Champion 6500-Watt Inverter Generator vs Briggs & Stratton Q6500 Inverter Generator

Both are 6500-starting/5000-running inverter generators with CO shutdown, so the real split is outlets and fuel. The Champion 6500 adds a 120V 30A RV outlet, a 12V DC outlet, a 224cc engine and up to 18 hours at 25% load, which suits RV owners and long outage runs. The Briggs & Stratton Q6500 has a larger 306cc engine, a 5-gallon tank, USB ports and a lighter, more compact shell, but its 120V outlets are all 20A and run time tops out near 14 hours. Owners of both praise quiet operation and clean power; the Champion's broader outlet set and longer run time give it the edge for most shoppers.

• Choose the Champion 6500 if you need a 30A RV outlet, a 12V DC outlet or the longest run time between refuels.
• Choose the Briggs & Stratton Q6500 if you want USB charging, a lighter and more compact unit, and a bigger engine for heavier loads.