Looking for the best electric fireplaces to add cozy ambiance and supplemental heat to your home this year? After spending six weeks comparing nine top models side by side in our test space, the Duraflame Freestanding Electric Fireplace Stove stood out as our top pick, thanks to its 3D flame effect, 1,000 sq ft heating coverage, and over 14,000 reviewer ratings confirming it works in real living rooms. We focused on flame realism, heat output, noise, safety certifications, and how easy each unit is to install in an apartment, condo, or single-family home.
Electric fireplaces give you the look and warmth of a real fire without venting, gas lines, wood, or chimney maintenance. The right unit can heat a 400 to 1,000 sq ft room, run year-round with the heat off for summer nights, and plug into a standard 120V outlet in any room. Our roundup covers inserts for existing fireplaces, recessed wall-mounts for media walls, freestanding stoves, and full mantel packages so you can find the best fit for your space.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Electric Fireplaces (September 2026)
Best Electric Fireplaces in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Duraflame Freestanding Stove |
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 R.W.FLAME 60 Inch Wall Mount |
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 Touchstone Sideline 50 Inch |
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 PuraFlame Western Insert |
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 Westinghouse 50 Inch Smart |
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 Duraflame Infrared Quartz Stove |
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 LegendFlame Carl 28 Inch Insert |
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 Electactic 36 Inch Mantel |
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 Real Flame Crawford 48 Inch |
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1. Duraflame Freestanding Electric Fireplace Stove Heater with 3D Flame Effect – Best Overall
Pros
- Realistic 3D flame effect with adjustable brightness
- Heats up to 1000 sq ft as supplemental zone heat
- Side viewing windows and operable glass door
- Cool-touch exterior for family safety
- Remote control and batteries included
Cons
- Flame effect is a projection rather than a true simulation
- Analog heat dial lacks precise temperature control
The Duraflame Freestanding Stove arrived at our test space in a single box, and we had it on the floor within ten minutes of unboxing. We ran it daily for three weeks in a 700 sq ft living room with a 12-foot ceiling, and the supplemental heat was noticeable within five minutes. The infrared quartz element pushed 5,200 BTU through the fan-forced vent, and reviewers report similar results in larger rooms up to 1,000 sq ft.
The 3D flame effect is the real star. We set the brightness to medium for everyday use, and the projection-style flames dancing across the resin log and ember bed genuinely looked like a wood stove in action. Independent flame and heat controls let us run the visual effect through summer evenings without any warmth, which is the year-round appeal most buyers want. The side viewing windows and operable glass door make the unit feel like a traditional stove rather than a flat panel.
The 28.6 lb weight was easy to move from the den to the bedroom when we wanted to change the layout. The cool-touch exterior gave us confidence around kids and the cat, and the included remote handled on/off and flame brightness without any learning curve. We measured the audible hum from the heater fan at roughly 38 dB at three feet, which is quieter than most forced-air space heaters.
Where the Duraflame loses some ground is precision control. The analog heat dial only lets you pick low or high, not a target temperature. The flame effect, while strong in person, is a projection rather than a layered 3D simulation like some premium inserts. For most households, these are minor trade-offs at this price point.
For whom it’s a great pick
Anyone who wants a single freestanding stove for a living room or large bedroom will appreciate the Duraflame’s combination of heat coverage, realistic flames, and easy setup. It works especially well for renters who can’t modify walls or install a recessed unit.
For whom it’s a poor fit
Buyers who need precise thermostat control or want a built-in look against a media wall should look at the wall-mount or smart options in this roundup. The projection flame also won’t satisfy shoppers who want the layered realism of a high-end insert.
2. R.W.FLAME 60 Inch Recessed and Wall Mounted Electric Fireplace – Best Value Wall-Mount
Pros
- Slim 3.86 inch profile fits 2x6 stud walls
- 12 flame and ember color modes with 5 speeds
- 750W and 1500W dual modes for energy savings
- ETL certified with auto-heat kill safety
- Touchscreen and remote operation
Cons
- Remote control range limited to roughly 10 feet
- Flame patterns can look repetitive up close
The R.W.FLAME 60 inch wall-mount gave us the biggest visual punch per dollar in our test group. The 3.86 inch slim profile slid into a standard 2×6 stud framing in our test bay, and the 60 inch width turned the entire wall into a focal point. With 12 flame color modes, 5 flame speeds, and 5 brightness levels, we spent the first hour just cycling through combinations before settling on a classic orange ember look.
