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Renogy 3000W Pure Sine Wave Inverter Charger w/ LCD Display
Renogy 3000W 12V Pure Sine Wave Inverter
Giandel 4000W Heavy Duty Pure Sine Wave Power Inverter
EDECOA Pure Sine Wave Power Inverter 3500W
Giandel 24 Volt 2000W Pure Sine Wave Power Inverter
VertaMax Pure SINE Wave 1500 Watt
SL Euthtion 3000W Pure Sine Wave Power Inverter
Voltworks 1500W Pure Sine Wave Power Inverter
GoWISE Power 1000W Pure Sine Wave Inverter
Novopal Power Inverter Pure Sine Wave-1500 Watt
Pure sine wave inverters are an essential part of any off-grid power system. Do you need one and what are this year’s top picks? Let’s find out.
Many appliances work only with AC voltage, which isn’t really a problem when you have a wall socket around, right?
But in a power outage or any kind of emergency, you’re pretty much stuck with batteries. And believe me, you don’t want to be left with only 12V when the power goes out.
This is where pure sine wave inverters come in. These devices convert low voltage DC to proper 110V or 120V AC electricity that home appliances can use.
Using my knowledge as an electrical engineer and experience as a prepper, I made a list of the best pure sine wave inverters you can get this season.
Let me help you pick an inverter for your RV, cabin, or emergency kit.
My Top 3 Picks for the Best Pure Sine Wave Inverters
Renogy 3000W Pure Sine Wave Inverter Charger w/ LCD Display
Renogy 3000W 12 Volt Pure Sine Wave Inverter (Basic Variant)
Giandel Heavy Duty 4000W Pure Sine Wave Power Inverter
The 10 Best Pure Sine Wave Inverters (Reviewed by An Electrical Engineer)
1. Renogy 3000W Pure Sine Wave Inverter Charger w/ LCD Display
Renogy 3000W Pure Sine Wave Inverter Charger w/ LCD Display
Wattage: 3000W | Output Voltage: 12V | Outlets: No | Warranty: 12 months
The Renogy 3000W Pure Sine Wave Inverter Charger is the first on my list because it's a 3-in-1 system — it's an inverter, transfer relay, and converter/charger all at the same time.
It not only transforms DC power into clean AC power but also charges and maintains your battery bank when you switch to utility power.
I found that especially useful for me since I regularly connect my boat to the utility grid.
The best part — my power has always remained uninterrupted and I never had to worry that my appliances will suddenly die on me in an emergency.
Interestingly, this pure sine wave inverter has no output ports, only hardwiring connections.
But here’s a hack:
You can hardwire a power strip and have more outlets than any other inverter can provide.
Pros
Cons
Why Do I Like It?
A well-rounded product that is compatible with a range of batteries. Whatever project you’re working on, you can’t go wrong with this power inverter.
2. Renogy 3000W 12V Pure Sine Wave Inverter
Renogy 3000W 12V Pure Sine Wave Inverter
Wattage: 3000W | Output Voltage: 12V | Outlets: 4 | Warranty: 12 months
The Renogy 3000W is another great option because it’s a capable pure sine wave inverter unit with a surge power of 6,000W.
This is more than enough to run any appliance in your home.
And yet it is surprisingly compact out of the box. I once put it in my car and forgot about it until all the lights in my home went out during a thunderstorm.
And you can bet I was beyond grateful that I had it then.
Instead of one, this inverter comes with two cooling fans, allowing you to use it at temperatures of up to 158°F (70°C).
Apart from three AC outlets, this pure sine wave inverter also has an AC terminal, in case you need to hardwire a more permanent appliance.
Pros
Cons
Why Do I Like It?
Although this 3000W power inverter is a serious piece of gear that can power your entire RV, someone in the R&D has decided to also include a USB port. Because sometimes all you need is to charge your phone.
3. Giandel 4000W Heavy Duty Pure Sine Wave Power Inverter
Giandel 4000W Heavy Duty Pure Sine Wave Power Inverter
Wattage: 4000W | Output Voltage: 12V | Outlets: 5 | Warranty: 36 months
This pure sine wave inverter is a good all-rounder. I’ve tried one outdoors and indoors, and it was able to deliver what it promised.
Its 4,000 watts of output power are distributed through four AC outlets, more than enough for any off-grid scenario.
If you’re planning to power anything between 1,500 and 4,000 watts, I advise you to skip the outlets and go straight for the AC terminal block.
