Our readers keep the lights on and the charging cables organized. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
A 3 sided electric fireplace changes a room because it projects the flame image through three panes of glass, turning a simple heat source into a panoramic focal point. Unlike a standard single-face unit that hides its firebox against a wall, this category demands careful planning around the viewing angle, the depth of the insert, and whether you intend to see the flames from the side in a corner or fully through a room divider.
I’m Mo Maruf — the founder and writer behind The Tools Trunk. This guide compiles hours of spec-sheet analysis and real customer feedback to identify which three-sided electric fireplaces deliver realistic flame projection, solid supplemental warmth, and the smart features that justify the higher price of this specialized category.
Whether you are mounting it into a new entertainment wall or fitting a finished opening, understanding the recessed depth, BTU output, and RGB color flexibility determines how well your 3 sided electric fireplace integrates into your home and lifestyle.
How To Choose The Best 3 Sided Electric Fireplace
A 3 sided electric fireplace is fundamentally different from a standard insert because it exposes the firebox on three sides, which creates separate requirements for installation, heat management, and visual depth. The wrong choice can leave you with a gap in the wall or a flame that looks flat from every angle.
Viewing Configuration and Installation Type
Not every 3 sided fireplace can be installed in every way. Some units are designed exclusively for wall mounting or recessing, while others include brackets for freestanding placement. If you are building a custom entertainment wall, the chamber depth — often between 5.5 and 11 inches — determines whether the insert sits flush or protrudes. Measure your rough opening carefully and confirm the manufacturer’s stated chamber depth, not the overall depth of the front trim.
Flame Realism and Color Range
The best units separate the flame color from the ember bed and overhead downlight, allowing independent control over each zone. A fixed orange LED looks artificial when the rest of the room has cool LED lighting. Models with 10 or more flame color combinations — or full RGB systems with over 200 colors — let you match the fire to your décor. Pay attention to whether the flame speed and brightness levels are independently adjustable, because a single-speed flame can flicker too fast or too slow.
Heating Performance and Supplemental Use
Every unit in this category tops out around 5,100 BTUs on 1,500 watts, which is enough to supplement a room up to 400 square feet. The real difference is in the thermostat range and fan noise. Some models allow you to set a precise temperature between 62 and 88 degrees, while others only toggle between high and low heat. If you plan to use the fireplace year-round for ambiance, a model that runs the flame effect independently of the heater is non-negotiable.
Smart Control and Scheduling
WiFi-enabled units with app control and voice assistant compatibility offer the convenience of preheating a room before you walk in or scheduling the flame to turn off during sleep hours. Basic models rely on a remote and a touch panel, which works fine if you don’t need remote monitoring. The catch is that some smart fireplaces require a 2.4 GHz network and a dedicated smartphone app that may only support one user login at a time.
Quick Comparison
On smaller screens, swipe sideways to see the full table.
| Model | Category | Best For | Key Spec | Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LegendFlame 71″ | Premium | 1-2-3 sided flexibility | 5.5″ chamber depth | Amazon |
| Touchstone Sideline 60″ | Premium | Recessed modern look | 60 flame/ember combos | Amazon |
| Dreamflame 95″ | Premium | Large wall coverage | 95 inch width | Amazon |
| Modern Ember 72″ | Premium | Hidden vent design | 10 flame + 10 ember colors | Amazon |
| HIRESC 80″ | Premium | 251 RGB flame colors | 80 inch 3-sided glass | Amazon |
| Dreamflame 84″ | Mid-Range | Slim recessed profile | 5.85″ chamber depth | Amazon |
| Westinghouse 60″ | Mid-Range | Smart home integration | 144 color combos | Amazon |
| Legend Flame 59″ | Mid-Range | Built-in configurable view | Dual fuel bed colors | Amazon |
| Silonn 50″ | Mid-Range | Smart app + Alexa control | 15 flame + ember colors | Amazon |
| HIRESC 70″ | Mid-Range | Panoramic large room | 251 RGB flame colors | Amazon |
| Maxhonor 60″ | Budget | Freestanding mantel style | 12 flame colors | Amazon |
In‑Depth Reviews
1. LegendFlame 71″ W Smart Build in Electric Fireplace Insert
The LegendFlame 71 stands out because you can configure it as a single-sided, two-sided corner unit, or a full three-sided fireplace depending on your framing. The visible dimensions are 70.9 inches wide by 15.7 inches tall, with a chamber depth of only 5.5 inches, which makes it one of the slimmest options for flush recessed installation. The dual flame color design pairs orange with eight other colors, and the fuel bed also cycles through eight colors, so the logs and embers shift with the flame rather than staying static.
