The Honda EB2800i is an open frame inverter generator that brings 2800 starting watts to the jobsite or tailgate in a relatively lightweight and quiet package. It’s built around Honda’s GC190LA CARB compliant engine but take a good look at the overall package before you decide if it belongs on your next camping trip.
10-Second Summary
- Model: Honda EB2800i
- Honda GC190LA, 186cc engine
- OSHA and LA-TEL compliant
- CARB compliant
- Full GFCI outlet protection
- Inverter provides stable power for electronics
- 62 – 67 dB(A) operation
- 5.1 hours runtime at 100% load (2500 watts), 8.7 hours at 1/2-load
- 66.8 pounds
- $1,019.99
Honda EB2800i Inverter Generator: Lightweight, Quiet, Clean Energy
Honda already has a solid reputation for performance, reliability, and durability in the world of generators and they’re aiming to put it all into an open frame inverter package. Weighing in at 67 lbs, the Honda EB2800i makes it possible to lift this generator onto the back of your truck by yourself.
The Honda EB2800i also features the brand’s advanced inverter technology, which brings reliable and “clean” power to your appliances and tools. In fact, because of the inversion process, Honda tells us that you won’t have to worry about damaging your appliances or electronics, because the power coming out of the EB2800i is as stable as the power coming from your AC outlets at home.
The Honda EB2800i operates within a decibel range of 62 – 67 dB(A) thanks to its large muffler and inverter technology. That’s quieter than most generators, but it’s noticeably louder than the 57 dB(A) of Honda’s EU2200i.
Addtional Features
- Auto Idle Control
- Built-In Inverter
- Low Oil Shutdown
- GFCI Protection
- OSHA and LA-ETL Compliant
- CARB Compliant
- Overload Protection
- Short Circuit Protection
Portable Power
Honda uses their 186cc GC190LA engine as their powerplant. It’s an efficient system that gives you 5.1 hours of runtime at its 2500-watt rated load on 2.1 gallons of gas.
Each of the four outlets delivers up to 20 amps of 120V power. At the 2800-max watt level, we don’t expect any 240V outlets so it’s no surprise that they aren’t there. The system maxes out at 23.3 amps surge load and 20.8 amps at its rated load. That’s enough to run just about any 15-amp jobsite tool even with its startup surge.
Final Thoughts
Honda generators site in the premium class and are more expensive than what you’ll see from the value brands. This model has an MSRP of $1159.95 and we’re seeing retail prices as low as $949.
The reliability is worth the price if you use a generator frequently to power tools at work or for camping, RVing, and tailgating. Just keep in mind that it’s not as quiet as Honda’s super quiet models.
Further Reading
Pro Tool Reviews’ Best Portable Generator
Buying a Portable Generator
Maintaining Your Generator
What Generator Size Do I Need?
Honda EB2800i Inverter Generator Specs
- Model Number: EB2800i
- Height: 18.9″
- Length: 16.9″
- Width: 17.6″
- Weight: 66.8 lb
- Engine Displacement: 186cc
- Horsepower: 3.6 Hp
- Running Watts: 2500
- Starting Watts: 2800
- Number of Outlets: 4
- Runtime at 50% Load: 8.7 hours
- CARB Compliant: Yes
- Residential Warranty: 3 Years
- Price: $1,019.99
