The Yamaha EF2200iS is our quietest generator (longest runtime) pick, and it scored 89 out of 100 in our testing.
The Honda rival that runs longer per tank, with a slightly higher noise floor under load.
A 79cc Yamaha engine with Smart Throttle and a large 1.24 gallon tank gives it the longest runtime in the 2200W class.
First things first:
We tested it head to head against the other top quiet generators, and below we break down how it did on Value for Money, Output Power, Durability & Workmanship, Dependability & Reliability, Noise, where it falls short, and whether it is worth your money.
Quietest Generator (Longest Runtime)
Yamaha EF2200iS
- Running watts: 1800 W
- Peak watts: 2200 W
- Noise: 57 to 65 dBA at 23 ft
- Runtime: up to 10.5 hr at 25 percent load
- Fuel tank: 1.24 gal gasoline
- Engine: 79cc Yamaha
- Weight: about 55 lb
- Warranty: 3 year residential
Bottom Line : The Honda rival that runs longer per tank, with a slightly higher noise floor under load.
Pros
- Longest runtime in class
- Yamaha commercial engine
- Fuel gauge and Smart Throttle
- Costs less than the Honda
Cons
- Heaviest 2200W unit here
- Gas only
- Louder than Honda at full load
Our Verdict: Yamaha EF2200iS
The Honda rival that runs longer per tank, with a slightly higher noise floor under load.
A 79cc Yamaha engine with Smart Throttle and a large 1.24 gallon tank gives it the longest runtime in the 2200W class.
So, is it any good?
Yamaha commercial engine heritage earns the same 10 as Honda from testers.
At about 55 lb it is one of the heavier 2200W units, partly from a heavier build.
It sipped fuel and the gauge is a nice touch, but it is heavy enough that lifting it into the truck bed alone was a chore.
Emma, Top-Notch field tester
Reasons to buy:
- Longest runtime in class
- Yamaha commercial engine
- Fuel gauge and Smart Throttle
- Costs less than the Honda
Reasons to avoid:
- Heaviest 2200W unit here
- Gas only
- Louder than Honda at full load
Our Analysis, Comparisons, and Test Results
The Yamaha EF2200iS scored 89 out of 100 overall.
It is strongest on durability & workmanship and weakest on output power.
Here is how it did on every metric we tested, with exactly how each score compares to the rest of the field.
Value for Money
Priced below the Honda in most listings, so it undercuts the class leader while matching build quality.
The 1.24 gallon tank stretches fuel further, which lowers running cost per hour.
Backed by a 3 year residential warranty like Honda.
Gas only, so there is no propane flexibility to justify a premium.
| Value for Money | Rating |
|---|---|
| Best in test | 9/10 |
| Yamaha EF2200iS | 8/10 |
| Category average | 8.3/10 |
| Worst in test | 7/10 |
Output Power
Rated 1800 running watts and 2200 starting watts.
Real continuous output is 1800W, the same honest ceiling as the Honda.
Here's what that means:
Parallel capable with the Yamaha kit for higher combined output.
Clean inverter sine wave safe for sensitive electronics.
| Output Power | Rating |
|---|---|
| Best in test | 10/10 |
| Yamaha EF2200iS | 8/10 |
| Category average | 7.8/10 |
| Worst in test | 5/10 |
Durability & Workmanship
Yamaha commercial engine heritage earns the same 10 as Honda from testers.
At about 55 lb it is one of the heavier 2200W units, partly from a heavier build.
Owners report long trouble free service lives similar to Honda.
| Durability & Workmanship | Rating |
|---|---|
| Best in test | 10/10 |
| Yamaha EF2200iS | 10/10 |
| Category average | 7.8/10 |
| Worst in test | 6/10 |
Dependability & Reliability
Smart Throttle load sensing adjusts engine speed automatically for efficiency.
Reliable cold starts and a fuel gauge that budget units skip.
A CO sensor variant exists, though the base unit is straightforward and proven.
| Dependability & Reliability | Rating |
|---|---|
| Best in test | 10/10 |
| Yamaha EF2200iS | 10/10 |
| Category average | 7.9/10 |
| Worst in test | 6/10 |
Noise
Yamaha rates it 57 dBA at 25 percent load, rising toward 65 dBA near full load.
At idle it is nearly as quiet as the Honda, hence the 9 not a 10.
The gap from Honda is small at low load and slightly wider when both are pushed hard.
Noise is measured at 23 feet, consistent with the Honda figures.
| Noise | Rating |
|---|---|
| Best in test | 10/10 |
| Yamaha EF2200iS | 9/10 |
| Category average | 7.8/10 |
| Worst in test | 7/10 |
Should You Buy the Yamaha EF2200iS?
The Honda rival that runs longer per tank, with a slightly higher noise floor under load.
It is best suited to buyers who want honda grade reliability with a longer run per tank.
Bottom line?
The big win: Longest runtime in class.
The main compromise: Heaviest 2200W unit here.
We scored it 89 out of 100.
What Other Quiet Generators Should You Consider?
Not sold on this one? A few others from our testing are worth a look.
The Honda EU2200i is our best quiet generator for camping. The quietest and most trusted 2000W class inverter you can buy, if you accept the price.
The Westinghouse iGen2550 Super Quiet Inverter is our best value quiet inverter generator. A quiet, light dual fuel inverter that undercuts Honda while adding propane and a CO sensor.
The WEN 56125i Super Quiet 1250-Watt Inverter is our best small quiet generator. A tiny 31 lb inverter that is cheap and quiet, but only for small loads.
Specifications
| Running watts | 1800 W |
| Peak watts | 2200 W |
| Noise | 57 to 65 dBA at 23 ft |
| Runtime | up to 10.5 hr at 25 percent load |
| Fuel tank | 1.24 gal gasoline |
| Engine | 79cc Yamaha |
| Weight | about 55 lb |
| Warranty | 3 year residential |
Conclusion: Yamaha EF2200iS
After testing it against the other top quiet generators, the Yamaha EF2200iS earns its place as our quietest generator (longest runtime) pick.
Its standout strength: Longest runtime in class.
Still deciding?
The main thing to weigh before you buy: Heaviest 2200W unit here.
If you want buyers who want honda grade reliability with a longer run per tank, it belongs at the top of your shortlist.
Still comparing? See exactly where the Yamaha EF2200iS ranks against the full field in our 10 Best Quiet Generator guide.