Heat output is rated at 5,100 BTU with 750W and 1,500W settings, and the quartz heating element warms up quickly. The unit is CSA certified and includes a one-year limited warranty. Customer feedback consistently praises the realistic crackling sound and the ease of building a frame around the insert because the finishing material can come right up to the edge for a clean flush look.
The main compromise is that some reviewers note the logs lack a true glowing-ember effect, which slightly reduces the illusion of a real wood fire. The white balance of the flame LEDs leans warm, so if you prefer a very blue-white modern fire aesthetic, this unit favors the traditional orange spectrum.
What works
- Three view configurations from one insert
- Very slim 5.5″ chamber depth
- Realistic crackling sound effect
- Dual color flame and fuel bed zones
What doesn’t
- No glowing ember effect on the logs
- Flame leans toward warm orange only
2. Touchstone Sideline Elite Smart 60”
The Touchstone Sideline Elite 60 is a recessed-only unit with a minimal black frame that extends only 5.5 inches from the wall surface. This model generates 60 distinct color combinations because it runs six independent flame colors against ten ember bed colors. The ember bed can be filled with the included faux log set, driftwood pieces, or clear crystals, which lets you change the physical texture of the fire bed without swapping the unit.
The thermostat spans 68 to 88 degrees Fahrenheit, and the 1,500 watt heater covers up to 400 square feet. The unit remembers the last flame and heat setting even when switched off at the wall, which is critical if you want to control it via a light switch or smart home routine. Reviewers describe the flame as lifelike and the operation as almost silent, with the heater fan barely audible over background noise.
On the downside, the included remote has small, confusing icons that require some memorization. The heater output measured by some users is closer to 1,200 watts than the advertised 1,500, and the unit does not generate a realistic log-crackling audio effect. Installation requires precise framing because the thin border leaves no room for error with tile or drywall edges.
What works
- Extremely quiet heater operation
- 60 flame and ember color combinations
- Includes log set, driftwood, and crystals
- Remembers setting when powered off
What doesn’t
- No crackling sound effect
- Remote icons are confusing
3. Dreamflame 95 Inch Electric Fireplace Heater
The Dreamflame 95 is built for oversized wall spaces where width matters more than height. The overall dimensions are 95 inches wide by 17.7 inches tall with a chamber depth of 5.95 inches, which fits into standard stud-bay openings without custom framing in most cases. The unit combines three flame colors with three overhead light colors and two ember media options to produce 234 flame combination choices, giving you extensive control over the ambiance.
The quartz heating element outputs 5,120 BTU across two power modes, and the thermostat is adjustable across a wide range. You can operate it through the touch panel, the remote, or the XARALYN app with Alexa integration. Buyers highlight the comfortable warmth output even in larger open-concept spaces, and most note that the installation took about an hour with two adults.
The main drawbacks involve the instruction manual, which multiple reviewers describe as poorly translated and lacking critical details like which screws remove the glass side panels. The app setup can also be finicky with some home WiFi networks. The heater fan produces a noticeable hum at the 1,500 watt setting, so if you are sensitive to fan noise, this may be more audible than the Touchstone.
What works
- Massive 95 inch width for statement walls
- 234 color combination options
- Quick heat output from quartz element
- Slim 5.95 inch depth
What doesn’t
- Heater fan is audible at high setting
- Instruction manual is poorly written
4. Modern Ember Highmark 72 Inch Smart Linear
The Modern Ember Highmark 72 separates itself from the field with a hidden vent design that removes the typical grate or louver from the top of the unit. The result is a clean, uninterrupted steel frame that looks more like a high-end linear gas fireplace than an electric insert. The unit supports both recessed and wall-mounted installation, and the chamber depth is 6.4 inches, which is slightly deeper than the Dreamflame but still shallow enough for most standard 2×4 walls.
