What Is the Difference Between an RV Generator and a Portable Generator?

When going on an adventure or needing backup power at home, choosing between an RV generator and a portable one makes the difference. Both can throw a power punch, but their features set them apart. RV generators are like travel friends, fitting easily into your mobile escape. They make sure you always have your road trips lit up. Portable generators are like wanderers. They give you an easy fix whenever your adventures happen, no matter where you go.

We're about to unpack the secret of these powering devices and help you pick the best one for your trip. Are you ready to discover the differences that make these machines unique? Let's rev up the conversation!

RV Generator Types

Built-In Generator

Most RVs have built-in generators installed, often in the big RVs. They use the RV's fuel, and provide a lot of power, usually enough to run many or even all of the appliances in an RV. They're handy and high-performing but can be loud.

Portable Generator

RVers can bring portable generators with them that are self-sufficient units. These generators are smaller and easier to carry than onboard generators but usually give less power. But, they have a peaceful operation. Different fuels, like gasoline, diesel, and propane, fuel them.

Solar Generator

A solar generator isn't a regular RV generator; it's more of a mix of panels, a controlling device, a battery, and an inverter. Solar generators can be a good pick for campers who stay in areas with exposure to the sun or want to depend less on burning fuels. Solar generators are eco-friendly and don't make much noise, but how much power they can give depends on how much sun power is available and the size of their storage batteries.

Inverter Generator

Inverter generators are the providers of stable power. They generate superior power and are safe for delicate devices like laptops and phones. These generators usually use less fuel and are quieter than regular portable generators. However, they also tend to cost more. Travel musicians might use this generator for their fragile sound and recording tools.

Built-In RV Generator vs. Portable Generator

User-Friendliness

If you want something easy to use and gives power quickly, choose the built-in generator in your RV. As long as you have fuel, they're always prepared to operate. On the other hand, you need to move portable generators, put them up, and turn them on. That task can take a long time or be tedious if done often. Also, the RV generator is connected to your vehicle's electrical system. But the portable one needs to be connected every time.

Output Capacity

One good thing about the generators onboard is that you can use them while driving. Sometimes, people use the generator while they are going to power extra air conditioners. Usually, these built-in power makers give more power to help RVers power many appliances. Portable generators might need more power for RV stuff like air conditioners or microwaves.

Muted Operation

The noise level will be different from generator to generator. Both portable and built-in generators have quiet options. People who want a calm option will like the flexibility of small portable generators because you can take your small generator far away from where you stay to lessen noise. Your RV generator, on the other side, is always with you. It sends noise straight into your camper.

Versatile Nature

One good thing about a portable generator is that it's easy to move! You can use it at your house when the power is out or while camping in a tent without an RV or any other time. Instead, the in-built generator in your vehicle is already part of it. It means its only job is to power your RV. So, people with versatile requirements prefer portable ones.

Fuel Consumption

Your RV's built-in generator will use the fuel your RV gets power from, either gas or diesel. It means you'll always have the right sort of fuel-ready when you need it. Your portable generator can work with gas, diesel, or propane. It means keeping a second type of fuel with you.

Cost

If you want a cheap choice, you will find more options in portable generators. These are usually more affordable because they have less power and other possible limits. Of course, a built-in generator inside your RV will be more expensive due to its extra power. Also, it's more costly and complicated to fix a built-in RV generator than your portable one.

What Is the Difference Between an RV Generator and a Portable Generator?

Pros and Cons of Portable Generator

Let's look first at the pros and then cons of portable generators. 

Pros Of Portable Generator

Quiet Operation

Many small generators are made to run quietly. Some generators have noise-canceling features that significantly decrease the amount of sound they make. If you are outside, this thoughtful addition lets you enjoy the calm and quiet of nature but still gives you power.

Portability

Using portable generators is easy because you can move them around without problems. Portability is a clear advantage of portable generators. You can bring them for camping, and they will still give you power needs.

Affordable

Portable generators are usually cheaper. The amount of power might be less than that from standby generators, but these are still the best choices if you only need a small amount of energy. A portable generator can cost from $500 to $3,000.

Cons Of Portable Generator

Limited Power

Because portable generators have less power, you can only use them a little. Most can only run one primary appliance, like a refrigerator, in an emergency. You can only use them to keep expensive and big house machines or a central air conditioner running sometimes.

Require Maintenance

Portable generators need care, and gas tanks must be filled often. The last thing anyone needs when there is no power is a generator that stops because it doesn't have enough fuel.

Emissions and Environmental Impact

Because small fossil fuel generators can send harmful chemicals, picking one that meets the EPA emission rules is essential. Small generators can harm the environment because they release emissions. Some models emit carbon monoxide and other harmful elements.

