What it is
The Honda EU2200iTAN1, sold as the "Companion" version of Honda's popular EU2200i, is a small gasoline-only inverter generator built around Honda's own GXR120 commercial-grade engine. It delivers 1,800 running watts and 2,200 starting watts, with a 0.95-gallon tank running 3.2 hours at rated load up to 8.1 hours at a quarter load. Honda's Eco Throttle System varies engine speed with the load, which is a large part of why it runs so quietly, between 48 and 57 decibels depending on how hard it is working.
What sets the Companion apart from the standard EU2200i is a built-in 30-amp locking outlet, alongside a 20-amp household outlet. That 30-amp outlet lets two Companion units connect in parallel with a simple cord for up to 4,400 combined watts, without buying a separate parallel kit accessory the way the standard EU2200i requires. At just over 47 pounds with an integrated handle, it is genuinely a one-person carry.
Why it works
This is the generator this site has referenced as the benchmark in nearly every other small-inverter review, and here is why:
Genuinely quieter than the competition
At 48 to 57 decibels depending on load, this generator runs quieter than most competitors in its class, including the dual-fuel small inverters reviewed elsewhere on this site. If a quiet campsite or a quiet neighborhood is the priority, this is the meaningful difference over generators with more features but a louder engine.
Parallel connection without a separate kit
The built-in 30-amp outlet is the reason to choose the Companion over the standard EU2200i. Two Companion units connect with a simple cord for double the output, where the standard model requires buying a separate parallel port accessory to do the same thing.
Reliability and resale value that hold up
Honda's small inverters have a long track record for starting reliably after years of intermittent use, backed by a 3-year warranty and a wide independent service network. That reputation is reflected in the price, but it also means these units tend to hold their resale value better than most competitors.
The one thing to know
Carbon monoxide safety is non-negotiable
Portable generators produce carbon monoxide, an odorless gas that can reach lethal concentrations indoors within minutes. The CPSC recommends placing any portable generator at least 20 feet from all doors, windows, and vents, with the exhaust pointed away from the home. Never run a generator indoors, in a garage, on a covered porch, in a carport, or in any enclosed or partially enclosed space, even with doors or windows open. Honda's CO-MINDER continuously monitors carbon monoxide levels near the unit and shuts the engine down automatically before they become dangerous, but this is a backup layer, not a substitute for correct placement. Install battery-operated CO detectors on every level of your home.
Source: CPSC Carbon Monoxide Information Center and CDC generator safety guidance. Verified 2026-08-05.
Not sold in California
Honda's own listing for this exact model states it is not available in California and points California residents toward different model numbers built for that market. If you live in California, confirm which current Honda small inverter is sold there before buying, since the model lineup and numbering differs by state.
The other thing to know is price and wattage. This generator costs meaningfully more than dual-fuel competitors with higher running wattage, such as the WEN DF360iX reviewed elsewhere on this site, which delivers 2,900 running watts for less money. Honda's advantage is quieter operation, a longer reliability track record, and stronger resale value, not a wattage or price advantage. It also runs on gasoline only, with no propane option.
Alternatives worth knowing
WEN DF360iX, for more running watts and dual fuel
Substantially more running wattage (2,900W versus 1,800W) with propane flexibility, at a lower price. Louder than the Honda and without its reliability track record, but a stronger value on paper. Read our review.
DuroMax XP2300iH, for dual fuel at a lower price
Similar running wattage (1,800W) with propane capability and a CO sensor, at a lower price point than the Honda. The tradeoff is a shorter brand track record and a louder rated noise level. Read our review.
DuroMax XP11000iH, for whole-panel home backup
Five times the running wattage with transfer-switch-ready outlets, built for powering selected circuits in a home's breaker panel. More generator than camping or light backup calls for. Read our review.
Maintenance
Run the generator under load for 15 to 30 minutes every 30 days to keep the engine and fuel system in working order. The "Fuel Off" position lets the engine consume most of the fuel remaining in the carburetor before shutting down, which helps prevent the stale-fuel issues that cause many small generators to need carburetor cleaning after storage. Add fuel stabilizer for any storage period longer than 30 days regardless.
Check the oil level before every use. Honda's redesigned oil filler opening and drain gutter on this generation make oil changes cleaner than on older Honda inverter models. Follow the manual's schedule for oil change intervals, and inspect the air filter and spark plug annually.
Honda backs the EU2200iTAN1 with a 3-year limited warranty and a wide independent dealer service network. Register the unit and keep the purchase receipt with your household documents.
NWS recommendation
If quiet operation and long-term reliability matter more to you than getting the most watts for the least money, the EU2200iTAN1 is the generator this entire site's small-inverter comparisons have been measured against, and it earns that reputation. If raw wattage per dollar is your priority instead, the WEN DF360iX reviewed elsewhere on this site is the stronger value. Test the generator before you need it, and place it at least 20 feet from the house with the exhaust pointed away.
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