Champion 201490 - 1850/2500W Inverter Generator
The Champion 201490 is a quiet, compact and lightweight inverter generator with a rated wattage of 1,850 W and a starting wattage of 2,500 W. (Read full specs)
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Description
Zoom on the Champion 201490
In summary, the Champion 201490 is a quiet, compact and lightweight portable inverter generator especially useful for:
- Camping and tailgating buffs looking to enhance their experience
- Handcrafting enthusiasts who wish to work on-the-go
The following sections will present you in detail its power characteristics, the different outlets it offers, its overall portability, and the extra features it benefits from.
Power & Run Time
Featuring a 79 cc OHV 4-stroke engine, the Champion 201490 operates using gasoline, providing 120V, with a running wattage of 1,850W and a starting wattage of 2,500W. Moreover, the parallel capability (ParaLink (opens in a new tab) not included) enables power output to double when paired with another similar or compatible unit, providing increased energy capacity and versatility for a wide range of needs.
With a noise rating of 53 dBA (just slightly more noisy than a quiet suburb), the inverter generator's ignition is facilitated by a simple traditional pull-start mechanism. Champion’s EZ Start Dial lets you intuitively start the engine with easy access to all the controls you need.
The fuel capacity of 1.05 gallon allows the 201490 to operate for up to 11.5 hours with a full tank (fuel consumption around 0.09 GPH).
The <3% Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) of the 201490 ensures a clean sine wave output, providing a secure power source for your sensitive electronics through its AC outlets.
Outlets
The control panel features the following 2 AC outlets:
Moreover, it presents 1 DC outlet: there's a 12V 8A (cigarette lighter style) receptacle allowing you to easily charge your batteries. With the unit, you will also find a dual port USB adapter, allowing for the convenient charging of electronics like mobile phones and tablets using the DC receptacle.
Portability
Since the Champion 201490 is an inverter generator, its closed design (L17.3 x W11.5 x H17.7 in) not only provides an aesthetic advantage but also contributes to reduced noise levels compared to conventional, open frame devices. The generator has a contemporary design, convenient for recreationally generating power.
The 201490's weight, at just 37.7 lbs, makes it an ideal choice for those seeking a lightweight and portable generator. Thanks to its lightweight design, one person can easily move it around, ensuring power availability wherever you travel. Its handle (molded in the case) allows you to carry it easily, further enhancing its convenience.
Features
To help you monitor the 201490's status and activity, its control panel is equipped with a digital Intelligauge data center, giving you information on the power output, voltage, frequency and lifetime run hours.
In addition to this info, a light indicator on the device will signal if its oil levels are insufficient.
From a security standpoint, the product offers an automatic low oil shut-off and an overload protection (circuit breaker), allowing you to use it with a peace of mind.
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.
In addition to the traditional documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab) to help you get started promptly, the Champion 201490 also includes several accessories: oil, dual port USB adapter and funnel.
Product Video
The Champion 201490 versus other generators
The following charts are provided to give you an idea of how some of the key specs of the Champion 201490 compare to inverter generators of similar power (between 1500 and 2500 W).
- As for its weight, the Champion 201490 weighs only 37.7 pounds, making it one of the lighter inverter generators in the 1500-2500 rated wattage category. Weight-conscious users may find the Genmax GM2000i appealing, as it is one of the top contenders in this power range, weighing just 34.2 pounds.
- With noise levels starting from 53 dBA rating, this inverter generator stands out as one of the quieter options among products of similar type and power. If noise emissions are one of your priorities, you may be interested in the Honda EU2200i, one of the least noisy generators similarly powerful as this one, rated for 48 dBA.
- At 25% load, the 201490 boasts a higher run time than most similarly powerful inverters, reaching up to 11.5 hours. If run time is one of your main concerns, the DuroMax XP2300iH could be worth looking at. It boasts one of the highest run times among units of comparable power, lasting up to 13 hours.
- Autonomy holds its importance, however, it is largely dependent on the generator’s fuel capacity and so, it is nonsensible to discuss it without mentioning fuel efficiency as well. Among generators of similar power, this inverter generator stands out with a better fuel efficiency than most, with consumption rates around 0.09 GPH (gallon per hour) at 25% load. If fuel consumption is your top priority, we suggest to check out the Westinghouse iGen2800c, which has a fuel consumption of only 0.08 GPH and thus, is one of the most efficient devices in our database.
Price comparison
As you can see from these interactive charts, when compared to other 1500-2500W inverter generators, the Champion 201490 is on the average side of the price range.
Therefore, this generator nicely fits in the expected budget for this kind of product.
The bottom line
- In the expected price range
- CO Shield™ technology
- Parallel capable
- Inverter
- Lightweight (37.7 lbs)
- Quiet for its power (53 dBA)
- High run time
- Fuel efficient
The Champion 201490 doesn't have any notably low specs.
Features and Specifications
| Inverter | Yes |
|---|---|
| Parallel capable | Yes, cable not included |
| RV ready | No |
| Fuel | Gasoline |
| Engine | 79 cc OHV 4-stroke |
| Starting system | Recoil |
| Warranty | 3 years |
| Voltage | AC: 120V 60 Hz, DC: 12V |
|---|---|
| Running watts | 1,850 W |
| Starting watts | 2,500 W |
| Running amps | 15.4 amps |
| Peak amps | 20.8 amps |
| Run time @50% load | Unknown |
| Run time @25% load | 11.5 h |
| GFCI outlets | No |
|---|---|
| Covered outlets | Yes |
| Automatic Voltage Regulation | Inverter |
| AC outlets | 1x Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R) |
| DC outlets | 1x 12V 8A (cigarette lighter style) |
| Data center | Power output, lifetime run hours, voltage and frequency |
| Indicators | Low oil |
| Fuel tank | Plastic, 1.05 gal |
| Fuel gauge | No |
| Weight | 37.7 lbs |
|---|---|
| Approx. dimensions (L x W x H) | 17.3 x 11.5 x 17.7 in |
| Noise (lower limit) | 53 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 |
| Country of origin | China |
| Other model numbers | 201153 |
| UPC | 817198028347 |
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 201490 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 |
| Clothes iron | 1270 | 1270 | |
| Total | 1462 W | 2462 W | |
| For camping | Radiant heater | 1300 | 1300 |
| Game console | 150 | 150 | |
| Cell phone charger | 20 | 20 | |
| Total | 1470 W | 1470 W | |
| For work | Demolition hammer | 1260 | 1260 |
| Bug zapper | 80 | 80 | |
| Total | 1340 W | 1340 W |
How long does starting watts of 2500 last on the Champion 2500 watt dual fuel? (Asked April 04, 2025)
Starting watts are only available for a few seconds.
Couldn't find the right answer for you? Ask your own question.




