10 Best Electric Fireplace Inserts 2025 in the United States

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.

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.

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.