Earthquake ig800w Generator
Definitive Review (2024)
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This is the Ultimate TopNotch Earthquake ig800w review 2024…
In this comprehensive review we’ll cover:
- Power output
- Price to performance comparison
- Main features
- Lots more…
So if you want a small generator that provides hours of power without getting thirsty frequently, you’ll love this guide.
Let’s get going.
- Manufacturer: Earthquake
- Capacities: 8P
- Dimensions: 14.00 x 15.60 x 8.20 in
- Load Run Time: 4.0 Hours
- Wattage: 800Watt
Bottom Line : A small and inexpensive generator that beats some of the heavyweight competitors hands down with its great value
Pros
- Comes with inverter technology
- Lightweight design
- Very low sound levels
- Safe for sensitive electronic devices
- An inexpensive choice
Cons
- A fuel gauge would have been a good addition
Our Verdict: Earthquake ig800w Generator
What makes small generators so popular?
If you ask me, one big reason is the fact that they’re light and so easy to use for outdoor trips -providing extra juice right when you need it.
And that’s the highlight of this Earthquake ig800w generator
Granted, it’s not a superb performer like a Honda or Yamaha product. Nor does it offer exceptional power output like the Durostar ds4000s.
But within its own limits, it’s a solid device and a great choice if your need for power isn’t too high.
Moreover, it’s perfectly safe for charging all your smaller electronic devices.
One more thing you’ll like is that this Earthquake machine keeps things quiet.
Rather, very quiet.
With the right level of load, it’ll chug along silently all night long without an issue.
Now that’s exactly what we look for in a camping generator.
Still, the best part is the excellent portability and a TopNotch user experience at an affordable price.
Frankly, I wouldn’t put it in the same league as the Honda EU2200i, our Top Pick in this segment.
Nevertheless, this well-designed product that comes at a pocket-friendly price definitely has its own place in the market.
But we’re barely scratching the surface here.
Let’s explore this generator in more detail.
Related: 10 Best Small Generators
Analysis Comparisons and Test Results
As usual, we researched this product before comparing its performance in side by side comparisons with its competitors.
Honestly, when you’re testing 10 different generators every day, in every possible way, a lightweight model comes as a big relief.
Quite simply, this isn’t a generator that aspires to challenge the market leaders. But it performed pretty well in our tests – within its own limitations.
If you’re looking for solid performance on a budget, this Earthquake machine is one product you can definitely consider.
For sure, Earthquake is another brand that doesn’t necessarily fall in the high-profile category.
But, they’ve been making a mark with some of their high-quality power equipment for some time now.
But one thing’s for sure…
They know how to pack value into their products.
Time to step into the next section to discuss more of that.
Value For Money
Thanks to its low price and good performance, the Earthquake ig800w model hit the top ranks in this segment.
Remarkably, in terms of value for money, it is on par with the Wen 56200i generator, our Best Value Pick.
Value For Money Rating
The fact is, this small generator is extremely versatile. You can bring it along for camping, tailgating, or even for working in the backyard.
Also, it can run anywhere between 4 to 8 hours depending on the load requirements.
The fact is, this small generator is extremely versatile. You can bring it along for camping, tailgating, or even for working in the backyard.
Also, it can run anywhere between 4 to 8 hours depending on the load requirements.
It’s not great for delivering high power, but if you know you’re only going to need limited power, it’s a reliable performer.
Beyond that, we noted the overall build quality is pretty good.
Obviously, it’s not as robust as the Champion 3500W generator.
But at this price point, there’s no room for negativity.
Plus, you get inverter technology for a smooth flow of power for sensitive electronics.
We tested it out and the performance was pretty impressive. In terms of fuel efficiency you’ll get circa 14 hours per gallon.
Another plus point – a quiet performance that’ll mean you can use it in places like National Parks.
Combine that with the TopNotch portability and you have a great camping generator in your hands.
So yes, this generator from Earthquake does offer the right bang for your buck. The TopNotch team gave it a thumbs up under this metric.
Output Power
Let’s take a look at the details first.
The Earthquake 11613 inverter generator offers a peak AC output of 800W and a running output of 700 W.
As you may know, the peak power output will only be delivered for a short time.
Output Power Rating
We noted this…
When you operate the device around the 500W mark, you’ll hit the sweet spot.
So how did it perform in our tests?
Let’s check it out.
The specifications indicated the Earthquake ig800w will run for 8.2 hours at 25% load.
So we hooked it up with a laptop, an LCD TV, and a few LED lights in our RV.
Once the TV was switched off, we ran a small fan that was brought just for testing.
The generator ran for 8 hours on a full tank (0.60 gallon).
To sum up, if you just need to power up the smaller devices and burn a few lights all through the night, the Earthquake generator is perfect for the job.
