Champion 3500watt Generator
Definitive Review 2025
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This is the Ultimate TopNotch Champion 3500watt Generator Dual Fuel Review 2025.
In our series of the best small generator reviews, we present another TopNotch product for you.
In this comprehensive review we’ll cover:
- Main features
- Noise and power output
- How it’s RV ready
- The overall durability
- Lots more…
Let’s start the show.
- Manufacturer: Champion Power Equipment
- Weight: 95.70 lbs
- Dimensions: 18.30 x 25.10 x 17.30 in
- Load Run Time:Propane: 14.5 at 1/4 Load (h.)Gasoline: 7.5 at 1/4 Load (h.)
- Wattage: 3400 Watts
Bottom Line : A reliable performer with excellent safety features and an extended warranty period
Pros
- A dual fuel generator
- Offers high wattage
- Ideal for use in freezing temperatures
- Very good running time
- A built-in surge protector
- A three-year limited warranty
Cons
- It’s not the quietest we tested
- The price is a bit high
Our Verdict: Champion 3500watt Generator
To be honest, we have always loved Champion products with their TopNotch performance.
The brother of the 3500 – the 3800-Watt Dual Fuel Generator is one of our top choices in the Camping Generator segment.
Naturally, we expected a good show from the 3500w and it didn’t disappoint.
The overall quality is typical Champion-grade.
This is one tough guy that’ll perform reliably for years.
The option to use either gasoline or propane is a big advantage that sets it apart from the rest of the pack.
The long run time on either fuel makes it a fuel-efficient product.
On top of that, you get foolproof safety features.
Lastly, there’s a foldaway handle along with tires for superb portability.
But that’s not the whole story.
It’s a heavy unit and not the quietest model on our list.
The main problem is, the 3500 is a bit pricey. We expected it to be more affordable.
Without a doubt, the Wen 56200i generator, the TopNotch Best Value Choice in this category offers more value as a small generator.
Nevertheless, the Champion 3500watt Generator has enough going for it to make it a solid choice in this category.
So stick with me here as we discover more about this device.
Related: 10 Best Small Generators
Analysis Comparisons and Test Results
I have to tell you this…
It’s rare to find a heavy generator with a high power output that’s easy to handle on a campsite.
And one thing about the 3500w that we really loved is the overall ease of use.
From the one-touch start to the built-in wheels, it was super easy to use on our campsite.
Also, it packs a truckload of the typical features that make Champion 3500watt Generator such great all-rounders.
But I’m jumping ahead.
Let’s take one step at a time in this dual fuel inverter generator review to find out what our tests revealed.
Value For Money
One thing’s for sure…The Champion generator does offer a smooth blend of versatility and convenience.
Just take a look at some of the impressive features:
There’s the Inverter technology, Cold Start Technology, and the Volt Guard Technology.
Value For Money Rating
That’s the standard package all Champion models in this range have.
Then again, the build quality is very good and the 192cc engine offers a TopNotch performance.
Need a healthy dose of juice for heavy appliances?
It offers a high wattage to keep everything running.
Moreover, it’s also EPA certified and CARB compliant.
You can use it anywhere without any environmental worries.
With low harmonic distortion in the power supply, it’s also perfectly safe for smaller appliances.
Considering the power output, this isn’t a very noisy generator.
But we’ve got better choices lined up for you in our Top Picks.
But the thing is…
We wished that the Champion 3500watt Generator was a tad more affordable.
Considering the negligible price difference with the Champion 3500-Watt Dual Fuel Generator, it’s not the better choice really.
For the best value products, try the Durostar ds4000s generator or the Wen 56200i generator.
Output Power
The power output from this dual fuel generator is perfect for those who need more power.
How much does it offer?
It offers 3500 starting watts and 3200 running watts.
That’s good enough to run the lights, refrigerator, and a TV in your RV.
Output Power Rating
It’ll also run the pumps or a large freezer in your home as a reliable backup power source.
Keep in mind – when/ if you use propane the power output will be reduced.
The generator will deliver 3150 starting watts and 2880 running watts when connected with a propane tank.
But the best part is, with propane, it’ll offer even more running hours.
In our tests, it ran for around 7 hours at 25% load with gasoline.
We shifted to propane and the running time was almost 14 hours at the same load.
But the truth is…
This doesn’t make it the best dual fuel inverter generator under this metric.
If you want more power, the Yamaha EF4500iSE gives a solid output of 4,000 Watts.
We also have the excellent Durostar ds4000s that will produce a higher peak power at a lower price point.
