An RV inverter is an extremely important device for anyone who loves the RV lifestyle. But there are so many models available these days that choosing the best RV inverter for your recreational vehicle can prove to be quite an overwhelming task.
In this article, we take a look at all the factors you need to consider before choosing the right one that will provide adequate power for all your appliances and devices. So read on to learn everything you need to know before making your purchase.
To make things even easier for you, we’ve also included a handy list of some of the best options available on the market today. Take a look at each of the factors that are important to you before heading over to our review list where we’ve researched and rated all the top options for you to choose from.
So without further ado, let’s jump right to it
Contents
10 Best RV Inverters: Editor’s Top Picks
Top 15 Best RV Inverters Reviews:
1. GoWise Pure Sine Wave Inverter
This power inverter offers an advanced power conversion functionality that will supply you with reliable AC power from any DC electricity source. You can use this in cars, vessels, and RVs. It’s also ideal for camping trips and for use during power failure emergencies.
As you can see, this is a versatile piece of equipment and by installing this in your RV, you are assured of never running out of power on the road. This unit provides stable electricity with 6000W surge power and 3000W continuous power.
There is a low harmonic distortion which makes this an excellent tool for your RV if you want maximum efficiency when using it to run sensitive equipment such as TVs, computers, radios, and more.
This unit is compact and portable and can be used on a variety of work sites if you’re not permanently installing it in your RV. It features five types of protection systems, including overload protection, thermal protection, low-voltage protection, under-voltage protection, and over-voltage protection alarms. This is undoubtedly the best pure sine wave inverter for RV use that you’ll find anywhere.
Highlighted Features
- Versatile use ideal for a wide variety of situations
- Includes five protection systems
- Comes with black and red cables and W-ring terminals
- Quiet and effective temperature cooling fan
- Low total harmonic distortion
2. Xantrex Technology Inverter/Charger
This modified sine wave RV inverter has the ability to power all the electrical equipment, appliances, sensitive electronics, and everything else you have in your RV. If you are searching for the best inverter for RV use, this is definitely one that you should check out.
It has temperature-controlled multistage charging which ensures that your RV batteries recharge quickly. It also has safety features like an automatic shutdown to protect your deep cycle batteries from becoming depleted. These types of features make this unit perfect for any RV and you can rest assured you will always have power no matter how long you’re on the road.
According to a lot of online reviews from customers, this redesigned model is a major improvement on the original. Whether you’ve decided that it’s time for an upgrade on your existing RV inverter or if you are installing one for the first time – either way, this is an ideal option to choose that offers you a lot of convenient features and functionality.
Highlighted Features
- AC power inverter has high surge capability
- Automatic 3-stage battery charger
- Optimal charging for deep cycle batteries
- Automatic inverter power/incoming AC power transfer
- Power-sharing prevents AC input circuit breaker tripping
3. Krieger Inverter
This RV power inverter from the Krieger brand gives you incredible levels of power on the go. It’ll be able to handle all your RV’s appliances, including TVs, radios, ovens, microwaves, and more. This modified sine wave RV inverter will convert your 12V DC electrical supply to 120V AC power that will keep all your appliances running.
It comes with the cables to connect directly to your battery vehicle battery for power on the go. This unit has been tested, certified, and approved by METLAB for safety and performance. It has an LCD display that shows you the voltage, Watts, and battery level. It also has a super silent fan which means you don’t have to put up with constant, annoying humming sounds every time your inverter is working.
This unit comes equipped with standard North American AC outlets and you can charge your tablets and phones from USB ports. Also included are three-foot battery cables, an ANL fuse, and an on/off remote control. Whether you use this inverter for your recreational vehicle or for camping, picnics, or emergency power failures, this unit will give you reliable power anytime you need it.
Highlighted Features
- 4000W peak and 2000W continuous power
- All-inclusive wired remote control
- Overload, high temperature, and short-circuit protection
- The convenient, bright LCD screen shows battery level
- 3-year parts and labor warranty from the manufacturer
4. Go Power Sine Wave Inverter
This is a heavy-duty 3000W modified sine wave RV inverter that will take in 12V DC power and convert it to usable AC household power for running loads up to 3000 Wcontinuous AC power. The inverter comes with four outlets and it can be easily hooked up to your RV batteries.
