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WEN 56203i - 1700/2000W Inverter Generator

The WEN 56203i is a quiet, compact and lightweight inverter generator with a rated wattage of 1,700 W and a starting wattage of 2,000 W. (Read full specs)

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Description

Remember when you had clean and quiet portable power? The WEN 2,000-Watt Inverter Generator provides clean energy, free of voltage spikes and drops, without all the noise of a regular generator. Produce up to 2000 surge watts and 1700 rated watts of power. Our 78cc 4-stroke OHV engine operates at an extremely quiet 51 decibels at quarter load, quieter than a window air conditioner or the average conversation. This limits its invasiveness while camping, hunting, tailgating, and restoring backup power. (source: WEN (opens in a new tab))

Zoom on the WEN 56203i

In short, the WEN 56203i is a quiet, compact and lightweight portable inverter generator adequately designed for:

  • Camping and tailgating buffs looking to enhance their experience
  • DIYers who wish to improve their efficiency with tools

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

The WEN 56203i in use

The WEN 56203i

Featuring a 79 cc OHV 4-stroke engine, the WEN 56203i operates using gasoline, providing 120V, with a running wattage of 1,700W and a starting wattage of 2,000W. In addition, the parallel capability (WEN Parallel Connection 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.

Presented in our list of the 10 quietest portable generators for its low noise rating of 51 dBA (just slightly more noisy than a refrigerator), the inverter generator features a classic hand-operated recoil starting mechanism.

Featuring a 1 gallon fuel tank, the 56203i can provide power for up to 10.8 hours on a full tank (with fuel consumption averaging 0.09 gallons per hour).

The 56203i generates a clean sine wave: providing <1.2% Total Harmonic Distortion (THD), delicate electronics can be plugged in its AC outlets safely.

Outlets

The control panel includes the following 2 AC outlets:

Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R)

Additionally, it offers 3 DC outlets: there's a 12V 8A (cigarette lighter style) receptacle with which you may charge your batteries with ease and two 5V USB ports perfect for conveniently charging mobile phones, tablets, and other electronic devices.

Portability

Thanks to its closed inverter generator design (L17.3 x W11.5 x H17.7 in), the WEN 56203i not only offers superior aesthetics but also operates with reduced noise levels compared to a typical, open frame generator. This type of design is the most modern and convenient way to recreationally generate power.

With a weight of only 39 lbs, the 56203i is deisgned to be a lightweight and easily portable generator. The generator can be moved with ease by only one person and so it can be enjoyed on-the-go. This convenience is further enhanced by its handle (molded in the case), which allows for easy carrying.

Features

Panel of the WEN 56203i

The 56203i's control panel

The generator's light indicators provide visual feedback when its oil levels are insufficient, the generator is on overload and the generator is ready.

The inverter generator includes a built-in fuel gauge, a quick, easy and convenient method of checking the device’s gas level.

The fuel shutoff feature turns off the flow of fuel, allowing for the 56203i to use up the remaining fuel from the carburetor before automatically shutting down. This helps fight the build-up and blockages caused by stagnant fuel inside the carburetor, minimizing maintenance while prolonging the unit’s lifespan.

As for its security measures, the device features a low fuel automatic shutdown, an overload protection (circuit breaker) and an automatic low oil shut-off, letting you use it with a peace of mind.

While the standard documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab), helpful for starting the device promptly, come with the WEN 56203i, the following accessories are also included: funnel and tool kit. An official storage cover is also available, as a separate purchase.

Product Videos

The WEN 56203i versus other generators

The following charts are provided to give you an idea of how some of the key specs of the WEN 56203i compare to inverter generators of similar power (between 1500 and 2500 W).

