The Best Electric Fireplaces We've Ever Tested | Chengdu Portable Electric Co.,Ltd

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Our favorite flame-free picks will keep you warm and cozy this winter.

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Real Simple / Henry Wortock

Unlike unsightly space heaters, electric fireplaces can add both warmth and a cozy ambiance to any home. Plus, they make a safe, cost-effective, and low-maintenance alternative to traditional wood-burning fireplaces, which require constant attention and upkeep.

To find the best electric fireplaces, we tested 23 popular models and evaluated each on its setup, heating performance, design, safety, and value. For expert insight, we consulted Ben Kolo, owner of Mr. Electric of Central Iowa, and Kasee Smith, lead designer at Havenly.

The compact design makes it easy to move and store.

Its smaller heat range may not be ideal for larger spaces.

This fireplace isn’t going to serve as the primary heating source in your home, but it does deliver substantial warmth in a small package that can be easily moved from room to room. We were impressed by the heat output on this little unit—we could feel it from up to 4.5 feet away. Note that this fireplace uses convection heating as opposed to radiant heating, so it’s designed to circulate warm air throughout the room.

We love that the realistic flickering flames are visible on three sides of this unit. You can even turn the flames on without operating the heating function, should you still want the ambiance during the warmer months. It comes with an easy-to-use control panel that has three different controls: a power button, a heat power button, and a temperature-control dial that can go from 68°F to 95°F.

This sturdy stainless steel fireplace comes with overheat protection and remains cool to the touch on top, so you can place objects on its surface without running the risk of burns or hot surface ignition fires. It comes with the Canadian Standards Association (CSA) certification, which has rigorous testing standards, and it did not tip over when bumped into during our lab tests.

Overall, this is an effective and straightforward electric fireplace available at a very reasonable price point. After six months of use, it maintained a consistent heat output and showed no signs of wear. If you're looking for a supplemental source of heat that can be easily transported around the home, this is it. However, if you prefer the more direct heat of fireplaces that use radiant heating, keep scrolling.

It has an impressive heat range considering its small size.

The thermostat doesn’t allow you to set a specific temperature.

This Turbo electric fireplace heater is comparable to our overall best pick but at a less expensive price point. We could feel the heat of this unit from up to 5.5 feet away, which is especially impressive given its compact size. At just 13 pounds, it's the lightest of all the fireplaces on our list, so it can easily go from room to room.

The fairly flames on this fireplace can be turned on separately from the heat, and there are just three simple controls: a power button, a heater control button, and a temperature dial. Juste note that the temperature dial doesn’t allow you to set the fireplace to the exact temperature. Instead, it indicates which direction to turn the dial in order to get more heat (similar to how you would adjust the temperature on a shower faucet).

In testing, this unit got extremely hot, so it may not be ideal for households with pets or children. It does come with a number of safety features, though, including overheat protection that shuts the heating off when the temperature gets too high and a cool-to-the-touch surface (the heating element is located on the underside of the unit). It’s CSA certified, too.

This budget-friendly unit is a great option for adding a little warmth and ambiance to a small space. We think it may serve better as an effective space heater than an aesthetic fireplace and could see it making a small den, apartment, or bedroom more cozy.

It has a wide range of temperature, color, and brightness options, and it looks like a real fireplace.

The setup process is a bit tedious.

The Real Flame Silverton Electric Fireplace adds the vibe of a real wood-burning fireplace to any space. It has a very impressive heat output, too: In our lab tests, we could feel the heat from 11.5 feet away, and it's designed to accommodate up to 1,000 square feet. It uses radiant heating to instantly warm you and other objects in the room, much like a real wood-burning fireplace would do. The flames look real, too.

This fireplace stands out for its many settings, including four flame adjustments, five flame brightnesses, and six flame colors (orange, red/orange, white, blue, blue/white, and multicolor). Like other models on our list, the flames can operate without the heat function, so you can use this fireplace no matter what temperature it is outside.

