If you’re looking to add warmth and atmosphere to your home without the hassle of a traditional wood or gas fireplace, an electric fireplace is one of the easiest upgrades you can make. Electric fireplaces are not only a practical indoor fireplace option, they also offer flexible installation styles-from wall-mounted units to freestanding stoves, and even built-in inserts that blend seamlessly into a media wall.
In this guide, we’ll cover five popular types of electric fireplaces, so you can choose the best fit for your space and lifestyle. Whether you want a sleek wall-mounted electric fireplace, a cozy freestanding electric fireplace heater, a functional fireplace TV stand, or a clean recessed insert, there’s an option that delivers both heat and style.
Note: These electric fireplaces are listed in no particular order.
5 Best Electric Fireplaces to Transform Your Room into a Warm, Cozy Space
Table of contents
5 Main Types of Electric Fireplaces
5 Best Electric Fireplaces
How to Choose the Right Electric Fireplace
Electric Fireplace FAQs
Which Electric Fireplace Is Right for You
Understanding the 5 Main Types of Electric Fireplaces
Not all electric fireplaces are designed the same. Before choosing the best electric fireplace for your space, it’s important to understand how each type differs in installation, appearance, and use case. Below are the five most common electric fireplace types and how to choose between them.
1. Wall-Mounted Electric Fireplace
A wall-mounted electric fireplace is installed directly onto the wall surface, much like hanging a TV. It creates a modern, floating look and works especially well in apartments or rooms where floor space is limited. Installation is relatively simple, and the unit remains fully visible as a design feature rather than blending into the wall.
2. Freestanding Electric Fireplace
Freestanding electric fireplaces are designed to sit on the floor and plug into a standard outlet. Many resemble traditional stoves or compact fireplace heaters, making them one of the easiest options to use. Because no installation or wall modification is required, they’re ideal for renters or anyone who wants flexible placement.
3. Electric Fireplace TV Stand / Fireplace Console
A fireplace TV stand combines an electric fireplace heater with built-in media storage. These units function as a TV stand while adding visual warmth and heat to the room. Compared to other types, they offer the most furniture-like presence and often become the focal point of a living room.
4. Insert Electric Fireplace
An insert electric fireplace is designed to slide into an existing opening, such as an old wood-burning fireplace, a cabinet cutout, or a pre-built mantel. The key point is that inserts require a framed cavity or enclosure-they are not installed directly into the wall structure itself.
Think of an insert as a “drop-in” unit that upgrades an existing space rather than creating a new built-in wall feature.
5. Recessed / Built-In Electric Fireplace
Recessed or built-in electric fireplaces are designed to be installed directly into the wall cavity, becoming flush with the wall surface. These units are part of the wall itself, creating a clean, custom-built appearance often seen in modern homes or media walls.
Unlike insert electric fireplaces, recessed models usually require wall modification during installation and are intended for permanent placement.
Insert vs Recessed: Quick Difference Summary
Insert electric fireplace → slides into an existing opening or enclosure
Recessed / built-in electric fireplace → installed directly into the wall structure
Inserts are more flexible and DIY-friendly
Recessed models offer a more seamless, high-end built-in look
Electric Fireplace Comparison Table
| Type | Installation | Heating Style | Best For | Setup Difficulty |
| Wall-Mounted Electric Fireplace | Mounted on wall surface | Fan-forced heat | Modern rooms, apartments | Easy |
| Freestanding Electric Fireplace | Floor-standing, plug-in | Infrared or fan heater | Quick warmth, rentals | Very Easy |
| Electric Fireplace TV Stand | Furniture-based installation | Fan-forced heat | Living rooms, media areas | Easy |
| Insert Electric Fireplace | Slides into existing opening | Fan-forced heat | Replacing old fireplaces | Moderate |
| Recessed / Built-In Electric Fireplace | Installed inside wall cavity | Fan-forced heat | Media walls, custom builds | Advanced |
How to Choose the Right Electric Fireplace
Choosing the right electric fireplace goes beyond appearance. The best option for your home depends on room size, installation style, heating needs, and how you plan to use it day to day. Use the guide below to narrow down your choices before picking a model.
