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WEN GN400iX - 3500/4000W Open Frame Inverter Generator

The WEN GN400iX 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.

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Description

Zoom on the WEN GN400iX

The WEN GN400iX is the newer version of the GN400i. It's a compact and lightweight portable inverter generator especially useful 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 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

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

Power & Run Time

The WEN GN400iX is powered by a 212 cc OHV 4-stroke engine. It delivers 120V, runs on gasoline and offers a running wattage of 3,500W as well as a peak 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 is rated for a noise of 67 dBA (less noisy than an office). Its starting mechanism is based on a conventional pull-start mechanism.

Thanks to a fuel capacity of 1.85 gallon, the GN400iX can operate for around 7 hours at 50% load with a full tank (fuel consumption around 0.26 GPH).

The GN400iX 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 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 (USB-A) with which charging of electronics like mobile phones and tablets is made convenient.

With its TT-30R receptacle (TT as in 'Travel Trailer'), this WEN generator is RV Ready.

Portability

With its dimensions of L19.8 x W13.8 x H18.9 in, the conventional, open frame design of the WEN GN400iX offers stability and allows the generator to be raised above ground level. The featured design is ideal for the outdoors and all tough environments.

As the GN400iX's weight is only 66.1 lbs, it can follow you and your power needs anywhere. In addition, it is even easier to grab and move the generator around thanks to its open frame design.

Features

Panel of the WEN GN400iX

The GN400iX's control panel

The light indicators show you if the generator is on overload, the generator is ready and the oil level is too low.

A built-in fuel gauge allows for a quick, easy and convenient check of the fuel level of the inverter generator.

As for its security measures, the device features an overload protection (circuit breaker), a low fuel automatic shutdown 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.

Along the basic documentation and an owner's manual (opens in a new tab), useful for starting the generator right away, the WEN GN400iX's package also includes these accessories: funnel, 2 altitude kits and tool kit. An official storage cover is also available, as a separate purchase.

Emissions

The WEN GN400iX is EPA-approved and CARB-compliant. Thus, selling and purchasing this generator is allowed in each of the 50 states, including California.

Moreover, it features a spark arrestor, so it is adequate for use in forested areas.

The WEN GN400iX versus other generators

The following charts are provided to give you an idea of how some of the key specs of the WEN GN400iX compare to inverter generators of similar power (between 3000 and 4000 W).

  • In terms of its dry weight, the WEN GN400iX stands at only 66.1 lbs, meaning that is one of the lighter inverters of the 3000-4000 rated wattage category If weight matters to you, one of the champions in this power range is the Pulsar PGD40iSCO with only 46 pounds.
  • Among the generators of a comparable running wattage, this inverter generator with a lowest noise of 67 dBA can be judged as noisy. If you’d prefer a less noisy device, one of the most quiet devices, which share the same power range with this one, is the Westinghouse iGen4500DF, whose lowest noise levels reach just 52 dBA.
  • As far as autonomy is concerned, providing around 7 hours of runtime with a full tank at a 50% load, the GN400iX falls into the low end in comparison with other inverters of a comparable power output. Concerning the run times, one of the several devices with a comparable output, offering the highest autonomy, is the Westinghouse iGen4500DF, which is able to run for around 15 hours.
  • Run times are important, yet thanks to their dependence on the fuel capacity, they should be judged along with the fuel consumption of the device. This inverter generator, with an estimated fuel consumption of just 0.26 GPH (gallon per hour) at 50% load, is one of the more fuel efficient generators, for the previously mentioned wattage range. If not satisfied with the afore-mentioned fuel consumption, you may wish to check out the Pulsar PGD40iSCO. With a fuel consumption of as little as 0.22 GPH, it is one of the most efficient generators currently on the market.

Price comparison

As you can see from this interactive chart, when compared to other 3000-4000W inverter generators, the WEN GN400iX 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

STRENGTHS:
  • Inexpensive
  • CO Watchdog
  • Several accessories included
  • RV Ready
  • Parallel capable
  • Inverter
  • Lightweight (66.1 lbs)
  • Fuel efficient
WEAKNESSES:
  • No data center
  • No electric start
  • On the noisy side (67 dBA)
  • Relatively low run time

Do you own the WEN GN400iX 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 readyYes
FuelGasoline
Engine212 cc OHV 4-stroke
Starting systemRecoil
Warranty2 years
Power
VoltageAC: 120V 60 Hz, DC: 5V
Running watts3,500 W
Starting watts4,000 W
Running amps29.2 amps
Peak amps33.3 amps
Run time @50% load7 h
Run time @25% loadUnknown
Features
GFCI outletsNo
Covered outletsNo
Automatic Voltage RegulationInverter
AC outlets
  • 1x Duplex 120V 20A (5-20R)
  • 1x 120V 30A (TT-30R)
DC outlets2x 5V USB port (USB-A)
Data centerNo
IndicatorsLow oil, overload and output ready
Fuel tankSteel, 1.85 gal
Fuel gaugeYes
Misc
Weight66.1 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%
ComplianceCARB, EPA
SecurityLow oil, overload and low fuel protection, CO monitoring
Spark arrestorYes
NeutralFloating
Accessories includedFunnel, tool kit, and 2 altitude kits
UPC044459014003

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 GN400iX 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 homeDish washer15003000
Refrigerator (energy star)1921192
Toaster oven800800
Total2492 W3992 W
For campingRV AC (11,000 BTU)10101600
RV refrigerator180600
Electric fry pan15001500
Radio100100
Total2790 W3380 W
For workGrinder14002500
Demolition hammer12601260
Bug zapper8080
Total2740 W3840 W

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