This is the best inventor you can get for your vehicle when it comes to easy installation and great performance. It has a one-year warranty from the manufacturer to give you the peace of mind that you’re buying a quality product that is designed to keep your appliances running for a long time to come.
It also has a variety of safety protection features, including overvoltage protection, under-voltage protection, and overload protection. There’s a built-in low battery alarm so that you are never surprised by power cutting out unexpectedly. The unit also has a low battery shutdown at +/-0.5V: 10 V.
Being a heavy-duty model, this sine wave inverter comes encased in a durable, rugged casing that is designed for long-lasting use. This means that your unit is protected against impacts and accidental falls.
Highlighted Features
- Best inverter for 3000W continuous power
- Extremely easy to hook up to RV battery
- Four AC outlets for plugging appliances and devices
- Includes low battery alarm and low battery shutdown
- Comes with a one-year warranty from the manufacturer
5. Xantrex PROWatt Inverter
The ProWatt inverter from Xantrex has a design that is compact, easy to use, and very simple to install. It’s ideal for use in commercial trucks, RVs, and various marine applications. It meets all the safety and performance standards and UL 458 marine supplements.
It has a high surge capability, meaning that you have all the necessary current for starting up demanding electrical loads in your recreational vehicle. In addition to that, this ProWatt SW series has GFCI AC receptacles and innovative USB connections to provide power for all your USB chargeable devices. This model has a lot of unique safety features that you won’t find in a lot of other inverters.
It also comes equipped with a handy remote control and allows you the ability to use automatic ignition lockout. You can shut down the output from the inverter whenever the RV’s ignition isn’t engaged. This is undoubtedly among the best RV inverters you can get for the price.
Highlighted Features
- Built-in LCD display for output power and DC volts
- Includes a convenient USB port for charging devices
- Dual GFCI AC receptacles offer safe operation
- Heavy-duty terminals provide easy battery connection
- Comes with a two-year warranty from the manufacturer
6. Bestek Pure Sine Wave Inverter
This 300W pure sine wave power inverter from Bestek is a great choice for you if you want to be able to power your sensitive RV devices that require enhanced protection. The unit comes with two USB ports as well as two AC outlets to allow you to power various devices at the same time.
If you are searching for a car power inverter that will not damage your sensitive equipment, then this could be a great product for you to consider. Just remember, never place it in direct sunlight and avoid putting it next to heat-sensitive materials as the inverter tends to become warm during use.
Also, this inverter is not designed to handle the needs of high power electric devices like hairdryers, heaters, etc. If used with such devices that require more power, it may blow a fuse.
Although it does become warm to the touch during use, this pure sine wave power inverter has a smart cooling fan that helps to dissipate the heat and keep it to a minimum. It has a strong, durable aluminum alloy housing to ensure that your super-compact unit is protected and safe from impact at all times.
Highlighted Features
- The unit provides top speed charging
- Comes with full protection including built-in fuse
- Smart cooling fan for easy heat dissipation
- Includes isolation voltage protection
- Super compact design with aluminum alloy housing
7. VertaMax Pure Sine Wave Inverter
This pure sine wave power inverter offers reliable, clean household power whenever you’re on the go. It quickly and easily converts battery power to 115-120V AC household power to drive all your devices and appliances in your recreational vehicle.
You’ll be able to power up everything from household appliances to office equipment and much more using your RVs battery or any other 12V battery. This unit is great for appliances like microwave ovens, laptops, coffeemakers, TVs, video games, cell phone charges, CD and DVD players, and much more. No matter what you have in your RV, you’re sure to be able to power it with this handy little device.
It has a surge power of 3000W and continuous power of 1500W. The package comes with 3-foot 2-gauge battery cables that have cable lug terminals. You also get a remote on/off switch. A 150-amp ANL fuse and fuse holder are included for enhanced safety. Installation is easy and the unit comes with a one-year warranty from the manufacturer.