Durability and Workmanship
In our experience, product durability has always been Champion’s strong suit.
The Champion 3500watt Generator is no exception and long-term reliability is its big strength.
Firstly, consider the 192cc Champion 4-stroke engine that drives the 3500w.
Durability and Workmanship Rating
It gives solid performance and high fuel efficiency.
The generator body is made from high-grade materials and a robust steel frame adds to the overall durability.
What about connectivity?
You get a 120V 30A RV (TT-30R), two 120V 20A household outlets (5-20R), and a 12V DC automotive-style outlet with dual USB adapter.
Bonus point – a 50-amp RV outlet that makes this an RV-ready generator.
Good enough?
We loved the use of never-flat tires that makes moving it very easy.
The towing handle is well designed and the overall ergonomics are TopNotch.
Is there a low oil shut-off sensor?
You bet there is!
One more thing…
There’s the smart economy mode that reduces fuel consumption and extends the engine life.
Lastly, you can also add a parallel kit to connect the Champion 3500 with another compatible Champion generator for more power.
The TopNotch team was confident about putting this device in the top spot under this metric after putting everything together.
It shares the spot with the Honda eu2000i, our Top Pick.
Dependability and Reliability
Now, when you’re camping in an off-grid location, dependability is king.
The fact is, through all our Champion inverter generator reviews, reliability is one thing we really value – and the Champion 3500 watt generator is a great example.
Dependability and Reliability Rating
Added to that, the Earthquake model 11613 portable generator provides two essential safety features.
There’s a circuit breaker that offers overload protection and a red light to indicate overloading or overheating.
To make sure all your electronics are safe – there’s the clean power delivery.
The one-touch start makes it perfect for older people.
It’s super-easy to use and maintenance is pretty simple as well (it doesn’t need much).
Admittedly, it’s bulky.
But taking into account the TopNotch quality, the extra weight is worth it.
The good news is…
You get a USB adapter, a propane hose (with a regulator), and a battery for the one-touch start – all as accessories.
To top it up, Champion also offers a 3-year limited warranty with the device.
For what it’s worth, the Champion 3500w is a very good choice for getting you through power outages.
The good running time definitely works in its favor.
However, you might find the oil filling a bit difficult due to the location of the port.
In our final scores, it stood below the Honda eu2000i and the Yamaha ef2000isv2…
..the gold standard of these top brands is pretty hard to beat.
Still, at its price point, the Champion is a worthy contender.
Noise
The dual fuel Champion 3500watt Generator isn’t the loudest in this category.
In fact, we expected it to be noisier than it turned out in our tests.
The specifications indicate a noise level of 59 dBA from 23 feet.
Noise Rating
That’s as loud as normal conversation.
However, the noise levels went up once we increased the output levels.
Ok. I know what you’re thinking.
That’s the same with most generators.
Agreed.
Except for the two top performers in this metric.
Point to be noted…
In this metric, the Champion generator was almost as good as the Yamaha ef2000isv2 which comes with a much higher price tag.
We tested the model by running the 13,500 BTU AC in the RV.
The noise levels crossed the 60dB mark within a distance of 23 feet.
Our advice: In any National Park where noise level restrictions are in place, you should really only use the device within 25% to 30% of its capacity.
On the whole, this Champion isn’t a super quiet performer.
For that, you’ll have to try the top performers in the metric- the Honda eu2000i or the WEN 56200i generator.
But one thing’s for sure. The generator is a great choice when you consider the power to noise ratio.
Our Final Verdict: Champion 3500watt Generator
Our Final verdict Rating
Conclusion: Champion 3500watt Generator
Let’s wind-up this Champion power generator review.
The basic fact is, it’s a top-class product.
Obviously, the option to use either gasoline or propane as needed is a big plus.
Also, the output of 3200W is good enough to supply your power-hungry devices.
Next, there’s a whole range of safety features to protect the generator as well as your electronics.
On top of that, it’s user-friendly and is RV ready.
Even with the large power output, it’s still compact enough for trailers and campsites.
Honestly, this Champion 3500watt Generator came very close to standing among the top three products in this segment.
But let’s face it. With its price, this gasoline come propane inverter generator just couldn’t beat the incredible value that the Durostar ds4000s offers.
Then again, the Honda eu2000i stole the show with its superb all-round performance.
So that’s all from our end on this topic.
Ask me, “Are Champion generators any good?”, and the answer is a definite yes.
But will this generator fit your exact requirements?
Now that’s for you to decide.
Over to you.
