and RV camping. Its 4500-watt peak output handles startup surges for power tools and air conditioners, while the 3600-watt running capacity sustains multiple household circuits or a single large appliance continuously. |
- Most PowerfulNorthStar c55004500W running
- QuietestNorthStar c550070 dB
- Longest RuntimeNorthStar c550015.1h at 50% load
Where to buy
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NorthStar c5500
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Cat RP3600
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