Generac vs. Champion Generator: Everything You Need to Know
With the national electrical grid becoming more constrained, the chance of power outages occurring is an ever present risk. In the quest for reliable backup power, two names often emerge at the forefront: Generac and Champion.
Both manufacturers produce well-made and durable generators that provide a reliable backup power source. Each offers a similar range of equipment. However, the Champion Power Equipment is generally slightly lower priced while still delivering on the promise of reliable back up electricity.
This article delves into a side-by-side comparison of Generac and Champion generators, weighing their features, performance, and consumer feedback. Whether you’re a homeowner seeking peace of mind during outages or a business requiring consistent power, this comparison aims to guide you to the perfect fit.
Brand Overview
Both of these companies have been in business for many years and have a long history and good track record in the production of generators.
Generac
Founded in 1959, Generac has built an enduring reputation for delivering reliable power solutions across residential, commercial, and industrial sectors. With an unwavering commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction, they have emerged as a global frontrunner in the generator manufacturing industry.
The company’s product range includes the following.
- Home Backup Power
- Commercial Power Back Up Systems
- Clean Energy (Solar batteries)
- Portable generators
- Portable power stations
- Pressure Washers
What sets the company apart is its self-identification as a comprehensive power solutions provider.
This perspective shifts their focus, ensuring they meticulously address every facet of on-site power production reliability.
Champion Power Equipment
Champion has been producing power equipment since 2003. This California based company has a reputation for developing modern and well made products.
The product range produced by Champion Power equipment includes the following.
- Portable generators
- Home standby generators
- Inverter generators
- Engines
- Winches
- Log splitters
Since the company was formed, they have sold more than 4.5 million generators.
Power Output & Capacity
The product range offered by each company is similar.
Generac
The following table provides a sample of the range on offer by Generac
| Output | Output | Price |
| 32kW Protector QS | 32kW | $14,279.00 |
| 30kW Protector | 30kW | $12,439.00 |
| Guardian 26kW Home Backup Generator Wi-Fi-Enabled | 26kW | $6,329.00 |
| Guardian 26kW Home Backup Generator with Whole House Switch Wi-Fi-Enabled | 26kW | $7,139.00 |
| Guardian 24kW Home Backup Generator Wi-Fi-Enabled | 22kW | $5,869.00 |
| Guardian 22kW Home Backup Generator Wi-Fi-Enabled | 22kW | $5,499.00 |
| Guardian 3-Phase 20kW Automatic Standby Generator Wi-Fi Enabled | 20kW | $5,599.00 |
| Guardian 18kW Home Backup Generator with Whole House Switch WiFi-Enabled | 18kW | $5,769.00 |
| EcoGen 15kW Home Backup Generator Wi-Fi Enabled | 15kW | $4,964.00 |
| Guardian 14kW Home Backup Generator with Whole House Switch Wi-Fi-Enabled | 14kW | $4,899.00 |
| Guardian 10kW Home Backup Generator with 16-circuit Transfer Switch Wi-Fi-Enabled | 10kW | $3,879.00 |
| Guardian 10kW Home Backup Generator Wi-Fi Enabled | 10kW | $3,279.00 |
| PowerPact 7.5kW Home Backup Generator with 8-circuit Transfer Switch | 7.5kW | $2,049.00 |
| GP18000EFI(Portable) | 18kW | $4,399.00 |
| XD5000E (Portable) | 5kW | $4,019.00 |
| GP15500EFI(Portable) | 15.5kW | $3,999.00 |
| RS8000E (w/ Cord)(Portable) | 8kW | $1,179.00 |
| GP9200E 50ST(Portable) | 9.2kW | $1,099.00 |
| GP8000E 49ST/CSA (Portable) | 8kW | $1,099.00 |
| GP6500 COsense® (w/ Cord))(Portable) | 6.5kW | $899.00 |
| GP3500iO(Portable) | 3.5kW | $849.00 |
| GP3600 49ST/CSA(Portable) | 3.6kW | $529.00 |
Champion Power Equipment
The following table provides a sample of the range on offer by Champion
| Output | Output | Price |
| 22-kW aXis Home Standby Generator | 22kW | tba |
| 14-kW aXis Home Standby Generator with 200-Amp Whole House Switch | 14kW | $4,499.00 |
| 12.5-kW Home Standby Generator with 100-Amp Outdoor Switch | 12.5kW | $3,699.00 |
| 8.5-kW Home Standby Generator with 50-Amp Outdoor Switch | 8.5kW | $2,999.00 |
| 12,000-Watt Generator (Portable) | 12.0kW | tba |
| Champion Power Equipment 11,500/9,200 (Portable) | 11.5kW | $1,294.00 |
| 9375-Watt Tri-Fuel Inverter with CO Shield®(Portable) | 9.3kW | $1.099.00 |
| 8000-Watt Dual Fuel Inverter with CO Shield®(Portable) | 8.0kW | $979.99 |
| 7500-Watt Open Frame Inverter with CO Shield®(Portable) | 7.5kW | $1,147.99 |
| 5500-Watt Dual Fuel Inverter(Portable) | 5.5kW | $995.00 |
| 4650-Watt Inverter with CO Shield® (Portable) | 4.65kW | tba |
| Champion Power Equipment 200986 4500-Watt (Portable) | 4.5kW | $661.74 |
| 4250-Watt Dual Fuel Inverter (Portable) | 3.5kW | $729.00 |
| 3500-Watt Generator (Portable) | 3.65kW | $399.00 |
| 3500-Watt Inverter with CO Shield®(Portable) | 3.5kW | $599.00 |
| 2500 Watt Dual Fuel Inverter(Portable) | 2.5kW | $889.00 |
| 2400-Watt Dual Fuel Inverter(Portable) | 2.4kW | $525.00 |
| 2000-Watt Dual Fuel Inverter(Portable) | 2.0kW | $1,250.00 |
| 1200-Watt Generator (Portable) | 1.2kW | tba |
As you can see, the range offered by both manufacturers is very similar. Champion supplies generators below 3.5kW’s in capacity, whereas Generac only provides battery power stations at the low power range.
