Yamaha EF2000is v2 (2000 Watt Generator)
Definitive Review (2024)
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This is the Ultimate TopNotch Yamaha ef2000isv2 Review (2000 Watt Generator) 2024.
Next in our series about the best camping generators, we present one of the best premium products we had the pleasure to test.
In this comprehensive review we’ll cover:
- Power output
- Durability and performance
- Noise
- Lots more…
And the good news is…
We loved it so much, we gave it our TopNotch Editors’ Choice Award.
So if you want an excellent power source for your next camping trip, you’ll love this guide.
Let’s get started.
- Manufacturer: Yamaha
- Weight: 44.1 lbs
- Dimensions: 17.90 x 19.30 x 11.00 in
- Load Run Time: 10.5 Hours
- Wattage: 1600 Watts
Bottom Line : A fantastic combination of smooth power delivery and portability
Pros
- Delivers clean and stable output
- Top class fuel efficiency
- Oil watch system
- High-quality muffler for quiet operation
- Comfortable handling
- EPA and CARB compliant design
Cons
- Some may find the lack of a fuel gauge an issue
- A USB port would have been nice
Our Verdict: Yamaha EF2000is v2 Generator
Ever noticed how people sometimes have an unusual passion for a brand?
Well, Yamaha is one such brand that’s built a solid reputation for its generators.
Now, when you first set eyes on the Yamaha EF2000is v2, the design might remind you of a portable radio from times gone by.
But make no mistake about it…
It’s loaded with modern features making it one of the greatest generators out there.
Just remove the casing and take a peek into the chamber and you’ll find the superb 4-stroke engine that’s a top performer.
Is that the secret behind the generator’s superb performance and long running time?
You bet!
Yamaha has also made sure it delivers super-quiet performance even at a higher load.
You get excellent features like Smart Throttle and Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) control.
Also, it scores high in terms of portability. The power to weight ratio is simply TopNotch.
The thing is…
Yamaha has put a lot of thought into the design.
Is it perfect?
Unfortunately, we’re yet to find that one!
The glaring price tag will definitely put some people off. In addition, we missed features like an automatic start and a USB port.
On the other hand, it’ll give you the supreme dependability and durability of Japanese technology.
Undoubtedly, this is an investment you’re making for the long haul.
We loved it so much we gave it our TopNotch Editor’s Choice Award in this category
But don’t take my word for it.
Check out the rest of our Yamaha EF2000is v2 review to find out for yourself.
Related: 10 Best Small Generators
Analysis Comparisons and Test Results
Let’s make one thing clear.
The “v2” on the EF2000is v2 stands for Version Two.
Yamaha launched this model after making a few improvements on the original EF2000is.
Now, I was in two minds whether to mention this, but here goes…
It’s the long running debate between Yamaha and Honda.
To tell you the truth, we also have our own fans of the two brands in the Topnotch team.
In this case, we tested the Honda EU2000i directly alongside the Yamaha product. We gave that our Top Pick Award.
For us at TopNotch, performance and quality matter more than the brand.
But the fact is, both products are excellent in their own way.
So let’s get back on track and find out more about the Yamaha EF2000is v2.
Value For Money
The price to performance ratio is one of the first things we check in a gas generator.
Honestly, the EF2000is v2 is a top performer when it comes to performance and overall ease of use.
The wattage is perfect for people with moderate power needs.
Value For Money Rating
From small appliances to LED light strings, microwave ovens, and TV sets, it can easily power a whole range of electronics.
Moreover, even with the small fuel tank, it can run all night long at 25% load.
The superior quality of the inverter ensures the power supply stays clean and stable at any load.
What about fuel consumption?
There’s the Smart Throttle technology to optimize engine speed and fuel consumption.
Next, you get excellent in-built features to safeguard the engine in case of any overload.
On the whole, campers will love the fuss-free, easy-to-maintain design.
We did.
In addition, you can also use it as an emergency power source for your home or even on a construction site.
When all is said and done, things didn’t go so well for the Yamaha under this metric.
I’m sure you already know the reason.
Yes, it’s the high price.
A common issue with Yamaha.
Frankly, at this price, we expected features like an LCD display and an automatic start.
Moreover, there are products like the Champion 3500 Watt generator that do offer excellent value for money to budget-conscious buyers.
At the final reckoning, it ended up at the lower end of the chart in this metric.
Output Power
When it comes to power delivery, the EF2000is v2 is a steady performer.
It delivers a peak output of 2000 Watts and a steady output of 1600 Watts.
The best part is, it comes with an improved controller programmed for a more stable performance.
Output Power Rating
One more thing…
In case you want more power, you can easily connect two together for parallel functioning.
Just remember, you need to purchase the connecting cable separately.
Even with a relatively small fuel tank capacity of 1.1 gallons, fuel efficiency is surprisingly good.
Yamaha EF2000is v2 states with a full tank, the run time is 10.5 hours at 25% load.
Our testing process was very thorough.
To begin with, we ran the small refrigerator (400 Watts) in our RV and a string of LED lights.
The TV and the microwave oven ran from time to time and we also charged a couple of smartphones.
The generator ran for around 6 hours before running out of juice.
But that’s not all.
We engaged the Smart Throttle that activated the load sensing rpm control.
As a result, the overall fuel economy got even better.
