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10 Best Electric Fireplace Inserts 2025 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Touchstone Smart Electric Fireplace-The Sideline 50" Wide-in Wall Recessed - 30 Realistic Ember Color/Flame Options - 1,500W Heater w/Thermostat - Log & Crystal Hearth Options - Alexa/WiFi Enabled

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,294
Size and Dimensions
Heating Capacity
Flame Effect

Most important from
3463 reviews

Size and Dimensions
The spacious 50-inch design fits well into standard wall openings, offering a sleek recessed look that complements various room styles.
Heating Capacity
Heating performance is adequate for supplemental warmth but not powerful enough to serve as a primary heat source.
Flame Effect
The flames look extremely realistic, often prompting guests to ask if it's a gas fireplace.
Installation Type
Installation is straightforward with clear instructions, though the unit is heavy and benefits from two-person handling.
Safety Features
The fireplace maintains cool surfaces on the sides and back, providing added safety during use.
Remote Control and Smart Features
Smart features like Alexa and WiFi control offer modern convenience for adjusting flame and heat settings remotely.

The Touchstone Sideline 50" electric fireplace insert offers a spacious 50-inch wide design that fits well in standard wall openings or existing fireplace spaces, making it a solid choice if you want a recessed look. It provides a heating capacity of up to 1,500 watts, which is enough to warm rooms around 400 square feet—great for adding extra heat but not as a main heat source. The flame effect is one of its strengths, featuring 30 realistic ember and flame color options along with 5 flame intensity settings, creating a cozy and authentic fire look with either faux logs or crystals.

Installation is user-friendly; it can be recessed into the wall or mounted with a bracket and stays cool on the sides and back for safety. Being ventless allows flexible placement without worrying about chimney or vent connections. Energy-wise, it runs on standard household current and pulls up to 12 amps, which fits most home circuits but might require attention if combined with other high-power devices. Safety features include cool-touch surfaces and an automatic shut-off timer, adding peace of mind during use.

The fireplace is also Alexa and WiFi-enabled, letting you control flame and heat settings via remote, app, or voice commands, which adds modern convenience. Its heat output won’t replace a central heating system, and you need to allow 8 inches of clearance above it if installing under a TV. Also, batteries for the remote are not included. If you want a stylish, easy-to-install electric fireplace with strong visual effects and smart controls for supplemental heating, the Sideline is a well-rounded option that balances ambiance and warmth.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,294
Size and Dimensions
Heating Capacity
Flame Effect

Most important from
3463 reviews

Size and Dimensions
The spacious 50-inch design fits well into standard wall openings, offering a sleek recessed look that complements various room styles.
Heating Capacity
Heating performance is adequate for supplemental warmth but not powerful enough to serve as a primary heat source.
Flame Effect
The flames look extremely realistic, often prompting guests to ask if it's a gas fireplace.
Installation Type
Installation is straightforward with clear instructions, though the unit is heavy and benefits from two-person handling.
Safety Features
The fireplace maintains cool surfaces on the sides and back, providing added safety during use.
Remote Control and Smart Features
Smart features like Alexa and WiFi control offer modern convenience for adjusting flame and heat settings remotely.
#2

Touchstone Smart Electric Fireplace-The Sideline 36" Wide-in Wall Recessed - 30 Realistic Ember Color/Flame Options - 1,500W Heater w/Thermostat - Log & Crystal Hearth Options - Alexa/WiFi Enabled

Rating
10.0
Heating Capacity
Flame Effect
Installation Type

Most important from
3463 reviews

Heating Capacity
The heat function is great for taking the chill off a room, though it shouldn't be relied upon as a primary heat source.
Flame Effect
The Sideline flames look better than any other brands, with extremely realistic visuals that enhance the room's ambiance.
Installation Type
Installation was straightforward and the unit looks absolutely fantastic once installed.
Remote Control and Smart Features
The remote control and smart features, including compatibility with Alexa and Google Home, make it easy to adjust settings from anywhere.

The Touchstone Smart Electric Fireplace - Sideline 36" is an excellent choice for those looking to add a stylish and functional electric fireplace to their home. Its recessed design allows for a clean, modern look, making it a great fit for living rooms or bedrooms. One of the standout features is its realistic flame effect, which includes 30 ember color/flame options that can create a cozy atmosphere or a more dramatic effect depending on your preference.

In terms of heating, this unit offers a decent heating capacity of 1,500W, which is suitable for rooms up to 400 square feet. It can warm a cool space, but it should not be relied upon as a primary heat source. The remote control and smart features, including compatibility with Alexa and Google Home, enhance convenience by allowing you to adjust settings from your couch or even via your smartphone.

Installation is straightforward, as it can be mounted in a wall or used in an existing fireplace opening. The unit is also ventless, which means it won't require any chimney or external venting, making it a flexible option for various home designs. Additionally, it remains cool to the touch on the sides and back, enhancing safety, especially in homes with children or pets. Some users may find the heating output a bit limited compared to traditional fireplaces, especially in larger spaces. The requirement for 8 inches of clearance from a TV is also something to consider when planning your installation. Lastly, it operates on a maximum of 12 amps, so ensure your electrical circuits can handle that alongside other devices.

