You are staring at a cold, empty firebox that once held crackling logs, but the mess of wood, ash, and chimney cleaning is no longer part of your plan. A three-sided electric fireplace insert delivers the visual comfort of a real flame—viewable from the front and both sides—without requiring any venting, gas lines, or structural changes to your home.
I’m Mo Maruf — the founder and writer behind The Tools Trunk. I have analyzed over a hundred electric fireplace specifications, comparing heating elements, LED flame optics, installation depths, and control systems to separate genuine quality from decorative gimmicks.
Whether you are replacing a traditional wood-burning unit or framing a new wall opening, choosing the right 3 sided electric fireplace insert depends on balancing realistic flame projection, actual heating performance, and precise dimensional fit within your existing cavity.
How To Choose The Best 3 Sided Electric Fireplace Insert
A three-sided insert must fit a physical cavity, produce a convincing flame from multiple angles, and actually raise the room temperature. Three critical factors determine whether a unit succeeds or disappoints.
Measure your opening width, height, and depth before anything else
The largest mistake buyers make is assuming the advertised overall width matches the insert body. Many units list the front trim size as the product width, while the actual firebox is several inches narrower. Always compare the insert body dimensions—not the trim—against your rough opening. A unit that is too deep will stick out past your mantel or wall finish, ruining the flush look you want.
Evaluate flame realism on all three visible sides
Not all LED flame systems are equal. Low-end units project a flat, static image that looks like a glowing poster. Quality inserts use layered LED reflections, variable intensity settings, and ember bed effects that create depth. Because the glass is clear on three sides, any weakness in the simulation is visible from every angle. Look for units with at least three flame brightness levels and separate log/crystal color options.
Check the heating element type and BTU rating
Every insert on this list is a supplemental heater, not a primary furnace. Quartz infrared elements warm people and objects directly without drying the air, while forced-fan ceramic heaters circulate warmth faster. Inserts rated around 5100 BTUs (1500 watts) can effectively heat a 400-square-foot room if the space is reasonably insulated. If your room is larger or drafty, you will need a higher-output unit or an additional heat source.
Quick Comparison
On smaller screens, swipe sideways to see the full table.
| Model | Category | Best For | Key Spec | Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Modern Ember Uptown 28″ | Smart | Alexa/WiFi voice control | 8.2″ chamber depth | Amazon |
| PuraFlame Klaus 30″ | Antique | Glass door & mesh screen aesthetic | 8.78″ chamber depth | Amazon |
| Kentsky 42″ with Trim Kit | Trim Kit | Oversized or irregular openings | 5.3″ insert depth | Amazon |
| PuraFlame Western 33″ | Recessed | Realistic ember bed & log look | 35.04″ overall width | Amazon |
| R.W.FLAME 39″ | Large | Touch screen & auto color change | 39″ overall width | Amazon |
| Benrocks 36″ Smart | Smart | APP control & hardwire option | 5.5″ insert depth | Amazon |
| RICHFLAME Gavin 33″ | Brick Interior | Simulation brick wall aesthetic | 35.04″ overall width | Amazon |
| Masarflame 33″ Retro | Budget | Compact retro replacement | 33″ overall width | Amazon |
| Masarflame 36″ Classic | Mid-Range | Log set or crystal options | 36.02″ overall width | Amazon |
| Masarflame 43″ Retro | Large Retro | Wide opening installations | 43″ overall width | Amazon |
| Real Flame Malie 68″ | Freestanding | Full mantel with wide landscape view | 14″ chamber depth | Amazon |
In‑Depth Reviews
1. Modern Ember Uptown 28″ Smart Electric Fireplace Insert + Trim Kit
The Modern Ember Uptown is the only insert in this roundup that combines smart home voice control with a dedicated trim kit designed for three-sided masonry openings. The 8.2-inch chamber depth fits standard 2×4 framed walls, and the included adjustable trim covers gaps up to three inches, creating a seamless flush finish without custom carpentry. The infrared quartz heater pushes 5118 BTUs, warming a 400-square-foot room evenly while preserving natural humidity.
