Pulsar PGD16iSCO - 1200/1600W Inverter Generator
The Pulsar PGD16iSCO is a quiet, compact and lightweight inverter generator with a rated wattage of 1,200 W and a starting wattage of 1,600 W. (Read full specs)
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Description
The Pulsar PGD16iSCO inverter generator provides super-quiet performance and weighs only 24 pounds, making it perfect for camping trips, outdoor events, the job site, and much more.
Zoom on the Pulsar PGD16iSCO
In a few words, the Pulsar PGD16iSCO is a quiet, compact and lightweight portable inverter generator perfectly suited for:
- Tailgating and campground aficionados with the desire of enjoying power anywhere they go
- Amateur DIY lovers
The subsequent sections will explore in detail its power characteristics, the diverse outlets it provides, its overall portability, and the supplementary features it offers.
Power & Run Time
Running on gasoline, the Pulsar PGD16iSCO operates with a 57 cc (2.1 hp) OHV 4-stroke engine, delivering 120V, with a running wattage of 1,200W and a peak wattage of 1,600W. Moreover, the parallel capability (parallel kit 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 56 dBA (less noisy than a refrigerator), the inverter generator features a conventional pull-start mechanism.
With a full tank, the PGD16iSCO can operate for around 6.5 hours at 50% load (fuel consumption around 0.09 GPH), thanks to its fuel capacity of 0.6 gallon.
Delicate electronics can be plugged in the AC outlets safely, as the PGD16iSCO generates a clean sine wave, reaching a <3% Total Harmonic Distortion (THD).
Outlets
The control panel features 2 AC outlets as follows:
In addition, it provides 2 DC outlets: there's two 5V USB ports (USB-A) enabling convenient charging of devices like mobile phones and tablets.
Portability
The Pulsar PGD16iSCO is distinguished by its enclosed inverter generator design (L17.1 x W9.6 x H15.7 in), providing improved aesthetics and quieter performance compared to traditional, open frame units. The featured design follows the latest trends and is ideal for easy and recreational use.
Since the PGD16iSCO weighs only 24 lbs, it can be labeled as a portable lightweight generator. Moving it around should pose no challenge for a single person, allowing for power availability wherever you go. It can also be carried without effort with a featured handle (molded in the case), further improving its convenience.
Good to know: This unit ranks 7th in our list of the 10 smallest portable generators.
Features
Several light indicators serve to show you when the generator is overloaded, the oil level is too low and the generator is ready.
Considering security aspects, the generator boasts an automatic low oil shut-off and an overload protection (circuit breaker), offering peace of mind throughout operation.
The unit also benefits from Pulsar's CO Sentry carbon monoxide detection. The sensor monitors for the accumulation of poisonous carbon monoxide gas around the generator, and shuts down the engine is increasing levels of CO gas are detected.
Along the basic documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab), useful for starting the generator right away, the Pulsar PGD16iSCO's package also includes these accessories: oil, funnel and tool kit.
Product Video
The Pulsar PGD16iSCO versus other generators
The following charts are provided to give you an idea of how some of the key specs of the Pulsar PGD16iSCO compare to inverter generators of similar power (between 1000 and 2000 W).
- When it comes to weight, the Pulsar PGD16iSCO tips the scales at just 24 pounds, making it one of the lightest inverter generators in the 1000 to 2000 rated wattage range.
- At 56 dBA, this inverter generator's noise rating is in line with the expected average for devices within its type and power category. If you are concerned with noise, check out the Honda EU2200i, which is one of the least noisy generators in its power range, with a noise rating of just 48 dBA.
- The PGD16iSCO provides around 6.5 hours of runtime at a 50% load on a full tank, placing it within the average autonomy range among similar inverter generators. For those prioritizing autonomy, the Westinghouse iGen2200 could be considered, as it offers one of the longest run times among generators with similar power output, reaching around 10 hours.
- Run times are important, yet thanks to their dependence on the fuel capacity, they should be judged along with the fuel consumption of the device. This inverter generator is one of the most fuel-efficient models of the aforementioned output range, as its estimated fuel consumption reaches just 0.09 GPH (gallon per hour) at 50% load.
Price comparison
As you can see from these interactive charts, when compared to other 1000-2000W inverter generators, the Pulsar PGD16iSCO 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 Sentry technology
- Parallel capable
- Inverter
- Lightweight (24 lbs)
- Fuel efficient
- Acceptable noise (56 dBA)
- Decent run time
- No data center
Features and Specifications
| Inverter | Yes |
|---|---|
| Parallel capable | Yes, cable not included |
| RV ready | No |
| Fuel | Gasoline |
| Engine | 57 cc OHV 4-stroke |
| Starting system | Recoil |
| Warranty | 3 years |
| Voltage | AC: 120V 60 Hz, DC: 5V |
|---|---|
| Running watts | 1,200 W |
| Starting watts | 1,600 W |
| Running amps | 10 amps |
| Peak amps | 13.3 amps |
| Run time @50% load | 6.5 h |
| Run time @25% load | Unknown |
| GFCI outlets | No |
|---|---|
| Covered outlets | Yes |
| Automatic Voltage Regulation | Inverter |
| AC outlets | 1x Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R) |
| DC outlets | 2x 5V USB port (USB-A) |
| Data center | No |
| Indicators | Low oil, overload and output ready |
| Fuel tank | 0.6 gal |
| Fuel gauge | No |
| Weight | 24 lbs |
|---|---|
| Approx. dimensions (L x W x H) | 17.1 x 9.6 x 15.7 in |
| Noise (lower limit) | 56 dBA |
| THD | < 3% |
| Compliance | CARB, EPA |
| Security | Low oil and overload protection, CO monitoring |
| Spark arrestor | Yes |
| Neutral | Floating |
| Accessories included | Oil, funnel, and tool kit |
| UPC | 814726028114 |
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 Pulsar
Pulsar is a brand registered under the Pulsar Products inc., based in California, USA. The company offers a decent choice of air compressors, pressure washers and of course, generators – which range from 1,2 kW to 10 kW and include dual fuel and RV-Ready designs. Pulsar has several facilities scattered throughout the US, including two distribution centers – one in California and second in Illinois. However, the production of their products seems to be outsourced overseas, to the continent of Asia.
Warranty Information
The Pulsar PGD16iSCO 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 Pulsar generators, please contact the Pulsar Customer Support: 1-866-591-8921.
Questions & Answers
What can it power?
| Item | Running Watts | Starting Watts | |
|---|---|---|---|
| At home | Refrigerator (energy star) | 192 | 1192 |
| Blender | 400 | 850 | |
| Total | 592 W | 1592 W | |
| For camping | RV refrigerator | 180 | 600 |
| Rice cooker | 650 | 650 | |
| Radio | 100 | 100 | |
| Cell phone charger | 20 | 20 | |
| Total | 950 W | 1370 W | |
| For work | Reciprocating saw | 730 | 960 |
| Bug zapper | 80 | 80 | |
| Total | 810 W | 1040 W |
Couldn't find the right answer for you? Ask your own question.



