With so many inverters on the market, it is hard to know where to start. The right choice depends less on brand and more on how you will use it, what you will run and what will power it.
Answer three short questions below and we will point you to the buying guide that fits your situation, with a note on the waveform to look for.
Which inverter do I need? Quick quiz
1. Where will you use it?
2. What will you run?
3. What will power the inverter?
How the quiz picks your match
The quiz looks at three things: where you will use the inverter, what you plan to run and what will power it. The power source matters most. A cordless tool battery, a car battery and a solar battery bank each need a different kind of inverter, so we check that first.
Next it looks at the load. Phones, laptops and TVs need very little power, while refrigerators, power tools and pumps need much more and surge when they start. Matching the size to the load keeps the inverter cool and your devices safe.
What to do after the quiz
Open the matching guide
Each guide explains how to choose that type of inverter and lists our top-rated reviews with ratings, so you can compare models quickly.
Work out the exact size
Use the inverter size calculator to add up your appliances and get a recommended wattage.
Plan the battery and wiring
Our battery runtime calculator and cable and fuse calculator cover the next steps.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between pure sine wave and modified sine wave?
Pure sine wave power is smooth and matches household electricity. It suits laptops, TVs, fridges and motors. Modified sine wave is cheaper but can cause noise and heat in some devices.
Can I use a car inverter at home during a power cut?
Yes, for small loads, if it is connected to a suitable battery. For fridges and larger appliances you need a bigger inverter and a deep-cycle or lithium battery bank.
Do I need an electrician?
For anything connected to house wiring, yes. A transfer switch and correct grounding are essential for safety.
How do I know what size to buy?
Add up the watts of the devices you will run together and allow for start-up surge. Our inverter size calculator does this for you.
Please note: The quiz gives general guidance only. Check your inverter manual and local electrical rules before installing any inverter.