10 Best Electric Fireplaces 2026 in the United States

The Touchstone Forte 40" electric fireplace is a solid choice if you're looking for a recessed wall-mounted fireplace that adds both warmth and ambiance. It offers a heating capacity of 1,500 watts, which can comfortably warm up spaces around 400 square feet—great for a living room or basement but not meant to replace your main heating system. The standout feature is its very realistic flame effect, with 30 ember and flame color options plus log and crystal display choices, creating a cozy, authentic fireplace feel.

Installation is fairly straightforward and ventless, so you don’t need special venting or gas lines, but it does require about 8 inches of clearance above for safety, especially if placed under a TV. The unit stays cool to the touch on the sides and back, adding a safety benefit. For convenience, it includes a thermostat and remote control, allowing you to adjust both heat and flame settings easily. It’s also WiFi and Alexa-enabled, letting you control it smartly via voice or phone app, a nice modern touch.

While it provides good supplemental heat, the heater won’t replace your main heating source, and the unit draws a fair amount of power (up to 12 amps), so you should consider your home’s electrical setup to avoid overloads. The fireplace weighs 45 pounds, so professional help is advised for proper recessed installation. If you want a blend of style, ambiance, and moderate heating with smart controls, the Touchstone Forte is a reliable and visually appealing option.

The Touchstone Sideline Elite 72” is an electric fireplace designed to fit recessed into a wall, giving your room a sleek, modern look without taking up floor space. It has a strong heating capacity, warming areas up to about 400 square feet with its 1,500W heater and a thermostat adjustable between 68-88°F, suitable for maintaining comfortable warmth in living rooms, bedrooms, or offices. One standout feature is its highly customizable flame effect, offering 60 color combinations including 6 flame colors and 10 media settings like logs, crystals, and driftwood for a realistic fire experience. This makes it great for creating a cozy ambiance even without heat.

Installation is intended for in-wall mounting, which might require careful measuring and some DIY skills, but instructions are clear and it supports both plug-in or hardwired power options. The fireplace also includes a remote control and can connect to Alexa or smart home apps for easy operation, adding convenience. Safety is considered with vent-free heat and heat vents positioned to prevent overheating nearby objects.

A notable consideration is that it requires a wall cutout of a specific size, so not all rooms may accommodate it easily. Additionally, the remote needs batteries which are not included. At about 100 pounds, it is quite heavy, meaning installation may need two people or professional help. If you're seeking a stylish, smart-controlled fireplace that combines effective heating with impressive visual effects and fits flush into your wall, the Sideline Elite 72 is a solid choice, especially if you value smart home integration and customizable ambiance.

The Touchstone Smart Electric Fireplace, specifically the Sideline 60" Wide model, offers a blend of aesthetic charm and functionality. Its heating capacity of 1,500W efficiently covers up to 400 sq. ft., making it suitable for living rooms and bedrooms. The realistic flame effect, with 30 ember color/flame options, adds a cozy ambiance, and you can choose between log and crystal settings for a personalized touch.

This unit is designed for in-wall recessed installation, ensuring a sleek, modern look and saving floor space. The heater can be hardwired or plugged into a standard 110-120V outlet, offering flexibility during installation. The thermostat control helps maintain your desired temperature, while the included remote (also Alexa/WiFi enabled) provides convenient operation from a distance.

Safety features include a cool-to-touch exterior and tempered glass, reducing the risk of injury. On the downside, it won't replace your primary heat source, as it’s designed to provide supplemental warmth. Also, the need for professional installation may add to the overall cost. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Sideline 60" stands out due to its stylish appearance, ease of use, and robust feature set, making it a commendable choice for those looking to enhance their home’s comfort and aesthetic appeal.