The LED flame system offers six adjustable color modes and five brightness levels, projected across a detailed resin log set and ember bed that looks convincing from the front and both side glass panels. The magnetic trim kit assembles in under five minutes, and the unit can be hardwired or plugged into a standard 120V outlet. The remote covers all functions, but the real advantage is Alexa and Google Assistant compatibility for voice toggling of heat and flame settings.
Owners consistently highlight the ease of installation and the realistic depth of the flame projection. The only persistent complaint involves the timer safety feature, which some users find overly sensitive when the remote is accidentally pressed against furniture. For a smart, flush-mount insert that actually looks built in, the Uptown is the clear leader.
What works
- Alexa and Google Assistant voice control
- Fast-attach magnetic trim kit covers uneven gaps
- Infrared heat feels natural and doesn’t dry air
What doesn’t
- Flame-only mode still requires trim kit for finished look
- Remote timer can trigger accidentally if stored poorly
2. PuraFlame Klaus 30″ Electric Fireplace Insert with Glass Door and Mesh Screen
The PuraFlame Klaus stands apart because it actually includes a hinged glass door and a retractable mesh screen, mimicking the exact look of a traditional wood-burning stove. At 31.89 inches wide and 24.61 inches tall, it is designed for standard fireplace openings, and the 8.78-inch chamber depth requires adequate cavity space. The three-sided interior brick wall is visible behind the glass, and the resin log set sits on a grate above a glowing ember bed.
Three flame intensity settings and an adjustable thermostat allow you to set a specific temperature between 62 and 86 degrees Fahrenheit, with the 1500W quartz heater maintaining warmth across a 400-square-foot room. The crackling sound effect offers multiple volume levels, though many owners disable it and rely on the visual ambiance alone. The remote controls all functions, but the temperature dial is located on the unit itself, not the remote, which can be inconvenient once the insert is recessed.
Build quality is excellent—the metal firebox feels substantial, and the glass door swings smoothly. Owners praise the realistic flame projection and the warmth output, noting that the infrared heat cuts through cold drafts effectively. The lack of a timer function is the most consistent omission, especially for those who want the fire to shut off automatically after sleeping.
What works
- Authentic glass door with mesh screen
- Infrared heat warms without drying air
- Excellent build quality and packaging
What doesn’t
- No built-in timer for automatic shutoff
- Temperature control only on unit, not remote
3. Kentsky 42″ Electric Fireplace Insert with Metal Trim Kit
The Kentsky 42″ model solves the most frustrating sizing problem: your wall opening is too wide or too tall for standard insert dimensions. The two-piece design includes a separate metal trim kit that covers gaps up to several inches, so you do not have to rebuild the frame. The actual insert body is 29.6 inches wide and only 5.3 inches deep, making it one of the shallowest units available—ideal for narrow cavities where depth is restricted.
The flame system provides three color options (blue, orange, multicolor) with adjustable brightness, and the LED projection across the log set and acrylic crystal ember bed creates a convincing multi-angle view. The 1500W ceramic fan heater cycles air quickly, warming a 400-square-foot space, and the overheat protection shuts the unit off automatically if airflow is blocked. The 1-to-9-hour timer allows precise scheduling, and the touch screen panel on the front provides clear feedback.
Customer feedback is overwhelmingly positive regarding the fit and finish of the trim kit. The powder-coated metal looks premium once installed, and the inclusion of both remote and touch controls adds flexibility. A small number of users noted that the trim kit installation instructions could be clearer about required framing dimensions, so measure your rough opening carefully before ordering.
What works
- Shallow 5.3-inch body fits narrow cavities
- Included metal trim covers irregular openings
- 1-to-9-hour timer with LCD display
What doesn’t
- Trim installation instructions need better framing detail
- Multicolor flame can look artificial at highest brightness
4. PuraFlame Western 33″ Electric Fireplace Insert
The PuraFlame Western is widely regarded as having one of the most natural-looking ember beds in this price range. The resin logs sit above a deep ember bed that pulses with warm orange and red light, creating a hot-coal effect that realistically mimics real wood embers. The three-sided brick interior is painted in a weathered pattern that fades at the flame area, adding depth that flat-painted inserts lack.
