Ryobi Generator Review: Are they worth it?

Ryobi is a big name in power tools, so how do Ryobi generators compare to the rest? We put them to the test. See our Ryobi generator review.

A well known manufacturer the world over, Ryobi should have a generator range right up there with the best of the generator brands... Shouldn't they? Let's see how their generators compare and provide an expert Ryobi Generator Review:

The Contenders:

The two Ryobi inverter generators in Australia are:

  • Ryobi 1000i: 1000-watt petrol inverter generator

  • Ryobi 2000i: 2000-watt petrol inverter generator

They are made in China and whilst Ryobi is a recognised brand, their generators are considered more of a 'budget' option.

Ryobi 1000w Inverter Generator

2020 update: the Ryobi 1000W model is no longer available within Australia.

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Availability:

Well, we didn't get off to a good start. For one thing, the two popular inverter generators are only available at Bunnings (As of 2020 only the 2000W model is now available at Bunnings). Now, we know these guys are good with their timber and paint, but the chances of coming across a Bunnings staff member who knows the ins and outs of generators is slim.

2020 update: as mentioned above the Ryobi 1000W model is no longer available within Australia.

Warranty:

You get a two-year warranty with the Ryobi generators, while a premium brand like Yamaha gives you a solid 48 months warranty. Briggs & Stratton, another premium brand, offers a three year warranty with their generators. While a fellow budget option, Cromtech, comes with a one-year warranty.

Premium vs Budget Generator

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Noise:

According to the Ryobi Generator Review, this surprised us because Ryobi states that their automatic idle feature "reduces emitted noise". But the second we fired them up it was clear that Ryobi generators are far too noisy for their size. Both the 1000-watt and 2000-watt Ryobi models have an earth-shattering 67 - 72dBA noise level range. Compare that to 50 decibels for the Yamaha 1000w inverter generator or 52 decibels for the Yamaha 2000w inverter generator. DeWalt's 2200W generator on the other hand is a tiny 50 - 54 d(BA) in ECO mode! As a comparable budget generator option, the Cromtech 2400w inverter generator has a noise rating of 52-59dbA. For the record, a change in 10 decibels is approximately double noise level difference!

Yamaha 1000w Inverter Generator Review

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Weight:

Both Ryobi generators weigh in at 23 kilograms each. For the 2000w generator, the Ryobi only weighs a couple of kilograms more than its counterparts (though every kilogram counts you're carrying a generator to and from your car). But the Ryobi 1000w generator weighs almost double the Yamaha EF1000iS. That's right, double! In case you were wondering, the Yamaha weighs a mere 12.7 kilograms and is currently the lightest 1000W portable generator you can buy.

Overall Value for Money:

All in all, the result isn't great for Ryobi. The 1000-watt model has a pricetag of around $500 - $600 and the 2000-watt model will set you back around $900 - 1,000 (prices slightly fluctuate throughout the year). However, it's difficult to know what you're actually getting for your money. After all, they aren't good enough to be considered premium generators like the Yamaha or Briggs & Stratton, nor cheap enough to be considered a good enough value proposition like the Cromtech.

If you are looking for a budget friendly option, then a Cromtech Outback 2400w model ticks more boxes; its lighter then the Ryobi 2000w model and it puts out more power. It retails for around $900 (again, prices fluctuate a little). Not to mention that Cromtech Generators are backed by a national service network - Crommelins Australia back up the Cromtech generators with over 500 service agents around the country.

2.4kw Cromtech Outback - Portable petrol inverter generator

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If you're looking for a generator that features more bells & whistles than the Cromtech, but isn't as pricey as a Yamaha, then look to Briggs & Stratton generators. Briggs & Stratton currently have four inverter generators in their range: 2400W, 3000W, 4500W and a 6500W - not to mention they also offer a parallel kit, so you can run two 3000W generators at once for a combined 4800W! A 2400W generator by Briggs & Stratton will only set you back $1,349, compared to Yamaha's new 2200W generator, which comes in at $1,935! Another option is the Dometic 2100W Petrol Inverter Generator which comes with electric start for only $1,399!

So why do the Ryobi gensets have relatively high sales? We can only put it down to their exposure on Bunnings' shelves. In fairness, we also also wanted to mention that the Ryobi 2000W model does have two small features which provide some appeal; In-built wheels and extendable handle to help move around, and parallel connecting cables to join two units together and almost double the power output (similar to the Yamaha EF2000iS Twin Tech feature for example). These are probably secondary considerations to the main factors such as weight, warranty, noise and fuel efficiency, but nice additions none the less.

Ryobi generator review
Ryobi generator review
Our Final Word:

For most people requiring clean, quiet portable power, a generator in the Yamaha range will get your job done and will last for many years to comeÂ…so we recommend you pay more for a Yamaha over a Ryobi; the Yamaha will be lighter, quieter and more fuel efficient. You will also get the benefit of a 4 year warranty and service support network of over several hundred accredited service agents.

