Genkins GK8000iE 8000W Inverter review: our full analysis

What will a 8,000-watt generator run?

The Genkins GK8000iE 8000W Inverter delivers 6,500 W continuously and up to 8,000 W for a few seconds to start motors. It handles 14 of the 14 loads on our typical list one at a time; add up the running watts of everything you run together, plus the extra starting watts of the biggest motor. As an inverter, it produces clean power suited to laptops, TVs and furnace control boards.

Typical figures; check the label of your own appliances. One load at a time: add up everything you run together.

Genkins GK8000iE 8000W Inverter6,500 running W · Gas inverter · typical price $500–$800 Check best price

How long does it run on a tank?

The fuel tank holds 4 gallons of gasoline. The manufacturer quotes 16 hours at a quarter load. At half load, it runs about 8 hr on a full tank. That is about 0.50 gallon per hour at half load, or 12 gallons for a full day of running, so plan your fuel storage for a multi-day outage.

62 dB(A): how loud is it?

The manufacturer rates the Genkins GK8000iE 8000W Inverter at 62 dB(A), usually measured at 23 feet (7 m) and a light load. That is about the level of a conversation or a dishwasher: acceptable at a campground.

Outlets: home, RV and tools

Its panel offers 2 × 120 V household outlets (5-20R), L5-30R 30 A 120 V twist-lock, L14-30R 30 A 120/240 V twist-lock. The L14-30R outlet supplies 120/240 V, which is what a manual transfer switch or an interlock kit with a power inlet box connects to, installed by a licensed electrician. Never backfeed the house through a wall outlet. It is parallel capable: linked to a second compatible unit with a parallel kit, the two outputs combine.

Starting, safety and warranty

It has electric push-button start, with a recoil cord as backup. A CO shutoff sensor stops the engine if carbon monoxide builds up around it; it does not replace distance (20 feet from the house) and CO alarms indoors. The warranty runs 2 years (residential use).

Typical price $500–$800: good value per watt?

Relative to its running watts, the Genkins GK8000iE 8000W Inverter scores 9.1/10 on value: one of the best results in our catalogue. Inverters always cost more per watt than open frames: compare it with other inverters. Generator prices on Amazon move a lot, especially before hurricane season: check the current price before you buy.

Genkins GK8000iE 8000W Inverter6,500 running W · Gas inverter · typical price $500–$800 Check best price