The unit measures 35.04 inches wide and 22.44 inches high, with an 8.78-inch depth that requires adequate recessed space. Three flame settings control intensity and brightness, and the adjustable thermostat allows temperature regulation from the front panel. The 5100 BTU heater covers up to 400 square feet, and the fan operates quietly enough that the crackling sound effect (which owners describe as more popcorn-like than realistic) is easily turned off.
Installation is straightforward for a recessed setup—the flat bottom allows the unit to sit directly on the floor or a hearth. Owners consistently report that the flame effect draws compliments from guests, and the heater warms a standard living room without the fan noise becoming intrusive. The remote does not control the thermostat, which means you must walk to the unit to adjust temperature, a limitation shared with several other models in this category.
What works
- Pulsing ember bed looks remarkably like real coals
- Quiet forced-fan heater warms evenly
- Three flame intensity levels for varied ambiance
What doesn’t
- Thermostat cannot be adjusted via remote
- Crackling sound effect is unconvincing
5. R.W.FLAME 39″ Electric Fireplace Insert
The R.W.FLAME 39″ is the only unit in this lineup that includes a touch screen on the front panel, giving you direct access to flame color, speed, and brightness without hunting for a remote. The 39-inch overall width makes it a strong candidate for larger openings, and the 8.98-inch depth requires a reasonably deep cavity. The three-sided interior brick wall is paired with a 7mm tempered glass front that adds visual weight and safety.
Four flame color modes (orange, blue, green, multicolor) combine with five speed settings and five brightness levels. The automatic color-change mode cycles through the palette slowly, creating a dynamic display that stands out from static LED panels. The 1500W infrared heater warms up to 400 square feet, and the ETL certification confirms the overheat protection system meets safety standards. The sleep mode turns off all display lights while the heater continues running, which is helpful for bedrooms.
Owners praise the realism of the flame pattern—one reviewer noted that the flames converge toward the center like a real fire rather than shooting straight up. The remote has a shorter effective range than advertised, with some users reporting only 30% reliability even with a direct line of sight. For buyers who want a large visual presence with automated color cycling, this insert delivers strong value.
What works
- Front touch screen eliminates remote dependence
- Automatic flame color and speed cycling
- Sleep mode keeps heat on with lights off
What doesn’t
- Remote range is shorter than advertised
- Humming noise from flame motor in silent room
6. Benrocks 36″ Smart Electric Fireplace Insert
The Benrocks 36″ insert distinguishes itself with a shallow 5.5-inch firebox depth, making it one of the easiest units to fit into narrow wall cavities without extensive reframing. The insert body measures 31.38 inches wide, with an overall front dimension of 36 inches including the trim. Both hardwiring and standard plug-in options are supported, giving you flexibility depending on your existing electrical setup.
The LED flame system offers three color modes and five brightness levels, and the included log set and acrylic crystals let you switch between two aesthetic looks. The 1500W quartz heater provides 5120 BTUs, and the adjustable thermostat ranges from 62 to 99 degrees Fahrenheit. The companion app allows full control of temperature, flame color, brightness, and the 1-to-9-hour timer from your phone, which is a meaningful upgrade over basic remote-only units.
Customer reviews emphasize the quiet operation and the realistic glow from the ember bed. A few owners noted that the app connection can be finicky during initial setup, requiring a router reboot before the insert pairs reliably. For buyers who want smart home integration without the premium price of the Modern Ember, the Benrocks offers a solid middle ground with excellent depth compatibility.
What works
- Ultra-shallow 5.5-inch depth for tight cavities
- Smartphone app controls all functions
- Includes both log set and acrylic crystals
What doesn’t
- App pairing sometimes requires router reset
- Heat output moderate for rooms over 400 sq ft
7. RICHFLAME Gavin 33″ Electric Fireplace Insert
The RICHFLAME Gavin stands out visually because of its simulation brick interior, which uses a weathered, textured pattern that looks far more authentic than a plain black painted cavity. The overall dimensions of 35.04 inches wide and 22.44 inches high fit standard masonry openings, and the 8.78-inch depth is typical for insert-style units. The back wall of the firebox includes a fade effect near the flame area, making the fire look like it is burning against aged brick.
The LED flame system offers three flame settings with variable speed and brightness, and the log set includes a built-in speaker that reproduces wood cracking sounds. The 1500W quartz heater covers up to 400 square feet, and the CSA certification confirms the overheat protection is independently tested. The remote controls heat levels and flame settings, and the unit can be operated without heat for year-round ambiance.