What Size Generator Do I Need for My RV?

To get the right generator with the right size for your RV, you need to weigh up both physical dimensions and wattage requirements. 

Physical Measurement

Check the size of your RV generator's storage space before you pick one. Make sure it fits right for an uninterrupted connection. Choosing the proper size ensures easy setup. Make sure you check the measurements so that everything fits well. When something does well, it works best. Check your measurements twice before buying a new generator to avoid stress.

Wattage Measurement

Choosing the right RV generator size depends on how much power you need. Begin by counting the amount of wattage your appliances use - fridge, air conditioner, and gadgets, among others. For small setups, a 2000-power generator could be great for you. Bigger beasts? Use 4,000 watts or more to keep the party going. Add a shield for protection - safety is essential. Remember, an extra dash for the power-hungry AC units. If you love tech with many gadgets, remember also to count it. Think about using an inverter generator for stable power usage. The trick? Make it just right - not too big, not too small. Find the right place, and your generator becomes a power provider on RV trips. It gives the power to make your RV just perfect.

Related articles: How Big of a Solar Generator Do I Need for My RV?

What Size Solar Panel Do I Need to Keep RV Battery Charged?

Is There Any Clean Alternative Generator?

Enough about RV and Portable generators? Let's now talk about the safe power that is solar power. BLUETTI's solar generators are changing the way we get power. Getting ready to use a clean and silent energy source? Let's explore what the future holds for power generators - a mix of energy and sustainability. 

BLUETTI AC200P + 3*PV200S | Solar Generator Kit

No matter where life takes you – whether it's unexpected home outages, backyard escapades, worksite hustles, deep in the woods, or hitting the road – meet your dependable off-grid companion: The BLUETTI AC200P has a 2,000Wh capacity. It's your main thing for everything - from mixers and more excellent boxes to radios and video machines. Picture this: blackout chaos? The AC200P efficiently works in your home, significantly when power levels change. It works well to protect voltage swings and provide a consistent energy supply. A Lithium Iron Phosphate battery lasts ten years and over 3,500 times. It rarely wears out. The built-in system for managing battery usage? It's your device's vigilant guardian. Need variety? It has a 12V/25A RV port and wireless chargers. If you are camping, living in a van, and charging up your devices, the AC200P will make your trip an exciting adventure.

Used with 3 200w BLUETTI’s foldable solar panels, which take the BLUETTI AC200P to a higher level, as it uses monocrystalline solar cells that provide outstanding 23.4% sunlight conversion efficiency. These outdoor-ready rugged panels with hETFE coating and IP65 junction box are perfect for you to save money on high quality materials that don't wear out easily even under severity of scratches or water splashes.

BLUETTI AC200MAX + 2*B230 + 3*PV200 | Solar Generator Kit

The BLUETTI AC200MAX is BLUETTI's modular power device. It's your power source for off-grid recharging, filled with 2048Wh LFP cells and a 2,200W pure sine wave inverter. It can have solar input of up to 900 watts and another 500 watts through an adapter. It can charge twice as fast from the sun and a wall outlet at once - it fills quickly in less than two hours! That's more power for your devices on the go. Need more? Two more ports allow BLUETTI B230 or B300 batteries to connect. The addition of batteries raises the total capacity to a giant 8192Wh. RV enthusiasts, rejoice! The AC200MAX has a 30A NEMA TT-30 outlet built in and also includes a 12V, 30A DC socket. Power and flexibility, perfected!

BLUETTI’s foldable solar panels transform the AC200MAX into a solar powerhouse. These panels efficiently convert up to 23.4% of sunlight, and operate well in all weather conditions. With an astonishing 2kWh per day, the monocrystalline cells of these panels with multi-layered ETFE reinforcement make for long lasting efficiency.

BLUETTI EP500 + 3*PV200 | Solar Generator Kit

It is unlocking the colossal battery - BLUETTI EP500. It's your number-one choice for the best party, family tents during camping trips, making stuff in cabins, or giving your house power during outages. It comes with a new 5120Wh LiFePO4 battery pack and a powerful, clean sine wave AC inverter that makes no noise like gasoline generators: no maintenance, petrol, carbon dioxide emissions, and loud tantrums. Add up to 1200W solar power for fast charging or keep the fun going without the onboard battery. With built-in dual computers and internet, EP500's software gets upgraded through your connection. Remember, it's not about being the best; instead, focus on making more improvements!

Final Thoughts

In the generator stand-off, your choice comes down to how you live. Whether a compact generator for on-the-go life that fits better or something that easily meets several power needs will be more helpful, so choose well, whether going off-track or having a small cookout in the backyard. It's not just about how much power and the kind of fuel you use - it is also about using that energy wherever life leads.