What Are the Differences Between Inverter Generators,
Portable Power Stations, and Hybrid Inverters?
What Is an Inverter Generator?
Inverter generators burn fossil fuels, such as unleaded gasoline, propane, and natural gas, to produce off-grid and standby power with improved fuel efficiency and reduced noise compared to traditional fossil fuel generators. Instead of constantly running at full speed, inverters throttle up or down based on electricity consumption — saving you money and providing cleaner power.
Inverters are quieter than gas generators, but can't be used indoors because they burn gas or propane, which creates deadly carbon monoxide and toxic fumes. EcoFlow Smart Generators are Dual-Fuel inverters that run on unleaded gas or propane (LPG).
What Is a Portable Power Station?
Portable power stations provide energy security by storing electricity in batteries for off-grid or home backup applications.
A portable power station doesn’t generate power alone — instead, you recharge its batteries by connecting additional components like an inverter generator orsolar panels.
You can also plug it into a wall outlet or other power source, such as a vehicle alternator charger or EV charging station.
EcoFlow DELTA Pro 3 offers seamless compatibility with Smart Generator (Dual Fuel) 4000, solar panels, household electricity (AC), 800W alternator charging, and more, with seven unique and 18 combo charging methods.
Industry-leading LFP batteries and proprietary X-Core 3 technology provide 4000 cycles to 80% capacity — over a decade of daily use.
Expandable to 48kWh of storage, DELTA Pro 3 delivers 4000W of AC output and supports up to 6000W of high-wattage appliances simultaneously. Use the EcoFlow Smart Home Panel 2 or a transfer switch to integrate with your home circuits for an Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) during power outages.
What Is a Hybrid Inverter Generator?
A hybrid inverter generator combines the convenience of gas and propane-powered inverters with all the benefits of portable power station LFP battery storage.
With multiple charging options, including gasoline, propane, household electricity (AC), and solar panels, EcoFlow’s DELTA Pro 3 + Smart Generator 4000 bundles offer a compact and affordable off-grid and home backup power solution that outperforms portable gas generators.
What Are the Benefits of Hybrid Inverter Generators?
Inverter generators have numerous advantages over portable gas generators, including quieter operation, increased fuel efficiency, and “cleaner” power suitable for a broader range of precision electronics.
Conventional inverter generators burn fossil fuels and cannot be used indoors.
Although inverters are significantly quieter than portable gas generators, campgrounds and other shared areas may still restrict their use.
By seamlessly integrating the Smart Generator 4000 (Dual Fuel) with EcoFlow DELTA Pro 3, you get off-grid plug-and-play power that you can use anywhere: indoors and outdoors, day or night.
Are Inverter Generators More Fuel-Efficient & Eco-Friendly?
Yes, inverter generators are more efficient than conventional gas generators under light and medium power loads. Portable gas generators run at only one speed — full throttle. If you have a 2000W portable gas generator but only consume 1000W of electricity, you’ll burn the same amount of fuel as if you’re running it at full tilt.
Inverter generators throttle based on consumption. In low-to-medium load applications, you’ll burn less fuel to meet your electricity needs. Inverter generators that run on propane (LPG) — the “cleanest” burning fossil fuel — are considerably more eco-friendly than diesel or gas generators. Note that the closer your electricity consumption gets to an inverter generator’s maximum load (AC output), the fewer fuel efficiency benefits you’ll receive. Additionally, most inverters and portable gas generators are not recommended for running at maximum load for extended periods. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations to optimize performance and extend the generator’s lifespan.
Transform Your Home with Effortless
Portable Power Solutions
Explore Flexible & Reliable Home
Backup Power Solutions
EcoFlow DELTA Pro Ultra + DELTA Pro Ultra Extra Battery (1 x Inverter + 2 x Batteries)
EcoFlow DELTA Pro Ultra + DELTA Pro Ultra Extra Battery (1 x Inverter + 2 x Batteries) with capacity of 12kWh, 7200W max output, and 5.6kW solar input, a single unit can run your entire home.
12kWh | 7200W
EcoFlow DELTA Pro 3 + Smart Generator 4000 (Dual Fuel)
Experience unmatched efficiency and reliability with 3200W fast DC charging — fully recharged in just 2.8 hours, with noise levels below 70 dB.
≤70 dB | 3200W | 2.8 Hr
EcoFlow DELTA 3 Plus + Smart Generator 3000 (Dual Fuel)
Reliable off-grid backup with 2000W fast DC charging — fully recharges in just 3.3 hours, operating at a quiet ≤69 dB.
≤69 dB | 2000W | 3.3 Hr
Product Collection
Inverter Generators
Solar Inverter Generators
DELTA Pro 3 + Smart Generator 4000+ Commutateur de transfert
Générateur solaire EcoFlow DELTA 2 Max (PV220W)
Générateur solaire EcoFlow DELTA 2 (PV220W)
Générateur solaire EcoFlow DELTA Pro (PV400W)
Générateur solaire EcoFlow RIVER 2 Pro (PV220W)
Générateur solaire EcoFlow DELTA 3 Plus (PV160W)
Générateur solaire EcoFlow RIVER 2 Max (PV160W)
Générateur solaire EcoFlow RIVER 2 (PV110W)
Générateur solaire EcoFlow RIVER 3
Générateur solaire EcoFlow DELTA 2 Max (PV400W)
Générateur solaire EcoFlow DELTA Pro 3 (PV400W)
Générateur solaire EcoFlow DELTA série 3 (PV220W)
EcoFlow DELTA Pro 3 + Panneau solaire 400 W + Commutateur de transfert
Home Backup Power: Inverter Generator vs.
Portable Power Station vs. Hybrid Inverter
More Features
Power Almost Everything
Plug and Play
Silent as a Whisper, Safe for Indoor Use
A comparison of the total cost of ownership between
an inverter generator and a portable power station
Frequently Asked Questions
How Does an Inverter Generator Work?