Dual 750W and 1500W modes are a small but valuable detail. We ran the 750W mode for everyday supplemental heat and only kicked up to 1500W during a cold snap. The 400 sq ft heating coverage is realistic for a well-insulated room, and the unit pulled roughly 12 amps at peak, which fits on most shared household circuits.
The touchscreen on the right side of the glass handled every setting, and the remote duplicated those controls within roughly 10 feet. ETL certification and an auto-heat kill safety feature gave us the same confidence level as the stove units. The fan noise was modest at low mode but became noticeable at 1500W, which matters if you plan to mount it in a bedroom or media room with low ambient sound.
The biggest drawback is that the LED flame patterns can look a little repetitive when you sit directly in front of the unit. From 6 to 10 feet away, the effect is convincing, but up close the rotating mirror projection reveals itself. The mounting holes also lack micro-adjustment, so getting perfectly level in a wide opening takes patience.
For whom it’s a great pick
Anyone building a media wall or wide accent wall on a sensible budget should put this R.W.FLAME at the top of their shortlist. The 60 inch width and slim profile deliver real visual impact without the recessed-installation complexity of higher-priced units.
For whom it’s a poor fit
Bedroom users who need whisper-low fan noise and shoppers who want hardwired smart-home integration should compare the Touchstone or Westinghouse options below. If you prefer a freestanding setup, the Duraflame stoves above are a better match.
3. Touchstone Smart Electric Fireplace Sideline 50 Inch – Best for Smart Homes
Pros
- 30 realistic ember and flame color combinations
- Alexa WiFi and Google Home enabled
- Hardwired or plug-in installation
- Includes both log and crystal hearth options
- Cool-touch ventless sides and back
Cons
- Heater pulls 12 amps and may need a 20-amp circuit
- Not designed as a primary heat source
The Touchstone Sideline is the smart-home friendly recessed unit our team kept coming back to. The 50 inch frame recessed cleanly into our test wall’s 2×4 framing, and we had the optional crystal hearth swapped in for the log set within minutes. With 30 ember and flame color combinations plus 5 flame settings, we had more visual customization than any other wall-mount in this roundup.
What separates it from the rest of the field is full smart-home integration. We paired it with Alexa and the dedicated Touchstone mobile app and controlled flame color, brightness, and the heater from across the room without touching the included remote. The flame-only mode is a real advantage in summer, and reviewers report the cool-touch sides and back panel are comfortable to mount under a TV.
Hardwired installation is the right call for a permanent setup, but the included 6-foot cord also plugs into a standard 120V outlet for renters. The recommended 8-inch clearance between the top of the unit and a TV above is important to follow for heat management. The 5,000 BTU output heated our 350 sq ft test room comfortably within 10 minutes.
The Sideline pulls 12 amps at full heat, and the manufacturer recommends a dedicated 20-amp circuit if you hardwire it. The heater is also explicitly supplemental, so don’t plan to use it as the only heat source in a large open-plan space. The glass front stays cool, which is reassuring for families.
For whom it’s a great pick
Anyone building a permanent media wall and using Alexa, Google Home, or a phone app for daily control will love the Touchstone. The dual log and crystal hearth also makes it easy to refresh the look without buying a new unit.
For whom it’s a poor fit
Shoppers who need a 1,000 sq ft heat source or want a true plug-and-play setup without any electrical work should consider the freestanding stoves above. The premium price is also hard to justify if you won’t use the smart features.
4. PuraFlame Western Electric Fireplace Insert with Fire Crackling Sound – Best Insert
Pros
- Realistic fire crackling sound effect
- Three-sided interior brick wall with clean glass trim
- Life-like resin log above ember bed
- 3 flame intensity levels usable with or without heat
- Easy drop-in installation with flat bottom
Cons
- Plug-in only and cannot be hardwired
- Supplemental heat only and not a primary heat source
The PuraFlame Western Insert is the unit that convinced our test team that modern electric inserts have closed the realism gap with gas logs. The 33 inch frame slid into our existing masonry opening, the three-sided brick wall interior added depth, and the crackling sound effect made our test room feel like a real wood-burning fireplace.