Owners consistently praise the aesthetic transformation this insert brings to old wood-burning fireplaces. The crackling sound is less convincing than the visual effect, with several reviewers comparing it to crumbling paper rather than real wood pops. The unit fits well into framed openings, but the power cord exits the right side, which may require a hole to be drilled for a left-side outlet arrangement.
What works
- Weathered simulation brick interior looks authentic
- Flame fade effect mimics real fire behavior
- CSA certified for safety compliance
What doesn’t
- Power cord exits right side only
- Sound effect quality is mediocre
8. Masarflame 33″ Retro Electric Fireplace Insert
The Masarflame 33″ Retro is the most affordable unit on this list that still provides a genuine three-sided viewing experience. It measures 33 inches wide and 24.7 inches tall, with an insert body that fits openings between 30 and 30.1 inches wide—a critical detail for buyers with narrower cavities. The three-sided interior brick wall is styled in a retro pattern, and the resin log set sits on an ember bed with three color atmosphere light options.
The 1500W heater provides 5100 BTUs and covers up to 400 square feet, with a two-level heating option (750W or 1500W) for energy conservation. The built-in speaker simulates charcoal cracking sounds, though several owners describe it as more of a static hiss than a convincing fire crackle. The remote controls flame intensity and heat settings, and the timer function adds convenience for overnight use.
Owners in RVs and small homes appreciate the compact footprint and the visual upgrade it provides over a dark, empty firebox. The power cord exits the right side rather than the back, which some users had to work around by drilling a hole in their framing. For budget-conscious buyers who prioritize the three-sided form factor over advanced features, this insert delivers the core experience at the lowest entry point.
What works
- Very affordable three-sided insert
- Compact size fits smaller openings
- Two-level heat setting saves electricity
What doesn’t
- Power cord exits right side only
- Sound effect is more static than crackle
9. Masarflame 36″ Classic Electric Fireplace Insert
The Masarflame 36″ Classic offers the flexibility of two media options—traditional faux logs or acrylic crystals—so you can change the look without buying a separate unit. At 36.02 inches wide and 21.65 inches tall, it sits flush against standard 2×6 wall framing, making installation simpler than deeper units. The three-sided interior is finished in a classic brick pattern, and the ultra-high intensity LED system reflects off the chosen media to create a bright, layered flame.
Three flame color modes and five intensity levels give you substantial control over the visual output. The 1500W fan heater delivers 5100 BTUs, and the thermostat range from 62 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit allows precise temperature management. The touch panel on the front includes an LCD display, and the remote handles all settings including the 1-to-9-hour timer.
Owners who replaced gas fireplaces with this insert report the installation is quick and safe, especially since no gas line disconnection is required. The flame effect is described as more OLED-like than realistic, but the overall ambiance still creates a cozy atmosphere. A few users noted that the crystals tend to shift during shipping and require rearrangement to look even, which is a minor cosmetic adjustment.
What works
- Interchangeable logs and crystals included
- Fits standard 2×6 wall framing
- Full thermostat and timer controls
What doesn’t
- Flame effect looks somewhat artificial
- Crystals may arrive unevenly arranged
10. Masarflame 43″ Retro Electric Fireplace Insert
The Masarflame 43″ Retro is essentially the larger sibling of the 33-inch model, designed for wider masonry openings that can accommodate a 42.95-inch overall width. The insert body is 39.96 to 40.16 inches wide, with a depth of 8.86 to 9.06 inches that requires adequate cavity space. The three-sided interior brick wall retro styling remains consistent, and the resin log set with a three-color ember bed provides the same visual formula at a larger scale.
The 1500W heater with 5100 BTUs covers 400 square feet, and the two-level heating option allows you to run at 750W for milder days. The built-in speaker plays charcoal cracking sounds, though the quality is similarly polarizing to the smaller model. The remote controls flame intensity timer, and heat settings, and the auto-heat kill protection is standard across all Masarflame units.