Unlike regular gas or propane generators, inverter generators convert “dirty” alternating current (AC) electricity to direct current (DC) and back to AC again for consumption. The inversion process conditions the power, making it much “cleaner” and more suitable for sensitive electronics. Traditional fossil fuel generators only run at full speed. Inverter generators throttle up and down based on electricity consumption to achieve optimal efficiency and reduce fuel costs. Hybrid inverter generator systems like EcoFlow DELTA Pro 3 + Smart Generator 4000 (Dual Fuel) run on gas or propane (LPG) and offer 6 additional charging methods, including solar panels, grid power, and vehicle alternator charging. EcoFlow’s DELTA Series portable power stations are safe for indoor use and offer many additional benefits.
Is an Inverter Generator Better Than a Regular Generator?
Inverter generators offer two primary advantages over conventional gas and propane generators. “Cleaner” power for sensitive electronics and better fuel efficiency. However, traditional inverter generators have many limitations. Because they rely entirely on burning fossil fuels, indoor operation is prohibited. Along with ongoing fuel and maintenance costs, traditional inverter generators are noisy and emit deadly carbon monoxide and particulate pollution. Hybrid inverter generators, such as the EcoFlow DELTA Pro 3 + Smart Generator 4000 (Dual Fuel), offer greater energy security and efficiency compared to traditional inverter generators, along with up to 7 additional charging options. Once EcoFlow DELTA Pro 3 is charged, you can use it anywhere in your home, cabin, or cottage.
How to Choose Between an Inverter Generator and a Power Station?
Why choose between a traditional inverter generator and a portable power station when you can have the best of both worlds? EcoFlow’s DELTA hybrid inverter generator systems offer up to 7 charging options, including lightning-fast DC-to-DC charging with gas or propane-fueled inverters like EcoFlow Smart Generator 4000. But why limit yourself to fossil fuels? You can also connect solar panels, household AC power, or a Smart Home Panel 2 for the ultimate in energy security, monitoring, and control.
Is an Inverter Generator Worth It?
Inverter generators have a higher price tag than outdated gasoline and propane (LPG) generators, but the higher upfront costs pay off in the long term. Traditional gas generators only have one speed — full blast. Even if you only connect a single power tool or appliance, you’ll empty your tank as quickly as you would at maximum load. Additionally, the dirty AC power produced by traditional fossil fuel generators can damage sensitive electronics. Inverter generators throttle up or down based on electricity consumption to save on fuel and are safe for even the most sensitive devices. Better yet, combine an EcoFlow DELTA Pro Series portable power station, designed for indoor use, with a propane/gas-fueled Smart Generator for a dual-fuel hybrid inverter generator with up to 7 charging options.
Are Inverter Generators Suitable for RVs and Motorhomes?
Yes. Combining an inverter generator with a portable power station gives you multiple options for RV and motorhome power on the road. Portable gas generators are often restricted in campgrounds due to noise, but EcoFlow DELTA Pro Series portable power stations operate silently, allowing you to run them indoors or outdoors without disturbing your neighbours. EcoFlow Smart Generators are significantly quieter than portable gas generators, so their use in crowded campsites is less likely to be prohibited. With multiple ways to charge—including solar panels on your RV's roof, your vehicle's alternator while you drive, or the dual-fuel inverter generator, you’ll have complete energy freedom, whether you're in a full-service park or boondocking in the wilderness.
Can I Use an Inverter Generator to Power my Off-Grid Cottage or Cabin?
Yes. A hybrid inverter generator + portable power station system is the perfect modern solution for supplying reliable off-grid power to a remote property. Enjoy the peace and quiet of your cottage without the constant drone of a traditional generator. Use a high-capacity EcoFlow DELTA Pro 3 as your primary power source; it's powerful enough to run essentials like a water pump, refrigerator, and lights, all with no noise or fumes. The Smart Generator 4000 (Dual Fuel) is a reliable backup to recharge your system for extended off-grid stays or on cloudy days when your solar input is low. Because it can run on propane (LPG), you can store fuel safely for long periods, making it ideal for a seasonal cabin. It’s the best of both worlds: whisper-quiet, clean, solar-powered living with a powerful, fuel-based backup for total energy security.
How Does a Hybrid Inverter Generator Handle a Canadian Winter Power Cut?
Canadian winters, especially with ice storms and blizzards, can lead to prolonged power cuts and road conditions that make refuelling a traditional generator difficult or impossible. This is where a hybrid inverter generator + portable power station solution excels. You can rely on the EcoFlow DELTA Pro 3 portable power station for whisper-quiet, indoor power to keep essentials like your furnace fan, space heaters, refrigerator, and lights running uninterrupted. For extended outages, the Smart Generator 4000 provides additional energy security by operating outdoors on gasoline or stable, long-lasting propane (LPG). This dual-fuel, multi-layered approach ensures that even if roads are impassable, you can maintain power indoors safely, keeping your home warm and secure through the worst of Canadian weather.
Can This System Help Lower My Hydro Bill with Time-of-Use Rates?
Yes, absolutely. In provinces like Ontario with Time-of-Use (TOU) or Ultra-Low Overnight (ULO) electricity rates, an EcoFlow portable power station can become a daily tool for saving money on electricity bills. The strategy is simple: charge your EcoFlow DELTA Pro Series portable power station during off-peak hours when electricity is cheapest (e.g., overnight). During more expensive on-peak hours of the day, you can power high-draw devices like your computer, TV, or kitchen appliances directly from the portable power station instead of the grid. By shifting your energy consumption to off-peak hours, you actively reduce your reliance on expensive peak-time power, leading to significant savings on your monthly hydro bills.