Ryobi RYi2500 - 1850/2500W Inverter Generator
The Ryobi RYi2500 is a 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
Equipped with a 79cc OHV engine, this generator delivers 2500 starting watts and 1850 running watts, making it ideal for electronics, small appliances, traveling essentials and more.
Zoom on the Ryobi RYi2500
To sum up, the Ryobi RYi2500 is a compact and lightweight portable inverter generator tailored for:
- Camping and tailgating buffs looking to enhance their experience
- DIYers who wish to improve their efficiency with tools
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 Ryobi RYi2500 houses a 79 cc OHV 4-stroke engine, which provides 120V, consumes gasoline and delivers a running wattage of 1,850W along with a peak wattage of 2,500W. In addition, the parallel capability (AUN9230TT parallel kit (opens in a new tab) not included) empowers doubling of power output when linked to another similar or compatible unit, ensuring expanded energy capacity and reliability for various applications.
Operating with a noise level of 69 dBA (less noisy than background music), the inverter generator starts up via Ryobi's EasyStart pull-start mechanism (more information below).
Equipped with a 1.2 gallon fuel tank, the RYi2500 ensures continuous operation for around 7.5 hours at 50% load with a full tank (fuel usage approximately 0.16 gallons per hour).
Thanks to its low <3% Total Harmonic Distortion (THD), the RYi2500 produces a clean sine wave output, making it safe for your sensitive electronics when utilizing the AC outlets.
Outlets
The control panel features the following 2 AC outlets:
Portability
Since the Ryobi RYi2500 is an inverter generator, its closed design (L18.5 x W11.5 x H18 in) not only provides an aesthetic advantage but also contributes to reduced noise levels compared to conventional, open frame devices. The design follows the contemporary trends and is perfect for recreationally generating power.
The RYi2500 boasts a weight of merely 50 lbs, solidifying its reputation as a lightweight, easily transportable generator. Designed for easy mobility, one person can move it around without any difficulty, ensuring power on the go. Its handle (molded in the case) makes carrying it a simple task, further enhancing its convenience.
EasyStart Mechanism
The unit benefits from Ryobi’s EasyStart mechanism. This 3-step starting system allows you to easily start your generator. It works in the following way:
- Place the dial on the “COLD START” position
- Pull the recoil until the engine runs
- Let the engine run 15 to 30 seconds and place the dial on the “RUN/RE-START” position
Features
The device’s light indicator will display if the generator is on overload.
As far as security is concerned, the generator can be used with a peace of mind, as it features an overload protection (circuit breaker) and an automatic low oil shut-off.
It also benefits from Ryobi's CO DETECT technology, which is designed to monitor the level of carbon monoxide present during the generator's operation. If the generator is positioned incorrectly and carbon monoxide levels rise to an unsafe level, the generator will automatically shut down.
Alongside the standard documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab) for quick setup, the Ryobi RYi2500 is bundled with additional accessories: oil, tool kit and funnel.
The Ryobi RYi2500 versus other generators
The following charts are provided to give you an idea of how some of the key specs of the Ryobi RYi2500 compare to inverter generators of similar power (between 1500 and 2500 W).
- With a dry weight of 50 lbs, the Ryobi RYi2500 sits comfortably within the expected weight range for inverters generating 1500 to 2500 rated watts. If weight is your top priority, one of the champions in this power category is the Genmax GM2000i, weighing just 34.2 pounds.
- If compared to generators capable of producing a similar running wattage, this inverter generator with a lowest emitted noise of 69 dBA can be considered somewhat noisy. If you value reduced noise levels, the Honda EU2200i could be worth considering. It's one of the quietest generators in its power range, rated at 48 dBA.
- At a 50% load, the RYi2500 offers around 7.5 hours of runtime on a full tank, placing it within the average autonomy range among inverter generators of similar power level. If prolonged run time is essential to your needs, you could consider the Westinghouse iGen2200, which offers one of the highest autonomy among devices with similar power output, lasting 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 more fuel-efficient options in its power range, consuming approximately 0.16 GPH (gallon per hour) at 50% load. If not satisfied with the afore-mentioned fuel consumption, you may wish to check out the Westinghouse iGen2200. With a fuel consumption of as little as 0.11 GPH, it is one of the most efficient generators currently on the market.
Price comparison
As you can see from these interactive charts, when compared to other 1500-2500W inverter generators, the Ryobi RYi2500 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 DETECT technology
- Parallel capable
- Inverter
- Fuel efficient
- Decent weight (50 lbs)
- Decent run time
- No data center
- On the noisy side (69 dBA)
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 |
|---|---|
| Running watts | 1,850 W |
| Starting watts | 2,500 W |
| Running amps | 15.4 amps |
| Peak amps | 20.8 amps |
| Run time @50% load | 7.5 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 | No |
| Data center | No |
| Indicators | Overload |
| Fuel tank | 1.2 gal |
| Fuel gauge | No |
| Weight | 50 lbs |
|---|---|
| Approx. dimensions (L x W x H) | 18.5 x 11.5 x 18 in |
| Noise (lower limit) | 69 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 tool kit |
| UPC | 046396056016 |
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 Ryobi
Founded in 1943, Ryobi Limited is a Japanese based manufacturer that throughout its history mainly focused on electrical and automotive components. However, their quite recent power tool branch has proven to be popular for the quality and reliability of its products, which are nowadays found globally on the shelves of popular retailers. Ryobi products are listed to be produced in various locations globally, mainly US, Germany, Japan and China.
Warranty Information
The Ryobi RYi2500 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 Ryobi generators, please consult Ryobi's warranty policies (opens in a new tab). Alternatively, you can also contact their Customer Support: 1-800-525-2579.
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 | RV AC (11,000 BTU) | 1010 | 1600 |
| RV refrigerator | 180 | 600 | |
| Slow cooker | 270 | 270 | |
| Total | 1460 W | 2050 W | |
| For work | Demolition hammer | 1260 | 1260 |
| Bug zapper | 80 | 80 | |
| Total | 1340 W | 1340 W |
Couldn't find the right answer for you? Ask your own question.





User Reviews
New unit. Runs well but starting was difficult at first. I found that pulling starter rope straight up instead of to side improves starting. Hope it lasts a long time.