Highlighted Features
- High-quality power inverter from a reliable brand
- This unit is extremely easy to install and use
- The inverter has three grounded AC outlets
- Reliable design with convenient thermal shutdown
- LED display to show Watts and DC battery voltage
8. Potek 2,000W Inverter
If you’re searching for the best RV inverter charger, that will power all the devices in your vehicle, this one is worth checking out. It has an efficient cooling system to help prevent overheating. The fence starts to work as soon as the temperature of the heatsink gets to 104°F.
The high-speed cooling fan effectively dissipates heat, keeping your inverter running safely at low temperatures which, in turn, helps to increase its performance and effectiveness. With this unit, you also get power readout convenience. It has a level display that indicates the estimated output wattage.
After your load reaches 200W, a green, first-level light turns on. When the load reaches 2000W, a red light turns on and there is an audible alarm to alert you. This unit provides excellent working performance for everything including inductive load, resistive load, and capacitive load.
Potek is a brand that is devoted to providing customers with the absolute best quality products at an affordable price. If you want the absolute best value for money, you certainly cannot go wrong with this RV inverter.
Highlighted Features
- The unit provides 4000W peak and 2000W continuous power
- Includes three AC outlets and USB charging port
- Overvoltage, overload, and short-circuit protection
- Extremely effective built-in cooling fan
- Friendly customer service and 24 months warranty
9. AIMS Power Inverter
The AIMS compact 5000W modified sine wave RV power inverter is a great choice for anyone who loves the RV lifestyle and never wants to have to do without all their luxuries of home. This brand has been constantly improving on their product, and with the newest upgrade, they’ve managed to create an industry standard.
The model is a lot smaller and lighter than its original counterpart. Weighing in at just 18 pounds, and only 17 inches in length, this compact unit is ideal for all types of vehicles. It has a considerably smaller footprint than its best-selling predecessor.
Other major changes include the set of DC input terminals located on the unit’s DC side which eliminates the need for multiple sets of cables or jumpers. Yet another major change is the DC AC terminal block that has been repositioned in order to give users a better view of the inverter’s meter.
The best part about all these amazing changes that were implemented to upgrade this unit is that the cost of the inverter remains the same. This makes it the absolute best value available in a power inverter of its size.
Highlighted Features
- Best inverter generator for RV
- The durable aluminum case offers optimal cooling
- Meter on the front panel for monitoring consumption
- Convenient quadruple AC receptible
- The upgraded model is offered at an unchanged price
10. Ampeak 2,000 Power Inverter
Ampeak’s 2000W power inverter will power all the devices in your RV, including specialized, sophisticated electronic products such as your TV, radios, laptops, and more. It has a user-friendly design that makes it a firm favorite for many RV owners. It comes with an independent power switch, a steady ABS shell, and a convenient mounting slot to make it easy to install in your vehicle.
It also has a smart digital display that shows you all the important information at a glance, including the input (V), output (KW), output (W), overload protection, overvoltage protection, short-circuit protection, low-voltage protection, overheat protection, and much more.
As you can see, this unit is designed to offer you the ultimate in performance and safety. Thanks to its innovative design you always know where you stand as far as your power is concerned. You can plug in your devices with the peace of mind of knowing that if anything goes wrong or if you’re running low on power, you know about it instantly.
After all, the last thing you want is to find yourself suddenly stuck on the road with no power and no idea what happened. If you’re searching for the best power inverter for car, boat, or RV use, then this could very well be exactly what you’re looking for.
Highlighted Features
- 2000W continuous and 4000W surge capacity inverter
- All-round protection with built-in mini slip fuse
- Smart digital display with an audible alarm
- ABS material shell designed for long-lasting durability
- Comes with an 18-month hassle-free warranty
11. WZRELB Pure Sine Wave Inverter
Produced by Yueqing Electric, this pure sine wave RV inverter is CE FCC approved for safety, durability, and reliability. It is also offered at an extremely competitive price which makes it a great choice for anyone who spends a lot of time in their RV. This brand has an incredible power conversion engineering team that consistently works to make their designs better.
