Embrace the warmth and allure of a traditional fireplace without the hassle of installation or maintenance with the best electric fireplaces on the market.
Our years of experience with these innovative heaters will guide you through a myriad of styles and functionalities, ensuring you find the perfect match for your home.
From freestanding units to wall-mounted wonders, our expert reviews on the top electric fireplace heaters are designed to meet your heating and aesthetic needs while offering simplicity and ease.
Discover our top picks and transform your space into a cozy retreat with the flick of a switch.
Top Electric Fireplace Models Comparison Table
| Image | Product | Details | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
Best Overall  | MagikFlame Trinity Watts: 1500 | Check Price Now | |
Best Wall Mount  | Touchstone Sideline Watts: 1500 | Check Price Now | |
Best Water Vapor Fireplace  | Dimplex Opti-Myst Watts: 460 (w/out heater) | Check Price Now | |
Best Insert  | MagikFlame Insert Watts: 1500 | Check Price Now | |
Best Small  | R.W. Flame 16 Inch Watts: up to 1500 | Check Price Now | |
Best Smart Fireplace  | Touchstone Sideline Elite Watts: 1500 | Check Price Now | |
Most Affordable  | R.W. Flame 25-Inch Watts: up to 1500 | Check Price Now | |
Best Freestanding  | Amantii Tru-View Cube Watts: 1500 | Check Price Now | |
Best 3-sided  | Touchstone Chesmont Watts: 1500 | Check Price Now | |
Best 2-sided  | Napoleon Clearion Elite Watts: 3000 | Check Price Now |
What We Look For in an Electric Fireplace
Since electric fireplaces come in a huge variety of sizes, types, and price ranges, we considered multiple features when looking for the best products on the market.
Installation Requirements and Cost
One thing that quickly sets electric fireplaces apart from traditional gas and wood units is the ease of installation. Still, some models do require a little work. For instance, with inserts, they require an existing fireplace space.
We awarded the highest points to products that required minimal installation and little to no added cost for installation.
Purchase Price
Whether you’re installing an electric fireplace into the wall or selecting one to sit on the floor, you want a unit that’s going to last. These quality units often come with a higher price tag.
However, in order to meet differing budgetary needs, we spent time looking at both premiere fireplace brands and more affordable options. In each category, we selected the most durable and well-reviewed options to assure a product that will last for years to come.
Realism of Flames
An electric fireplace can only take the place of a real unit if it sells the illusion of real flames. This requires advanced optics and quality technology. In every price category, we awarded higher points to the products that offered flames that looked (and even sounded) like the real thing.
Heat Output
Of course, you aren’t just purchasing the fireplace to look good, it also needs to function like a real hearth. This means putting out plenty of room-warming heat.
We looked for heaters that put out an exceptional amount of heat for the electricity consumed. Not only will you find high-performance, large room heaters below, but you’ll also see some ultra-efficient small room options. This way, no matter what you’re after, you’ll be able to find the option to suit your needs.
Additional Features
Pretty flames and warming heat are just two of the things that electric fireplaces can offer. We awarded more points to models that came with additional features, including:
- Timers
- WiFi connectivity
- Remote control
- Sound effects
- Different color and mood selections
- Digital control panels
- Smart home control
Best Overall Electric Fireplace: Magikflame
Best Electric Fireplace
MagikFlame Trinity Electric Fireplace
The perfect electric fireplace for traditional, luxury homes to add more sophistication to the living room or any living space.
For an electric fireplace that works as good as it looks, there is nothing better than a MagikFlame. These gorgeous fireplaces put out an impressive amount of heat thanks to the energy-efficient infrared quartz heater. They also look absolutely stunning thanks to ultra-realistic flames courtesy of their patented HoloFlame technology.
MagikFlame fireplaces are available in 5 different finishes. Our personal favorite is the Trinity wood mantle. Like the other options, this one uses a 5,200 BTU insert with 30 highly realistic flame settings.
