Predator 3500 Watt Inverter Review & Buyers Guide (2024)

Last updated on August 30th, 2021

For its price category, the Predator 3500 is good value. It scores well on all the basic features that you want from an inverter generator such as quiet running, low THD and portability.

Though none of its specs are outstanding, it scores well overall making it a very versatile model. It works great in almost every setting including tailgating, RVing, camping and even functions well for an independent contractor.

This review is not based on any personal tests done on the machine but rather a comprehensive overview of the Predator 3500 derived from expert reviews, customer comments and the specifications provided by the manufacturer. Any conclusions drawn in this review are based on a comparison of these three different sources of information.

Harbor Freight Predator 3500 Specs & Usage Information

One of the more impressive features of the Predator 3500 is how little difference there is between the surge wattage and continuous power. With only 500 watts difference it is easier to estimate which appliances it can power.

With this amount of power combined with the inverter technology, this generator is perfect as an off-grid power source for RVs, tailgating and camping. It also runs super quietly at just 57 decibels so that you won’t disturb your neighbors or the peace and quiet of nature.

This is also a good choice for when you are in need of a power source that you can leave on overnight. Keep the essentials, such as lighting or a small space heater, running for up to 11 hours with a full 2.6 gallon fuel tank.

If you need more power but don’t want to compromise on portability, purchase a second unit and make use of their parallel capability. With two connected units you get 7000 watts of continuous power which is the same as a mid-size conventional portable generator but minus the noise.

Portability is another selling point of this model. Predator included four wheels instead of two for easier manoeuvring and two carrying handles so that you can spread the 100 pounds between two people.

Considering all these features, Predator delivers their product at a very reasonably price. Within the same price category, their competitors come up with inverter generators that are significantly smaller in capacity, usually around 2000 watts.

So, if you are looking for a reasonably priced inverter with decent power, the Predator 3500 is a good choice. Its specs and features are good value for money giving you portability, ease of use and safety.

Predator 3500 vs 2000 Inverter vs 6500

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Predator is not a brand with the widest range of products but you do have some choice in the capacity. Besides their 3500-watt model they manufacture a smaller 2000-watt inverter generator and a larger conventional portable generator with 6500 watts of power.

The closer comparison is with the 2000-watt version since they both have inverter technology. It is significantly narrower and more lightweight, weighing only about half.

If you don’t require much capacity, the 2000-watt alternative gives you better portability. The top is fitted with a u-shaped carrying handle for easy carrying – you can even hold two at a time if you want to double your power with the parallel capabilities.

The 2000 watt Predator also runs longer than the 3500 option. With a 12 hour runtime on a 25% load, the Predator 2000 beats out the 3500 model, which has an 11 hour runtime on the same load. However, the 25% load runtimes of both the 2000 and 3500 only barely manage to draw even with the 6500 model running double the load.

If more power is what you need, you may have to switch to conventional portable generator technology. However, this also means missing out on quiet running, since several reviewers point out that the 2000 model is fairly loud, even for its capacity.

Considering these differences, users recommend the 6500-watt for contractors that need an off-grid power source for their power tools and batteries. There is often another way to move heavier tools on a construction site so the less portable design would not pose as much of an issue as it would for residential use.

One element that all reviews agree upon is the reliability of the engine, for all three models. Predator uses an older model engine which may not have the output of certain newer engines but it is less prone to breaking down or needing maintenance, and is easier / cheaper because the market is already familiar with it.

Predator 3500 vs Similar-Sized Inverter Generators

Any comparison of inverter generators seems to bring up the extremely well-reviewed Honda models. In this case, you can compare the Predator 3500 to the Honda EU3000is, which falls in a higher price category.

It is only fair to also compare it to a more budget option, which is where the Firman W03081 comes in. Depending on the starter type that you choose, the Firman can cost you a couple hundred dollars less (manual recoil version is the cheapest, remote start version is the most expensive).

The Predator is still the most powerful option but the other two alternatives are not trailing far behind. There is however a significant difference in the run time with the Honda leaving the others far behind with a run time of up to 20 hours on its rated load.

Then again, the Honda also has the largest fuel tank which explains why it also has the longest run time. Its fuel tank takes up 3.4 gallons of gasoline while Firman and Predator fitted their generators with a smaller size, 1.8 gallons and 2.6 gallons respectively.

Keeping the tank size and rated run time in mind, it seems that Honda is still the most fuel efficient but Predator is not that far behind in comparison. So, when it comes to running costs, both the Honda and Predator are fair choices.

In terms of noise, the Honda wins again with a rated noise level of only 50 decibels on a 25% load. At full capacity it gets closer to the rated noise level of the Predator, differing by just 1 decibel.

Compared to these two, the Firman is loudest with several reviewers pointing out that the engine is considerably louder than what you would expect from its official marketing. So, the Honda is still the best option for campsites since it will disturb nature’s peace the least.

In terms of portability there is not much difference between the Firman and Predator since they are similar in weight and both have a wheels and carrying handle design. The Honda is a lot heavier though, by about 50% and it does not have a pull handle to compensate for that.

Overall, the Firman and Predator are quite similar in their specs. You do however get more flexibility in use with the Predator, especially considering its capacity and number of power outlets.

The Honda on the other hand is much more expensive than the other two generators, costing over double both the Predator and the Firman. The question is whether you are willing to pay for the brand reputation at such a difference.

Advantages and Disadvantages

Conclusion

Many reviewers appreciate the value for money that you get with the Predator 3500. It has all the features that you are looking for in an inverter generator plus a few nice extras such as 4 wheels instead of 2, low noise level and fuel efficiency that can keep it running overnight.

No matter the situation, this model will likely fulfill its purpose. At 57 decibels on a rated load it is quiet enough that you can take it on your camping trip and it won’t overpower the music during a tailgating party.

Independent contractors and handymen will value its portability while still delivering enough output for their power tools when adding a parallel kit to the purchase. With two connected units you get 7000 watts of continuous power which is perfect for keeping the handheld tools running.

With a parallel kit you could even use it as a home backup generator but only for the essentials such as the refrigerator, lighting, electric stove and a space heater. The quiet running and easy maintenance makes this an even more attractive option.

In short, this model is a safe bet for most situations and it comes at a very reasonable price. Though other brands may have released models with certain standout specs, the Predator 3500 remains a smart choice across the board instead of a niche market design with limited purpose.

Last update on 2024-04-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API