WEN DF1100T vs Pulsar G12KBN-SG: Which Generator is Right for You?

Overview of WEN DF1100T

The WEN DF1100T is a dual fuel portable generator that is CARB compliant. With a sleek black design, this generator offers high performance, versatility, and convenience. It’s equipped with a wheel kit and electric start for easy maneuverability and use.

Key Features include:

  • Ability to switch between gasoline (11,000 surge watts, 8,300 running watt) and propane (9,500 surge, 7,500 running) with a simple turn of the selection dial
  • Voltage flexibility from 120V to 240V, making it perfect for transfer switches and emergency backup
  • An electric start that powers the 457cc 4-stroke OHV engine with the turn of a key
  • A 6.6-gallon tank providing up to 8.5 hours of half load run time
  • Includes four 120V GFCI outlets (5-20R), a 120V 30A twist lock outlet (L5-30R), a 120V/240V 50A outlet (NEMA 14-50R), a 12V DC cigarette-lighter-style plug, a bottle of oil, a 47-inch LPG connection hose, and a two-year warranty

Some important Attributes of the WEN DF1100T are:

Brand WEN
Wattage 11000 watts
Fuel Type Electric
Power Source Fuel Powered
Item Weight 214 Pounds
Voltage 120 Volts
Output Wattage 11000 Watts
Special Feature Electric
Included Components Dual-Fuel Generator
Color Black

The current Price of the WEN DF1100T is $789.99.

Overview of Pulsar G12KBN-SG

The Pulsar G12KBN-SG is a heavy-duty portable dual fuel generator. This CARB compliant generator is designed for high performance, with a reliable power output of up to 12,000 peak watts for gasoline and 10,800 peak watts for LPG. It sports an attractive space gray color and is also equipped with an electric start for easy operation.

Some of the notable Features are:

  • 12,000 peak watts/ 9,500 rated watts (gasoline) & 10,800 peak watts/ 8,550 rated watts (LPG)
  • Dual fuel capability allows for the choice between gasoline & LPG fuel sources, making it great for emergency situations or natural disasters
  • A 457cc, single cylinder, 4-stroke, air cooled, OHV engine with electric start, all protected by a durable powder coated frame
  • An 8-gallon fuel tank that can provide up to 12 hours of continuous operation at half load when running on gasoline
  • Ample outlets for powering appliances, tools, and other devices, including (4) 120V 20A AC outlets, (1) 120V/240V 30A twist-lock outlet, (1) 120V/240V 50A outlet, and (1) 12V DC output

The Attributes of the Pulsar G12KBN-SG are as follows:

Brand Pulsar
Wattage 12000 watts
Fuel Type Electric
Power Source Fuel Powered
Recommended Uses For Product Residential
Item Weight 209 Pounds
Voltage 120240 Volts
Output Wattage 12000 Watts
Special Feature Electric
Color Space Gray

The current Price of the Pulsar G12KBN-SG is $899.99.

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Summary Table: WEN DF1100T vs Pulsar G12KBN-SG

WEN DF1100T Pulsar G12KBN-SG
Brand WEN Pulsar
Wattage 11000 watts 12000 watts
Fuel Type Electric Electric
Power Source Fuel Powered Fuel Powered
Recommended Uses For Product N/A Residential
Item Weight 214 Pounds 209 Pounds
Voltage 120 Volts 120240 Volts
Output Wattage 11000 Watts 12000 Watts
Special Feature Electric Electric
Color Black Space Gray
Price $789.99 $899.99

User reviews of WEN DF1100T

Summary of Positive Reviews for WEN DF1100T

  • Users have noted that the WEN DF1100T is a reliable and powerful machine, capable of running everything in a household, including heat and air conditioning systems.
  • Reviewers have praised the generator’s dual fuel option, which allows for operation on either gasoline or propane. They have noted that it starts easily on both fuels and that propane is a cleaner option.
  • The generator’s price has been highlighted by many as offering great value for money. Despite being significantly less expensive than some competitor brands, users report that its performance is not compromised.
  • Some users have commented on the generator’s build quality, describing it as solid and well constructed. They have also appreciated the easy access to engine parts for regular service.
  • The WEN DF1100T’s ease of use and clear labeling of its components have been noted positively. Users have also found the setup process to be straightforward, with only the wheels and handles requiring assembly.
  • Several reviewers have reported that the generator’s noise level is reasonable and not significantly louder than other generators they’ve used.
  • The extended runtime and fuel efficiency of the generator have been appreciated by users, who have reported that it can run for up to 10-11 hours on a single tank of fuel.
  • The generator’s meter/monitor functions, which include alerts for oil changes and more extensive service, are seen as useful features.
  • Users have also noted the generator’s durability, with some reporting that it continues to function well even after extended periods of use.

Summary of Critical User Reviews for WEN DF1100T

  • Several users reported difficulties in starting the generator, especially on gasoline.
  • Some customers found WEN’s customer service to be unhelpful and snarky, particularly when troubleshooting initial start-up issues.
  • One user noted the voltage regulator had issues after 5 months and finding a replacement was challenging. The same user highlighted a problem with the battery, which is an unusual size and hard to replace.
  • There were complaints about the GFCI outlets, which consistently broke after minimal use. Also, customer service was difficult to reach and unresponsive.
  • Amazon’s inaccurate weight listing for the product led to delivery issues for one customer, who also mentioned the frequency of the power was slightly off.
  • A customer faced a carburetor internal float problem which required a repairman’s intervention. He also suggested a design improvement – a single “U” shaped handle for easier movement of the unit.
  • Warranty issues were highlighted by a user who had to pay out of pocket for local shop repairs. Despite promises, the user did not receive a refund from WEN.
  • The generator was described as poorly made by a user, who received a unit with a dead battery. This user also reported a personal injury caused by a broken handle.