That would have been great if it didn’t break down on me after only 3 months. The warranty kicked in and I got a new one once the reports went through.
Your mileage may vary, but it's a shame that a product with such potential doesn’t go through better quality control.
That's a bronze medal from me.
Pros
Cons
Why Do I Like It?
I don’t have to remove the front cover to access the AC terminal block. It has a nice transparent plastic cover so I can always see what’s hooked on. In the electrical line of work, seeing means safety.
4. EDECOA Pure Sine Wave Power Inverter 3500W
EDECOA Pure Sine Wave Power Inverter 3500W
Wattage: 3500W | Output Voltage: 12V | Outlets: 4 | Warranty: N/A
For what it costs, this 3,500W power inverter from EDECOA is packed with features, including a blue LCD display that tells you what’s going on at any time.
Four AC outlets are more than I normally need, but I don’t like the thumbscrew battery terminals. I’d prefer to see regular bolt and screw fastenings.
You’d be surprised to find a set of battery cables and remote control with a 15-feet cable in this price range.
The manual that came with it is confusing, the customer support doesn’t exist, but nevertheless, the system is still working after 2 years.
Keep in mind that this is a big ‘un. If you’re building a portable solar generator kit, you may want to look for more compact inverters.
Pros
Cons
Why Do I Like It?
High-wattage gear needs plenty of cooling. With two intelligent fans and a fully-perforated front panel, I just don’t see this inverter overheating anytime soon.
5. Giandel 24 Volt 2000W Pure Sine Wave Power Inverter
Giandel 24 Volt 2000W Pure Sine Wave Power Inverter
Wattage: 2000W | Output Voltage: 24V | Outlets: 2 | Warranty: 18 Months
This is a 24V unit, so it won’t work with standard 12V batteries. However, the Giandel 2000W is among the most compact pure sine wave inverters on my list so you can easily take one camping and use it with portable solar panels.
With this in mind, this 2,000-watt pure sine wave inverter would be a prime candidate for a DIY solar generator project.
The durable aluminum case is super-ribbed all along so there shouldn’t be any problems with overheating.
If you need to charge a laptop or a portable fridge, you can do it, but its two AC outlets may not be enough for camper van use.
Also, I’d love to see an AC terminal for hardwiring.
Pros
Cons
Why Do I Like It?
Although this LED display doesn't show watts of usage like many LCD screens, when it comes to pure sine inverters, I prefer big bright red digits I can see from some distance.
6. VertaMax Pure SINE Wave 1500 Watt
VertaMax Pure SINE Wave 1500 Watt
Wattage: 1500W | Output Voltage: 12V | Outlets: 3 | Warranty: 12 Months
With the inverter unit, 3-foot battery cables, and remote control, this pure sine wave kit includes almost everything you need for your off-grid or grid-tie installation.
I was pleasantly surprised to find the display showing real-time AC consumption in this price range. Another great user-friendly feature is that each outlet has its one power switch below.
We can argue that shoppers are primarily interested in wattage, voltage, and other technical specs, but with a competition tough as this, it’s often those small conveniences that flip the coin.
Apart from getting hotter after longer use, I had no issues with my VertaMax. Unfortunately, I recommended this one to a friend, and it arrived broken at her doorstep.
It was covered by the warranty but she was told to cover the shipping, which cost a fortune. Not cool.
Pros
Cons
Why Do I Like It?
Sometimes the simplest solutions are the most efficient. Instead of “settings” or “menu” display options, you get a simple flip switch that lets you choose between volts and watts.
7. SL Euthtion 3000W Pure Sine Wave Power Inverter
SL Euthtion 3000W Pure Sine Wave Power Inverter
Wattage: 3000W | Output Voltage: 12V | Outlets: 2 | Warranty: 12 Months
This 3,000W pure sine wave kit has attractive and sleek housing. When you open the package, you’ll be surprised to find 12 spare fuses and even a spare USB cable.
Unfortunately, there are only two AC outlets controlled by a single switch.
It also doesn’t make sense to me why I have to switch off the unit before I can use the wireless remote. So it’s either remote or manual with this one.
One way or another, the remote with a display is more than welcome, as the original display is hard to read unless you get really close, which in some cases means squatting down or trying to squeeze in.
More likely than not this 3,000-watt inverter will be a part of a solar kit or used in a confined space close to a battery.
Pros
Cons
Why Do I Like It?
The wireless remote really makes this inverter convenient to use in your RV or as part of a DIY solar kit. Just remember to charge the remote battery from time to time.
