Champion 201320 - 3650/4500W Open Frame Inverter Generator
The Champion 201320 is a compact open frame inverter generator with a rated wattage of 3,650 W and a starting wattage of 4,500 W. (Read full specs)
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Description
Zoom on the Champion 201320
In summary, the Champion 201320 is a compact portable inverter generator especially useful for:
- RV travellers wishing to enhance their freedom and nomad lifestyle
- People occasionally participating in sporting competitions, open-air performances and outdoor festivals
- Homeowners in need of an emergency backup power for their essentials
- Camping and tailgating hobbyists looking for a portable power source
In the sections ahead, the power characteristics, availability of various outlets, the portability, and any additional features of the device shall be discussed.
Power & Run Time
The Champion 201320's core is the 224 cc OHV 4-stroke engine, which runs on gasoline. With an output of 120V, it provides a running wattage of 3,650W and a peak wattage of 4,500W. In addition, the device is parallel capable (ParaLink (opens in a new tab) not included) and thus, can be linked to a similar or compatible unit for added power.
Operating at a noise rating of 64 dBA (just slightly more noisy than a normal conversation), this inverter generator starts up with a standard recoil pull-rope starting mechanism.
With a full tank, the 201320 can operate for up to 22 hours (fuel consumption around 0.18 GPH), thanks to its fuel capacity of 4.02 gallons.
With a <3% Total Harmonic Distortion (THD), the 201320 delivers a clean sine wave, essential for safeguarding your delicate electronics when plugged into its AC outlets.
Outlets
The control panel includes the following 3 AC outlets:
In addition, it provides 1 DC outlet: there's a 12V 8A (cigarette lighter style) receptacle with which you may charge your batteries with ease. Since a dual port USB adapter is included with the unit, you will also be able to use the DC receptacle to conveniently charge electronics such as mobile phones and tablets.
Featuring a TT-30R receptacle (TT for 'Travel Trailer'), this Champion generator is RV Ready, designed specifically for use with recreational vehicles.
Portability
At L20.9 x W18.3 x H19.4 in, the standard open frame design of the Champion 201320 delivers stability alongside easy maintenance access to components and good air cooling. The featured design is ideal for the outdoors and all tough environments.
As the 201320's weight is only 78 lbs, it can follow you and your power needs anywhere. Additionally, the open frame design of the generator ensures easy grabbing and shifting for relocation.
You may also want to invest in the official wheel kit (opens in a new tab), which assists in transporting the 201320 more easily.
Features
Designed with a digital Intelligauge data center, the control panel of the 201320 grants you access to crucial data on the lifetime run hours, voltage, power output and frequency, ensuring practical monitoring of its status and activity.
In addition to this info, some light indicators allow you to instantly see if the generator is overloaded and its oil levels are insufficient.
The fuel level of the inverter generator can be determined quickly, easily, and conveniently with the help of its built-in fuel gauge.
Considering security aspects, the generator boasts an overload protection (circuit breaker) and an automatic low oil shut-off, offering peace of mind throughout operation.
The unit also benefits from the CO Shield™ technology, which monitors accumulation of poisonous carbon monoxide (CO) gas produced by the engine's exhaust when the generator is running. If CO Shield™ detects elevated levels of CO gas, it automatically shuts off the engine and illuminates a red LED.
While the standard documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab), helpful for starting the device promptly, come with the Champion 201320, the following accessories are also included: funnel, dual port USB adapter and oil.
Product Video
The Champion 201320 versus other generators
The following charts are provided to give you an idea of how some of the key specs of the Champion 201320 compare to inverter generators of similar power (between 3500 and 4500 W).
- As for its weight, the Champion 201320 weighs only 78 pounds, making it one of the lighter inverter generators in the 3500-4500 rated wattage category. If weight is an important consideration for you, the WEN 56432iX stands out as one of the top contenders in this power category, with a dry weight of 52.9 pounds.
- Among the generators of a comparable running wattage, this inverter generator with a lowest noise of 64 dBA can be judged as noisy. If you wish to prioritize minimal noise, the Westinghouse iGen5000DF stands out as one of the quietest options among generators of similar power, with a rating of 52 dBA.
- As the 201320 features an autonomy of up to 22 hours at 25% load, it has one of the highest run times in comparison to the other inverter generators of its power range.
- While the run time is an important parameter, it is dependent on the fuel tank's capacity and thus, doesn't say much on its own unless we consider fuel consumption as well. Among generators of similar power, this inverter generator stands out with a better fuel efficiency than most, with consumption rates around 0.18 GPH (gallon per hour) at 25% load. To prioritize fuel savings, we advise considering the Champion 201319, which stands out for its gasoline efficiency, consuming just 0.16 gallons per hour.