This 3000W full power inverter has high efficiency with low failure. This is among the most sophisticated and stable designs in both software and hardware that you’ll find anywhere on the market today. For anyone searching for the best inverter generator for RV use, this will prove to be a great option for powering all the appliances in your recreational vehicle.
The manufacturer uses only the most durable electronic components inside this unit, including the EMC-approved power inverter. This means you won’t get any electromagnetic interference with any of the appliances in your vehicle, including your TVs, radios, audio, and so on.
Highlighted Features
- Package includes everything needed for installation
- 6000W surge and 3000W continuous power
- Extra thick PCB for enhanced load capacity
- High-frequency transformer for stable output
- LCD display for easy power usage monitoring
12. Haitral Power Inverter
This durable modified sine wave power inverter is perfect for powering all the appliances and devices in your RV. It offers reliable performance and a variety of safety features including overload and overheating protection. It has three built-in cooling fans to help dissipate heat during use and the higher the internal temperature is, the faster the fan’s speed.
Both the front and the back of the unit have a fan which helps to solve the issue of ventilation while greatly improving thermal dissipation performance. This feature also helps to protect the internal circuitry of the inverter.
The output from this unit is more stable and provides consistent power. It has high-quality fine copper inductance and a double loop bank output inductance, both of which ensure the wave shape of the output voltage.
It also has a smart chip technology as well as an internal fuse for multiple protection functions. An indicator lights up whenever there’s an issue with the machine, such as overload, short-circuit, or reverse connection.
Highlighted Features
- 6000W peak power and 3000W continuous rating
- Multi-protection features for enhanced security
- Durable, light external aluminum shell
- Versatile inverter with easy installation and use
- Comes with a 12-month warranty
13. Giandel Power Inverter
Giandel’s power inverter comes with remote control for ease of use. It has low and high voltage protection, as well as short-circuit and overload protection to ensure long-lasting durability for your device. In addition to having an intelligent cooling fan, it also comes with high-temperature protection for safe use.
The remote control has a 15-foot cable and the unit also has an LED display that will allow you to easily see your power usage at a glance. This inverter has an isolated input and output design. For anyone who wants more reliable power for the appliances in their RV, this is a great inverter for you to consider.
It has a convenient USB charge port and it’ll run all your appliances including your hairdryer, microwave oven, electric heater, and more. This makes it ideal for camping, marine, and RV applications. It comes with standard cables for connecting the inverter to your 12V battery. Just remember never to leave the power inverter on while your car is off, and keep the inverter in a cool dry place out of direct sunlight.
Highlighted Features
- 2000W continues and 4000W peak power
- Versatile RV inverter offers a wide variety of applications
- Soft Start tech with isolated input/output
- Full range of safety protection features
- Durable, impact-resistant aluminum alloy housing
14. Peak Mobile Power Outlet
Peak Mobile’s power outlet is great for you if you want maximum power for your vehicle with minimum effort on your part. With this unit, you will get to experience 3000W of heavy-duty energy to power up even large appliances and power tools. From TVs to refrigerators and microwaves and more, you will be able to keep the appliances in your RV going with ease.
This is a great car power inverter for you if you want a safe, ETL certified inverter that ensures protection for your devices. It comes with mounting brackets and easy to follow instructions for quick and simple installation.
The unit also comes with overload protection as well as an LCD display that informs you of the status of your battery. It also has heavy-duty connecting cables for connecting to the battery and it features a convenient on-off remote switch with over 10 feet of cable. As you can see, this is a great tool to have in your car, boat, or RV to provide reliable power during your trips.
Highlighted Features
- Compact -sized Peak Mobile power outlet
- Ideal for charging tablets and cell phones in the car
- Heavy-duty design for household-strength power
- Effortlessly connects to the vehicle battery
- Comes with heat shutdown and overload protection
15. Tripp Lite Power Inverter
This power inverter is a reliable source of power for running a wide variety of RV equipment ranging from pumps and power tools to portable lighting, computers, etc. in heavy load conditions. It’s an excellent alternative to traditional generator power because it has no excess noise, fumes, or fuel.