Flame customization includes 10 independent flame colors and 10 ember bed colors, each with five brightness levels and three flame speeds. The heater delivers 5,118 BTU through a quartz element, and the thermostat spans 68 to 88 degrees. The timer can be set from 30 minutes up to 8 hours. Driftwood logs and crystal stones are included for the ember bed.
Customer feedback notes that the heater fan is slightly louder than the Touchstone Sideline, though still acceptable for most rooms. One reviewer reported a bent mounting bracket and a damaged remote, but the company replaced both promptly. The flame effect is described as upscale and realistic by most owners, though a few point out it is not hyper-realistic compared to premium vented gas units.
What works
- Hidden vent design for clean appearance
- 10 flame and 10 ember colors
- Both recessed and wall mount options
- Fast company support for defects
What doesn’t
- Heater fan is louder than some competitors
- Not hyper-realistic flame up close
5. HIRESC 80 Inch 3 Sided Smart WiFi Electric Fireplace
The HIRESC 80 takes color customization to the maximum by mixing red, green, and blue LEDs to produce 251 independent flame colors. The flame, ember bed, and downlight are each controllable separately through the Smart Life app, giving you precise control over every visual zone. The 80 inch width makes it a strong candidate for large living rooms or open-concept spaces where you want the fireplace to be the focal point.
Heat output is 5,118 BTU from either 750W or 1,500W settings, with a thermostat range of 62 to 82 degrees Fahrenheit. The unit is ETL certified and includes both plug-in and hardwiring options. The three-sided glass delivers a panoramic view, and the installation kit includes crystals and a log set. Reviewers consistently report that the flames are striking and that the heat output effectively takes the edge off a cool room.
Some buyers experienced shipping damage on the first unit, but the seller responded by shipping a replacement quickly and letting the customer keep the damaged unit. The included remote is basic, and the full RGB spectrum may feel overwhelming if you prefer a simple orange fire. The unit weighs 146 pounds, so installation requires two people and a sturdy wall bracket.
What works
- 251 RGB color combinations
- Separate control of flame, ember, and downlight
- ETL certified with cool-touch glass
- Both plug-in and hardwired options
What doesn’t
- Heavy at 146 pounds
- RGB interface can be overwhelming
6. Dreamflame 84 Inch Smart Electric Fireplace
The Dreamflame 84 pairs a linear slim aesthetic with a chamber depth of only 5.85 inches, which is one of the shallowest profiles among the larger units. The tempered glass panel stays cool to the touch even when the heater is running, and the metal frame resists rust and pressure. The installation supports both flush recessed and wall-mounted configurations, and the 6-foot power cord eliminates the need for hardwiring in many setups.
Color control combines three flame colors with three ambient overhead lights and two ember media options for 18 effect combinations. The thermostat ranges from 71 to 99 degrees Fahrenheit, and the 1,500 watt heater warms up to 400 square feet. The timer runs from 1 to 9 hours.
Reviewers highlight the stunning visual upgrade it provides when built into a custom mantle. The instructions are sparse and missing details about which screw removes the side glass panels. One buyer noted that asking Alexa to turn on the fireplace also activates the heat automatically, with no way to separate the commands for flame only mode.
What works
- Very slim 5.85 inch depth
- Cool-touch tempered glass front
- Sturdy metal build quality
- Simple 18 color effect combinations
What doesn’t
- Sparse instruction manual
- Alexa voice command always turns on heat
7. Westinghouse 60 Inch Electric Fireplace Heater
The Westinghouse 60 delivers 144 color combinations by pairing 12 flame and ember colors with five independent brightness levels and five flame speed settings. It ships with interchangeable faux logs, camphor wood pieces, and crystal ember beds, so you can switch the physical look without buying extras. The rear installation dimensions are 58.75 inches wide by 14.35 inches high by 5.56 inches deep, which fits into standard wall openings with minimal framing adjustments.
