10 Best Electric Fires 2026 in the United States

The Touchstone Smart Electric Fireplace, known as 'The Sideline,' is a 72-inch wide in-wall recessed electric fireplace that offers a range of features catered to create a cozy and realistic fireplace experience. One of its key strengths is its realistic flame effect, boasting 30 different ember color/flame options that allow for a customizable ambiance. The inclusion of both log and crystal hearth options further enhances its aesthetic versatility. The heat output is 1,500W, suitable for warming up a room of up to 400 square feet, making it a good supplemental heating source but not a replacement for primary heating systems.

The control options are extensive, offering remote control, Alexa, and WiFi-enabled operations, providing convenience and flexibility for users to adjust settings from a distance. Installation is straightforward for those comfortable with DIY projects, with the option to wall mount or recess the unit. Safety features include cool-to-touch sides and back, important for preventing burns or accidents, especially in homes with children or pets. Additionally, it is ventless, which simplifies installation and enhances safety.

The energy efficiency is notable, as the fireplace can be operated with just the flame effect without the heat, saving on energy costs during warmer months. However, at 95.3 pounds, the unit is quite heavy, which may pose challenges during installation. Additionally, the fireplace pulls a maximum of 12 amps, so careful consideration of the electrical circuit is necessary to avoid overloading. Despite these minor drawbacks, its combination of realistic flame effects, multiple control options, and safety features make it a strong candidate for creating a warm and inviting atmosphere in various room settings, from living rooms to bedrooms.

The Touchstone Sideline Elite Smart 60” Electric Fireplace is designed for in-wall installation, giving any room a modern and sleek look. It offers an impressive range of features, including 60 color combinations for the flames, realistic faux fire logs, driftwood, and crystals to enhance the ambiance.

The unit is versatile, allowing you to control the flame settings and heat output either via a remote control or a smart device, which adds convenience. It also has two heat settings (high and low) and a thermostat range of 68-88 degrees Fahrenheit, making it a great supplemental heating option for rooms up to 400 square feet. The fireplace operates on 1,500 watts and can be either plugged in or hardwired for installation flexibility.

Users can also enjoy various flame speeds and intensity settings to tailor the experience to their preference. However, the installation requires some DIY skills, and the unit's weight of nearly 50 pounds means it may need extra support during installation. Keep in mind that it must be installed at least 8 inches below the ceiling or any mounted objects for safety reasons. Its energy efficiency and safety features make it a practical addition to any living room or bedroom.

The Touchstone Sideline Elite Smart 50” electric fireplace is a solid choice if you're looking for a modern, in-wall recessed unit that combines style with functionality. It delivers 5,000 BTUs of heat through a 1,500-watt heater, which is enough to warm rooms up to around 400 square feet, making it suitable for living rooms or bedrooms. Installation is designed for recessed mounting, giving a sleek, built-in look, but it requires precise measurements and some DIY skill or professional help to ensure a perfect fit.

One of its standout features is the flame effect with 60 color combinations and multiple intensity settings. This variety allows you to customize the ambiance easily, and the inclusion of realistic faux logs, driftwood, and crystals enhances the cozy atmosphere. Controls are convenient, including a remote, thermostat with two heat settings, flame speed options, and WiFi smart device compatibility, so you can operate it from your phone or even tie it to a light switch.

Energy-wise, the unit is typical for an electric fireplace of this size, using 1,500 watts, which means it can add noticeably to your electric bill if used frequently as a primary heat source. However, it has a thermostat to help regulate heat output efficiently. The fireplace includes safety features like vent-free operation and heat vents positioned to avoid overheating nearby objects, but it should be installed at least 8 inches below anything mounted above it to be safe. This fireplace is well-suited for those wanting an attractive, customizable, and smart electric fireplace for a mid-sized room. It offers excellent flame visuals and flexible controls but requires careful installation and will use a moderate amount of electricity when heating. If you want a modern look combined with smart home convenience and good heating capability, the Touchstone Sideline Elite is worth considering.