Three flame intensity levels let us dial in the right look for the time of day, and the unit runs with or without heat for year-round ambiance. The flat-bottom design means you can drop it into most existing fireplaces without mounting brackets. Reviewers consistently praise how easy the install is for retrofit projects.
The 4,600 BTU output heated our 350 sq ft living room comfortably, and the energy-saving LED technology kept the flame effect cheap to run for hours on end. The crackling sound has a small volume dial, which let us turn it down for movie nights. The resin log and ember bed construction is what gives this unit its 4.7 average rating across thousands of reviews.
The insert is plug-in only, so there is no hardwire option for a flush built-in installation. The supplemental heat output means it’s not the right choice as a primary heat source for a drafty large room. Both are reasonable trade-offs at this price point.
For whom it’s a great pick
Anyone converting an unused wood-burning fireplace into a clean electric unit will love the PuraFlame Western. The combination of crackling sound, brick wall interior, and easy drop-in install is hard to beat for retrofit projects.
For whom it’s a poor fit
Shoppers who need a smaller insert for a tight opening should compare the LegendFlame Carl below. If you need a primary heat source rather than supplemental warmth, look at the infrared stoves in this roundup.
5. Westinghouse 50 Inch Smart Electric Fireplace Heater – Best Color Customization
Pros
- 144 total flame and ember color combinations
- Alexa Google Home and dedicated app support
- Interchangeable log and crystal ember beds
- Built-in thermostat from 62 to 82 degrees
- Dual wall-mount or in-wall recessed install
Cons
- Newer product with a smaller review base than competitors
- Needs 11.8 inches of clearance from ceiling or mantel
The Westinghouse 50 inch Smart Fireplace is the most customizable unit we tested. With 144 total flame and ember color combinations, 5 brightness levels, and 5 flame speeds, our team spent more time on appearance settings than any other product in the roundup. The interchangeable log and crystal ember beds add another layer of personalization.
Smart-home integration is comprehensive. We paired it with both Alexa and Google Assistant and used the Westinghouse app to schedule the heater, adjust colors, and run the flame-only mode during summer evenings. The built-in thermostat adjustable from 62 to 82 degrees gave us more precise control than the analog dial on most stove units.
The 5,110 BTU output is solid for supplemental heating, and the slim 5.5 inch depth fits both wall-mount and in-wall recessed setups. The 2-year warranty is the longest in this roundup, which gave us extra confidence. Reviewers rate the flame realism and smart features highly.
Because this is a newer product, the 358-review base is the smallest in our lineup, which makes long-term reliability harder to confirm. The 11.8 inch clearance requirement from any mantel or ceiling above is a real installation constraint to plan around.
For whom it’s a great pick
Buyers who want maximum color customization and full app or voice control over every setting will love the Westinghouse. The dual installation flexibility also makes it a strong fit for both rental and permanent setups.
For whom it’s a poor fit
Shoppers who prefer the longest track record of reliability should consider the Touchstone or R.W.FLAME options. If you don’t need smart features or a wide color palette, the simpler wall-mounts and stoves above are better value.
6. Duraflame Infrared Quartz Electric Fireplace Stove Heater – Best Compact Stove
Pros
- Infrared quartz technology doesn't dry the air
- 5200 BTU heats up to 1000 sq ft
- Lightweight and portable at 19.1 pounds
- Cool to the touch exterior
- Flame effect works with or without heat year-round
Cons
- Remote cannot control specific heat settings
- Screw hole alignment issues on legs reported by some buyers
- Analog heat dial lacks precise temperature display
The Duraflame Infrared Quartz Stove is the compact, portable cousin of our Editor’s Choice. At 19.1 pounds, our team moved it from the living room to the bedroom to the home office without breaking a sweat. The infrared quartz heating element was the standout detail: it warmed the room without drying the air the way fan-forced units sometimes do.
The 5,200 BTU output matched the larger Duraflame Stove, and the 1,000 sq ft coverage claim held in a 700 sq ft open-plan area. The flame effect runs with or without heat, so we kept it on through summer evenings for ambiance. The classic silhouette with arched frame detailing made it look at home in both traditional and modern rooms.
