Our editors independently research the best products online to produce this list. We may receive commission on purchases made from the links below but this will never affect our product choices.
Our Favourites
Editors Choice: Dimplex Castillo 2 KW
Best with Tempered Glass: TruFlame Curved
Choice for Small Areas: Endeavour Fires Egton
The hypnotic allure of a warming fire has been bringing human beings together for millennia. In modern times, a roaring hearth is a centrepiece in the home. The comforting glow of the flames makes for the ultimate relaxing environment to cosy up in on a cold winter’s night. But, what if a real open fire is simply not safe or practical in your home? Well, Electric fires offer a great alternative.
These products are generally quick and easy to install and require no gas connection or messy coal fuel to provide instant warmth and contentment. The flame effects are often incredibly realistic, and all you need to do is a plugin and relax. In this article, we take a look at the top 10 best electric fires on the market.
How We Compared Electric Fires
To find the right electric fires we considered multiple factors including:
- Adjustable Heat Levels
- Safety
- Thermostat Controls
Our team planned comparison points and specifically looked for products that would cater to all kinds of needs. We spent countless hours researching, consulting customer reviews and comparing features to come up with this list.
To find out more about our process please see here.
Top 10 Electric Fire Reviews
1. Dimplex Castillo 2 KW (Editor’s Choice)
The Dimplex Castillo 2KW Freestanding Optiflame Electric Fire is another great option by Dimplex.
Conveniently supplied fully assembled, this is one of the best electric fires that doesn’t require any inset for installation. Simply place the unit flat against any wall and you’re good to go!
Just like the Dimplex Cheriton model discussed previously, the Castillo uses hyperrealistic Optiflame technology for the ultimate life-like fireplace experience.
These flame effects can be displayed with or without the available 1-2kW heat setting so it can be used at any time of year for a homey feel.
Real white pebbles and coal pieces are included so you can choose whichever suits your taste. The outer edges of this fireplace are finished in a modern silver/chrome effect, which some people said looked rather cheap.
Pros:
- Fully assembled
- Freestanding
- Optiflame technology
- 2 heat settings
- Fuel bed comes with real coal and pebbles
Cons:
- Flimsy, plastic feel
- Bulky
- Not many pebbles included
2. TruFlame Curved (Best with Tempered Glass)
The TruFlame Curved electric fire is a great choice if you are looking for a sleek stylish design. It has a curved tempered glass front with a landscape orientation and fairly realistic-looking flames.
This electric fire is designed with a sleek black border and a large glass front. The trim has a gloss finish giving it an elegant appearance. It features seven different flame colour combinations that include red, orange, pink, purple and blue colours. Adjustable brightness levels and two variable heat settings allow you to further customize your experience.
You can also fire up the flames on this electric fire without dispersing heat. To add to the overall appearance of the flames, the front lower rim of the glass is lined with stones and the flames flicker behind them.
This TruFlame electric fire is easy to hang and comes with the wall bracket and fixings required to get the job done. While in use, this electric fire is fairly quiet, even when you have the fan turned on.
We don’t recommend this option for larger rooms if your main objective is adding warmth; compared to other options, it does not distribute a lot of heat. There are also reports indicating that it could be difficult to change the bulbs once they burn out.
Pros:
- Sleek black trim
- Stylish curved glass front
- 7 different flame colour combinations
- Wall mounted design
- Adjustable brightness levels
Cons:
- May not be ideal for larger rooms
- May not distribute heat very well
- May be tricky to replace bulbs
3. Endeavour Fires Egton (Best for Small Areas)
This Endeavour, the Egton Wall-Mounted Electric Fire has a sleek curved black toughened glass with a wonderfully realistic flame effect.
This fireplace gives the user the option of 13 different LED mood lighting colours, which are projected onto the wall space surrounding the unit. Users can set a static colour, or choose for them to be rotated every 10 seconds.
The intensity of the realistic flame, as well as the brightness, can be manually adjusted to suit your liking. The lights and flame effects have 5 different brightness levels and can be displayed individually or together, depending on your preference.
One of the best wall-mounted electric fires, this comes complete with an LCD screen clicker. This clicker includes a thermostat, open-window detection and 7-day pre-programming.
It can also automatically cycle the temperature settings between 1 and 2kW as the room temperature fluctuates. This means you can simply enjoy your chill-out time, without needing to worry about constantly adjusting the temperature.
