WEN GN400i - 3500/4000W Open Frame Inverter Generator
The WEN GN400i is a compact and lightweight open frame inverter generator with a rated wattage of 3,500 W and a starting wattage of 4,000 W. (Read full specs)
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Description
Remember when you had clean and quiet portable power? The WEN 4,000-Watt Inverter Generator provides clean energy, free of voltage spikes and drops, at approximately half the noise level of a standard generator. Our 212cc 4-stroke OHV engine produces up to 4000 surge watts and 3500 rated watts of power. Designed to mirror a pure sine wave, this generator limits total harmonic distortion to under 0.3 percent at no load and under 1.2 percent at full load, making it safe to run laptops, cellphones, monitors, tablets and other sensitive electronics.
Zoom on the WEN GN400i
In a few words, the WEN GN400i is a compact and lightweight portable inverter generator perfectly suited for:
- RV travellers who wish to upgrade their experience to another level
- Occasional participants of outdoor events, competitions, concerts and festivals
- Handcrafting enthusiasts who wish to work on-the-go
- Homeowners in need of an emergency backup power for their essentials
- Tailgating and campground aficionados with the desire of enjoying power anywhere they go
In the upcoming sections, you'll discover its power characteristics, the array of outlets it presents, its overall portability, and the additional features it possesses.
Power & Run Time
The WEN GN400i
Featuring a 212 cc OHV 4-stroke engine, the WEN GN400i operates using gasoline, providing 120V, with a running wattage of 3,500W and a starting wattage of 4,000W. Moreover, the parallel capability (WEN Parallel Connection Kit (opens in a new tab) not included) enables power output to increase 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 67 dBA (less noisy than a normal conversation), the inverter generator features a standard recoil pull-rope starting mechanism.
The GN400i's fuel tank holds 1.85 gallon, ensuring uninterrupted operation for around 7 hours at 50% load with a full tank (fuel consumption approximately 0.26 GPH).
The <1.2% Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) of the GN400i ensures a clean sine wave output, providing a secure power source for your sensitive electronics through its AC outlets.
Outlets
The control panel features 3 AC outlets as follows:
Additionally, it offers 2 DC outlets: there's two 5V USB ports enabling convenient charging of devices like mobile phones and tablets.
Equipped with a TT-30R receptacle (TT representing 'Travel Trailer'), this WEN generator is RV Ready, ensuring compatibility with recreational vehicles.
Portability
With a size of L19.8 x W13.8 x H18.9 in, the WEN GN400i features an open frame design, providing stability and simplified maintenance access to components, enhancing air circulation. The design is ideal for rough environments and demanding outdoor use.
Weighing 66.1 lbs, the GN400i is easily handled, ensuring it can go wherever your power needs are. Moreover, its open frame design makes it incredibly easy to grasp the frame in order to change its location.
Features
The GN400i's control panel
The device's light indicators will illuminate to indicate if the generator is ready, the generator is overloaded and its oil levels are insufficient.
Featuring a built-in fuel gauge, the inverter generator offers quick, convenient, and easy gas level checks at a glance.
The fuel shutoff feature turns off the flow of fuel, allowing for the GN400i 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 an overload protection (circuit breaker), an automatic low oil shut-off and a low fuel automatic shutdown, letting you use it with a peace of mind.
Apart from the typical documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab), which lets you start it right away, the WEN GN400i also is packed along with the following accessories: 2 altitude kits, oil, tool kit and funnel. An official storage cover is also available, as a separate purchase.
Product Videos
The WEN GN400i versus other generators
The following charts are provided to give you an idea of how some of the key specs of the WEN GN400i compare to inverter generators of similar power (between 3000 and 4000 W).
- In terms of its weight, the WEN GN400i weighs merely 66.1 pounds, earning it a spot among the lighter inverter generators within the 3000 to 4000 rated wattage category. If weight is an important consideration for you, the Pulsar PGD40iSCO stands out as one of the top contenders in this power category, with a dry weight of 46 pounds.
- When compared to other units producing a similar running wattage, this inverter generator and its lowest emitted noise of 67 dBA stand out for being on the louder side. If noise emissions are one of your priorities, you may want to take a look at the Westinghouse iGen5000DF. It's one of the quietest options among generators of similar power, rated at 52 dBA.
- Regarding its autonomy, the GN400i can run for around 7 hours at a 50% load, aligning it with the lower performers in its type and power range. For those prioritizing autonomy, the Firman W03663OF could be considered, as it offers one of the longest run times among generators with similar power output, reaching around 18 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 one of the more fuel-efficient models of the aforementioned output range, as its estimated fuel consumption reaches just 0.26 GPH (gallon per hour) at 50% load. To prioritize fuel savings, we advise considering the Pulsar PGD40iSCO, which stands out for its gasoline efficiency, consuming just 0.22 gallons per hour.
Price comparison
As you can see from these interactive charts, when compared to other 3000-4000W inverter generators, the WEN GN400i 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
- Several accessories included
- RV Ready
- Parallel capable
- Inverter
- Lightweight (66.1 lbs)
- Fuel efficient
- No data center
- No electric start
- On the noisy side (67 dBA)
- Relatively low run time
Do you own the WEN GN400i 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 | Gasoline |
| Engine | 212 cc OHV 4-stroke |
| Starting system | Recoil |
| Warranty | 2 years |
| Voltage | AC: 120V 60 Hz, DC: 5V |
|---|---|
| Running watts | 3,500 W |
| Starting watts | 4,000 W |
| Running amps | 29.2 amps |
| Peak amps | 33.3 amps |
| Run time @50% load | 7 h |
| Run time @25% load | Unknown |
| GFCI outlets | No |
|---|---|
| Covered outlets | No |
| Automatic Voltage Regulation | Inverter |
| AC outlets |
|
| DC outlets | 2x 5V USB port |
| Data center | No |
| Indicators | Low oil, overload and output ready |
| Fuel tank | Steel, 1.85 gal |
| Fuel gauge | Yes |
| Weight | 66.1 lbs |
|---|---|
| Approx. dimensions (L x W x H) | 19.8 x 13.8 x 18.9 in |
| Noise (lower limit) | 67 dBA |
| THD | < 1.2% |
| Compliance | EPA |
| Security | Low oil, overload and low fuel protection |
| Spark arrestor | Yes |
| Neutral | Floating |
| Accessories included | Oil, funnel, tool kit, and 2 altitude kits |
| UPC | 044459991694 |
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 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 GN400i 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?
| Item | Running Watts | Starting Watts | |
|---|---|---|---|
| At home | AC (10,000 BTU) | 1500 | 2200 |
| Refrigerator (energy star) | 192 | 1192 | |
| Vacuum cleaner | 1075 | 1175 | |
| Cell phone charger | 20 | 20 | |
| Total | 2787 W | 3787 W | |
| For camping | RV AC (11,000 BTU) | 1010 | 1600 |
| RV refrigerator | 180 | 600 | |
| Microwave (1000 watts) | 1500 | 1500 | |
| Radio | 100 | 100 | |
| Total | 2790 W | 3380 W | |
| For work | Grinder | 1400 | 2500 |
| Demolition hammer | 1260 | 1260 | |
| Bug zapper | 80 | 80 | |
| Total | 2740 W | 3840 W |
Does this model have a fuel shutoff? (Asked February 26, 2020)
This model has a manual fuel shutoff. There's a valve that you can turn to the OFF position in order to let the generator run until the fuel is used up.
Does the Wen 400i has electric start? (Asked September 07, 2020)
The unit is recoil start only.
Couldn't find the right answer for you? Ask your own question.