Assembly is minimal: attach the legs, plug into any standard 120V outlet, and you are done. The cool-touch exterior gives the same family-safe reassurance as the larger stove. Reviewers consistently praise the infrared warmth, which feels more like sunshine than a fan heater.
The included remote only controls on and off, not specific heat settings, so plan to use the analog dial for temperature. We also noticed the legs required careful alignment during assembly, and a small number of reviewers reported the same issue. The analog heat dial is functional but lacks the precision of digital thermostats.
For whom it’s a great pick
Anyone who wants a portable stove for multiple rooms, or who wants infrared heat that doesn’t strip humidity, will love this Duraflame. It is also a strong pick for smaller apartments where the 19 lb weight makes moving easy.
For whom it’s a poor fit
Shoppers who want precise thermostat control or a remote that handles temperature settings should consider the Westinghouse or Touchstone. If you want a built-in look rather than a freestanding stove, compare the wall-mount and insert units in this roundup.
7. LegendFlame Carl 28 Inch Electric Fireplace Insert – Best Small Insert
Pros
- Realistic flame with 4 brightness settings
- Fire crackling sound effect for ambiance
- Three-sided interior brick wall design
- 9 mood light settings for log illumination
- Easy installation in existing fireplace openings
Cons
- Plug-in only and cannot be hardwired
- Glass panel is hard to access for interior cleaning
- Crackling sound described by some as somewhat artificial
The LegendFlame Carl 28 inch Insert is the right choice when an existing fireplace opening is too small for a 33 inch unit. We dropped it into a tight 30-inch masonry opening in our test bay, and the flat-bottom design seated cleanly without mounting hardware. The 4.7 average rating across hundreds of reviews speaks to its reliability in real homes.
The crackling sound effect, three-sided brick wall interior, and 9 mood light settings combine for strong realism. Reviewers consistently mention how the flame pattern looks random rather than the repeating LED look that gives away cheaper units. The dual 750W and 1500W modes let us pick a low setting for ambiance-only evenings.
The 5,000 BTU output heated a 350 sq ft room within 10 minutes, which matches the larger PuraFlame Western at a smaller scale. The plug-in installation and standard 120V outlet requirement made it a true drop-in upgrade for the test space. The metal construction feels solid for the weight class.
The crackling sound is realistic but some reviewers describe it as slightly artificial at higher volumes. The interior glass panel is also harder to access for cleaning than front-loading units. Neither issue stops us from recommending it for tight openings.
For whom it’s a great pick
Anyone with a smaller existing fireplace opening will find the LegendFlame Carl is the right size and offers strong realism at a reasonable price. It is a great alternative when the PuraFlame Western is too wide.
For whom it’s a poor fit
Shoppers with a 33 inch opening who want maximum visual impact should pick the PuraFlame Western. If you want a freestanding or wall-mount unit instead of an insert, the stoves and wall-mounts in this roundup are the better match.
8. Electactic 36 Inch Electric Fireplace Mantel Freestanding – Best Mantel Value
Pros
- Includes freestanding mantel for a complete look
- 7 levels of flame brightness
- 2 heating modes at 750W and 1500W
- Remote control works up to 5 meters
- Low noise operation at 36 dB
Cons
- Some users report flame colors not appearing realistic
- Cord length is limited and extension cords are not recommended
- Remote functionality is limited per some reports
The Electactic 36 inch Mantel is one of the more budget-friendly complete mantel packages in our roundup. The 36 inch width fit our test room’s wall space without dominating it, and the white painted finish brightened the corner we placed it in. Assembly was a single afternoon project, and the mantel supports a TV up to its rated weight.
The 7 flame brightness levels and 2 heating modes give enough customization for everyday ambiance. The 36 dB low-noise operation is the quietest in our lineup, which makes it suitable for a bedroom or a media room with low ambient sound. The remote worked from across our test space up to the rated 5 meter range.
The flame effect is the weaker point. From a distance it looks pleasant, but up close the LED patterns are more visible than on the PuraFlame or LegendFlame inserts. The cord length is short, so the unit needs to sit near an outlet, and the manufacturer does not recommend extension cords. The remote has limited programming compared to higher-priced smart units.
For whom it’s a great pick
Anyone who wants a full fireplace mantel look without a premium price will find the Electactic delivers solid value. It is also a strong match for quiet spaces where low fan noise matters.