8. Voltworks 1500W Pure Sine Wave Power Inverter
Voltworks 1500W Pure Sine Wave Power Inverter
Wattage: 1500W | Output Voltage: 12V | Outlets: 5 | Warranty: 12 Months
The three AC outlets on these 1,500W inverters plus 2 x USB ports should be enough to power your small electronics, car vacuum, or mini-fridge in the case of an emergency.
Still, this unit is too weak to run most power tools or appliances with heating elements. Microwaves, air conditioners, electric skillets, and even laser printers draw startup wattage that is up to 7 times higher than their working power, and will likely overload the Voltworks 1500W.
This is why recommend using this pure sine wave inverter only for appliances like the fridge, TV, ceiling fan, lighting, and personal electronics.
In other words, this is an ideal inverter for an RV setup, provided that you can’t cook. Lol.
Pros
Cons
Why Do I Like It?
This pure sine wave inverter is small but allows me to power or charge 5 devices at the same time. Dual USB ports leave the AC outlets free for more serious loads.
9. GoWISE Power 1000W Pure Sine Wave Inverter
GoWISE Power 1000W Pure Sine Wave Inverter
Wattage: 1000W | Output Voltage: 12V | Outlets: 3 | Warranty: 12 Months
We're now moving into the lightweight category with this 1,000-watt pure sine wave inverter. For a very competitive price, you get two 120V outlets and a USB port packed in a super-ribbed aluminum case. A big plus for heat dissipation.
However, since this is a 1000-watt inverter, buy this unit only if you plan to run a toaster, laptop, or phone charger in your tent — and not at the same time.
In a pinch, it will also power a mini fridge.
The good thing is it weighs only 6 pounds, so you won’t even know it’s among your camping gear stashed away in your vehicle. However, these inverters just can’t compete in firepower with 3,000 and 4,000-watt models.
Pros
Cons
Why Do I Like It?
If you need a pure sine wave inverter to take camping or keep in your emergency kit, this is probably the best one you can get.
10. Novopal Power Inverter Pure Sine Wave-1500 Watt
Novopal Power Inverter Pure Sine Wave-1500 Watt
Wattage: 1500W | Output Voltage: 12V | Outlets: 4 | Warranty: 12 Months
Pure sine inverters in the 1,000-1,500W range are ideal for use in trailers, boats, and if needed, emergencies.
With a surge power of 3,000 watts, this Novopal inverter will supply stable AC power to your mini fridge, TV set, laptop, and even a coffeemaker in a pinch.
If you’re on a budget and need a weekend inverter, you can give this one a try.
Still, you might have more luck than me and receive a unit that actually works. To cut the long story short, I was persistent and asked for my money back. I blame the poor quality control at the factory.
One way or another, four 120V output ports should work fine, as long as you keep an eye on the wattage.
Pros
Cons
Why Do I Like It?
This is the only inverter on the list that has the display on the “back” side. As a result, no matter how and where you mount the inverter, you can always take the key readings.
Pure Sine Wave Inverter Buying Guide
What Is a Pure Sine Wave Inverter?
A pure sine wave inverter is a device that converts direct current (DC) such as what’s produced by a solar system or RV batteries, to usable alternating current (AC) that most appliances use.
These “pure sine waves” ensure smooth and steady voltage, just like in the power grid.
It means you can run your appliances wherever you are. Just plug them in, as you would back at home.
This makes a pure sine wave inverter ideal for people who live off-grid or travel around in their RV.
How Does a Pure Sine Wave Inverter Work?
A pure sine wave inverter converts DC to AC in three steps:
Step 1: Creates Oscillating Pulses
Using integrated electronics, the inverter generates oscillating direct current pulses that simulate positive and negative polarity peaks. But these pulses are too weak, so they need to be amplified.
Step 2: Amplifies the Signal
This stage amplifies the 12V or 24V pulses to high-current levels needed to power appliances.
Although already in AC form, the output voltage is still low to run any appliance.
This is where a transformer comes into action.
Step 3: Raises the Output Voltage
In the last stage of DC/AC conversion, a magnetic transformer is used to kick up the voltage to 110V or 120V, which your appliances use.
In their raw form, these AC voltage sine waves are not true sine waves, but rather jagged and boxy.
So pure wave sine inverters use additional capacitors and filters to make the alternating current “smoother.”
Why Do You Need a Pure Sine Wave Inverter?
