Further down the page, you'll find some explanations regarding the key similarities and differences between the Generac iQ3500 and the Generac GP3600.
But before checking out explanations regarding their power, portability, and features, here's a table that summarizes the main pros of each of these 2 generators:
| Generac iQ3500 | Generac GP3600 |
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As the iQ3500 and the GP3600 are both Generac generators, they benefit from the same level of quality and attention to detail.
Power Comparison
The following charts are provided to show you at a glance how the main specs of the Generac iQ3500 compare to the Generac GP3600.
- Power: With a running wattage of 3,600 W, the Generac GP3600 will allow to power more appliances and tools than the 3,000 running watts of the Generac iQ3500. Moreover, compared to the 3,500 starting watts of the iQ3500, the GP3600 and its starting wattage of 4,500 W will give more power to start the appliances which require an additional boost to get their motor running.
- Runtime: When running at a 50% load, the GP3600 enjoys a higher approximate runtime on a full tank than the iQ3500. It can deliver power for around 9.3 hours, whereas the iQ3500 will be able to power your appliances for around 8.9 hours.
- Fuel Efficiency: With a gasoline consumption at 50% load of 0.4 GPH (gallon per hour), the GP3600 is less fuel efficient than the Generac iQ3500 with its 0.29 GPH. The latter will therefore be more economic to run than the former. Inverter generators like the Generac iQ3500 are usually much more fuel efficient and quiet.
- THD: The Generac iQ3500 with its low THD (<3%) is the only of these 2 generators that allows you to safely power your sensitive electronic devices (the Generac GP3600 has a THD <25%, which is too high for electronic products).
Portability Comparison
- Bulkiness: With dimensions of L23.7" x W18" x H21.7", the Generac iQ3500 offers a much more compact experience of power generation than the Generac GP3600 and its L24" x W22.5" x H21.3".
- Weight: With a weight of 105 lbs, the GP3600 is slightly less heavy than the iQ3500 (which weighs 109.1 lbs).
- Portability: As the GP3600 benefits from a wheel kit, it is easier to move it once on the ground than the iQ3500, because the latter doesn't have one. The iQ3500 has a double handle and the GP3600 a folding handle, to help you better manipulate them.
Feature Comparison
- Starting System: These two devices can both be reliably started thanks to a conventional pull-start mechanism. However, the Generac iQ3500 also benefits from a convenient electric starter.
- Outlets: With a total of 5 AC outlets, the GP3600 offers more AC receptacles than the iQ3500, which has 3 AC outlets. None of them feature GFCI outlets. The latter also offers a DC output. In addition, it is worth noting that they both only produce 120V. For more detailed information regarding all their respective receptacles, refer to the iQ3500's and the GP3600's product pages.
- Data Center & Fuel Gauge: Each of these 2 portable generators is equipped with a data center allowing you to conveniently monitor some aspects of the power output. Besides that, these 2 products are equipped with a fuel gauge allowing to see their fuel level at a glance. For the iQ3500, this fuel gauge is digital and part of the data center.
- Technology: The Generac iQ3500 benefits from a welcomed additional security feature: its COsense® technology monitors carbon monoxide and automatically shuts off the generator if the ambient levels become unsafe.
TL;DR
| Generac iQ3500 | Generac GP3600 |
|---|---|
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Show all offers | Show all offers |
Thank you for this comparison, I was also wondering why is the iq3500 at such a higher price point?? I cannot see anything really other than the shape of the product. We want one for basic fridge and deep freezer in case of power outage. Cannot see what the reason for the $500ish dollar difference would be. Would love your opinion on why.
The iQ3500 is an inverter generator, which is a different technology than the one used in the GP3600. It provides clean power, is less bulky, more fuel efficient, and even if Generac does not provide noise ratings, it will also be much more quiet. In your case, the GP3600 could be enough. You may want to read our article on the differences between inverter generators and conventional generators.