1. Installation & Space Assessment
When choosing an electric fireplace, the key question is not only “which type” but also whether your space supports the installation you want.
• Can you modify the wall?
If not, avoid recessed/built-in options and stick to models that don’t require cutting into the wall.
• Do you need mobility?
If you move often or rent, freestanding models are the easiest choice.
• Do you want a furniture piece?
If you need storage or a TV console, a fireplace TV stand can be the most practical option.
In short: choose the installation style based on your room layout and how much renovation you’re willing to do.
2. Heating Power: Supplemental vs Room Heating
Most electric fireplaces are designed as supplemental heat sources, not full-home heaters.
• Small rooms or bedrooms typically need lower heat output.
• Living rooms benefit from larger electric fireplace heaters with adjustable settings.
• Infrared-style units are better at maintaining warmth without drying the air.
Always check the recommended room size and remember that flame-only mode can be used year-round without heat
3. Flame Effects & Realism
Modern electric fireplaces focus heavily on visual appeal.
Look for features such as:
Adjustable flame brightness
Multiple flame colors
Ember bed or log effects
If ambiance is your priority, flame customization matters more than heating strength.
4. Safety Features for Everyday Use
One advantage of an electric fireplace over a traditional fireplace heater is safety.
Key features to look for:
• Overheat protection
• Cool-touch glass
• Auto shut-off timer
These features make electric fireplaces suitable for homes with kids or pets.
5. Controls & Convenience
Ease of use can vary widely between models.
Common options include:
• Remote control
• Built-in thermostat
• Timer settings
• Touch panel controls
If you plan to use your indoor fireplace daily, these features make a noticeable difference.
6. Energy Use & Efficiency
Electric fireplaces generally use less energy than gas or wood-burning fireplaces, especially when used without heat.
• Flame-only mode consumes minimal electricity
• Heat mode is best used for targeted warmth rather than all-day heating
This makes electric fireplaces a practical option for both comfort and efficiency.
7. Style & Room Fit
Finally, consider how the electric fireplace fits your overall decor.
• Sleek, linear designs suit modern interiors
• Mantel-style units create a traditional look
• TV stand models work best as a living room centerpiece
The best electric fireplace should blend naturally into your space, not feel like an afterthought.
Tip:
If you’re unsure, start by choosing the installation type first-then compare heating performance and design within that category.
5 Best Electric Fireplaces
GARVEE 50″ Electric Fireplace – Wall-Mounted Electric Fireplace for Modern Indoor Spaces
Installation & Setup
• Designed for wall-mounted electric fireplace installation, and also supports recessed installation into a wall for a cleaner, built-in look.
• No chimney or venting required – simply plug into a standard outlet and mount at your desired height.
• Slim, ultra-thin profile (about 4.2″ depth) fits easily under TVs or on feature walls without taking up floor space.
Heating & Flame Performance
• Dual heat settings (750W and 1500W) provide supplemental warmth – perfect for a living room, bedroom, or lounge area.
• Adjustable flame colors (12 options) and brightness help customize your indoor fireplace experience without producing real flames.
• Flame-only mode lets you enjoy the decorative ambiance year-round while keeping humidity balanced and air comfortable.
Design & Space Fit
• Modern linear design with tempered glass front adds a contemporary touch to decor, complementing minimalist or transitional interiors.
• Slim build makes it ideal for apartments, condos, or rooms where you want the look of a fireplace without bulky furniture or a traditional mantel.
Best Use Case
• Great choice as an indoor fireplace focal point in living rooms or bedrooms where space is limited.
• Works well as a decorative electric fireplace heater that adds both warmth and ambiance without complicated installation.
In Everyday Use
• The GARVEE electric fireplace works great as a modern focal point. Flame settings are easy to adjust, and it provides reliable supplemental heat.
