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 Pro 60" electric fireplace is a strong choice for anyone wanting a stylish and flexible heating solution with modern features. It offers good heat output, capable of warming spaces up to 400 sq. ft. with its 1500W heater and adjustable thermostat. This makes it suitable for bedrooms, living rooms, or home offices where supplemental heat is needed. It supports both wall-mount and recessed installation, which allows it to fit nicely into different room layouts without taking up floor space.

One of the standout features is its highly customizable flame effect. With 6 flame colors, 5 speed options, and 13 ember bed colors plus down lighting, it creates a cozy and dynamic ambiance that can be tailored to your mood or décor. The added crackle sound is a nice touch for anyone who appreciates the feel of a real fireplace. Control is convenient and modern, thanks to smart home compatibility via Alexa and WiFi, allowing remote and voice control of heat and visual settings.

Energy efficiency is decent for an electric unit with a vent-free design, though running the 1500W heater will impact electricity bills if used extensively. Installation requires careful measuring due to its large size and recessed depth, which could be a challenge for some. It’s also a heavier unit at 66 pounds, so professional installation might be needed. This fireplace is well suited for buyers who want a blend of attractive aesthetics, flexible setup, and smart controls, but it may be less ideal if you want a simple plug-and-play model or need a quieter, lower-power heater.