Rating
10.0
Heating Capacity
Flame Effect
Installation Type

Most important from
3463 reviews

Heating Capacity
The heat function is great for taking the chill off a room, though it shouldn't be relied upon as a primary heat source.
Flame Effect
The Sideline flames look better than any other brands, with extremely realistic visuals that enhance the room's ambiance.
Installation Type
Installation was straightforward and the unit looks absolutely fantastic once installed.
Remote Control and Smart Features
The remote control and smart features, including compatibility with Alexa and Google Home, make it easy to adjust settings from anywhere.
#3

Touchstone Sideline Elite Smart 50” WiFi-Enabled Electric Fireplace - in-Wall Recessed - 60 Color Combinations - 1,500W Heater - Black - Log, Crystals & Driftwood - 80036

Rating
9.8
Flame Effect
Installation Type
Heating Capacity

Most important from
786 reviews

Flame Effect
The fireplace delivers a stunningly realistic flame effect with vibrant color options and customizable brightness, greatly enhancing the room's ambiance.
Installation Type
Installation is straightforward with clear instructions, though some skill is needed for a perfect recessed fit and leveling.
Heating Capacity
The heater effectively warms smaller spaces, but in larger open layouts, the heat is more localized near the unit.
Remote Control and Smart Features
Smart features like Wi-Fi connectivity and Alexa control add valuable convenience and expand customization beyond the remote.
Size and Dimensions
Its slim, modern design with a black minimal frame integrates seamlessly into contemporary decor and media wall builds.

The Touchstone Sideline Elite Smart 50" electric fireplace is designed for in-wall recessed installation, making it a great choice if you want a sleek, modern look without taking up floor space. Its size (about 50 inches wide) fits well in medium to large rooms, covering up to 400 square feet with its 1,500-watt heater. You can choose between two heat settings controlled by a thermostat ranging from 68 to 88 degrees Fahrenheit, which is handy for adjusting warmth during colder months.

One of its standout features is the realistic flame effect offering 60 color combinations with options to customize flame speed and intensity. The included faux logs, driftwood, and crystals add to the cozy ambiance. The fireplace can be controlled by a remote or smart devices, adding convenience, though it requires AAA batteries for the remote. Installation is fairly straightforward with detailed instructions and the option to plug in or hardwire the unit. The black minimal frame complements modern decor nicely. However, some care is needed to measure your wall opening precisely for a proper fit, as the unit is recessed and fairly shallow at just over 5 inches deep.

In terms of safety, it is vent-free and has heat vents located at the top, but it’s important to follow guidelines like keeping at least 8 inches of clearance above the fireplace. While it doesn’t feature advanced safety measures like automatic shut-off, the thermostat control helps prevent overheating. If you want a stylish, functional electric fireplace that adds warmth and atmosphere with smart controls, this Touchstone model is a strong contender. Just be sure your wall space matches its dimensions and you’re comfortable with the recessed installation process.

Rating
9.8
Flame Effect
Installation Type
Heating Capacity

Most important from
786 reviews

Flame Effect
The fireplace delivers a stunningly realistic flame effect with vibrant color options and customizable brightness, greatly enhancing the room's ambiance.
Installation Type
Installation is straightforward with clear instructions, though some skill is needed for a perfect recessed fit and leveling.
Heating Capacity
The heater effectively warms smaller spaces, but in larger open layouts, the heat is more localized near the unit.
Remote Control and Smart Features
Smart features like Wi-Fi connectivity and Alexa control add valuable convenience and expand customization beyond the remote.
Size and Dimensions
Its slim, modern design with a black minimal frame integrates seamlessly into contemporary decor and media wall builds.

Buying Guide for the Best Electric Fireplace Inserts

Choosing the right electric fireplace insert can transform your living space into a cozy and inviting environment. When selecting an electric fireplace insert, it's important to consider various specifications that will ensure the product meets your needs and preferences. Here are some key specifications to help you make an informed decision.
Size and DimensionsSize and dimensions refer to the physical measurements of the electric fireplace insert. This spec is crucial because it determines whether the insert will fit into your existing fireplace or designated space. Measure the height, width, and depth of the area where you plan to install the insert. Inserts come in various sizes, so choose one that fits comfortably within your space without being too small or too large.
Heating CapacityHeating capacity indicates how much space the electric fireplace can effectively heat, usually measured in square feet. This is important because it ensures the fireplace can provide adequate warmth for your room. Smaller rooms (up to 400 sq. ft.) may only need a unit with a lower heating capacity, while larger rooms (up to 1,000 sq. ft.) will require a higher capacity. Consider the size of the room you want to heat when selecting the right heating capacity.
Flame EffectFlame effect refers to the visual appearance of the flames produced by the electric fireplace. This spec is important for creating the desired ambiance in your space. Flame effects can range from simple and realistic to more elaborate and customizable options. If aesthetics are a priority, look for inserts with adjustable flame colors, brightness, and patterns to match your mood and decor.
Installation TypeInstallation type describes how the electric fireplace insert is installed. This is important because it affects the ease of installation and the overall look of the fireplace. Common types include plug-in, built-in, and log set inserts. Plug-in inserts are easy to install and can be moved, built-in inserts offer a seamless look but require more installation work, and log set inserts are designed to fit into existing fireplaces. Choose the type that best suits your installation preferences and existing setup.
Energy EfficiencyEnergy efficiency refers to how effectively the electric fireplace converts electricity into heat. This spec is important for reducing energy consumption and lowering utility bills. Look for inserts with energy-saving features such as adjustable thermostats, timers, and eco-modes. Higher energy efficiency ratings mean the fireplace will use less electricity to produce the same amount of heat, making it a more cost-effective choice.
Safety FeaturesSafety features include various mechanisms designed to prevent accidents and ensure safe operation. This is crucial for protecting your home and family. Common safety features include overheat protection, cool-touch exteriors, and automatic shut-off timers. If you have children or pets, prioritize inserts with robust safety features to minimize the risk of burns or fires.
Remote Control and Smart FeaturesRemote control and smart features refer to the ability to operate the fireplace insert using a remote or smart device. This spec is important for convenience and ease of use. Some inserts come with basic remote controls, while others offer advanced smart features like app control, voice commands, and integration with home automation systems. If you value convenience, look for inserts with the level of control that suits your lifestyle.

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