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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• GN400i

  Gas

• GN400iX

  Gas + CO sensor

• DF402iX

  Dual fuel + CO sensor

Zoom on the WEN GN400i

In short, the WEN GN400i is a compact and lightweight portable inverter generator adequately designed for:

• RV travellers who wish to upgrade their experience to another level
• People occasionally participating in outdoor fairs, festivals or events
• Amateur DIY lovers
• Homeowners who want to be able to use the most necessary devices in their household, even during a blackout
• 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

With a 212 cc OHV 4-stroke engine, the WEN GN400i operates on gasoline, providing 120V, with a running wattage of 3,500W and a starting wattage of 4,000W. In addition, the device is parallel capable (WEN Parallel Connection Kit (opens in a new tab) not included) and thus, can be linked to a similar or compatible unit for added power.

The inverter generator features a conventional pull-start mechanism. It is rated for a noise of 67 dBA (less noisy than an office).

The GN400i boasts a fuel tank capable of holding 1.85 gallon, allowing it to run continuously for around 7 hours at 50% load (with fuel usage averaging around 0.26 gallons per hour).

With a <1.2% Total Harmonic Distortion (THD), the GN400i delivers a clean sine wave—essential for safeguarding your delicate electronics when plugged into its AC outlets.

Outlets

The control panel features the upcoming 3 AC outlets:

Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R)

120V 30A (TT-30R) receptacle

It also sports 2 DC outlets: there's two 5V USB ports ideal for charging various electronic devices such as smartphones and tablets.

This WEN generator is RV Ready, as it features a TT-30R receptacle (TT stands for 'Travel Trailer').

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. This type of design is ideal for tough environments and heavy outdoor use.

With a dry weight of 66.1 lbs, the GN400i can easily follow you wherever your power needs are. Furthermore, thanks to its open frame, the generator is easily grabbed and moved to a new location.

Features

The GN400i's control panel

The generator's light indicators provide visual feedback when the generator is overloaded, the oil level is too low and the generator is ready.

The inclusion of a built-in fuel gauge in the inverter generator streamlines gas level checks for quick and convenient assessments.

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.

Regarding security, the generator comes with an automatic low oil shut-off, a low fuel automatic shutdown and an overload protection (circuit breaker), providing peace of mind during operation.

Besides the classic documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab) to get you promptly started, the WEN GN400i also comes with some accessories: oil, funnel, tool kit and 2 altitude kits are included. 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).

• Considering its weight, the WEN GN400i registers at a modest 66.1 pounds, placing it among the lighter inverter generators in the 3000 to 4000 rated wattage selection. In terms of weight, one of the champions in their power range is the Pulsar PGD40iSCO, standing at just 46 lbs.
• If compared to generators capable of producing a similar running wattage, this inverter generator with a lowest emitted noise of 67 dBA can be considered somewhat noisy. If you'd like a less noisy alternative, the Westinghouse iGen5000DF is a strong contender. It boasts a noise rating of 52 dBA, placing it among the quietest generators in its power category.
• Concerning its runtime, the GN400i provides around 7 hours at a 50% load, indicating that it falls on the lower side compared to other generators of its type and power range. Concerning the run times, one of the several devices with a comparable output, offering the highest autonomy, is the Westinghouse iGen5000DF, which is able to run for around 15 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 can be considered as fuel-efficient, due to its low estimated fuel consumption of only 0.26 GPH (gallon per hour) at 50% load, within the aforementioned wattage range. If you wish to get a unit of similar power, but with one of the best fuel efficiency, you could consider the Pulsar PGD40iSCO, which has an impressively low fuel consumption of 0.22 GPH.

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 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

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