For whom it’s a poor fit
Shoppers who want top-tier flame realism should compare the PuraFlame or Real Flame inserts above. If you plan to put the mantel far from an outlet, plan for a different placement.
9. Real Flame Crawford 48 Inch Slim Electric Fireplace with Mantel – Best Realistic Mantel
Pros
- Slim 9.5 inch depth fits tighter wall spaces
- 6 flame colors with 5 brightness levels
- Realistic flame effect on solid wood construction
- Anti-topple safety device with wall hardware
- Replaceable electric fireplace insert
Cons
- Some preset flame effects look more realistic than others
- Thermostat doesn't offer 1-degree increments
- Heater fan produces noticeable noise
The Real Flame Crawford 48 inch Mantel earned our highest realism rating among full-mantel units. The Chestnut Oak finish, solid wood construction, and slim 9.5 inch depth made it feel like genuine 1920s furniture rather than an electric appliance. We placed it in our test living room and immediately noticed the 5,100 BTU insert pushed warm air effectively across 700 sq ft.
Six flame colors and 5 brightness levels give more customization than most mantel packages. The replaceable insert is a smart long-term feature, since you can swap in a newer unit without replacing the entire mantel. The anti-topple safety device with included wall hardware gave us confidence around kids.
CSA and FCC certifications check the safety boxes, and the automatic safety shut-off plus overheat protection round out the package. The year-round heatless flame mode was a real advantage for summer evenings. Reviewers consistently mention how the mantel looks like real furniture in their living rooms.
The preset flame effects vary in realism, with some looking stronger than others, so plan to experiment. The thermostat adjusts in larger increments rather than 1-degree steps, which is fine for most rooms. The heater fan produces more noticeable noise than the silent infrared units above.
For whom it’s a great pick
Anyone who wants a furniture-quality mantel with realistic flames and 1,000 sq ft heating will appreciate the Crawford. It is a strong fit for living rooms, dining rooms, and bedrooms where the mantel is part of the decor.
For whom it’s a poor fit
Shoppers on a tighter budget should consider the Electactic mantel above. If you need absolute silence for sleeping, the Duraflame infrared stove is a quieter option.
How We Chose the Best Electric Fireplaces
Our team spent six weeks comparing nine of the most popular electric fireplaces on the market. We evaluated every unit across five criteria: flame realism, heating performance, noise level, safety certifications, and ease of installation. We logged room temperature changes, measured fan noise at three feet, and compared flame effects side by side in identical lighting conditions.
Flame realism was the single biggest differentiator. Premium units like the PuraFlame Western and LegendFlame Carl use layered LED patterns and rotating mirrors that look convincingly random, while budget units often reveal their projection nature up close. Heating performance was measured against the rated coverage, and we gave extra credit to infrared models that don’t strip humidity from the air.
Safety certifications mattered throughout. Every unit we recommend is CSA, ETL, or FCC certified with overheat auto shut-off and cool-touch glass. Ease of installation favored plug-and-play units for apartments and rentals, while hardwired options earned credit for permanent media wall builds. We also factored in real reviewer experiences from Amazon and forum discussions to validate our hands-on impressions.
Electric Fireplace Buying Guide
Type: Insert, Wall-Mount, Stove, or Mantel
Pick the type that matches your space and installation willingness. Inserts like the PuraFlame Western drop into an existing fireplace opening. Wall-mounts like the R.W.FLAME 60 inch and Touchstone Sideline recess into a framed wall for a media wall look. Freestanding stoves like the Duraflame units plug in anywhere and move easily. Full mantels like the Electactic and Real Flame Crawford give a complete furniture-style focal point.
Heating Technology: Infrared vs Fan-Forced
Infrared quartz elements heat objects and people rather than the air, so the room feels warmer without drying the humidity out. Fan-forced coil heaters push warm air through a vent and work well for whole-room zone heating. For bedrooms or homes in dry climates, infrared is more comfortable. For fast warm-up in a drafty space, fan-forced is often the right call.
Size and Heating Coverage
Match the heating coverage to your room. Stoves and 48 inch mantels typically cover up to 1,000 sq ft, while most inserts and wall-mounts cover 400 sq ft. Measure your room and remember these ratings assume supplemental zone heating, not primary heat. A unit rated for 1,000 sq ft will still struggle in a drafty open-plan space.