You need a pure sine wave inverter if you plan to install solar panels on your roof or RV. Most appliances in your home use AC power, so you need it to convert the DC power that solar panels produce to AC power. It also brings up the voltage to the grid level.
A pure sine wave inverter also saves you money, as it’s much more efficient than the older, jagged wave inverters.
The smoothly-changing phase also minimizes the risk of damage to your sensitive electronics.
What to Consider Before Buying a Pure Sine Wave Inverter
Wattage
The first thing to consider is the power rating. Check the manuals or spec stickers on the back of your appliances to see how much energy you exactly need.
An inverter of up to 1000W is enough for laptops and phone chargers, gaming consoles, and smaller electronics, while at 3000W you can even plug in the air conditioner or electric chainsaw.
The more the wattage, the more power can the unit convert.
Output Voltage
This one is simple — you need an inverter that’s compatible with all devices you plan to use. Devices sold in the US and neighboring countries need a standard output voltage of 110V or 120V.
Number of Outlets
If you want a powerful pure sine inverter, make sure to choose one that comes with plenty of output ports so you can run or charge multiple appliances at the same time. Apart from having 3 AC outlets, some inverters on the market even have several USB ports.
If you plan to power more demanding appliances, look for an inverter that offers AC terminals so you can hardwire a high-power appliance directly to the inverter mains. It's much safer that way.
Useful Features
A top-shelf inverter will come with safety features that protect your unit from overheating, over-voltage, short-circuiting, and more.
An LCD display is not a must-have, but it’s nice to be able to read the current energy usage at all times.
Warranty
A solid warranty is a clear message that you’re buying a reliable and quality product from a reputable company that will replace or repair your unit if any issue pops up.
Some manufacturers offer separate warranties for manufacturing and performance.
Pricing of Pure Sine Wave Inverters
What Size of Inverter Do You Need?
You need an inverter powerful enough to run the essential appliances, but also to match the energy rating of your solar system.
For example, if you’re going for a 3,000-watt solar system, you should purchase a 3,000-watt inverter.
This wattage, in return, depends on the number and type of appliances you want to run. You can find the power information for most devices on the spec sticker on the backside of the product.
A good rule of thumb is to always choose an inverter with 20% to 50% more than the total power that you need, and with at least twice the power of the largest device you plan to run.
What Can You Run With a Pure Sine Wave Inverter?
With a pure sine wave inverter, you can safely run and charge:
Benefits of Pure Sine Wave Inverters
Stable Power
Pure sine wave inverters produce stable power with low harmonic distortion you can safely use with medical equipment. Such clean power output buys you peace of mind knowing that your expensive devices are safe from power disruptions.
Quieter Operation
As the voltage rises and falls, pure sine waves change their phase angle and polarity smoothly, with no abrupt drops. This reduces the annoying electrical noise coming from fluorescent lights, TVs, stereos, audio amplifiers, answering machines, fans, etc.
High Inductive Loads
Pure sine waves have the same properties as the grid voltage. This makes them perfect for appliances with AC motors, allowing them to use power more effectively. With a pure sine wave inverter, your microwaves, washers, dryers, and refrigerators will operate smoothly, more quietly, and much cooler.
Smooth Output Voltage
A pure sine wave inverter provides smooth output voltage, without choppy drops and surges. This allows your sensitive electronics to operate without glitches, crashes, or strange interruptions. It prevents glitches in computer monitors and weird printouts in laser printers.
Reduced Power Loss
With any power conversion, some energy is inevitably lost. However, a pure sine wave inverter is the most efficient way of converting DC electricity stored in your battery bank to AC electricity.
Disadvantages of Pure Sine Wave Inverters
Price
Pure sine wave inverters cost more than modified sine wave inverters because of the sophisticated technology they use to generate cleaner electrical energy.
The modified sine wave inverters will work just as fine with appliances that don’t need a rectifier and that can be powered by any regular DC adapter.
Power Use
While pure sine wave inverters convert DC energy more efficiently than the other type of inverter, they are also more efficient in depleting your battery bank. The complex circuits plus the transformer means your battery bank charge won’t last as long.
A good rule of thumb is to always choose an inverter with 20% to 50% more than the total power that you need.
Weight
With the voltage transformer onboard, your pure sine wave inverter will weigh more than most modified sine wave inverters, watt-for-watt. Transformers use heavy magnetic cores, and there’s no way around it.
Difference Between Standalone Inverters and Inverter Chargers
The standalone inverter is the most common type of power inverter. It basically does just one thing — inverts DC power from your battery into AC power.
