ECHO EGi-1200 Spec Review

Description

Zoom on the ECHO EGi-1200

In summary, the ECHO EGi-1200 is a compact and lightweight portable inverter generator especially useful for:

• Camping and tailgating hobbyists looking for a portable power source
• Amateur DIY lovers

The following sections will present you in detail its power characteristics, the different outlets it offers, its overall portability, the extra features it benefits from, and any relevant emission compliance details.

Power & Run Time

The ECHO EGi-1200

The ECHO EGi-1200's core is the 60 cc OHV 4-stroke engine, which runs on gasoline. With an output of 120V, it provides a running wattage of 1000W and a peak wattage of 1200W. Additionally, as the generator is parallel capable (parallel kit not included), it can be linked to a second unit for more power.

At a noise rating of 64 dBA (just slightly more noisy than an office), the inverter generator is started via a simple traditional pull-start mechanism.

With a fuel capacity of 0.69 gallon, the EGi-1200 may run for around 5.2 hours at 50% load with a full tank (fuel consumption around 0.13 GPH).

Delicate electronics can be plugged in an AC outlets safely, as the EGi-1200 generates a clean sine wave, reaching a <3% Total Harmonic Disruption (THD).

Outlets

The control panel features the following 2 AC outlets:

Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R)

Additionally, it features 3 DC outlets: there's a 12V 5A receptacle with which charging your batteries is made easy and two 5V USB ports allowing you to conveniently charge electronics such as mobile phones and tablets.

Portability

As the ECHO EGi-1200 is an inverter generator, its encased design (L16 x W11 x H16 in) offers more aesthetics than a conventional, open frame product. This type of design is the most modern and convenient way to recreationally generate power.

With a weight of only 30 lbs, the EGi-1200 may be viewed as a lightweight and portable generator. A single person should not have any problems moving it around and thus, enjoy power availability on-the-go. Its handle (molded in the case) allows you to carry it easily, further enhancing its convenience.

Good to know: This unit ranks 10^th in our list of the 10 smallest portable generators.

Features

The EGi-1200's control panel

The device’s light indicators will display if the generator is ready, the generator is overloaded and the oil level is too low.

From a security point of view, the generator is equipped with an overload protection (circuit breaker) and an automatic low oil shut-off, giving you a peace of mind during use.

As for its accessories, apart from the previously mentioned features, the ECHO EGi-1200 also comes with the basic documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab), allowing you to start it right away.

Emissions

The ECHO EGi-1200 is EPA-approved and CARB-compliant. Therefore, its sale and purchase are permitted in all of the 50 states, including California.

Moreover, it features a spark arrestor, so it is adequate for use in forested areas.

The ECHO EGi-1200 versus other generators

The following charts are provided to give you an idea of how some of the key specs of the ECHO EGi-1200 compare to generators of similar power (between 500 and 1500 W).

• Regarding its weight, the ECHO EGi-1200 only weighs in at 30 pounds, which means it's one of the lighter generators in the 500-1500 rated wattage range. In terms of weight, one of the champions in their power range is the Sportsman GEN1000i, standing at just 20.3 lbs.
• As this inverter generator can emit noise as low as 64 dBA, it finds itself in the average expected noise for this kind of power. If you’d prefer a less noisy device, one of the most quiet devices, which share the same power range with this one, is the Honda EU1000i, whose lowest noise levels reach just 42 dBA.
• Autonomy-wise, with around 5.2 hours on a full tank at a 50% load, the EGi-1200 is on the low end when compared to other generators of a similar power output. If autonomy is your priority, one of the devices of a similar power output with the highest run time is the Pulsar PG2000, reaching around 12 hours.
• Even though run times are undoubtedly important, they are dependent on the fuel capacity to a large extent. For a more wholesome picture, we must take into consideration the fuel consumption of the generator. As this inverter generator uses an estimated 0.13 GPH (gallon per hour) at a 50% load, it finds itself in the average gasoline consumption range of similar products. If you wish to further improve in the area of fuel efficiency, the Ryobi RYi1000, which boasts with a gas consumption of only 0.08 GPH, may be the right generator for you.

Price comparison

The bottom line

Unlike many websites, we did our best to research each of the specs above. That being said, we are not immune to making the occasional mistake or omission. Should you notice any missing or incorrect values, don't hesitate to suggest improvements so we can address the issue.

About ECHO

ECHO Incorporated was founded in 1972 in Northbrook, IL as the Kioritz Corporation of America. In 1978, the name was changed to its current form. While it is the largest subsidiary of the Yamabiko Corporation of Japan, its US headquarters is located in Lake Zurich, IL, near Chicago. ECHO manufactures most of its products in the US, with parts from both domestic and foreign suppliers. Its wide range of outdoor power products includes portable generators, pressure washers, trimmers, blowers, and chainsaws. The company prides itself on a pro-environmental approach including the three segments of technology, conservation, and sustainability.

Warranty Information

The ECHO EGi-1200 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 ECHO generators, please consult ECHO's warranty policies (opens in a new tab). Alternatively, you can also contact their Customer Support: 1-800-432-ECHO (3246).

Questions & Answers

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