To adjust the heat, switch the thermostat to one of six temperatures, ranging from 71°F to 99°F. You can also choose from various timer intervals between 10 minutes and nine hours. All adjustments can be made using the touchscreen panel or the included remote control. After using it for six months, it still works as if it were brand new.

This unit uses radiant heating rather than convection, so it operates very quietly. It also features an automatic safety shut-off and overload protection, and it’s CSA certified. The electric firebox is surrounded by a solid wood construction, including a mantel with a contemporary look that can accommodate up to 30 pounds. Given the size and design of this unit, setup is a bit more involved, so you’ll likely do best if you have a helper.

It doubles as a storage furniture piece and has separate switches for the flame and heat.

It doesn’t come with a remote control.

This two-in-one fireplace and entertainment center is guaranteed to make your living space more inviting. In our lab testing, the convection heating could be felt from up to 7.5 heat away where we sat on the couch. Plus, the modern wood finish and glass doors make it a statement piece you’ll be proud to have as the focal point of the room.

The controls on this fireplace are simple—there’s an on/off switch for the flames and another for the heat. We appreciated that the separate switches allowed us to enjoy the fireplace ambience even when we didn’t want the heat. Unfortunately, this unit does not come with a remote control, which is a big miss considering that it’s designed to be used in conjunction with a TV. It also has only two settings: with heat or without.

Considering the size of this piece, assembly is a little involved, and it took us two and half hours setting it up from start to finish. However, once it was built, we found it to be sturdy and well made. We also liked that the amber glow of the flames looked realistic, too. Plus, it’s CSA-certified.

After using it for six months, the electric fireplace is still top notch. The heat output has remained consistent, and the flame hasn't dimmed at all. This is not the most customizable nor the most advanced out of the electric fireplaces we tested, but if you are already in the market for a new TV stand, this one pulls double duty at an amazing value.

It has a rustic design of an old-fashioned stove, and the flames were the most realistic out of all the heaters we tested.

It’s difficult to assemble the fake chimney.

Designed to resemble an old-fashioned stove heater, the Real Flame Foster Electric Stove is as functional as it is charming. The piece is designed with mission-style glass doors, glass side panels, and a fake chimney. It uses convection heating to warm up to 1,000 square feet, and this heat could be felt from up to 4.5 feet away in our tests. What impressed us most was the authentic-looking flames, which were the most realistic we have ever seen on an electric fireplace.

The control panel is located directly on the unit and includes a power button, a heat power button (so you can use it with or without heat), and a temperature dial with four different thermostat settings: 68°F, 77°F, 86°F, and 95°F. In our testing, we could feel a definite difference in the feel of the room temperature on each setting. Take note, though, that we stopped using the electric fireplace after a few months because the heat feature blew a fuse, although this may not happen to everyone.

It has an automatic shut-off feature for when the temperature gets too high and comes with a sturdy build that didn’t budge in our tip-over test. Better yet, it’s CSA-certified. Unfortunately, the installation process was somewhat of a chore and we had real issues installing the fake chimney.

Our top pick is the Costway 20-Inch Freestanding Electric Fireplace, which is small enough to carry from room to room and has a very realistic flame display. For a more budget-friendly pick, the Turbro Suburbs TS17 Electric Fireplace Stove Heater is a great no-frills, freestanding electric fireplace that generates an impressive heat range.

Real Simple / Henry Wortock

We acquired 23 electric fireplaces and put them through a series of tests in our Des Moines lab, evaluating them on setup, heating performance, design, safety, and value. To begin, we timed how long it took to unbox and assemble each fireplace according to the manufacturer’s instructions. We also took note of whether the fireplace had been safety tested. (We tested all of the electric fireplaces on our list against rigorous safety standards.)

Once assembled, we evaluated the overall build and quality of each fireplace, including whether it looks sturdy, well made, and realistic. For electric fireplaces with interchangeable media or ember beds, we tested exchanging one media material for another. Finally, we gave each fireplace a gentle push (as if someone had bumped into it) and observed whether it remained steady or wobbled/fell over.