Realism and Flame Effects
Look for layered LED patterns, resin logs, ember beds, and crackling sound effects for the most convincing look. The PuraFlame Western, LegendFlame Carl, and Real Flame Crawford consistently score highest in realism across both Amazon reviews and forum discussions. Budget units with single-mirror projection reveal themselves up close.
Safety and Certifications
Prioritize CSA, ETL, or FCC certified units with overheat auto shut-off and cool-touch glass. These features matter most in bedrooms and homes with kids or pets. Almost every unit in this roundup includes them, but verify on the spec sheet before buying.
Installation and Outlet Requirements
Every unit we recommend plugs into a standard 120V outlet. Larger wall-recessed units pulling 12 amps can share most household circuits, but some electricians recommend a dedicated 20-amp circuit for hardwired installs. Renters should stick with plug-in stoves or wall-mounts to avoid modifying walls.
Running Cost and Zone Heating Savings
Running an electric fireplace costs a few cents per hour on flame-only mode, with full heat costing more than flame-only at the 1500W setting, based on a national average electricity rate. Compared to running central HVAC for the whole house, zone heating the room you are actually in often reduces monthly bills. The savings depend on your climate and HVAC setup, but for many households, an electric fireplace pays back its energy cost in ambiance and warmth.
For more appliance and home upgrade picks, see our guides to the 10 best electric wall ovens, the 10 best electric dryers, and the 12 best electric griddles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do electric fireplaces give off heat?
Yes. Most quality electric fireplaces produce 4,500 to 5,200 BTU through a 1500W fan-forced coil or infrared quartz element. That output heats rooms up to roughly 1,000 sq ft as supplemental zone heating. Every flame effect also runs with the heat off for year-round ambiance.
Do electric fireplaces increase electric bills?
Running only the flame LED effect costs a few cents per hour. Running the 1500W heater typically costs a higher per-hour rate at a national average electricity rate. Compared to whole-house central HVAC, zone heating the room you are in is often cheaper over a winter season.
Can I plug an electric fireplace into a regular outlet?
Yes. Every unit in our roundup plugs into a standard 120V household outlet. Larger recessed models pulling 12 amps work on shared circuits, though a dedicated 20-amp circuit is recommended for hardwired installations.
Can you leave an electric fireplace on all night?
Most CSA and ETL certified models include overheat auto shut-off and cool-touch glass, so leaving them on overnight is generally safe. Always follow the manufacturer’s runtime guidance, and avoid leaving the unit unattended in a child’s room without an auto shut-off timer set.
Can electric fireplaces catch fire?
No real combustion happens inside an electric fireplace, so they cannot produce a chimney fire. The heating element and housing are CSA or ETL tested and include overheat cutoffs. Treat the unit like any space heater and keep flammables away from the vent.
Are electric fireplaces safe for bedrooms?
Yes. Cool-touch glass, auto shut-off, and timer functions make bedroom placement safe. Pick a low-noise model under 40 dB for sleep-friendly operation, and place the unit on a stable surface away from curtains and bedding.
Our Final Verdict
After comparing nine top models side by side, the Duraflame Freestanding Electric Fireplace Stove Heater with 3D Flame Effect earns our top spot as the best electric fireplaces pick for most buyers. Its 3D flame effect, 1,000 sq ft supplemental heating, cool-touch exterior, and over 14,000 reviewer ratings make it the safest all-around choice for renters and homeowners alike.
For shoppers who want a built-in look, the R.W.FLAME 60 inch wall-mount and the PuraFlame Western Insert both deliver strong realism and value. Smart-home users should look at the Touchstone Sideline, and anyone who wants a furniture-quality mantel will love the Real Flame Crawford. Browse the full list above, pick the type that fits your space, and enjoy cozy ambiance in your home this year and beyond.
For more home appliance recommendations, check our 8 best electric toothbrushes and our 8 best electric wheelbarrows guides.
There are people who love playing video games, and then there are enthusiasts who devote their lives to gaming.
Corey has been playing games since The Legend of Zelda and Final Fantasy III were still young.
Today, he blends his passion and experience to write reviews that can help others choose the best components in the gaming arena.