Best Wall Mount Electric Fireplace:
Touchstone Sideline 50-INCH
Key Specifications:
- Heats rooms up to 400 square feet
- Recessed or on-wall installation
- 2 heat settings
- 8 flame options
- Remote control
The Touchstone Sideline 50-Inch wall-mounted electric fireplace is the perfect option for those tight on space. This low-profile, front-venting unit can be hung directly on the wall for simple installation, or placed in a recessed gap for a flush mount look that your guests won’t be able to stop talking about.
This model comes with a 5,118 BTU heater that’s rated for rooms up to 400 square feet. The heater has two settings, high and low, while the flames can be set to 5 different intensities and 3 different colors. All of this can be controlled with the included remote.
The unit can be hardwired or plugged straight into the wall, making installation a breeze. And the kit comes with both faux logs and glass so you can achieve the perfect aesthetic to match your home.
Pros
- Easy installation with multiple options
- Quiet operation
- Front venting
- Multiple flame settings and decor options
Cons
- Not the most realistic flames
- Heat output is best for small rooms
- Flame colors could be more vivid
Most Realistic:
MagikFlame
Key Specifications:
- HoloFlame technology
- Backlit LED screen, WiFi, and remote control
- Made in America
- 30 different displays
- 6 Products to choose from
MagikFlame has earned many spots on our list. Why? Because they make a range of great products to suit various needs, and each centers around their incredibly realistic insert.
The key to those realistic flames lies in the patented HoloFlame technology. This insanely realistic look was developed using Hollywood movie magic. The flickering holographic flames are underscored by glowing LED lights in the faux logs that resemble burning embers.
But the realism doesn’t stop there. Each insert features 30 different flame settings, all realistic gold to orange flames at various heights, intensities, and patterns. These units also have speakers that emit natural fire sounds based on the flame choice to further emulate a real fireplace.
If you want to see and hear just how real these flames appear, check out this video.
MagikFlame has 5 different mantles. Each is made with real wood veneer and is weight-bearing so you can decorate them like the real thing.
The five models vary in look and overall size:
- Trinity – 55” x 48” x 18”
- Artemis – 52” x 43” x 15”
- Morpheus – 45” x 42” x 15”
- Churchill – 52” x 42” x 18”
- Athena – 55” x 48” x 18”
Each works with the same insert. Installing them is as simple as plugging the insert in and securing the mantle to the wall.
The insert gives off 5,200 BTU to warm spaces up to 1,000 square feet using an infrared quartz heater.
For flames realistic enough to trick your guests, this is the option you want.
Pros
- Highly realistic flames
- Various flame options with or without sound
- 5 different mantles to fit different spaces
- Simple installation
Cons
- No color options
- Limited heat control
- Only one insert option is available
Best Electric Fireplace Insert:
MagikFlame Insert
Key Specifications:
- Fits into existing fireplace cutouts
- HoloFlame technology
- Backlit LED screen, WiFi, and remote control
- Made in America
- 30 different displays
Given the beautifully realistic flames and impressive heating performance we’ve already talked about, it should be no surprise that MagikFlame is our choice for the best insert.
This insert, which measures 28 wide by 32 tall by 12 deep, is the perfect way to reimagine your old wood-burning fireplace. By repurposing it to hold this easy-to-install insert, you can keep the ambiance of “real” flames but get rid of the maintenance requirements.
And, of course, with that high-performance infrared quartz heater, you can keep your living space warm.
The insert can be hardwired or plugged in depending on your electrical setup. It is only available in one size, so you may need to adjust your cut-out to fit it properly. Of course, if you want an easier install, you can always opt for the full mantel set piece along with the insert.
Either way, you won’t regret the purchase thanks to MagikFlame’s hyper-realistic holographic technology, 30 flame options, and user-friendly touchscreen and smartphone control.