For models that can operate without a heating element, we turned on the flames and cycled through the lighting modes, taking note of the quality of their appearance (the Real Flame Foster Electric Stove’s were the most realistic in our testing). We then turned each fireplace on with the heat and rotated through the various flame and heat settings. We also considered the control mechanism for each fireplace, such as buttons, dials, digital controls, apps, or remote controls.

To test the heating performance of each unit, we first measured a three-foot distance from the fireplace and placed a chair there. Then, we sat in the chair and measured the surface temperature of our body using an infrared thermometer, and then again after running the fireplace for five minutes on each heat setting. (For the rest of the testing process, we left the heaters on the highest setting.)

We then measured the maximum distance they were able to stand from the fireplace and still feel warmth. Out of the fireplaces on our list, the Real Flame Silverton Electric Fireplace could be felt from the furthest distance—as far away as 11.5 feet. After the heat had been running for a minimum of 15 minutes, we used a decibel reader to measure the noise output, and took note of whether they could carry a conversation over it. Then, we took the temperature and humidity from a thermometer placed five feet away from the fireplace.

For fireplaces with non-infrared heaters and an auto-temperature mode, we set the fireplace’s target temperature five degrees warmer than the room’s highest temperature reading from the thermometer placed five feet from the fireplace. After 15 minutes, we recorded whether the temperature actually rose by 5°F or not.

Finally, we received the retail price of each fireplace, and scored its overall value considering its price and its performance in our lab tests. We then tested them in the real world, evaluating their performances after two months and six months of at-home use.

Real Simple / Henry Wortock

There are a number of different types of electric fireplaces based on the method of installation, including wall-mounted units, inserts designed to slip into an existing wood-burning fireplace, or freestanding units. In our testing, we chose to focus on the latter.

Freestanding electric fireplaces are the easiest to use, since all you need to do is plug them in. You’ll find freestanding fireplaces in a number of different styles, including small, portable fireplaces designed to look like old-fashioned stoves, fireplaces with mantels that can be propped up against the wall, or electric fireplaces built into TV stands or entertainment centers (like the Walker Edison Glenwood Highboy Fireplace TV Stand).

You’ll also need to consider design when choosing which type of electric fireplace to buy. “There are options for all styles, such as the wall-mounted linear design that works great for modern to transitional designs,” Smith says. “Larger walls can handle a long, linear option that can feel grand and to scale. If you have some room to play with and want a larger unit, the floor models with a mantle really works.”

Electric fireplaces use two main types of heating methods: convection (aka forced fan) and radiant (aka infrared). Convection fireplaces work by taking in cool air, heating it up with a coil, and circulating the warm air back out into the room. Radiant fireplaces use infrared rays to radiate heat directly onto objects and people nearby (similar to how a real fireplace works). Or as Kolo puts it: Convection heating warms the air and objects while radiant heating warms just the objects.

Radiant heating sources have a number of advantages over convection and often come with a higher price tag to match. “Generally, radiant heating sources are much more efficient than convection,” Kolo says. “Another benefit of radiant heat is no need for fans to push air around, so the environment near the heating source is quieter.” It’s also important to note that radiant fireplaces won’t dry out the air like convection fireplaces tend to do. But if your goal is to circulate warm air throughout the room, a convection fireplace is the best choice.

The amount of heat an electric fireplace produces is measured in British Thermal Units (or BTU). Electric fireplaces typically range from 4,000 to 10,000 BTU. Other manufacturers may measure their heat output in watts, too. Generally, the higher the BTU or wattage, the more heat a fireplace produces.

That said, there are more factors at play than just these units of measure. A radiant heat fireplace will typically cover a much larger area than a convection heat fireplace. Kolo says the information included with each electric fireplace will usually indicate the square footage it can accommodate, so there is no need to memorize a formula for calculating BTUs. Keep in mind that while electric fireplaces can offer warmth, they’re more of a supplementary heat source rather than a primary one.