The thermostat adjusts from 62 to 82 degrees, and the 5,110 BTU heater runs at 750W or 1,500W. The unit works with Alexa, Google Home, and the Westinghouse app. Multiple owners say the flames are realistic and the heat output is better than expected for a supplemental unit, though it is not intended to be the primary heat source for a large room.
On the downside, the app only supports one phone login at a time, which is inconvenient for households where multiple people want to control the fireplace. Some users find the color options unnecessarily broad, with green fire being an odd inclusion. The WiFi remote pairing process can be finicky and requires resetting the unit occasionally.
What works
- 144 color and brightness combinations
- Interchangeable logs, camphor, and crystals
- Works with Alexa and Google Home
- Five adjustable flame speeds
What doesn’t
- App supports only one user at a time
- WiFi pairing requires occasional reset
8. Legend Flame 59″ W Smart Build in Electric Fireplace
The Legend Flame 59 is the smaller sibling of the 71-inch model, but it shares the same flexible configuration that lets you install it as a single-sided, corner, or full three-sided unit. The visible viewing area is 59.1 inches wide by 15.7 inches high, and the overall dimensions are 60.2 inches wide by 19.5 inches high by 10.2 inches deep. The extra chamber depth gives you more room for cabling and insulation behind the unit.
The dual flame color engine combines orange with eight additional colors, and the fuel bed has eight independent color options. The quartz heater outputs 5,000 BTU and the thermostat adjusts automatically. It is CSA certified and includes a one-year warranty. Owner reviews consistently describe the flames as realistic and the value as excellent for a built-in unit at this size.
The key shortcoming is the lack of a glowing ember effect on the logs, which several reviewers note reduces the realism compared to higher-end models. The remote control is basic and does not include a battery. The WiFi setup process is not clearly explained in the manual, requiring some trial and error to connect to Alexa or Google Assistant.
What works
- Three installation configurations
- Dual color flame and fuel bed
- Realistic flame appearance
- CSA certified for safety
What doesn’t
- No glowing ember effect on logs
- WiFi setup instructions are vague
9. Silonn 3-Sided Smart 50″ Electric Fireplace
The Silonn 50 offers a balanced mix of features for its size, providing 15 color options for the LED top lights, flames, and crystal fire bed individually. The flame speed adjusts to three settings and brightness to five levels. The triple-view glass design works with wall-mounted, recessed, or freestanding installations using the included brackets. The unit weighs 49 pounds, making it one of the lighter options for DIY installation without a second person.
Heating coverage reaches 400 square feet with two power levels and a thermostat range of 68 to 88 degrees. The 5,110 BTU heater includes overheat protection and a timer from 0.5 to 8 hours. The built-in speaker simulates crackling wood sounds, and buyers praise the flexible control via the LED panel, remote, app, and Alexa voice commands.
Some buyers report that the fake flames, especially the red setting, look artificial compared to more expensive units. One reviewer noted a loud fan noise equivalent to a box fan on the initial unit, but the seller quickly shipped a replacement. The WiFi pairing process requires manually entering a password into the app rather than using automatic discovery.
What works
- Multiple control methods including app and Alexa
- Light weight for easy installation
- 15 color options for each lighting zone
- Crackling sound for ambiance
What doesn’t
- Flame appearance looks artificial
- WiFi connection requires manual password entry
10. HIRESC 70 Inch 3 Sided Smart WiFi Electric Fireplace
The HIRESC 70 is a slightly smaller version of the 80-inch model, sharing the same 251 RGB color engine and independent control over flames, embers, and downlight. The overall dimensions are 71 inches wide by 21 inches high by 11 inches deep, with a visible viewing area that spans almost the full width. The three-sided glass delivers a panoramic view that works best when the unit is installed in a central wall where both sides are visible.
The 5,118 BTU heater operates on 750W or 1,500W with a thermostat range of 62 to 82 degrees. The included remote, Smart Life app, and physical panel offer triple control over the flame effects, crackling sound, and timer. The unit is ETL certified with cool-touch glass and overheat protection. Owners report that the heat output is substantial enough to warm a large living room and that the color customization is unmatched.
