TL;DR
The best electric fireplace for you mostly comes down to fit: do you need an insert/log set for an existing firebox, or are you building a new focal wall? Most electric fireplaces deliver supplemental heat (think “space heater you can enjoy looking at”), so we’d prioritize flame realism in your room’s lighting, quiet operation, and a warranty/support track record over hypey heat claims.
Top Recommended Electric Fireplaces
| Product | Best For | Price | Pros/Cons | Visit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Modern Flames Redstone 26" Electric Fireplace Insert | Built-in insert look with stronger visuals | $950 – $1050 | Beautiful flame effects per homeowner reports; heater output and fit expectations vary | Visit Amazon |
| DIMPLEX Revillusion Electric Fireplace Log Insert RLG25 25 | Quick upgrade for an existing fireplace opening | $450 – $550 | Realistic logs/flames in many rooms; reflective elements can look fake in bright light | Visit Amazon |
Top Pick: Best Overall Electric Fireplace
Modern Flames Redstone 26" Electric Fireplace Insert
Best for: Homeowners upgrading an existing fireplace opening who want an insert-style look (especially in a living room where you’ll see the flames from the couch at night) without taking on a full wall rebuild.
The Good
- Flame presentation is a highlight: homeowner reports frequently praise the “fire effects” and overall visual appeal, which is what most people buy an electric fireplace for in the first place.
- Good “feature-per-dollar” feel for an insert: compared with basic log sets, inserts like this tend to read more “built-in” from across the room when paired with the right surround/trim strategy.
- Can provide noticeable warmth in the right room: some customer experience mentions it “heats a room,” which aligns with how many electric inserts are used — as supplemental heat in a family room or den, not as a whole-home heater.
- Support experience isn’t universally negative: we do see positive mentions of company support, which matters because remotes, LEDs, and blowers are the parts most likely to be needed over time.
The Bad
- Heat expectations aren’t consistent: a portion of buyer reviews criticize heater performance, which is a reminder to treat the heater as “space-heater class,” not a furnace replacement.
- Fit is everything with inserts: several owners flag that size/fit expectations can differ, so you’ll want to measure your opening (and cord routing) carefully before ordering.
4.4/5 across 23 Amazon reviews
“I was really impressed by the reviews.I ordered one through Amazon!I was pleasantly surprised that it was being sent through a shipper on a pallet! Due to the location I live in the company owner contacted me and at their expense – paid for special shipping to get it to my location!After receiving the unit I installed it and was blown away at how beautiful…” — Verified Amazon buyer (5 stars)
“Not worth the price tag, at all.*and* the 26" doesn’t match the photos. the logs are way smaller and different looking. they won’t even show the 26 on their website, every pic is a 36+.So.. it’s a fancy electric space heater with a cool light show. you can get WAY, better heaters for FAR less money, so you’re just paying for the special effects.it’s heat…” — Verified Amazon buyer (2 stars)
Typical price: $950 – $1050
"After receiving the unit I installed it and was blown away at how beautiful the fire effects and remote control unit" — verified buyer, 5 stars
Our Take: If you’re committed to the insert form factor and want flames that impress in real homes, the Redstone 26" is our best overall pick — just measure your opening carefully and treat the heat as supplemental.
DIMPLEX Revillusion Electric Fireplace Log Insert RLG25 25
Best for: Renters or homeowners who have an existing firebox and want a fast, low-commitment “drop-in” ambiance upgrade (think: a family room where you want the look of a fire without framing, venting, or masonry work).
The Good
- Realistic-looking logs and flames in many setups: multiple homeowner reports call out that the logs/flames look “quite realistic,” especially when room lighting and viewing angle cooperate.
- Ambiance-first design: it’s aimed at visual warmth — great for evenings when you want the glow without necessarily running the heater.
- Works well when your room doesn’t blast direct light into the firebox: customer experience suggests it can disguise some reflective components when placed thoughtfully relative to windows and lighting.
- A popular “known quantity” option: beyond buyer reviews, there are also community discussions that point to Revillusion as a generally solid choice for existing openings.
The Bad
- Bright light can break the illusion: if sunlight or strong lamps hit the reflective parts, owners say it can become obvious and look fake.
- Remote complaints show up: some buyer reviews criticize the remote control experience, which matters if you plan to adjust flame/heat frequently from the couch.