Most electric fireplaces give you some level of control over the flames and heat output. You’ll find models that allow you to adjust the brightness, the color, or even the flicker speed of the flames. Many models let you operate the flames without the heating element, and most have either two to three different heat settings or an adjustable thermostat.

Pay attention to control mechanisms, too. Some fireplaces may only be adjusted by pressing a button or turning a dial directly on the unit, while others can be controlled from a distance using a remote control or app.

Although they can provide some warmth during the winter months, electric fireplaces are primarily meant for adding the cozy look and feel of a wood-burning fireplace without the upkeep. Consider what would look best in your space: a rustic, old-fashioned stove heater, a stone mantelpiece, or something different altogether.

The look of the flames is just as important—you want to leave people guessing as to whether they’re real or not. To make an electric fireplace look better, Smith suggests creating a textured or painted accent wall to make it a focal point. For units with a mantel, she says to have fun with decor such as candles, photos, vases, and decorative books. Hang a beautiful piece of artwork above it, as well.

Pleasant Hearth Sheridan GLF-5002-68 Free Standing Mobile Infrared Electric Fireplace: This model has five heat settings you can control with either a remote or the on-unit controls. You can adjust the intensity of the flame glow. However, we wish we were able to use the ambient setting without the heat.

LifeSmart FP1136 1500 Watt Portable Electric Infrared Quartz Fireplace Heater: We noticed a significant difference between the high and low temperature settings, allowing for a more tailored heating experience. Plus, once the fireplace has reached the programmed temperature, it will automatically stop generating heat. That said, the flames looked a bit artificial, so if you're looking for a more realistic fireplace experience, we recommend a different option.

An electric fireplace is similar to a space heater but with the look of a conventional fireplace. Smith says an electric fireplace is great for someone who lives in an apartment and wants the ambiance or extra heat or homeowners without a chimney who want to save money and energy.

If you have kids or pets, you may choose to purchase an electric fireplace as an alternative to a wood-burning fireplace because they remain mostly cool-to-the-touch even while in use. Those who have allergies may also opt for an electric fireplace, because unlike wood-burning fireplaces, they don’t release smoke and other potentially harmful fumes into the air. They also don't require as much prep work and upkeep—no chopping wood, tending to the fire, or cleaning up ash and soot.

Electric fireplaces are a lot more versatile than wood-burning fireplaces, too. If you have a space that wouldn’t normally accommodate a fireplace, such as a small apartment, a basement, or even an RV, a freestanding electric model makes it so easy to put a fireplace anywhere.

Even if you have a wood-burning fireplace you like, you may still consider purchasing an electric fireplace for supplemental heating in certain rooms, allowing you to lower the overall temperature in your home and save money in the long run. Plus, they make any space feel instantly cozier.

Electric fireplaces are a cost-effective way to supplement the heating in your home during the winter months. According to Kolo, electric fireplaces are less expensive to operate compared to gas or traditional wood fireplaces. He says this is largely because electric fireplaces can heat a room quickly and are very efficient due to the fact that no heat is lost up a chimney. Electric fireplaces can even be used to heat up a single room while the rest of the home is left cooler, helping to bring down your utility costs.

The most important features to look for are a safety shut-off, in the event that the unit is knocked over, and an automatic shut-off timer, which will allow you to set your fireplace to turn off after a certain amount of time or once it reaches a certain temperature; both will help prevent risk of a house fire. Kolo says that most electric fireplaces have cool surfaces, so burns and hot surface ignition fires are less of a risk.

This article was written by Melanie Fincher, associate shopping editor for Real Simple with three years of experience writing product reviews and lifestyle content, and updated by Jamie Fischer, shopping writer for Real Simple. To compile this list, we tested 23 electric fireplaces in our lab and evaluated each on its setup, heating performance, design, safety, and value. We then took the fireplaces home to evaluate their real-world performance over time.

For expert tips on buying and using electric fireplaces, we consulted Ben Kolo, owner of Mr. Electric of Central Iowa, a Neighborly company, as well as Kasee Smith, lead designer at Havenly.

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