For the best performance, use 87 minimum octane gasoline with zero ethanol content.
One more point – there’s an “eco” switch that’s supposed to optimize the fuel consumption.
But switching it on didn’t seem to have any considerable effect on the performance.
Clearly, if you’re looking for high power output, you probably should look elsewhere.
The Champion 3500W generator or the DuroStar DS4000S are great options for running heavier equipment.
Durability and Workmanship
Honestly, we liked the overall design of the generator. It comes without any bells and whistles but gets the job done.
To start with, first-time users might find the startup process a little complex.
But we liked the way Earthquake lists down the details on the generator body.
Durability and Workmanship Rating
And guess what?
The Earthquake ig888W generator weighs just 21 pounds. It’s one of the lightest models we tested.
We loved the lightweight convenience.
With the attached handle, carrying it around the campsite was a breeze.
Also, the generator runs with the Viper 4-cycle OHV engine that’s a solid performer.
In general, it adjusted to any change in voltage levels smoothly enough.
What about connectivity?
There’s one AC receptacle along with a 12V/4.5A DC connector. So if you need to run multiple AC devices, you’ll find a splitter generator cord useful.
Last but not least, you get a “pure sine wave” in the output power.
Perfect for smaller devices.
The elaborate user manual gives you pretty much every detail you need to maintain it. It’s a good idea to read it thoroughly before you use your Earthquake for the first time.
Keep in mind you do need to remove the side panel to change the oil and it doesn’t have an oil drain plug.
On the whole, it’s not as easy to use as the Honda EU2200i and the class-leading durability of the Champion 3500W Generator is ahead of the game.
So the Earthquake ig800w model ended up in the lower end of the table for Durability.
Dependability and Reliability
Admittedly, the Earthquake ig800w generator isn’t a class-leading performer that packs stellar features like our Top Picks.
But if you look closer, the superb power to weight ratio is one of its strong points, and it’s still one of the Top 10 on the market, as far as we’re concerned.
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.
Also, you get a low-oil shutdown feature with an indicator light. A super practical feature.
Bonus point: It’s CARB compliant. So you can use it without worrying about the restrictions.
One more thing we noticed …
The generator heated up when we ran it at higher power levels.
But that didn’t seem to affect performance.
And another thing…
The product comes with a one year warranty.
Frankly, that’s not the best in this category.
Now, during our tests, the generator felt like a solid reliable unit.
However, the feedback we had from long-term users pointed to some smoke emission issues and oil-leakage.
So make sure to take the right precautions when you’re using it.
Beyond that, there were also some reports of the pull cord getting frayed with usage.
The simple truth is…
If you want the best long-term durability in this category, the Honda EU2200i is your best bet.
Noise
Honestly, it’s not easy to take the TopNotch reviewers by surprise.
We’re seasoned old timers!
But the Earthquake model 11613 portable generator did just that with its excellent performance under this metric.
Noise Rating
It’s a surprisingly quiet performer.
The noise ratings mention an output of 58dB at a distance of 7 metres.
We checked that out and the noise was circa 60dB at 60% load.
Of course it went up once we increased the power demand.
But let’s face it…
The power band of 50% to 60% is the optimum operating range for this device.
The fact is, even when providing close to 700W, the noise levels were still pretty controlled.
And the reason for that is…
…the TopNotch quality of the engine and the overall design that does a stellar job of suppressing the noise.
Without a doubt, this is a generator you can use in a National Park or in a quiet neighborhood without any issues.
That said, if whisper-quiet performance is what you seek, the Wen 56200i generator and the Honda EU2200i are the definite chart toppers in this segment.
Still, the Earthquake ig800w model does remarkably well in this metric.
Our Final Verdict: Earthquake ig800w Generator
Our Final verdict Rating
Conclusion: Earthquake ig800w Generator
So, it’s time to wrap up this review and put a bow on it.
I have to say within its power limitations, the Earthquake ig800w generator is a great option for light travellers.
It’s perfect for smaller electronics, has the right safety features and offers very good fuel economy.
And on top of that, there’s the lightweight portability that really works in its favor.
Basically, the Earthquake model 11613, isn’t a device that can compete with the TopNotch Top Picks in terms of reliability and features.
But let’s shoot straight here.
Quite simply, the product is designed for a specific portion of the market – people who need a portable and steady source of power at a low price point.
And with its impressive overall performance, that works just fine.
Now, if you’re looking for the very best in quality the Honda EU2200i is the answer to your dreams.
Or for complete power support for your RV, we suggest the Durostar ds4000s.
On the other hand, the Earthquake ig800w generator is a simple and value for money choice for low power requirements.
So now you know all about the Earthquake inverter generator.
Is it something you should buy?
And the answer is…
It depends on what your exact requirements are.
Time to figure that out and make your choice.
Related: 10 Best Small Generators
