10 Best Electric Fireplace Inserts 2026 in the United States

The Touchstone Sideline Elite Smart Electric Fireplace is a solid option if you’re looking for a stylish and functional heating solution that fits seamlessly into your home. Designed for in-wall installation, this 60-inch fireplace boasts a sleek black frame that adds a modern touch to any room, making it suitable for living rooms, bedrooms, or offices. One of its biggest strengths is the variety of flame and media combinations, offering 60 flame colors and 10 media options, which provide a customizable and realistic fire experience. The ability to control it via a remote or smart device is a modern touch that users will appreciate.

With a heating capacity of 1,500 watts, this model can effectively heat spaces up to 400 square feet, making it ideal for supplemental heating. Its adjustable thermostat allows for temperature settings between 68-88 degrees Fahrenheit, plus two heat settings to suit your preference. The inclusion of faux logs and crystals adds to the authentic look of the flames, enhancing the cozy atmosphere.

There are a few drawbacks to consider. While the unit is easy to install, it does require a bit of DIY effort, which may not suit everyone. Additionally, the flame effects, while visually striking, might not be as convincing as a traditional fireplace. Some users might also find the need for AAA batteries for the remote control inconvenient.

The Dimplex IgniteXL Bold 74-in electric fireplace is a versatile and stylish option for modern homes. Its large size and sleek design make it a great focal point for living rooms. It offers multiple installation options, including front-facing, corner, and bay setups, providing flexibility to fit various room layouts. The ability to hardwire it to a 120-volt or 240-volt circuit ensures a seamless and integrated look, though it may require professional installation for some users.

Its heating capacity is robust, effectively warming spaces up to 1,000 square feet, making it suitable for larger rooms. The ComfortSaver heating system is designed for efficiency, helping to manage energy use while providing ample warmth. The flame effects are a standout feature, with multi-colored and multi-layered flames that can be adjusted for different moods and settings. These can be used with or without heat, allowing for year-round enjoyment. The included Driftwood Logset and Crystal Ember Bed add to its aesthetic appeal.

Controlling the fireplace is convenient with the included remote or the Flame Connect App, offering modern smart home integration. However, the unit is quite heavy, weighing nearly 150 pounds, which could be a drawback during installation or relocation. Safety features include a vent-free design and a corded setup to prevent tripping hazards. The Dimplex IgniteXL Bold is ideal for those looking for a high-quality, visually appealing, and efficient electric fireplace with modern features, though it may require professional installation due to its size and weight.

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.