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The term “best” is a bit relative. What you consider best and what your neighbor considers best may vary greatly. At Electric Fireplaces Direct, we aim to help you find your “best” electric fireplace based on what is most important to you.
In our best electric fireplaces buyers guide, we’ll highlight our top picks, but first, a few words on the best features of electric fireplaces in general.
he best electric fireplace depends on your room size, installation preference, and how much you value flame realism. Most standard 1,500-watt models heat 400–500 sq ft — enough for a living room or bedroom. Here's how to narrow it down fast:
- Wall-mounted / linear — best for modern spaces; hangs like a TV, no floor space needed
- Built-in / recessed — cleanest look; ideal for renovations or new construction
- Fireplace insert — plugs into an existing wood or gas fireplace opening
- Freestanding / stove style — most flexible; no installation, just plug and place
- TV stand / mantel package — best value combo; adds storage and a focal point
Take a Look at the Best Electric Fireplaces of the Year
Types of Electric Fireplaces
Besides being the premier alternative to wood and gas for heat, good electric fireplaces offer some intriguing options. You’ll be sure to find the perfect match for your space and tastes.
- Fireplace inserts
- Wall-mount fireplaces
- Electric fireplace heaters & stoves
- Electric logs
- Fireplace TV stands
- Fireplace mantel packages
For more detailed information about each of the electric fireplace types, see this guide.
Trending Styles
The classic fireplace never goes out of style, but if you’re looking for something out of the ordinary, consider the newest, and hottest, contenders.
Linear Fireplaces
The wider stance and slim profile make linear style the perfect addition to the modern space. Depending on the model, you can fully recess them into the wall or hang them on the wall. Change the look by adjusting the flame color or swapping out the media to driftwood or even acrylic crystals.
Multi-Sided Viewing
Some of the hottest electric fireplace models can be viewed from two or three sides instead of just from the front. Some may have glass on the front and two sides, others may have glass on the front and the back for a “see-through” type effect. Others have a peninsula layout with glass on three sides for a full view of the flame.
Freestanding Electric Fireplace Stove
Another favorite is the stove style electric fireplace. These look like classic wood-burning stoves made after the Amish tradition. They are small and can go just about anywhere, including small apartments or RVs and they pack a punch as far as heat (heating to 1000 square feet).
Shop Electric Fireplace Stoves
Best Rated Electric Fireplace Technologies
Electric fireplaces are the easiest way to add a fireplace to your space. Many of them can simply be plugged in and you’re set to go. Others you can build into any wall (recessed fireplace) and hard wire directly into your home’s electrical system. But the available technology goes far beyond that.
Smart Control
Most electric fireplace units come with remote controllers but many also come with smart capabilities so you can control your fireplace via Wi-Fi. Whether from an app on your phone or a voice command to Alexa, turning your fireplace on/off or changing the flame color (and more) is simple.
Realistic Flame Effects
If you’re leery of electric fireplaces because you think you’ll miss the real flames, think again. Today’s technology offers ultra-realistic flame effects with RGB coloring, video imaging, and water vapor that mimics smoke tendrils.
Infrared, Ceramic Heating
Besides the classic electric coil or filament heating, you can choose from newer heating technologies like infrared or ceramic. Infrared is a form of radiant heat that uses a heating bulb that produces heat that radiates throughout the room. Ceramic heat uses electricity to heat a ceramic plate, which then radiates through room. Both methods are excellent heaters and can warm rooms up to 1000 square feet.
Thermostat Control
A favorite feature of an electric fireplace is the thermostat. You can set the temperature and allow the unit to adjust accordingly. All electric fireplaces can be run without heat so you can enjoy the ambiance of a fire without it becoming uncomfortably warm—perfect for warmer climates or all-season enjoyment.
Check out all the latest tech available in electric fireplaces.
See What’s New in Electric Fireplace Tech
Customer Electric Fireplace Reviews
With an overall rating of 4+ stars out of 5, our customers will tell you how their electric fireplace has changed their lives. Read reviews you can trust from verified buyers right on our website.
