Sportsman GEN3500DFi - 3000/3500W Dual Fuel Inverter Generator
The Sportsman GEN3500DFi is a compact dual fuel inverter generator with a rated wattage of 3,000 W and a starting wattage of 3,500 W. (Read full specs)
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Description
Zoom on the Sportsman GEN3500DFi
In a few words, the Sportsman GEN3500DFi is a compact portable inverter generator perfectly suited for:
- RV travellers looking for even more independence
- Occasional participants of outdoor events, competitions, concerts and festivals
- Handcrafting enthusiasts who wish to work on-the-go
- Homeowners who want to be sure of their ability to power their fridges, cooking tools, heating and lighting equipment during power failures
- Camping and tailgating hobbyists looking for a portable power source
In the following paragraphs, we shall explore the power characteristics, available outlets, portability, and any additional features of the device.
Power & Run Time
The Sportsman GEN3500DFi
Featuring dual-fuel technology, the Sportsman GEN3500DFi provides 120V, and offers both power and versatility. Running on gasoline, it delivers a running wattage of 3,000W and a starting wattage of 3,500W. When propane-powered, it offers 2,700 running watts and 3,150 starting watts. Furthermore, its parallel capability (parallel kit not included) allows power output to double when connected to another similar or compatible unit, ensuring expanded energy capacity and reliability for various applications.
Enjoying a noise rating of 69 dBA (less noisy than an office), this inverter generator gets running thanks to a classic hand-operated recoil starting mechanism.
Regarding its running time, the GEN3500DFi, with a 3.2 gallons fuel tank, can operate for around 10 hours at 50% load with a full gasoline tank (with fuel consumption estimated at around 0.32 gallons per hour). It also offers around 12 hours (on a 20 lbs tank - propane consumption around 0.39 GPH) of operation when using propane.
The <5% Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) of the GEN3500DFi ensures a clean sine wave output, providing a secure power source for your sensitive electronics through its AC outlets.
Outlets
The control panel includes the following 3 AC outlets:
Furthermore, it showcases 2 DC outlets: there's a 12V 8A receptacle offering a convenient battery charging option and a 5V USB port providing convenient charging capabilities for mobile phones, tablets, and other electronic devices.
This Sportsman generator is RV Ready, thanks to its TT-30R receptacle (TT stands for 'Travel Trailer').
Portability
The Sportsman GEN3500DFi is distinguished by its enclosed inverter generator design (L21.5 x W16.1 x H18.3 in), providing improved aesthetics and quieter performance compared to traditional, open frame units. This modern design aims to provide an ideal power solution to recreational users.
With a dry weight of 83 lbs, the GEN3500DFi is manageable, ensuring it can accompany you wherever you need power. Additionally, the strategically placed double handle enhances grip, making it significantly easy to move the GEN3500DFi across any distance.
Features
The GEN3500DFi's control panel
The device’s light indicators will display if the generator is ready, the generator is on overload and its oil levels are insufficient.
As far as security is concerned, the generator can be used with a peace of mind, as it features an automatic low oil shut-off and an overload protection (circuit breaker).
With the basic documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab), letting you start the generator quickly, the Sportsman GEN3500DFi also comes with several accessories, including: funnel, tool kit, battery charging cables and propane hose.
Product Video
The Sportsman GEN3500DFi versus other generators
The following charts are provided to give you an idea of how some of the key specs of the Sportsman GEN3500DFi compare to inverter generators of similar power (between 2500 and 3500 W).
- Weighing in at 83 lbs, the Sportsman GEN3500DFi fits within the expected weight range for inverters producing 2500 to 3500 rated watts. If weight is a key factor for your needs, the Pulsar PGD40iSCO is noteworthy for being one of the top contenders in this power range, with a dry weight of 46 pounds.
- In comparison to generators with a similar running wattage, this inverter generator's lowest emitted noise of 69 dBA can be considered noisy. If you'd like a less noisy alternative, the Honda EU3000iS is a strong contender. It boasts a noise rating of 50 dBA, placing it among the quietest generators in its power category.
- In terms of run time, the GEN3500DFi surpasses similarly powerful inverters, boasting one of the higher run times at around 10 hours. If concerned with autonomy, one of the products of a comparable power output, which offers the highest run time, is the Generac iQ3600DF, boasting with around 13 hours.