At the top of the range (home backup generators) General has more offerings for 10kW to 32kW. At this level Champion only has 4 models – with a highest capacity of 22kW) – compared to Generac’s 13 models.
The Generac range makes it easier to install a properly sized unit without needing to over invest.
Durability & Build Quality
Generac
Generac stands as one of the foremost generator brands in the United States, consistently ranking at the top in terms of reliability and quality. Each unit they produce boasts exceptional craftsmanship.
Champion Power Equipment
Champion has developed a reputation for manufacturing high quality, durable devices. A look at any of the product review sites confirms that customers are generally very happy with the product and the after sales service.
Direct comparison
The features and technology employed by each manufacturer has a large influence on the desirability of the products.
The table listed below compares the technology offered by each manufacturer. Please be aware that these technologies are not necessarily offered on each product.
| Technology | Generac | Champion |
| Low-oil level shutdown automatically safeguards engine from damage. | Yes | Yes |
| Carbon Monoxide Auto-Shutoff Technology | Yes | Yes |
| HomeLink® manual transfer switch compatible for safe home backup power. | Yes | No |
| Dual Fuel Generators | Yes | Yes |
| Triple Fuel Generators | Yes | Yes |
| Can Connect 2 Generators together for additional power | Yes | Yes |
| Economy Mode Automatically adjusts engine speeds to save fuel and reduce sound emissions | Yes | Yes |
| USB Port For charging mobile devices | Yes | Yes |
| Hour meter tracks maintenance intervals. | Yes | Yes |
| Pull Cable Start | Yes | Yes |
| Electric Start | Yes | Yes |
| Wireless Remote Start | Yes | |
| Covered Outlets (Water resistant) | Yes | Yes |
| Warranty | 3 year Limited | 3 year Limited |
Price & Value Proposition
A price comparison of the lowest spec’d generators in each power range is listed in the table below.
| Output | General | Champion |
| 3.5kW | $849.00 | $599.00 |
| 7.5kW | $2,049.00 | $1,147.99 |
| 8.0kW | $1,099.00 | $979.99 |
| 9.2kW | $1,099.00 | $1.099.00 |
| 11.5kW (Home Backup) | $2,049.00 | $2,999.00 |
On a power for power basis, Champion generators are between 5 – 8% cheaper than the equivalent Generac unit.
User Reviews & Reputation
Both manufacturers have a solid reputation for producing dependable and well made products.
Generac
From 335 reviews submitted to Consumer Affairs, the Generac products have a lower star rating of 1.9 out of the maximum possible 5 points –Source.
Champion
With an impressive average score of 4.73 stars from 833 reviews, Champion Power Equipment clearly resonates with its customers.
Many satisfied reviewers have highlighted their appreciation for the generators build quality and reliability– Source.
Read my articles How Long Can A Generac Whole House Generator Run Continuously? and Generator Blowing White Smoke? Here’s What To Do
What To Look For In A New Generator
If you are in the market for a generator, we suggest that the following factors are the most important.
- Voltage: Most generators on the market run on either 110 or 120 volts.
- Horsepower: A generator’s horsepower directly influences its wattage production. Higher horsepower translates to a more potent wattage output.
- Noise Level: For those prioritizing quiet operation, many generators maintain a noise level of around 50 dB – comparable to an everyday conversation. In contrast, generators producing 100-110 dB are on the louder side.
- Fuel Source: The choice of fuel is essential. Generators can run on natural gas, liquid propane, or diesel. Additionally, some models offer dual-fuel or triple -fuel options, providing flexibility in fuel selection.
Conclusion
In the face-off between Generac and Champion generators, it’s clear that both brands stand out as reliable power providers. While Champion edges out with slightly more budget-friendly options and has garnered a marginally higher number of positive customer testimonials.
It is essential to emphasize that both Generac and Champion bring robust and dependable machines to the table. Ultimately, the choice between the two boils down to individual preferences, budget considerations, and specific requirements.
Rest assured, with either option, you’re making a sound investment in a trusted backup power solution.
