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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 sporting competitions, open-air performances and outdoor festivals
  • DIYers who wish to improve their efficiency with tools
  • Homeowners who want to be able to use the most necessary devices in their household, even during a blackout
  • Camping and tailgating hobbyists looking for a portable power source

In the sections ahead, the power characteristics, availability of various outlets, the portability, and any additional features of the device shall be discussed, including its emission compliance information.

Power & Run Time

The WEN GN400iX's engine, 212 cc OHV 4-stroke, fueled by gasoline, can deliver 120V. It provides a running wattage of 3,500W and reaches 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.

Enjoying a noise rating of 67 dBA (less noisy than an office), this inverter generator gets running thanks to a simple traditional pull-start mechanism.

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

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

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

Portability

The WEN GN400iX has a conventional, open frame design, of the following dimensions: L19.8 x W13.8 x H18.9 in, which offers support and allows it to be raised above ground level. The generator is designed for ideal use outdoors and in rough environments.

As the GN400iX's weight is only 66.1 lbs, it can follow you and your power needs anywhere. Additionally, the generator’s mobility is also improved by its open frame design, as it can be easily grabbed and shifted.

Features

Panel of the WEN GN400iX

The GN400iX's control panel

When the generator is on overload, the generator is ready and its oil levels are insufficient, you will be informed by the featured light indicators.

The inverter generator allows for a quick, easy and convenient assessment of its gas level, as it is equipped with a built-in fuel gauge.

As for its security measures, the device features a low fuel automatic shutdown, an automatic low oil shut-off and an overload protection (circuit breaker), 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: 2 altitude kits, tool kit and funnel. 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 and therefore, can be used 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).

  • Weight-wise, the WEN GN400iX has only 66.1 lbs, which renders it one of the lighter inverter generators which produce 3000 to 4000 rated watts. If weight matters to you, one of the champions in this power range is the Pulsar PGD40iSCO with only 46 pounds.
  • When compared to devices able to produce a similar running wattage, this inverter generator and its lowest emitted noise of 67 dBA is on the noisier side. For those who are looking for a less noisy device, we suggest the Westinghouse iGen4500DF. With just 52 dBA, it is one of the most quiet devices in this power range.
  • 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. 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 Westinghouse iGen4500DF, with around 15 hours.
  • Even though run times are undoubtedly important, they are dependent on the fuel capacity to a large extent. For a more wholesome picture, we must take into consideration the fuel consumption of the generator. 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 fuel consumption is your top priority, we suggest to check out the Pulsar PGD40iSCO, which has a fuel consumption of only 0.22 GPH and thus, is one of the most efficient devices in our database.

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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