Good Electric Fireplaces: Aerus by Modern Ember
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"Could not love this fireplace more! I love the look and multiple personalization settings for the flame and base colors and was surprised at how much heat the unit puts out with its compact size. Make a beautiful focal point for the room it's in."
Shane | Verified Buyer
Good Electric Fireplaces: ClassicFlame Traditional
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"Perfect fireplace addition. We purchased this fireplace heater to fill the hole in our wood burning fireplace. The cost of converting to gas being too much right now! We are super happy with how this turned out!!"
Lolajh | Verified Buyer
Good Electric Fireplaces: Highmark by Modern Ember
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"I cannot keep my cat away from this electric fireplace! She is so happy there (my dog too)! Love the variety of color themes that you can change the screen to! Easy to use it and hooked it up to my Alexa device. Perfect for my living room and even keeps my kitchen warm."
Gatoramanda 1 | Verified Buyer
Learn More about the Good, Better, and Best of Modern Ember
Top Electric Fireplace Picks
As we’ve already said, there are a lot of ways to define “best” so we’ve collected what we consider the best from as many different perspectives as we can think of. If you still have questions, please reach out to talk to one of our representatives.
Best Electric Fireplace Inserts |
Best Log InsertsCountry Living Electric Log Insert |
Best Wall Mount Electric FireplacesDimplex Synergy Electric Fireplace |
Best Electric Fireplace TV StandsMuskoka Sinclair Electric Fireplace |
Best Electric Fireplace Mantel PackagesDimiplex Featherston Electric Fireplace |
Best Value Electric FireplacesCountry Living Infrared Electric Stove |
Best Electric Fireplaces for Commercial Use |
Best Smart Electric Fireplaces |
Best Electric Fireplaces for BathroomsNapoleon Allure Vertical Wall Mount |
Best Outdoor Electric FireplacesSimpliFire Scion Linear Built-In |
Best Alternative to Gas Fireplace |
Best Insert for 2 x 4 Wall Installation |
Best Electric Fireplace for Bedroom |
Best Electric Fireplace for KitchenNapoleon Allure Vertical Wall Mount |
Best Electric Fireplace for Large Rooms |
Best Electric Fireplace for Basements |
Best Electric Fireplace for Apartments |
Best Electric Fireplace for Tiny Homes/RVs |
Best Electric Fireplace for Under a TV |
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Best Electric Fireplace Heater
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Get Help Choosing the Best Electric Fireplace for You
| Best for | Type | Heat coverage | Standout feature | Price tier |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Modern spaces (most popular) | Linear wall-mount | Up to 400 sq ft | Ultra-slim profile; fully recessable; RGB flame color | $$–$$$ |
| Large rooms | Built-in / recessed | Up to 1,000 sq ft | Infrared heat; hardwire or plug-in; custom surround-ready | $$$–$$$$ |
| Existing fireplace | Insert / log set | Up to 400–1,000 sq ft | Drops into any hearth; plug & play; realistic log sets | $–$$$ |
| Apartments & rentals | Freestanding / stove | Up to 1,000 sq ft | No installation; portable; classic stove aesthetic | $–$$ |
| Living room + storage | TV stand / mantel package | Up to 400 sq ft | Media storage built in; plug & play; many style options | $$–$$$ |
| Smart home users | Any (Wi-Fi enabled) | Varies by model | Alexa / Google / app control; schedulable; color modes | $$–$$$$ |
| Year-round ambiance | Any (flame-only mode) | No heat needed | Run flame effects without heat — works in any season | All tiers |
Buying Checklist
Before you make your final decision, run down this checklist to ensure you're thinking through all the details.
Room Size
- Measure the space: Small, medium, or large room?
- Heating needs: Choose a model with adequate output (400-1,000 sq. ft.).
- Primary or supplemental heat?