4.4/5 across 826 Amazon reviews
“This is a really good option. The logs and flames are quite realistic. The plexiglass disc is not that apparent in our fireplace with the lighting and window placement that we have in this family room. It really creates a nice ambience of warmth and coziness. I have not been using the heater much, which you only feel if you’re standing close to it. The…” — Verified Amazon buyer (5 stars)
“The other reviews are all correct. This is probably the most realistic electric fireplace log set you can find for an existing fireplace, but ONLY in ideal viewing conditions. It achieves its realism by using a reflective piece of plastic. If too much light falls on the plastic, or the angle is wrong, the reflective plastic is VERY OBVIOUS and the fireplace…” — Verified Amazon buyer (3 stars)
Typical price: $450 – $550
“We ended up with a Dimplex Revillusion and it’s honestly pretty good.” — r/Fireplaces discussion
"If too much light falls on the plastic, or the angle is wrong, the reflective plastic is VERY OBVIOUS and the fireplace looks fake and a bit annoying." — verified buyer, 3 stars
Our Take: For the simplest “existing fireplace” glow-up, Revillusion is a strong pick — but plan for your room’s lighting (daytime glare and viewing angles) so it doesn’t look plasticky.
FAQ
Do electric fireplaces provide real heat?
Yes, but usually only supplemental heat. Many electric fireplaces use electric resistance heat (basically a built-in space heater), which can make a small-to-medium room more comfortable but typically won’t replace central heating. For cost and efficiency context, see ENERGY STAR guidance on efficient heating options (electric resistance is efficient at the point of use, but can be expensive compared with a heat pump in many areas).
Which type is easiest to install: insert, log set, wall-mount, or recessed linear?
Log sets and log inserts are typically the easiest because they’re designed to sit in an existing firebox with minimal setup. Inserts can still be straightforward, but fit becomes critical (opening width/height/depth, trim/surround plan, and where the cord goes). Wall-mounted and recessed linear units can involve stud finding, anchoring, cord concealment, and sometimes hardwiring — if you’re not sure, a licensed electrician (NEC-certified) or qualified handyman can help you avoid an unsafe install.
What makes electric fireplace flames look realistic?
Lighting conditions and viewing angle matter as much as the flame tech itself. Homeowner reports on products like the Dimplex Revillusion show that reflective components can look convincing in normal evening lighting, but can turn “obviously plastic” in bright daylight or at the wrong angle. Before you buy, think about where windows are, whether the unit will face direct sunlight, and where people actually sit in the room.
How loud are electric fireplaces when the heater is on?
In flame-only mode, many units are relatively quiet, but when the heater runs you should expect some blower/fan noise (because most are fan-forced resistance heaters). If you’re sensitive to noise in a bedroom or TV room, prioritize models with a thermostat (so the fan isn’t constantly cycling at full blast) and make sure you’re comfortable with the sound profile during the return window.
Are electric fireplaces safe to leave on overnight?
Safety depends on the specific unit and how it’s used. Treat any electric fireplace with a heater like a space heater: keep it clear of curtains, furniture, bedding, and clutter; don’t run the cord under rugs; and avoid extension cords or power strips unless the manufacturer explicitly allows them. Start with CPSC space heater safety guidance and follow your model’s manual to the letter.
Should I look for UL listing on an electric fireplace?
Yes — it’s a meaningful baseline safety signal. Many electric fireplaces and their heater components are evaluated to UL safety standards (often referenced as UL 1278 and/or UL 2021 depending on product type). You can learn more about what UL listing means at UL Solutions, then confirm the actual listing/label on the product and packaging.
What clearances do I need around an electric fireplace heater?
Always follow the manufacturer’s clearance instructions, but as a general safety mindset, keep heaters away from anything that can burn. NFPA’s public-facing guidance on space heater safety is a good common-sense reference point for placement and clearance behavior — see NFPA home heating safety tips.
Bottom Line
If you want the best electric fireplace experience overall — especially if you’re upgrading an existing fireplace opening and care most about flame visuals — the Modern Flames Redstone 26" Electric Fireplace Insert is our top pick. Go in with realistic expectations about supplemental heat, measure your opening carefully, and follow space-heater safety basics from CPSC/NFPA to keep the install and day-to-day use safe.
Affiliate disclosure: We may earn affiliate commissions from qualifying purchases. This doesn't influence our reviews.