The unit weighs 131 pounds, requiring two people for a safe installation. Some customers received units with cosmetic damage during shipping, though the seller responded quickly with replacements. The three-sided glass installation process is more involved than a standard insert, and the instructions could be clearer for aligning the glass panels correctly.
What works
- 251 RGB color customization
- Substantial heat output for large rooms
- ETL certified with safety features
- Panoramic three-sided viewing
What doesn’t
- Very heavy at 131 pounds
- Glass installation instructions need improvement
11. Maxhonor 60 Inch 3-Sided View Electric Fireplace Insert
The Maxhonor 60 is the only unit in this lineup that ships as a complete freestanding mantel with an open bottom storage shelf. The overall dimensions are 62.2 inches wide by 42.72 inches high by 11.02 inches deep, and the engineered wood frame with metal and tempered glass construction gives it a furniture-like presence. The three-sided crystal-clear glass shows the flames from the front and both sides, making it suitable for corners or room dividers without any wall mounting.
The 12 flame colors and five brightness levels cycle through the LED system, and the 5,000 BTU heater covers up to 400 square feet. The thermostat adjusts between 64 and 82 degrees, and the timer ranges from 1 to 8 hours. The unit runs whisper-quiet according to most owners, with the overheat protection providing peace of mind for overnight use. Assembly takes between one and two hours with clear instructions and labeled parts.
Some early units arrived with minor shipping damage, but the manufacturer resolved these quickly. The blower is slightly noisy immediately after turning on but becomes quieter after a few minutes. The white finish shows dust more easily than black alternatives, and the maximum heater temperature is limited compared to premium inserts.
What works
- Complete freestanding mantel design
- Quick and easy assembly
- Whisper-quiet operation
- Independent flame and heater operation
What doesn’t
- White finish shows dust easily
- Blower is briefly noisy on start
Hardware & Specs Guide
Chamber Depth
The chamber depth is the single most critical measurement for a recessed 3 sided electric fireplace. A depth between 5.5 and 6 inches fits into standard 2×4 walls with drywall on one side. Deeper units around 10 to 11 inches require a bump-out or a deeper stud wall, which adds framing cost. Always measure the manufacturer’s stated chamber depth — not the overall front-to-back measurement — against your available rough opening.
BTU Output vs. Room Size
All units in this category output between 5,000 and 5,120 BTU at the 1,500 watt setting. This is sufficient to warm a 400 square foot room by 5 to 8 degrees Fahrenheit, making these units supplemental heaters rather than primary heating sources. The actual warmth you feel depends on the room’s insulation, ceiling height, and whether the heat vents are located on the top or the front of the unit. Front-vented models direct air horizontally, while top-vented units push heat upward into the room.
RGB vs. Fixed LED Flame Systems
Fixed LED systems typically offer between 6 and 15 preset flame colors, usually shades of orange, yellow, and red. Full RGB systems mix red, green, and blue LEDs to produce hundreds of colors, including modern blue, purple, and white flames. RGB units also usually allow independent control of the ember bed and downlight zones. The tradeoff is that RGB units cost more and require a more complex app interface to access the full color palette.
Glass Configuration and Installation Type
True 3 sided electric fireplaces use three separate tempered glass panels joined at the corners. Some units allow a single-sided or two-sided corner installation by removing or covering the unused glass panels. This flexibility is useful if you are not sure about the final layout. Freestanding mantel units include the glass and the surround frame, while recessed inserts require you to build the surrounding wall finish yourself.
FAQ
What is the ideal chamber depth for a recessed 3 sided electric fireplace?
Can I use a 3 sided electric fireplace with the heat off all year round?
How do I choose between a wall-mounted and a recessed 3 sided fireplace?
Do 3 sided electric fireplaces need a dedicated electrical circuit?
How much assembly is required for a freestanding 3 sided electric mantel fireplace?
Final Thoughts: The Verdict
For most users, the 3 sided electric fireplace winner is the LegendFlame 71 because it offers flexible three-configuration installation and a slim 5.5 inch chamber depth that fits into standard wall framing. If you want maximum flame color customization and a panoramic viewing area, grab the HIRESC 80 with its 251 RGB color options. And for a complete ready-to-go package with no construction work, nothing beats the Maxhonor 60 freestanding mantel unit.