If you aren't wanting to break the bank, a Briggs and Stratton inverter generator is a great value for money proposition - you'll save nearly $600 on the 2400W! These generators are high quality, easy starting, features a USB adapter and can be run in parallel. Plus you can't go wrong with a 3 year warranty and national service agent support.

Alternatively, if you are on a particularly tight budget and only intend to use your generator infrequently (e.g. reserve power on the occasional camping trip or for standby power in case of home blackout) then perhaps consider a Cromtech Generator - it has more going for it. You may also check out our Ryobi Generator Review for more information.

cheap generator
Cromtech is backed by a national service network

Another budget brand inverter generator made in China which also has a national Service Agent backing is Hyundai. These latest model Hyundai generators are backed by a nationwide Service Dealer and Spare Parts Network. Like the Cromtech and Briggs models, you'll get good bang for buck and there are larger Hyundai inverter models up around 4000 - 6500 watts which are popular for home back up and mobile businesses.

Still not sure which generator is best for your needs? Chat to us on our live chat at https://www.mygenerator.com.au

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DISCLAIMER* Please note, this advice is general in nature and we strongly recommend consulting the product manual and where relevant, a professional installer.


13 thoughts on Ryobi Generator Review: Are they worth it?

says:
26 October 2018
Hi Paul i need to be running a 1 kva generator 13 hours a day what kind of generator would you recommend as it will be doing this practically everyday. With only fuel and oil changes . we are currently using around 500watts a day lights tv computer fans hard drive recorder etc. what is your recommendtion and what is the best oil for a generator cheers

My Generator Response
Hi Kerry, That is a tough question. We generally do not recommend running a small air cooled generator for that many hours per day. The best quality generator would be a Yamaha 2000w Inverter Generator EF200iS . We usually would recommend a Diesel water cooled generator for this kind of heavy use. They are lot more reliable for running all day , every day. The only problem with using a diesel engine in this case, is,you will not be putting enough load on the generator. The water cooled diesel generator start at 6kva (Single Phase Diesel Options). Light - Loading these generators causes damage to the engine. You could try the aforementioned yamaha 2000W air cooled or you could try a water cooled diesel engine powered generator and run some more equipment to get the load up to about 2000W - 3000W Feel free to call us on 1300 400 122 to discuss further Regards Paul

says:
23 September 2018
I have the Ryobi 1000 watt generator I use it to power my 5000 BTU AC in my camper been running it for two months here in North Florida that runs around the clock 24 hours a day other than shutting off for fuel and oil changes it's got 1500 hours on it and cranks First pull every time it's going to be interesting to see how long it will go if anything does happen to it parts are readily available

My Generator Response
Hi Stuart, Thanks for the information on your Generator A/C combination. We would not usually recommend to run an air cooled inverter generator round the clock for any application. keep us updated on the performance. Cheers Paul

says:
10 January 2018
Hello I have a slide on camper fitted with a 25A Projecta 7 stage charger. As an emergency back up i am looking at carrying a small generator. Physical size and weight are significant considerations. My question: Is a 1 kva generator capable of powering my battery charger which Projecta states requires 792W input power or would this be to large a demand and require a larger gen. Thanks John

My Generator Response
Hi John, if your peak power demand is 792 watts then a 1000 watt generator will suit your charging requirements. Our most popular model for your described application is the Yamaha EF1000iS Inverter Generator. Another article that may be helpful for you is 'Charging 12V batteries with a generator'. Many thanks

says:
31 December 2017
Mr Connolly: If the Cromtech is a true sine wave generator, and it probably is, it can be paralleled with a Honda by using a two headed cord. You have to be careful with the wiring of the cord. Cords must be plugged in before either Gen is started, Start the Cromtech, then start the Honda (1000w or 2000w) and the Honda computer should sysc with the Cromtech. On the other hand you should not recommend this to your readers as many will not follow instructions and blame you. A. T. Burke P.S. Information is free and worth every penny.