The inverter charger, on the other hand, can work as an inverter, transfer relay, and converter/charger — all in one.
Standalone inverters are available in sizes from 75 watts to 5,000 watts, and their price depends on the additional features. You can simply connect it to the battery, or “hardwire” it to use the existing outlets in your cabin, boat, or RV.
Inverter chargers are three-in-one units that automatically “detect” an outside source and go into charging mode. When the internal switch loses the outside power, it automatically returns to inverter power.
Standalone inverters are smaller than inverter chargers, so they’re ideal for camping or in the case of a power outage.
Inverter chargers are much more convenient for RVs or boats in situations when you have the chance to top up your battery from an outside source.
Difference Between Pure Sine Wave Inverters and Modified Sine Wave Inverters
All inverters convert the input DC voltage into sine-wave AC output voltage.
The first inverters, however, didn’t really produce a perfect sine curve, but a rather choppy one called a modified sine wave. These were called modified sine wave inverters.
Their “blocky” AC voltage, however, works fine for simple devices that don’t rely on delicate electronics.
These modified sine wave inverters can be used for older devices such as old tube TVs and motors with brushes.
Pure sine wave inverters are the more advanced of the two, as they produce a more consistent output voltage.
Pure sine wave inverters produce stable power with low harmonic distortion you can safely use with medical equipment.
This makes pure sine wave inverters safe to use with all devices.
If you’re connected to the grid and need an inverter only as a backup supply, you’ll need a pure sine wave inverter, because utilities provide pure sine wave voltage.
On the other hand, if you need to power an off-grid cabin with simple appliances, modified sine wave inverters will work fine and cost you less.
How To Convert a Modified Sine Wave Inverter/Square Wave Inverter to a Pure Sine Inverter
If you need clean sine AC voltage but don’t want to spend a lot, you can convert an old modified sine wave inverter to a pure sine wave operation.
Find a used modified sine wave inverter online for cheap, and this video tutorial can become your next DIY project.
FAQ
Yes, you need a pure sine wave inverter for medical equipment, AC motors, bright fluorescent lights, and audio systems.
Renogy makes the best pure sine inverters. Their products are well-made and reliable, which has been proven in both our tests and other users’ testimonies.
No, a modified sine wave inverter won’t damage your TV. However, you may experience interference, glitches, or audible noise when powering your TV with it.
The most trusted pure sine wave inverter brands are Renogy, Giandel, and EDECOA. Their products may seem more expensive upfront but are packed with useful functions and safety features.
My Recommended Pure Sine Wave Inverter
If you're looking for the best option for your solar or power emergency system, I would definitely go with the Renogy 3000W 12V Pure Sine Wave Inverter Charger w/ LCD Display.
This little powerhouse has enough peak wattage to start virtually any device in your home, including AC motors.
It uses 12V as the source, so you can use it with a car battery, but also hardwire it to an AC distribution box for a more permanent setup, like in a cabin or boat.
When it detects an outside AC source, this inverter goes into the charger mode and maintains the healthy charge of my battery.
I also appreciate the separate LED indicators for various functions.
This product from Renogy is an essential and reliable piece for every off-grid or grid-tie solar system, so my vote goes to the Renogy 3000W 12V Pure Sine Wave Inverter Charger w/ LCD Display.
I Recommend
The Renogy 3000W 12V Pure Sine Wave Inverter Charger w/ LCD Display
7 Comments on “10 Best Pure Sine Wave Inverters: Reviews & Buyer’s Guide”
Of course, the Renogy 300W inverter is quite solid! Renogy is also a popular brand for inverters and solar panels. Thanks for write a good blog post!
I just bought a Bapdas 1000 watt pure sine wave inverter from amazon. I think its made in Banglidesh. It has two cooling fans and a temperature cut off. Its supposed to be 90% efficient. Anyone else have any experience with this brand?
Thanks for suggesting these pure sine wave inverters. I have one from WZRELB, which is also a good reliable power inverter.
If you write reviews on some of the top WZRELB inverters, it would be good though.
Are any of these fanless, no fan(s)? Any suggestions if that is my number one criteria, with at least 300 Watts supply 2nd?
Why do you say “But in a power outage or any kind of emergency, you’re pretty much stuck with batteries”?
Are you some kind of an RV puritan who won’t accept the existence of generators?
Just curious.
For each item, it says “Output voltage: 12V (or 24V). Is this correct? Maybe it meant Input voltage?
The article is very good！