Keep in mind the peak and steady current outputs are 13.3 amps and 16.7 amps.
On the whole, the generator did fall short when it came to total power output.
Obviously, it couldn’t compete with its elder sibling, the Yamaha EF4500iSE, which is a real powerhouse.
But when your requirements are in a medium level range, it’s definitely one of the best choices out there.
Durability and Workmanship
One thing’s for sure.Yamaha never compromises on workmanship. And the EF2000is v2 is no exception.
With multiple advanced features, the overall ease of use is class-leading.
Firstly, the inverter technology comes with a Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) system.
Durability and Workmanship Rating
What’s special about that?
It keeps the voltage fluctuations within ± 1% and frequency stability is around ± 0.1 HZ.
So you get a pure sine wave output at its very best.
What if you forget to fill up the fuel tank?
No worries.
The low oil warning system will keep things happy.
In addition, there’s an electrical overload breaker to prevent any damage.
Here’s another TopNotch feature – the fuel petcock.
Quite simply, it allows you to drain the carburetor bowl completely so there’s no chance of the system gumming up after a long period of storage.
Also, the centralized control panel is really well designed. All the functions are easy to access.
We missed having an LCD screen. But there’s a fuel gauge to help you keep an eye on the oil levels.
There are two AC outlets for connecting external electronics.
However, the lack of GFCI protection for the outlets is one snag we didn’t like.
Let’s talk about the build quality.
We used the EF2000is v2 without worrying about being particularly careful and it took all the abuse without missing a single beat.
But wait – don’t expect it to be as durable as the Champion 3500 Watt generator which has a metal frame.
On the plus side, it’s one of the lightest portable generators to take camping.
Dependability and Reliability
When it comes to reliability, the Yamaha ef2000isv2 really comes into its own.
One of the things we loved about it was engine performance.The 79 cc OHV engine is a masterpiece from Yamaha EF2000is v2 and delivers TopNotch efficiency. The high-quality steel camshaft and the cast iron cylinder liner greatly improves the efficiency.
Dependability and Reliability Rating
The forced air cooling gives TopNotch heat dissipation lengthening the lifespan of the engine.
We also loved the starting cord that was so easy to use. One small pull and the faithful engine growls back to life.
One more thing we loved – the auto warm-up system.
Let’s be honest…
Starting up a gas generator in sub-zero temperatures can be problematic.
In cold weather, this feature simply warms up the system so it can handle a heavy load from the get-go.
On top of that, you get the 3-year manufacturers warranty…
The portable inverter generator is also EPA and CARB compliant.
So you don’t need to worry about pollution.
Not to forget, the great power to weight ratio.
With a dry weight of 44.1 pounds and an ergonomic carrying handle, the portability is good, though not great.
Moreover, with dimensions of 19.3 x 11 x 17.9 inches the EF2000is v2 is compact enough for easy storage.
Also, the side and back panels are easily removable making servicing the unit super simple.
As usual, our team listened to the opinions of long-term users. The overall feedback was highly positive.
In the end, it ended up at the top of charts under this metric.
Noise
The Yamaha EF2000is v2 is a super quiet performer.
And it has two tricks up its sleeve here.
Firstly, the engine is smooth.
Secondly, the Yamaha engineers have done a superb job with noise insulation.
Noise Rating
The muffler design is one of the best from the brand.
Note – when we opened up the back panel, it was lined with insulating materials.
A big thumbs up from the TopNotch team for an excellent job of noise suppression!
It gets even better.
It comes with rubber isolation feet that reduce the overall vibrations even more.
Now Yamaha EF2000is v2 states the noise levels range between 51.5 dBA to 61 dBA at 25% of the rated load.
Next, we tested the noise levels at top output levels and it was close to the 74 dB mark.
But wait – there’s more.
Once you engage the smart throttle, the noise levels drop off a lot.
When your load levels aren’t too high, you can easily use it in National Parks with noise restrictions in place.
Even at peak levels, its performance is quieter than most of the others in this category.
Still, we couldn’t give the generator the best ratings under this metric.
The fact is, some of its competitors like the Wen 56200i delivered a better performance at a higher load.
Our Final Verdict: Yamaha ef2000isv2
Our Final verdict Rating
Conclusion: Yamaha EF2000is v2 Generator
This is it. The complete Yamaha EF2000is v2 review – especially for you.
Time to sum up the main features.
This generator comes from a top brand and its performance was as expected – simply TopNotch.
To be honest, we got a superb all-round performance that ticked every box.
In truth, there were a few products that came up with a higher score than the EF2000is v2. But none of them rounded off the edges so smoothly as this.
We simply couldn’t ignore three factors that boosted its rank.
Reliability, ease-of-use, and excellent features.
This generator is also one of the most versatile ones we tested.
You can use it for RVs, hunting, fishing, or even backyard parties.
The superb performance of the engine is one of its best assets.
It’s efficient, silent, and most importantly – extremely reliable within the load limits.
Also, there are loads of advanced features to boost performance at the same time as giving you complete safety and peace of mind.
It simply outshines the competition through its overall performance.
Given the chance, this generator will be your faithful outdoor power partner for many years.
So it all adds up to this – the EF2000is v2 Yamaha generator is our TopNotch Editors’ Choice.
It deserves no less.
We’ve done the hard work – you have everything you need to know to make the best decision – so we now hand the baton to you to make your choice…
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