It provides 1250W of continuous power and 2500W peak power for up to 10 seconds when equipment is starting up or cycling. The automatic overload detector helps to prevent your unit from incurring damage during use. It also has a cooling fan and resettable circuit breakers to add to the protection of the inverter.
Backed by Tripp Lite’s standard of quality, you can be sure that when you buy this product you’re receiving only the best value and unparalleled customer service. In addition to getting industrial-strength output power from this device, you also get extended peak surge power and auto transfer switch and for UPS operation.
Highlighted Features
- Best inverter for RVs in its category
- 2500W instantaneous and 1000W continuous output
- Durable moisture and impact-resistant PC housing
- Includes two convenient AC outlets
- Comes with a one-year limited warranty
Things to Consider When Buying an RV Inverter
Before investing in the best RV inverter for your vehicle, it’s vital to know all the different attributes that the inverter has to have. Some RV inverters are designed to offer high levels of power for luxury recreational vehicles while others have simple, functional designs.
So take a look at each of the factors listed below, decide which ones are more important to you, and then make your choice accordingly.
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1. Converter Versus Inverter
One of the most common mistakes people make is mixing up the two. Although the devices sound similar, converters and inverters are not the same things. They actually function in very different ways. Your RV is powered by two types of voltage: AC voltage (110V) and DC voltage (12V).
A converter’s job is simply to convert AC voltage into DC voltage (110V to 12V) in order to supply power to different parts of your vehicle, such as your water pump, lighting, etc.
On the other hand, an inverter is designed to do the opposites, that is, turn DC voltage into AC voltage (12V to 110V).
By doing this, you’re then able to operate a lot of other parts of your vehicle without having to plug things in or to rely on power from a backup generator. So for someone who enjoys having a fully operational RV but doesn’t want a complicated setup or the constant generator hum, then an RV inverter is one of the most useful things you can add to your vehicle.
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2. Modified vs. Pure Sine Inverter
There are two main types of RV inverters, modified sine wave, and pure sine wave. The difference between them is in the waveform that they generate. However, what it really comes down to is the effect they have on your RV power.
Modified sine wave inverters are generally more affordable but sometimes they won’t work well for all appliances. You may find that you get interference with radios, computers, TVs, and other gadgets. But they do work well for lights, non-digital microwaves, power tools, and more.
A pure sine wave inverter, on the other hand, will power your entertainment devices like TVs, radios, and computers smoothly, giving you clean output. However, this type of inverter is a lot less economical than modified wave inverters.
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3. Inverter Size
Here we’re not talking about the actual physical size of your device, but rather the wattage produced by the RV inverter. These days you’ll find inverters that range from 1000W to 5000W. The wattage you choose depends on how many appliances you intend to power in your RV, as well as how much energy they consume.
Once you’ve figured out the amount of Watts you normally use, you’ll then be able to determine the level of power you need from your RV inverter. So, for instance, if you find that you typically use about 3000W, then you don’t need to buy a 5000W inverter, otherwise, you’ll just be putting your system under unnecessary strain.
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4. Durability
The last thing you need when you’re on the road is to have something happen to the inverter. If you don’t want to have to deal with the inconvenience of being without power while far away from any major cities where you can get a replacement then it’s important to ensure that the RV inverter you choose is a high-quality one from a reliable brand.
Some manufacturers even include thick outer coverings or special cases to protect your inverter from damage and enhance its durability.
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5. Heavy-duty vs Lightweight
In addition to categorizing them as pure sine or modified, RV inverters can also be referred to as either lightweight or heavy-duty. Lightweight RV inverters can be used in smaller cars, minivans, or SUVs, but they are not recommended for use in RVs. They generally provide low what powerful phones, laptops, and cameras.
If you want an inverter for use inside an RV, then a heavy-duty model is the way to go. These devices offer higher wattage so you can always have reliable power for your radios, TVs, kitchen appliances, and more. There’s also a third class of RV inverters called medical-grade inverters. However, you don’t have to consider these unless you intend to power a whole entire entertainment system.