Pros
- Installs into existing fireplace cutout
- Realistic flames with or without sound
- Backlit LED screen, Wifi, and remote control
- Made in America
- 30 different displays
Cons
- Only available in one size
- No color options
- Limited heat control
Best Water Vapor Fireplace:
Dimplex Opti-Myst
Key Specifications:
- 20 or 40 inch cassettes
- Cold, vapor-based flame technology
- Recessed or open install
- Heater optional
- Remote control
If the reason you want a fireplace is entirely for the ambiance, then the Dimplex Opti-Myst system is for you.
These ingenious water vapor fireplaces use a combination of directed light and mist to create life-like flames that are completely cold and safe to touch. Optional sound further sells the experience for a real fireplace look you can put almost anywhere.
The cassettes come in 20 or 40-inch lengths and can be connected to fill any space. They can be used in a recessed cut-out, in or on a dividing wall, or placed on a counter or tabletop.
Because they operate using just LED lighting and water vaporizers, they cost only pennies to run. And they are completely safe to the touch and don’t release any harmful chemicals.
Best of all, these simple cassettes can be customized to meet your needs. Choose from a variety of decor options, add on a heater if needed, and choose the right plumbing and electrical kit for your needs.
Pros
- Highly customizable
- Can be placed almost anywhere
- Realistic flame movement
- Easy to maintain
Cons
- Limited flame options
- Requires frequent water refills
- Can be a lot of work to install depending on the placement
Best Small:
R.W Flame 16 Inch Electric Fireplace
Key Specifications:
- Heat up to 400 sq ft
- Lightweight and portable
- Multiple operation modes
- 2 heater settings
- Made of steel alloy
For those looking for a heater that offers a bit of ambiance and is compact enough for small spaces while offering plenty of heat, the R.W. Flame 16-inch is a great choice.
This 15-pound portable wood-burning style heater is perfect for the bedroom or study. The 1,500-watt infrared heater puts out enough heat to comfortably fill spaces up to 400 square feet. Meanwhile, the compact build means it won’t take up much space.
This little unit is made of coated steel for added durability and a more authentic look. The glass windows offer a 180-degree look at the glowing logs and dancing flames inside.
While these aren’t the most realistic flames on this list, they do add a nice warm red glow to the room and provide a passing resemblance to the real thing.
The R.W. Flame 16-inch fireplace offers two heat settings, a flame-only setting, and a cool-touch top that can be used as a table or nightstand.
Pros
- A lot of heat in a small package
- Affordable
- Multiple safety features
Cons
- Flames are not overly realistic
- Legs are made of plastic
- Remote control is prone to breaking
Best Smart Electric Fireplace:
Touchstone Sideline Elite
Key Specifications:
- WiFi enabled
- Smart Home control
- Wall-mounted or recessed
- 2 heat options
- Room coverage of 400 sq ft
Looking to add a capable heater/fireplace to your smart home? The Touchstone Sideline Elite is here for you.
Like the Touchstone 50-inch we featured above, this gorgeous flush-mount fireplace is made to be placed in a wall recess. But it can also be hung directly on the wall for easier installation.
Either way, you will be able to take advantage of this smart fireplace’s easy control options. In addition to the remote control, you can connect this heater to WiFi and control it via your smartphone, Alexa or Google Home, or smart wall switch.
The smartphone control option is an especially good one to hook up considering the many modes available on this unit. The flames can be switched between 6 different colors, the medium between 10 colors, and there are 5 separate intensity settings for both. Additionally, the flames can be set to 3 different speeds, and the heater to two different heat outputs.
The 1500-watt heater puts out 5,118 BTUs and is suitable for rooms up to 400 square feet. While the heater is the same on all models, the unit is available in multiple sizes from 42 inches to 100 inches.
Pros
- 60 color combinations
- Highly customizable settings
- Easy to install
- Plug or hardwire
- Multiple sizes available
Cons
- Thermostat is not accurate
- Flickering LED lights put off some noise
- WiFi can be temperamental
Best Budget:
R.W. Flame 25 Inch
Key Specifications:
- 4 flame colors
- Infrared heating
- Coverage up to 400 sq ft
- Real iron and glass design
If you need to warm up your space on a budget, the R.W. Flame 25-inch fireplace heater is a good option.