Duraflame Infrared Quartz Electric Fireplace – Freestanding Electric Fireplace Heater for Cozy Indoor Warmth
Installation & Setup
• Designed as a freestanding electric fireplace heater – no mounting or built-in installation required.
• Simply attach the legs, plug into a standard outlet, and it’s ready to go right out of the box, making it ideal for renters or people who want heat without renovation.
• Its portable design lets you move it between rooms – living room, bedroom, or basement – depending on where warmth is needed most.
Heating & Flame Performance
• Uses infrared quartz heating technology to provide supplemental zone heating for up to ~1,000 sq ft, helping reduce reliance on central systems while keeping humidity more balanced than many traditional heaters.
• The 5,200 BTU output warms spaces efficiently, while adjustable thermostat and digital controls help fine-tune comfort.
• Realistic flame effects and glowing log visuals operate with or without heat, so you can enjoy the visual ambiance of an indoor fireplace year-round.
Design & Space Fit
• Classic stove-style design with metal body, side viewing windows, and beveled glass front adds aesthetic warmth comparable to a traditional fireplace.
• Compact yet substantial build fits well in living rooms, bedrooms, or dens, blending with both modern and vintage decor.
Best Use Case
• Ideal as a portable electric fireplace heater for supplemental warmth in apartments or homes without existing fireplaces.
• Works well when you want a cozy centerpiece that doubles as a fake fireplace ambiance maker – offering flame visuals without real flames or venting.
In Everyday Use
• This freestanding unit is plug-and-play and easy to move between rooms. Infrared heat warms larger spaces effectively, while the flame display can run with or without heat.
LGHM 72″ Electric Fireplace – Electric Fireplace TV Stand for Living Room Entertainment
Installation & Setup
• This unit is a freestanding electric fireplace tv stand / electric fireplace with mantel, meaning no built-in or wall mounting is required – just place it against a wall.
• It combines storage and a fireplace heater into one piece of furniture.
• Assembly is required upon delivery, typically with clear instructions and all essential hardware included.
Heating & Flame Performance
• Equipped with a 1400 W heater that outputs up to ~5,000 BTU, capable of warming medium-sized living spaces (~300–400 sq ft).
• Realistic flame effects with adjustable brightness can be used with or without heat, offering a cozy indoor fireplace ambiance year-round.
• Flame and heating functions can be controlled via touch buttons or the remote control for convenient operation.
Design & Space Fit
• Features a fireplace mantel with a rustic stacked stone look and engineered wood construction that blends with farmhouse, transitional, or modern decor.
• Ample open shelving on both sides provides space for media consoles, books, or decorative accents – perfect as a centerpiece in a living room or family room.
Best Use Case
• Ideal as a fireplace tv stand in living rooms or dens where you want to combine a media console with an electric fireplace heater.
• Great for renters or homeowners who want the aesthetics of a mantel and entertainment center without complex installation.
In Everyday Use
• This LGHM electric fireplace tv stand combines storage, a fireplace, and a media console in one piece. It’s a strong living room centerpiece once assembled.
RealSmart 30″ Electric Fireplace Insert – Recessed Electric Fireplace for Flexible Wall Integration
Installation & Setup
• This unit is designed primarily as a recessed electric fireplace insert, meaning it’s ideal for embedding into a wall opening or media console for a clean, built-in look.
• It also supports wall-mounted installation, giving you flexibility if you don’t want to build a recessed cavity.
• Hardware for mounting and a remote control are included, and its slim, ~3.8″ depth means it seamlessly integrates with most interior layouts without a protruding frame.
Heating & Flame Performance
• Dual heat settings (750 W and 1500 W) provide supplemental warmth for small to medium spaces, helping reduce reliance on central heating while preserving indoor comfort.
• Adjustable flame effects with multiple colors and brightness levels allow you to set the mood like a traditional indoor fireplace without real flames or vents.
• Flame-only mode keeps ambiance year-round even when heating isn’t needed, doubling as an attractive fake fireplace decor element.