What Is an RV Inverter?
An RV power inverter is simply an electronic module with the capability to power appliances and devices that require 120V AC shore power (without the use of a generator). Installing an RV inverter adds a whole new level of convenience to your RV lifestyle, particularly if you like camping off the power grid.
You can still charge your phones, watch TV, and power all your other appliances. These days, a lot of mid to high-end RVs come with inverters installed, serving either all or some of the RV outlets. The good news is that even if your RV does not have an inverter, it’s extremely easy to add one.
Why Do You Need an RV Inverter?
There are many reasons why you need an RV inverter. Although many RVs these days come equipped with an inverter, some don’t and if you’re wondering if it’s worth investing in one, here are a few reasons why you should:
- Reason #1: An inverter provides an easy connection to shore power. With a high-quality RV inverter, you will be able to use your regular electrical devices and easily plug into shore power whenever it’s available. This is because shore power comes in as a regular AC, ready for powering the items in your recreational vehicle.
- Reason #2: An inverter allows you to use regular electrical products, which is perhaps one of the main advantages of using a power inverter in your RV. This means that whenever you’re parked, you’re able to flip on your RV TV and other appliances as you please.
- The refrigerator can be running in your kitchen and your coffee maker can be plugged in at any time. These are the kinds of things that’s can be real luxuries when you’re out in the wilderness with your RV.
- Reason #3: Another reason why you should invest in an RV inverter is for charging batteries. Although this may be a very simple function, it’s also an incredibly important one too. Even very simple RV inverters can effectively charge batteries to power your electrical devices like cell phones, tablets, satnavs, and more.
Types of RV Inverters
There are a lot of different types of RV inverters that you’ll find for sale. Different brands focus on different features to suit a variety of individual preferences. As an RV owner, it’s important to understand the types of RV inverters available to you so you can choose the one that will provide you with the best performance and features.
RV inverters can be divided into two categories: modified sine wave inverters and pure sine wave inverters.
- Modified Sine Wave Inverters
These are less expensive and deliver a power supply with rapid peaks and troughs. Some appliances require a smooth and clean supply of power, which means that a modified sine wave inverter won’t work well to power them.
So although it doesn’t make much of a difference with items like cell phones, pumps, power tools, etc., a modified sine wave inverter may have an effect on more sensitive electrical items, such as your TV, radio, computers, and more.
- Pure Sine Wave Inverter
Sometimes referred to as a true sine wave inverter, this type of inverter provides a cleaner, smoother power which means that your appliances and devices get a steady stream of electricity that has no oscillations. This makes it perfect for any high-end electrical products, such as flatscreen TVs, refrigerators, ovens, game consoles, and more.
- Square Wave Inverters
Yet another type of power inverter is called the square wave. This one is extremely popular with owners of smaller cars thanks to its affordable price. By installing it in your car, you’ll be able to run and charge simple devices like laptops and phones – even some appliances that have universal motors.
But, this type of RV inverter has extremely limited function and capabilities which is why it’s the least common type of inverter you’ll find on the market when it comes to RV installations.
How Does an RV Inverter Work?
An RV inverter works by converting direct current electricity used by your vehicle or RV battery system into alternating current (AC) that your household electrical devices and appliances can use. An inverter will only start working when it draws power into your battery. It consumes DC power and then, as its name implies, it converts that power into AC.
The inverter will also allow you to run large electronics that use alternating currents. It’s important to note that you won’t be able to use your normal devices by simply plugging them into the RV’s socket. First, the 12V DC has to be converted into AC current through the use of your inverter. You can then attach the inverter to your recreational vehicle so it can power your appliances.
Final Verdict
As you can see, there are tons of different RV inverter options available to you, and it’s important that you understand all the different types of inverters that you can choose from. You want a high-quality unit that is made with customers in mind so that you have convenient, versatile, and reliable power for all the appliances in your recreational vehicle.
So use this review and buying guide as your resource to help you find the best RV inverter that will take care of all your power needs.