This free-standing unit does not require any installation and can be moved if needed. The powerful 1500-watt infrared heater puts out enough heat to warm a 400-square-foot room. And it looks good while doing it.
The large panel, double-door “wood burner” features moving flames and glowing LED logs to project the ambiance of a real fire through the space. While no one is going to mistake these flames for the real thing, the glow makes a great addition to any cozy room.
The 25-inch long heater is made of iron and glass with some plastic parts. The top-mounted heater does a better job of dispersing hot air through the room compared to bottom-mounted options. But it does mean the top is not a great place to put decor or drinks.
But the best feature of this pretty little heater may be the price. At half the price of most fireplace heaters this size, it truly is a steal.
Pros
- Multiple flame options
- Affordable
- Open sides make for 180 degrees of ambiance
Cons
- Little difference between heat settings
- Struggles to heat large and open spaces
- Intake vents are on the back of the unit
Best Freestanding:
Amantii Tru-View Cube
Key Specifications:
- Covers up to 500 sq ft
- 2 heat settings
- 13 mood lighting options
- Remote control
- Freestanding or wall-mount options
Freestanding fireplace heaters have the benefit of being super easy to install—all you have to do is plug them in. But far too many have the look of a cheap plastic imitation fireplace. That is not the case with the Amantii Tru-View Cube.
This gorgeous fireplace features three unobstructed glass panels for a 180-degree view of the flickering flames inside. When used with the included base, the unit can stand on its own as a compact floor heater. Or it can be mounted directly to the wall for a high-profile wall unit.
To add to the customization options, the unit comes with multiple media types to decorate the inside, including birchwood and fire glass. The flames are set to a natural red, orange, and yellow look but the upper and lower LED lights can be switched between 13 different colors for mood lighting.
The included heater has two heat settings, can produce up to 4,800 BTU of heat, and is rated for rooms between 400 and 500 square feet.
Pros
- Clean modern look
- More realistic flames than many freestanding options
- Multiple install options
- Easy to use
Cons
- Pricey
- Heat takes time to spread through room
- No on-unit control panel
Best 3-Sided:
Touchstone Chesmont
Key Specifications:
- Wall mounted
- WiFi enabled
- 2 heat settings
- Multiple flame settings and colors
- Covers up to 400 sq ft
The beauty of three-sided fireplaces is they give you the look of a recessed wall fireplace without the hassle of a complex installation. In terms of an easy-install 3-sided unit that offers a gorgeous final product, it doesn’t get much better than the Touchstone Chesmont.
This clean 3-sided fireplace is perfect for placing below your wall-mounted TV or along any accent wall to add depth and beauty. Installation is as simple as mounting the frame and hardwiring or plugging in the attached cord.
The simple white, black, or stainless steel frame and protruding glass face look great even when the unit is turned off. But it’s when the flames come to life that this fireplace really becomes a centerpiece. The flames can be set to 5 different intensities in multiple colors.
In addition to looking great, this fireplace is also functional. The front 1500-watt, 5118 BTU heater is powerful enough to heat rooms up to 400 square feet. And the front-facing vent means this unit is safe to place under electronics.
Other features include a timer function, remote control, and WiFi connectivity for smartphone and smart home control.
Pros
- Easy to install
- Multiple modes
- Smart home compatible
- Heats up quickly
Cons
- No cord wrap option
- Flickering LED lights put off some noise
- WiFi can be temperamental
Best 2-Sided:
Napoleon Clearion Elite
Key Specifications:
- Covers two 400 sq ft spaces
- Two sizes: 50 or 60 inches
- Separate heating for each side
- 3 flame color options
- Privacy screen
A recessed fireplace adds instant class to any room. But if you have a shared wall in need of some pizzazz, don’t limit yourself to a single-sided unit. Instead, opt for a 2-sided in-wall fireplace that can add flare to both spaces simultaneously.