  • Weight-wise, the WEN 56203i has only 39 lbs, which renders it one of the lighter inverter generators which produce 1500 to 2500 rated watts. Regarding dry weight, one of the champions in the same power range is the Genmax GM2000i, with a dry weight of only 34.2 lbs.
  • Since this inverter generator is rated for a lowest possible noise of 51 dBA, it can be considered as one of the more quiet of the products generating similar power. If noise level is one your key decisive factors, you may find the Honda EU2200i appealing. It's rated at 48 dBA, making it one of the quietest generators in its power range.
  • Among its inverters with similar power, the 56203i offers one of the higher run times, running for up to 10.8 hours at 25% load. If you consider autonomy on a single full tank as one of the deciding factors, one of the generators in the same power range that offers the highest run time is the DuroMax XP2300iH, with up to 13 hours.
  • The run time is important, but also hugely depends on the capacity of the fuel tank and doesn't mean much if we don't talk about fuel consumption as well. This inverter generator is one of the more fuel-efficient options in its power range, consuming approximately 0.09 GPH (gallon per hour) at 25% load. If you wish to acquire one of the most gasoline efficient products of this power range, the Westinghouse iGen2800c, with a fuel consumption of 0.08 GPH could be in your good books.

The bottom line

STRENGTHS:
  • Several accessories included
  • Parallel capable
  • Inverter
  • Lightweight (39 lbs)
  • Quiet for its power (51 dBA)
  • High run time
  • Fuel efficient
WEAKNESSES:
  • No data center

Do you own the WEN 56203i and agree (or disagree) with these strengths and weaknesses?

Let us know and write your own review.

Features and Specifications

General
InverterYes
Parallel capableYes, cable not included
RV readyNo
FuelGasoline
Engine79 cc OHV 4-stroke
Starting systemRecoil
Warranty2 years
Power
VoltageAC: 120V 60 Hz, DC: 12V
Running watts1,700 W
Starting watts2,000 W
Running amps14.2 amps
Peak amps16.7 amps
Run time @50% load7 h
Run time @25% load10.8 h
Features
GFCI outletsNo
Covered outletsNo
Automatic Voltage RegulationInverter
AC outlets1x Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R)
DC outlets1x 12V 8A (cigarette lighter style)
2x 5V USB port
Data centerNo
IndicatorsLow oil, overload and output ready
Fuel tank1 gal
Fuel gaugeYes
Misc
Weight39 lbs
Approx. dimensions (L x W x H)17.3 x 11.5 x 17.7 in
Noise (lower limit)51 dBA
THD< 1.2%
ComplianceCARB, EPA
SecurityLow oil, overload and low fuel protection
Spark arrestorYes
Accessories includedFunnel and tool kit
UPC044459562047

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.

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About WEN

WEN Products, founded by Nick Anton in 1951, is an American power tool manufacturer and distributor, which claims to have a part in the development of modern chainsaw, soldering devices and wet sharpeners, through its research in random orbital technology. The Illinois based company expanded its distribution network to include various power tools, such as presses, drills and of course, power generators. As a distributor, WEN’s portfolio largely consists of branded products of different manufacturers, imported from Asia.

Warranty Information

The WEN 56203i is covered under a warranty for up to 2 years. This warranty may be limited and may not cover all parts of the generator.
For more information about the warranty of WEN generators, please consult WEN's warranty policies (opens in a new tab). Alternatively, you can also contact their Customer Support: 1-847-429-9263.

Questions & Answers

What can it power?
Examples of items that can be simultaneously powered.
The examples below are based on a maximum load of 80% and estimated wattages. For a more accurate estimation, use our generator sizer.
ItemRunning WattsStarting Watts
At homeRefrigerator (energy star)1921192
Toaster oven800800
Total992 W1992 W
For campingRadiant heater13001300
Set of 5 LED light bulbs5555
Total1355 W1355 W
For workDemolition hammer12601260
Bug zapper8080
Total1340 W1340 W
What oil is recommended? (Asked September 02, 2022)

Between 0°F and 40 °F, SAE 10W-30 is recommended. Over 40°F, SAE 30W should be used. Alternatively, for general, all-temperature use, you can use synthetic SAE 5W-30.

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