Owners in fifth-wheel trailers and larger living rooms appreciate the expansive view the 43-inch width provides. The power cord still exits the right side, which is a recurring design limitation across this brand. The weight of nearly 59 pounds makes this a two-person installation job, but the overall build feels solid once in place. For buyers who need a wide three-sided insert at a reasonable cost, this is the most affordable option in the 43-inch class.
What works
- Wide 43-inch view for larger openings
- Two-level heat settings for energy management
- Consistent retro brick aesthetic
What doesn’t
- Heavy 59-pound unit needs two person install
- Power cord placement limits flexibility
11. Real Flame Malie 68″ Landscape Electric Fireplace with Mantel
The Real Flame Malie is fundamentally different from every other product on this list—it is a complete freestanding mantel package with a replaceable electric insert, not just a firebox you recess into a wall. At 68 inches wide and 37.5 inches tall, it commands a room visually and is designed to be placed against a flat wall, not inside an opening. The mantel is constructed from real wood with a Venetian gray finish, and it supports up to 30 pounds on top for a television.
The replaceable insert offers six flame colors and five brightness levels, all controllable via remote or the touch panel on the unit. The anti-topple safety device and automatic shutoff meet CSA and FCC certification standards, and the lay-flat plug allows the unit to sit flush against the wall without a gap from the cord.
Assembly takes around two hours and requires two people due to the 133-pound weight. The flame realism is excellent for a freestanding unit, and the six-color options make it adaptable to different room decors. This is the premium choice for buyers who want a complete statement piece rather than a hidden insert.
What works
- Real wood mantel with 30-pound TV support
- Heats up to 1000 square feet
- Six flame colors with five brightness levels
What doesn’t
- 133 pounds requires two-person assembly
- Insert mounting holes may not align perfectly
Hardware & Specs Guide
Chamber Depth and Overall Fit
The single most critical measurement for any three-sided insert is the chamber depth—the distance from the front of the firebox to the back wall. Most standard wall cavities built with 2×4 studs have a true depth of about 3.5 inches, meaning a unit deeper than that will protrude unless the wall is furred out. Shallow units like the Kentsky at 5.3 inches or the Benrocks at 5.5 inches fit into tighter spaces. Deeper units at 8 inches or more typically require a masonry fireplace cavity or a custom-built chase.
LED Flame Technology and Realism
Three-sided inserts use a combination of LED strips, reflective panels, and a rotating flame drum or mechanical flicker shutter to create the illusion of moving fire. Higher-end units layer multiple LED color zones (amber, orange, blue) and pulse the ember bed independently from the main flame pattern. The number of flame brightness levels and color modes directly affects how convincing the fire looks from the side angles—units with only two settings often appear flat and static when viewed from the glass panels.
BTU Rating vs. Wattage
Every insert on this list uses 1500 watts as the maximum heating power, which corresponds to roughly 5100 BTUs. This is a standard circuit limitation for a 15-amp household outlet. The actual warmth you feel depends on the heating element type: quartz infrared elements warm objects directly and feel more natural, while ceramic fan heaters blow warm air into the room faster but can be noisier. None of these units should be relied upon as a primary heat source in cold climates—they are designed to supplement your existing HVAC system.
Control Systems: Remote, Touch, and Smart
The range of control options varies significantly across the three-sided insert category. Basic units include an IR remote that requires direct line of sight to the receiver. Mid-range models add a front touch panel with an LCD screen, which is useful if the remote is misplaced. Premium smart units like the Modern Ember and Benrocks integrate with Alexa, Google Assistant, or a dedicated smartphone app, allowing you to adjust temperature and flame settings from another room or on a schedule.
FAQ
Can a three-sided electric insert be hardwired or does it always need a plug?
How do I measure my fireplace opening to ensure the insert will fit?
Do three-sided electric fireplaces look fake when viewed from the side?
Is it safe to mount a TV above a three-sided electric fireplace insert?
Final Thoughts: The Verdict
For most users, the 3 sided electric fireplace insert winner is the Modern Ember Uptown 28″ because it combines smart home voice control, a flush trim kit, and infrared heat in a package that installs cleanly into standard wall openings. If you want the classic look of a glass door and mesh screen with authentic stove aesthetics, grab the PuraFlame Klaus 30″. And for a wide, freestanding statement piece that heats up to 1000 square feet, nothing beats the Real Flame Malie 68″.