In this category, we absolutely love the Napoleon Clearion Elite.
This gorgeous 2-sided fireplace is made to be installed as a flush mount fireplace in a divider wall. The dual-sided glass allows you to see through the flames and bring ambiance to both rooms at the same time. This unit is perfect for living/dining rooms, master bedrooms/master baths, or connecting your study to your living space.
The powerful 3,000-watt dual heater inside can supply heat to each room separately to maintain a comfortable environment no matter where you are. In total, this unit puts out 9,000 BTUs, enough to warm two 400-square-foot spaces.
And the unit comes with an opaque privacy screen in case you need to block one side of the fireplace.
The fire itself isn’t the most realistic we’ve seen, but being suspended between two clear panes of glass gives the flames a uniquely beautiful look. The included remote allows you to change between three color patterns, multiple speeds, and multiple brightness levels for the flames. You also have 10 color options for the fire glass medium.
Pros
- Multiple modes and looks
- Timer function
- Plug or hardwire options
- Powerful heater
Cons
- Requires expert installation
- Pricey
Frequently Asked Questions
How Does An Electric Fireplace Work?
Most electric fireplaces work by imitating real flames and producing heat.
The heat is produced in much the same way as a space heater. Fireplaces can use simple electric coil heat, ceramic elements, or infrared technology. Most products have multiple heat settings.
The flames can be created in a number of ways. The most basic use moving lights across a flat screen to mimic dancing flames while the most advanced use holographic technology to make 3-dimensional flames. Other options include using water vapor and reflected light and chemicals to recreate the authentic look of a fire.
Are Electric Fireplaces Safe?
Compared to gas and wood fireplaces, electric fireplaces are a very safe option. They do not use combustion, release toxic fumes, or put off excessive heat. And, unlike a traditional space heater, they are much less likely to be knocked over.
Electric fireplaces come with a number of safety features to assure the heating mechanism doesn’t overheat. While the grill on some fireplaces can get hot to the touch, the units overall stay much cooler and are safer to use around children than real fireplaces.
How Much Heat Do Electric Fireplaces Give Off?
How much heat an electric fireplace produces depends on the type and size of the heater included in the unit.
Most standard units draw around 1500 watts, which equates to about 5200 BTU. This is enough for a standard electric heater to warm a 400-square-foot room, assuming a moderate temperature outdoors and reasonable insulation in the walls.
But some heaters, like the MagikFlame are able to produce more heat using the same amount of electricity due to highly efficient infrared heating technology.
While most electric fireplaces include a heater, some do not. These are meant to be used for ambiance only.
Are Electric Fireplaces Expensive to Run?
Compared to gas and wood-burning fireplaces, electric fireplaces tend to be cheaper to use, depending on your situation.
While gas and wood units lose about 10% of their heat through the chimney, almost 100% of the heat created by an electric unit goes to warming the room. This makes them far more efficient to run.
Compared to gas, electric fireplaces also cost less to use by about 55 cents per hour, based on nationwide averages. Depending on where you source your wood, they may or may not be cheaper to use than a wood-burning unit. But they certainly require less upkeep and maintenance, which means they’re far cheaper in terms of your time investment.
Wrap Up
Electric fireplaces are a great way to heat a room without the hassle of maintaining a gas or wood-burning stove. But to capture the feel and ambiance of a true fireplace, you need a quality unit built for looks and functionality.
There are a ton of great products that fall into this category. But our favorite, by far, is MagikFlame.
This highly realistic electric fireplace uses holographic technology to create flames that look (and sound) as real as anything. And the internal infrared quartz heater is powerful enough to heat rooms up to 1,000 square feet. With multiple mantle options to choose from as well as the stand-alone insert, MagikFlame is also one of the easiest options to install in your home.
Looking for something else? We have eight other great electric fireplace options above to meet your needs, whatever they may be.