Price comparison
As you can see from these interactive charts, when compared to other 3500-4500W inverter generators, the Champion 201320 is on the cheap side of the price range.
It can therefore be a really good buy if you're looking to acquire a budget generator.
The bottom line
- Inexpensive
- CO Shield™ technology
- RV Ready
- Parallel capable
- Inverter
- Lightweight for its kind (78 lbs)
- High run time
- Fuel efficient
- No electric start
- On the noisy side (64 dBA)
Features and Specifications
| Inverter | Yes |
|---|---|
| Parallel capable | Yes, cable not included |
| RV ready | Yes |
| Fuel | Gasoline |
| Engine | 224 cc OHV 4-stroke |
| Starting system | Recoil |
| Warranty | 3 years |
| Voltage | AC: 120V 60 Hz, DC: 12V |
|---|---|
| Running watts | 3,650 W |
| Starting watts | 4,500 W |
| Running amps | 30.4 amps |
| Peak amps | 37.5 amps |
| Run time @50% load | Unknown |
| Run time @25% load | 22 h |
| GFCI outlets | No |
|---|---|
| Covered outlets | Yes |
| Automatic Voltage Regulation | Inverter |
| AC outlets |
|
| DC outlets | 1x 12V 8A (cigarette lighter style) |
| Data center | Power output, lifetime run hours, voltage and frequency |
| Indicators | Low oil and overload |
| Fuel tank | Steel, 4.02 gal |
| Fuel gauge | Yes |
| Weight | 78 lbs |
|---|---|
| Approx. dimensions (L x W x H) | 20.9 x 18.3 x 19.4 in |
| Noise (lower limit) | 64 dBA |
| THD | < 3% |
| Compliance | EPA, ANSI/PGMA G300-2023 |
| Security | Low oil and overload protection, CO monitoring |
| Spark arrestor | Yes |
| Neutral | Floating |
| Accessories included | Oil, funnel, and dual port USB adapter |
| UPC | 817198027036 |
We've taken extra care to research and verify each of the specifications above. That said, occasional mistakes or omissions are still possible. If you spot any missing or inaccurate information, feel free to suggest a correction so we can address it.
About Champion Power Equipment
Founded in 2003, the Champion Power Equipment is a US based power equipment manufacturer. The relatively small company has made a name for itself both in the portable generator industry, but also the power equipment sector in general, with a particular focus on heavy duty equipment, such as log cutters, snow blowers, chipper shredders, etc. All of their products are engineered in the US. However, the company does not provide information on the origin of their components.
Warranty Information
The Champion 201320 is covered under a warranty for up to 3 years. This warranty may be limited and may not cover all parts of the generator.
For more information about the warranty of Champion generators, please consult Champion's warranty policies (opens in a new tab). Alternatively, you can also contact their Customer Support: 1-877-338-0999.
Questions & Answers
What can it power?
| Item | Running Watts | Starting Watts | |
|---|---|---|---|
| At home | Refrigerator (energy star) | 192 | 1192 |
| Hair dryer | 1800 | 1900 | |
| Washing machine | 900 | 1650 | |
| Cell phone charger | 20 | 20 | |
| Total | 2912 W | 3912 W | |
| For camping | Radiant heater | 1300 | 1300 |
| RV refrigerator | 180 | 600 | |
| RV AC (11,000 BTU) | 1010 | 1600 | |
| Blender | 400 | 850 | |
| Cell phone charger | 20 | 20 | |
| Total | 2910 W | 3500 W | |
| For work | Grinder | 1400 | 2500 |
| Demolition hammer | 1260 | 1260 | |
| Drain cleaner | 250 | 250 | |
| Total | 2910 W | 4010 W |
Couldn't find the right answer for you? Ask your own question.





User Reviews
For the price I don’t think you can do much better. Mine started first pull and performs as described. It’s not too heavy, around 75#. A wheel kit is easy to install should you have to move it around much. Fairly quiet but better on grass or foam rubber. Will run almost a day on a tank of fuel if the load isn’t too high. I ran a freezer, refrigerator, fan and lighting at barely above idle (other than appliance start up surge). Nice to have a fuel gauge and sealed control panel in case it starts raining. Small oil capacity is a bit concerning, but I suppose as long as it’s kept clean and up to level, it should be ok. I recommend running some Seafoam mixed in with the gasoline through the carb and then draining the carb / running it out of fuel before storage. 5 stars!!
It has been a good generator for me, just didn’t last long enough. I use it as a back up to my solar system so it may run a week straight depending on weather. Easy to change oil but needs a bigger oil capacity in my opinion.