Style Preference
- Aesthetic: Modern, traditional, rustic, or vintage?
- Finish & color: Match room decor.
- Type: Mantel, media console, wall-mount, built-in, or stove heater?
Installation Needs
- Placement: Wall-mounted, built-in, freestanding, or corner?
- DIY or professional?
- Electrical requirements: Standard 120V or higher?
- Ventilation: Most don’t need it.
Budget
- Set a budget: Include installation and accessories.
- Energy efficiency: Features like thermostats can reduce costs.
Features & Technology
- Heating type: Infrared or fan-forced?
- Flame effects: Customizable colors and brightness.
- Controls: Remote, touch screen, or smart integration.
- Safety: Automatic shut-off, cool surfaces.
Maintenance
- Easy upkeep
- Minimal cleaning
- Durable materials.
Check out the coolest electric fireplaces all in one stop at Electric Fireplaces Direct!
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Frequently asked questions about electric fireplaces
How much does it cost to run an electric fireplace? Most standard electric fireplaces use 1,500 watts of power. At the U.S. average electricity rate of around $0.16 per kWh, that works out to roughly $0.24 per hour when running on full heat — or about $2–$3 for a typical evening of use. Many models include an eco or thermostat mode that cycles the heater on and off, cutting that cost significantly. Running in flame-only mode (no heat) uses just the LEDs — typically less than 50 watts, or pennies per day.
Can I use an electric fireplace without the heat on? Yes — every electric fireplace sold at Electric Fireplaces Direct can run flame effects independently of the heater. This makes them a true year-round product: you get the ambiance of a fireplace without warming up the room in summer. Just use the remote or app to turn the heater off while keeping the flame display on.
How large of a room can an electric fireplace heat? Standard 1,500-watt (120V) models are best suited for supplemental zone heating in rooms up to 400–500 square feet. Models with infrared heating technology can warm spaces up to 1,000 square feet by radiating heat directly to people and objects rather than just warming the air. Electric fireplaces work best as a zone heating supplement — they reduce how hard your central system works in the room you're using, which can lower overall energy costs.
Are electric fireplaces safe to install under a TV? Yes. Unlike wood or gas units, electric fireplaces vent heat from the front or bottom — not upward — so they don't expose electronics above them to damaging heat. Most components also stay cool to the touch. Always check the manufacturer's clearance recommendations for the specific model, and look for units that explicitly note TV compatibility if that's your setup.
What is the most realistic-looking electric fireplace? Flame realism has advanced significantly. The most realistic electric fireplaces today use one of three technologies: LED with mirrors and rotating elements (the most common, very convincing), water vapor / Opti-Myst (produces actual mist for a 3D, smoke-like effect), or LCD/video screens (like Modern Flames Orion — photorealistic from any viewing angle). If realism is your priority, look for models with adjustable flame height, ember bed brightness controls, and warm amber color tones rather than purely blue flames.
Do electric fireplaces require professional installation? Most don't. Freestanding, wall-mount, and insert models plug into a standard 120V outlet — no electrician needed. Built-in and recessed models can be plug-in or hardwired; hardwiring gives a cleaner look with no visible cord but does require an electrician. A dedicated circuit is recommended for any 1,500W heater to prevent tripped breakers.
What's the difference between infrared and fan-forced heating? Fan-forced heat works like a space heater — a coil or ceramic element warms the air, and a fan pushes it into the room. Infrared heat uses a quartz bulb to emit radiant energy that warms people and objects directly, similar to the warmth you feel from the sun. Infrared is quieter (no fan noise), maintains room humidity better, and tends to feel warmer faster. It's the better choice for larger rooms or anyone who finds fan heat drying.
Can electric fireplaces be installed outdoors? Standard electric fireplaces are designed for indoor use only. For covered patios, screened porches, or outdoor entertainment areas, you'd need a unit specifically rated for outdoor or semi-outdoor installation. If you're exploring outdoor heating options, our team can help point you toward the right solution for your space.