- Though run time is a significant parameter, it's closely tied to the generator's fuel tank size. To get a comprehensive understanding, fuel efficiency must also be taken into account. This inverter generator is not fuel-efficient compared to devices of similar output: its estimated fuel consumption stands at 0.32 GPH at a 50% load. If gasoline efficiency is at the top of your list, you may want to have a look at the Pulsar PGD40iSCO, which has great fuel efficiency, with a gas consumption of only 0.22 gallons per hour.
Price comparison
As you can see from these interactive charts, when compared to other 2500-3500W dual fuel inverter generators, the Sportsman GEN3500DFi 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
- Dual fuel
- Several accessories included
- RV Ready
- Parallel capable
- Inverter
- High run time
- Decent weight (83 lbs)
- No data center
- 1-year warranty
- No electric start
- On the noisy side (69 dBA)
- Low fuel efficiency
Do you own the Sportsman GEN3500DFi and agree (or disagree) with these strengths and weaknesses?
Let us know and write your own review.
Features and Specifications
| Inverter | Yes |
|---|---|
| Parallel capable | Yes, cable not included |
| RV ready | Yes |
| Fuel | Dual Fuel (gasoline/propane) |
| Engine | 212 cc OHV 4-stroke |
| Starting system | Recoil |
| Warranty | 1 year |
| Voltage | AC: 120V 60 Hz, DC: 12V |
| Gasoline | Propane | |
|---|---|---|
| Running watts | 3,000 W | 2,700 W |
| Starting watts | 3,500 W | 3,150 W |
| Running amps | 25 amps | 22.5 amps |
| Peak amps | 29.2 amps | 26.3 amps |
| Run time @50% load | 10 h | 12 h |
| Run time @25% load | Unknown | Unknown |
| GFCI outlets | No |
|---|---|
| Covered outlets | No |
| Automatic Voltage Regulation | Inverter |
| AC outlets |
|
| DC outlets | 1x 12V 8A receptacle 1x 5V USB port |
| Data center | No |
| Indicators | Low oil, overload and output ready |
| Fuel tank | 3.2 gal |
| Fuel gauge | No |
| Weight | 83 lbs |
|---|---|
| Approx. dimensions (L x W x H) | 21.5 x 16.1 x 18.3 in |
| Noise (lower limit) | 69 dBA |
| THD | < 5% |
| Compliance | EPA |
| Security | Low oil and overload protection |
| Spark arrestor | No |
| Accessories included | Funnel, tool kit, propane hose, and battery charging cables |
| UPC | 027077803778 |
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 Sportsman Series
Sportsman Series is a small brand registered under the US based Buffalo corporation. Founded in 1964, the Buffalo Corporation is a small company, which sells tools and home products. Their brands include AmeriHome, Black Bull, Buffalo Tools and Sportsman Series – which offers a selection of generators and several other general products. The brand, and in fact, the corporation itself seemingly outsources all of its production overseas and acts only as a distributor, under its own brands.
Warranty Information
The Sportsman GEN3500DFi is covered under a warranty for up to 1 year. This warranty may be limited and may not cover all parts of the generator.
For more information about the warranty of Sportsman generators, please contact the Buffalo Tools Customer Support: 1-636-532-9888.
Questions & Answers
What can it power?
| Item | Running Watts | Starting Watts | |
|---|---|---|---|
| At home | Refrigerator (energy star) | 192 | 1192 |
| Hair dryer | 1800 | 1900 | |
| Blender | 400 | 850 | |
| Total | 2392 W | 3392 W | |
| For camping | Radiant heater | 1300 | 1300 |
| RV refrigerator | 180 | 600 | |
| Toaster oven | 800 | 800 | |
| Radio | 100 | 100 | |
| Total | 2380 W | 2800 W | |
| For work | Grinder | 1400 | 2500 |
| Reciprocating saw | 730 | 960 | |
| Drain cleaner | 250 | 250 | |
| Total | 2380 W | 3480 W |
Couldn't find the right answer for you? Ask your own question.
User Reviews
Good luck finding parts for this generator, Buffalo corp seems to be no help at all!