WEN DF280iX - 2250/2800W Dual Fuel Inverter Generator

The WEN DF280iX is a compact and lightweight dual fuel inverter generator with a rated wattage of 2,250 W and a starting wattage of 2,800 W. (Read full specs)

• Rated 10 ouf of 10 (1 user review)
• Write a review

Compare ShortlistShortlistedRemoved from shortlist 42

❮ ❯

• 56280iX

  Gas

• DF280iX

  Dual fuel

Zoom on the WEN DF280iX

In summary, the WEN DF280iX is a compact and lightweight portable inverter generator especially useful for:

• Camping and tailgating hobbyists looking for a portable power source
• Handcrafting enthusiasts who wish to work on-the-go

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

Power & Run Time

The WEN DF280iX, equipped with dual-fuel technology and delivering 120V, ensures both power and versatility. Running on gasoline, it delivers a running wattage of 2,250W and a starting wattage of 2,800W. On propane, it provides 2,000 running watts and 2,800 starting watts. Moreover, since it is parallel capable (parallel kit not included), its power may be doubled if linked to a second compatible unit.

Enjoying a noise rating of 60 dBA (just as noisy as an office), this inverter generator gets running thanks to a standard recoil pull-rope starting mechanism.

In terms of running time, the DF280iX, equipped with a 1.58 gallon fuel tank, is capable of running continuously for around 9 hours at 50% load on a full gasoline tank (with fuel consumption estimated at around 0.18 gallons per hour). When utilizing propane, it provides around 13.9 hours (on a 20 lbs tank - propane consumption around 0.34 GPH) of operation.

Sensitive electronics can be safely plugged in the AC outlets, as the DF280iX produces a clean sine wave, with a <1.2% Total Harmonic Distortion (THD).

Outlets

The control panel features the following 2 AC outlets:

Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R)

Furthermore, it has 3 DC outlets: there's a 12V 8A (cigarette lighter style) receptacle providing easy battery charging capabilities and two 5V USB ports (USB-A) designed for hassle-free charging of various electronic devices such as smartphones and tablets, ensuring uninterrupted usage.

Portability

With an inverter generator design, the WEN DF280iX features a closed construction (L19.7 x W11.6 x H18.7 in), enhancing aesthetics and ensuring reduced noise levels, offering a distinct advantage over standard, open frame generators. This type of design is the most modern and convenient way to recreationally generate power.

With its weight totaling only 45.2 lbs, the DF280iX stands out as a lightweight generator. The product’s power can be enjoyed on-the-go, as it can be moved by a single person without trouble. This convenience is further enhanced by its handle (molded in the case), which allows for easy carrying.

Features

The DF280iX's control panel

Several light indicators serve to show you when the generator is ready, the generator is overloaded and the oil level is too low.

Featuring a built-in fuel gauge, the inverter generator offers quick, convenient, and easy gas level checks at a glance.

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

The unit also benefits from WEN's CO Watchdog carbon monoxide detection. This system measures the accumulation of poisonous CO gas while the generator is running. If the level of CO gas gets too high, the CO Watchdog system will automatically shut down the generator.

While the standard documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab), helpful for starting the device promptly, come with the WEN DF280iX, the following accessories are also included: funnel, tool kit and propane hose.

The WEN DF280iX versus other generators

The following charts are provided to give you an idea of how some of the key specs of the WEN DF280iX compare to inverter generators of similar power (between 1500 and 2500 W).

• Weight-wise, the WEN DF280iX has only 45.2 lbs, which renders it one of the lighter inverter generators which produce 1500 to 2500 rated watts. Weight-conscious users may find the Genmax GM2000i appealing, as it is one of the top contenders in this power range, weighing just 34.2 pounds.
• When stacked up against other devices of similar running wattage, this inverter generator's lowest possible noise rating of 60 dBA places it in the louder category. If noise emissions are one of your priorities, you may be interested in the Honda EU2200i, one of the least noisy generators similarly powerful as this one, rated for 48 dBA.
• As the DF280iX features an autonomy of around 9 hours at 50% load, it has a higher run time than an average generator of its type and power range. If run time is one of your main concerns, the Westinghouse iGen2200 could be worth looking at. It boasts one of the highest run times among units of comparable power, lasting around 10 hours.
• Autonomy holds its importance, however, it is largely dependent on the generator’s fuel capacity and so, it is nonsensible to discuss it without mentioning fuel efficiency as well. With a fuel usage of about 0.18 GPH at a 50% load, this inverter generator falls within the typical gasoline consumption range observed in comparably powerful products. If minimizing fuel usage is one of your key priorities, the Westinghouse iGen2200 is one of the most efficient devices with similar power output, with a gasoline consumption of only 0.11 gallons per hour.

Price comparison

The bottom line

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 DF280iX 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 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

Couldn't find the right answer for you? Ask your own question.