Design & Space Fit
• Sleek black tempered glass front and slim profile make it easy to pair with modern decor or a custom fireplace mantel setup – visually similar to upscale built-in fireplaces.
• It’s compact enough for bedrooms, living rooms, or dining areas, and its low-noise operation helps it blend into everyday living spaces.
Best Use Case
• Ideal as a built-in electric fireplace focal point when you’re renovating or customizing a media wall, hallway, or feature wall.
• Works well for anyone who wants the look of a recessed fireplace without the cost or hassle of a traditional wood or gas unit.
In Everyday Use
• This RealSmart electric fireplace insert gives a clean built-in look when installed in a wall or cabinet. It’s best for a custom media wall or feature space.
Riseon Electric Fireplace Logs Insert – Built-In Electric Fireplace for Cozy Indoor Ambiance
Installation & Setup
• Designed as an electric fireplace insert that can be placed within a wall opening, media console, or custom surround for a built-in look.
• This model also functions as a portable unit – plug it into any standard 120 V outlet and place it where you like.
• Comes with a remote control for easy operation of flame brightness, heater, and timer features.
Heating & Flame Performance
• Adjustable 2-mode heating lets you switch between high and low heat or use flame visuals without heat, so it works as both an electric fireplace heater and decorative indoor fireplace.
• Five levels of flame brightness help customize the look and mood of your space, producing a rolling, faux log flame effect that mimics traditional fireplaces.
• Includes overheating protection and timer settings (up to 24 hours), adding safety and convenience for everyday use.
Design & Space Fit
• Realistic fake fireplace logs and 3D flame visuals give this inset unit a cozy, authentic feel without real flames or chimney venting.
• Slim and compact profile fits well into custom built-ins, entertainment walls, or alcoves in living rooms, bedrooms, or dens.
Best Use Case
• Great choice as a built-in electric fireplace focal point for feature walls or media cabinetry that combines style with supplemental warmth.
• Works well in apartments, condos, or homes that lack a traditional fireplace but want that classic visual appeal and cozy ambiance.
In Everyday Use
• The Riseon electric fireplace insert offers a realistic log-fire look and is easy to control with a remote. It works well in a custom surround or built-in opening.
Electric Fireplace FAQs
Q1: Which electric fireplace type is best for apartments?
• Wall-mounted and freestanding electric fireplaces are the most apartment-friendly options. They require minimal installation and don’t need ventilation, making them ideal indoor fireplaces for rental spaces.
Q2: Is an electric fireplace powerful enough to heat a living room?
• An electric fireplace heater can comfortably warm small to medium-sized living rooms as supplemental heat. For larger spaces, models with higher heat output or infrared heating perform better.
Q3: Can electric fireplaces be used without turning on the heat?
• Yes. Most electric fireplaces allow flame-only operation, so you can enjoy the look of a fake fireplace even during warmer months.
Q4: Are electric fireplaces energy-efficient?
• Electric fireplaces are efficient when used for zone heating. Flame-only mode uses very little electricity, while heat mode works best for targeted warmth rather than all-day heating.
Q5: Are electric fireplaces safe for homes with kids or pets?
• Yes. Electric fireplaces don’t produce real flames or hot embers. Features like overheat protection and cool-touch surfaces make them safer than traditional fireplace heaters.
Q6: What should I check before buying an electric fireplace?
• After reviewing products, consider installation type, room size, heat output, and safety features. The best electric fireplace is one that matches both your space and daily usage needs.
Which Electric Fireplace Is Right for You?
To pick the right electric fireplace, think about what matters most to you:
• Budget & Convenience First:
If you want the simplest and cheapest setup, choose a freestanding or wall-mounted model.
• Style & Integration First:
If you’re renovating or want a seamless built-in look, a recessed or insert option is worth the investment.
• Functionality First:
If you need storage and a TV setup, a fireplace TV stand offers the best all-in-one solution.
If you’re still unsure, go back to the type that matches your room layout and choose the product that fits your daily needs and budget.
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