Honda 3000 u
Last year I dealt with this same question, and actually bought 2 of the Honda 2000 iu with the linkage kit. After doing more reading, especially on the Honda website, I returned both of them unopened and traded for the Honda 3000. I liked the idea of total portability of the smaller units at about 49 lbs each. Both of my brothers have the 2000 units and they gave me a heads up. Because of the portability, the Honda 2000 is the most often stolen generator there is, and that was confirmed by the dealer.
The 2000 is considerably noisier than the 3000 when under load (dB is a logrithmic scale, +3 dB is actually 5X as loud), and then you have 2 such machines making noise. The gasoline capacity of the 3000 gives a nearly full load run time longer than all night (AC at night?). I gave a high priority to the sound level. I solved the portability issue by carrying the 3000 in the truck bed, chained to a tie down in the L front corner of the 8 ft box, and then run the elect cord to the input port on the trailer. The 3000 also has its own battery and key start. I do not have to move it to use it. I tried to find out the expected hour life of both the 2000 and 3000, but that was not available. The engine of the 3000 does look considerably more robust, and thus I expect it will have considerably longer life.
I feel comfortable with the choice I made. Good luck with your decision and choice.
Paul_in_MN