User reviews of Pulsar G12KBN-SG

Positive User Reviews Summary for Pulsar G12KBN-SG

  • Users praised the Pulsar G12KBN-SG for its reliable performance during power outages, keeping appliances such as air conditioners, fridges, and TVs operational for extended periods. It has proven to be a trusted power source in emergencies.
  • Customers appreciated the generator’s fuel efficiency. It has a large tank capacity, which allows for long run-times before requiring a refuel. Some users reported up to 12 hours of continuous operation.
  • Despite being a large unit, users found the noise level manageable and even quieter than other brands. This made it comfortable for overnight use without disturbing sleep.
  • The easy assembly and startup of the Pulsar G12KBN-SG was another positive aspect highlighted. Users found the generator user-friendly and simple to set up.
  • Several reviewers valued the dual fuel option (gasoline or propane), which provides flexibility and potentially longer run-times.
  • The Pulsar G12KBN-SG’s ability to power an entire house, including high-demand appliances like AC units and well pumps, was a standout feature. It was able to handle heavy loads without any hiccups.
  • Despite some complaints about missing engine oil upon delivery, users found the customer service responsive and helpful in resolving issues.
  • Although a few users reported minor problems with components such as the fuel gauge and starter switch, they were generally satisfied with the overall build and performance of the generator.

Summary of Critical User Reviews for Pulsar G12KBN-SG

  • Several customers experienced difficulty with the company’s customer service, describing it as ‘horrible’ and unresponsive.
  • Functional problems were common, including backfiring, failure to produce power after a few days, and recurrent stalling.
  • Some units arrived in damaged condition, with bent air filters and crankcases.
  • Electric start and battery charging issues were reported.
  • Users complained about an unpleasant propane smell that seemed to emanate from inside the unit, along with a broken propane regulator.
  • The unit’s loudness was a common complaint, with some customers comparing it unfavorably to a lawnmower and a motorcycle in terms of noise level.
  • Users reported that the voltage was ‘dirty’, causing LED lights to flicker and devices to reset when a large load, like an air conditioner, was plugged in.
  • The generator was deemed suitable for worksite use but not for home due to its loudness and power quality issues.
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Pros and Cons of the compared products

Pros and Cons of WEN DF1100T

Pros:

  • Reliable and powerful, able to power an entire household, including heating and cooling systems.
  • Offers dual fuel options (gasoline or propane) for flexibility and easy operation.
  • Affordable and provides excellent value for the money, without compromising performance.
  • Well-built with easy access to engine parts for regular service.
  • User-friendly with clear labels and easy setup process.
  • Reasonable noise level, comparable to other similar generators.
  • Extended runtime and fuel efficiency, capable of operating for up to 10-11 hours on a single tank of fuel.
  • Has useful meter/monitor functions such as alerts for oil changes and other services.
  • Durable and continues to function well even after extended periods of use.

Cons:

  • Some users reported difficulties in starting the generator, especially on gasoline.
  • Unhelpful and snarky customer service particularly when troubleshooting initial startup issues.
  • Issues reported with the voltage regulator and battery, which are difficult to replace.
  • Complaints about the GFCI outlets breaking after minimal use and unresponsive customer service.
  • Inaccurate weight listing on Amazon leading to delivery issues, and a slightly off power frequency.
  • Design flaws such as a troublesome carburetor and the need for a single “U” shaped handle for easier movement.
  • Warranty issues where users had to pay for repairs out of pocket and did not receive promised refunds.
  • Poor manufacturing quality as reported by a user who received a unit with a dead battery and suffered a personal injury due to a broken handle.

Pros and Cons of Pulsar G12KBN-SG

Pros:

  • Reliable performance during power outages, capable of powering appliances like air conditioners, fridges, and TVs for extended periods.
  • Appreciated for its fuel efficiency, with a large tank capacity allowing for long run-times. Reports of up to 12 hours of continuous operation.
  • Noise level is manageable and quieter than other brands, making it suitable for overnight use.
  • Easy assembly and startup, with a user-friendly setup process.
  • Dual fuel option (gasoline or propane) provides flexibility and potentially longer run-times.
  • Ability to power an entire house, including high-demand appliances like AC units and well pumps.
  • Responsive customer service that helps resolve issues such as missing engine oil upon delivery.
  • Despite minor issues with components like the fuel gauge and starter switch, general satisfaction with the overall build and performance.

Cons:

  • Several reports of poor customer service, described as ‘horrible’ and unresponsive.
  • Functional problems including backfiring, power failure after a few days, and recurrent stalling.
  • Units sometimes arrived in a damaged condition, with bent air filters and crankcases.
  • Issues reported with electric start and battery charging.
  • Complaints about an unpleasant propane smell from the unit and a broken propane regulator.
  • Loudness levels were a common complaint, with comparisons to the noise level of a lawnmower and a motorcycle.
  • Reports of ‘dirty’ voltage, causing LED lights to flicker and devices to reset when a large load was plugged in.
  • Considered suitable for worksite use but not for home due to its loudness and power quality issues.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both the WEN DF1100T and the Pulsar G12KBN-SG are excellent choices for a portable generator, each with their own strengths. The WEN DF1100T is a versatile and reliable machine, perfect for a variety of uses, while the Pulsar G12KBN-SG offers a bit more power and is especially suited for residential use. When choosing between the two, consider your specific power needs, budget, and the intended use for the generator.