My Generator Response
Thank you AT Burke! You are correct, we would not recommend this as such reconfiguration would void warranty. Many thanks for your input and comment. Kind regards

says:
29 October 2017
I am now on my 8th ryobi generator I use it every day to bac up batteries Multiple provlems every one different Exhaust over heating Flooding Choke stuck Just will not start Pull cord breaks Spark plugs cloged Some of these problems would be easy to fix But ryobi have made ut so complicared to ebter the unit Much easier to swap for a new unit as they never seem to go for more than 15 months without a problem

says:
8 October 2017
Hi Sean .... I was thinking of buying a Ryobi but I have now changed my mind. I am buying a second hand motorhome and I am now thinking of getting the Cromtech Outback 2400w or the Supaswift. I want a quiet generator because I might be near another caravan. You said these ones are quiet? Do you know what size I would need to run a generator to run the a/c? Because I will be doing a lot of free camping, it could be running for up to 6 hours at a time. I would also like a key start one, it would also have to be an inverter one as I would want to charge a computer with it. What brand would you recommend [ I am on a tight budget]? Thanking you, Gordon

My Generator Response
Hi Gordon, glad to help with some advice. Firstly, almost all of our Recreational Inverter Generators are incased in a 'suitcase style' design which has sound proofing material to ensure quiet operation. In terms of sizing, ideally you would know how much start up power your particular RV Air Con model draws - some models are ok to start and run from a 2000w inverter generator, but the majority of Caravan/Motorhome Air-conditioners on the market will require a 2400w sized generator as a minimum. My advice would be to consider the Cromtech Outback 2400w inverter generator - this model is made in China and is a 'budget' brand generator, meaning it is designed for light use; such as your required recreational application, or for small home back up power use. The good thing about the Cromtech Outback is that it is supported by nationwide service agent and spare parts network, so there is peace of mind knowing that if you even need the unit inspected under warranty, or you require a spare part, then there is nearby support. Cromtech have been around for almost 2 years and the the feedback from our testing and from our customers is that this is an excellent value for money generator. Supaswift is another budget generator option, they have a 2600w and a larger 3600w model. Supaswift the brand has been around for quite some time making other power products such as Lawnmowers etc...but their generator range is relatively new. Like the Cromtech brand, the Supaswift generators are also backed by national service agent support. This quick video might also be worth watching: Premium vs. Budget Brand Generators. Many thanks.

says:
19 September 2017
Just bought the Ryobi RGN1200A It starts first time ok. But every time however it wont run past 3-4 mins, I may close choke off too early who knows, Will be giving it a good run over the next month on a roadtrip so can report how it travels then.

My Generator Response
Thanks Brett - keep us updated, cheers.

says:
2 June 2017
I don't know which Bunnings you speak of. But I paid $320 for my Ryobi 1100 at Bunnings Yeppoon CQ. So far working well and no more noisy than generators I've had before. At that price I can throw it away after the warranty expires. Great value in my book.

says:
12 May 2017
I have a Ryobi RYi2200A with about 15 hours of running time. It has broken the connecting rod and damaged the piston. A relatively easy fix EXCEPT that the internal engine parts are not available for purchase. So,I guess it goes into the trash bin. Before you say "take it back for warranty" I can't do that because fortunately (for me), it was given to me free by the previous owner. The outside condition looks like new. And the bearings show no signs of oil starvation. I am posting to inform others of the situation of engine parts not being available.

says:
9 March 2017
5 times in 4 years is the major part of the problem Bobby. Your lawnmower or car would also likely give problems starting if used so seldom.

says:
6 March 2017
Have a Ryobi 2000. Used it 5 times in 4 years. Never starts for me. Took it to a mechanic twice. Tired of it . Going to buy different kind. My opinion JUNK

says:
7 September 2016
Hi Ron, Reading your column it is obvious that Yamaha makes a superior product to Ryobi, however you fail to mention it is more than double the price so quality obviously comes at a cost. Whilst Yamaha's dealer network is extensive, you can also find a Bunnings store in most postcodes these days. The key value in the Ryobi warranty is that it is a no questions asked replacement warranty - meaning if it fails on a rainy Sunday you can swap it for a new one same day if you have a Bunnings nearby. I believe this kind of warranty is unrivaled, and while it isn't 4 years I can imagine Yamaha would leave you with days or weeks of downtime should you require repair.

My Generator Response
Hi Al, thanks for your comments. We do state that "you will need to pay more for a premium brand like Yamaha" and we provide links to Yamaha prices so readers can compare real time pricing. Glad to hear you are happy with Ryobi, we just believe that there are better budget options available and we regularly have customers contact us wanting a new generator as their Ryobi has failed (both during and beyond warranty period). Thanks.

says:
26 July 2016
Your comments say that the Ryobi RIG 1000 weighs 23 kilos however, I have just purchased a Ryobi 1000 and the specs quote the weight as 14.4 kg. It certainly is not 23kg. It starts first time hot or cold and does everthing it claims to do. It is a little noisier than a Yamaha or Honda but at $700 cheaper I can put up with that. At $599 from Bunnings stores Australia wide and a 2 year warranty its good value. Cheers Ron.

My Generator Response
Hi Ron, thanks for your input - we just double checked the Ryobi specs HERE for the 1000w generator model and it still states the weight is 23kg's...hmm, if 14.4kg is correct, then the spec sheet from Bunnings/Ryobi could be wrong? Thanks again

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