Narrowed down to two - which Champion generator would you choose

[Padua2]

I am having a hard time deciding between these Champion generators. The major diff that I can see is that the 3400 watt unit is just one unit, vs two stackables. Also the weight is more on the 3400 watt unit, but on the other hand, for the 2000 watts units, I would have to transport two units, plus also add the expense of the parallel kit, which increases cost even more. Here they are below:

1) Champion Power Equipment 100233 3400W Inverter Generator tota cost: $800 - Weight: 78lbs
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0...WL2K1T36&psc=1
vs
2) Champion 2000-Watt Stackable Portable Inverter Generator $495 each, x2 plus parallel kit @ $60, the total cost comes to $1,050, Weight each is 48 lbs
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0...KIKX0DER&psc=1

Which one would you choose? Thanks for your input.
Cheers!

[dbledan]

I have the dual fuel version of the first one so that is the direction I went. I love it just hate lifting it.

If I were to do it again I would get two of these with a parallel kit.
https://www.championpowerequipment.c...ter-generator/

I like flexability on propane...no rejetting at altitude and you can run a LOT longer on a 20lb or 30lb tank than having to refill gas every few hours. They Didn't offer the dual fuel when I bought mine or I would have done that. These are lighter than mine and I could only bring one on many trips. For now I bring my yamaha 2000w for trips without the ac.

If you don't care about the dual fuel then I would suggest two of your second option and a parallel kit as the specs are pretty close to the same when I compared them. Know that you will have to unstack them when refueling or just dont stack them. If only getting one then don't plan to run your AC without a micro air and even then you may be pushing it as that is all you will run.

[McRabbet]

I have the Dual Fuel Champion 100263 3400 watt Inverter and while it is heavy at about 90 pounds, it starts and runs flawlessly on either gas or propane. Less than 60 dB noise level. Runs my A/C and furnace and microwave + low voltage stuff, too. I keep it in the back of my Tundra when possible and power cord reaches trailer connector okay from there. Only downside is the 90 lb weight.

[HONDAMAN174]

If you will not be needing a/c every trip, get the 2 smaller units. That’s what we do- take one unit unless I feel we may need a/c. Your back will thank you.

[Boomerweps]

IF the weight spec is correct on the 3400, I'd get that as long as you can lift it. I have a contractor (noisy) version of the Champion 3500 for home use. At 105# and with the noise level, I ain't takin' it campin' no how! I've lifted that genny on and off my back porch a couple times, no it's chained there semi-permanent.
I went the two small (2000watt) inverter generator route for my TT because I got one for a bargain and the other on a decent sale. Mismatched brands but still plan on paralleling them for AC.
My SIL uses a Predator 3500 inverter generator (100-110# IIRC) camping and when not using the AC, allows friends to share the power at primitive sites.

[Lins]

I love our 3400 champion, but yes it is heavy. I try not to fill the fuel tank all the way unless I know I'll use most of it up and that helps. I haven't used two in parallel so i can't (shouldn't?) comment on that. If I couldn't lift it in and out of the back of our 2500, or if the wife wasn't around sometimes to help (we're both healthy and in decent shape) I would go with 2 smaller ones.

[NJKris]

I got my Champion parallel kit for 38 bucks. Shop around for that one.

[TitanMike]

I think the answer is dependent on your needs.

If you camp in areas where A/C is essential, being used for hours and hours per day, I'd go with the 3400 watt unit.

If you rarely camp in areas where A/C is essential then go with the 2Kw sized units. You now have the option of wrangling a smaller generator for those no-AC trips. It'll easily handle battery charging needs as well as running a microwave. It may or may not run an A/C unit but that's best done with either the 3400 watt unit or stacked/paired 2kw units.

I have the 3500W dual fuel unit and as far as weight, let's just say I can handle it just fine at over 77 years of age. I just have to "lift wisely". Most of the time the generator sits on my rear bumper platform. Other times in pickup bed.

[5picker]

You asked which we'd choose and not why, so my answer is the first one.

[Jay2504]

I’d go with the 3400. Use a ramp to get it in the truck if lifting is a problem. Jay

[PatrickY]

The OP didn't ask, but I will - "Which one would you pick - and WHY?"

Can I also add a wrinkle?

I've been going back and forth on this for a while now, still haven't decided (no need to run air conditioner yet).

I already have an olderish (6 years?) Generac 2000 (2,200 start, 2,000 running).

I can't afford the red ones, or even the blue ones, so from everything else I've read Champion is the next best.

My Generac is not "stackable" - if it was, my decision would be simple, just buy another one to run parallel.

So my choice is between on big one to run the a/c and the Generac for battery charging, low watt small electronics, etc., or buy two small ones and maybe sell the little one I have …

So 5picker - as far as the OP's post, "why"? And if you don't mind, what would you do in my situation?