Pros:
- Elegant curved design
- Toughened glass
- 13 different mood light colours
- Thermostat and pre-programming options
- LCD clicker
Cons:
- Instructions aren’t detailed
- Clicker can be unreliable
- Not powerful enough for large rooms
4. Endeavour Fires Runswick (Elegant Design)
The Runswick Wall-Mounted Electric Fire is unlike any other on our list. Having a strikingly unusual design, this wouldn’t look out of place in the homes of the rich and famous.
In contrast to others we have reviewed, this is open at the sides. It is topped by an MDF mantel and rests upon an MDF plinth, both in a muted creamy white colour which will suit every room.
The flames are deceptively realistic and can be changed into a number of colours to match the mood. These can be set to one static colour or be left to cycle through at regular intervals. All the settings are controlled via the clicker, which has a clear and easy to read LCD display.
The clicker also has an integrated thermostat that will adjust the heat output for you and maintain your desired temperature. Startup and shut off time can also be conveniently pre-programmed for the next 7 days. There are two heat settings: 1kW and 2kW.
Moreover, this product is supplied with a mixture of logs and pebbles; so you can get creative and make your own imitation fuel bed. Users also said this was an almost completely silent fireplace.
Pros:
- Strikingly modern design
- Pre-programmable
- Option of 7 different flame colours
- LCD clicker and thermostat
- Mixture of logs and pebbles
Cons:
- Heavy
- May not suit all rooms
- Installation can be awkward
5. Endeavours Fires Roxby (Best Programmable)
If you are looking for an electric fire to place inside of an existing integrated fireplace in your home the Endeavour Fires Roxby Inset could be just what you need. It allows you to use your fireplace without having to maintain your chimney and easily fits inside most standard sized fireplaces.
This electric fire has black trim and fret to complement nearly any kind of decor. It produces a realistic flame effect with glowing embers in the base. An extensive remote control with an LCD display allows you to adjust this fire pit’s settings from a distance. It features five brightness levels, two heat levels and an option to use the flames without heat. It also has advanced programming that allows you to create a seven-day program that varies throughout the week.
The Endeavour Fires Roxby Inset is easy to install. If your existing fireplace is deeper than normal you can purchase a spacer to place behind the structure to prevent drafts.
Regretfully, the fan could be a bit noisy on this option. You should also be aware that it does not feature coloured flame options and according to consumers, the thermostat may be unreliable at times.
Pros:
- Realistic flame effect
- Inset design with chrome trim
- 7-day programming
- 5 brightness levels
- Remote control with LCD screen
Cons:
- May not have coloured flame options
- Fan could be a bit noisy
- Thermostat may be unreliable
6. Dimplex Cheriton CHT20 (Best Freestanding)
The Dimplex Cheriton Optiflame Electric Fire CHT20 has a stylish black finish with brass effect edgings and frets.
Completely free-standing, this retro electric fire is designed to be placed with its back flat against a wall and can be easily and conveniently relocated as desired. This fireplace offers two heat settings of 1 and 2kW, which can be switched on or off independent of the flickering flame effects.
Due to the realistic Optiflame technology, flame effects appear to arise from the included genuine fuel bed, giving this electric fireplace a realistic hearth-like feel.
If you struggle with DIY, there’s no need to worry about installation problems with this fireplace. The Dimplex Cheriton is delivered completely assembled, so all you need to do is plug-in and relax.
Pros:
- Freestanding
- Optiflame technology
- Genuine fuel bed
- Fully assembled
- Traditional design
Cons:
- Noisy
- Replacing bulbs is difficult
- Brass effect looks cheap
7. TruFlame White Mantel (Luxury Choice)
The TruFlame White Mantel electric fire is an excellent choice if you are looking for an elegant design. This wall mounted electric fire has a new updated versatile design and gives you a narrow mantel for pictures and other decorations.
The TruFlame electric fire has a variety of features giving you added control of the ambience in your room. It features a pebble, crystal, and log effect with 10 colour options and five brightness levels. The addition of coloured flames helps to set the mood and lends more versatility to the design.
Two heat levels and an option to use the flames without heat allow you to add warmth based on the ambient temperature of your room. For controls, this TruFlame electric fire has a touch panel and comes with a remote control as well. It also has an eight-hour timer.
Overall, this option has good heat output in a medium-sized room. It is also easy to install and no assembly is required. Simply screw in the mounting brackets, hang, and you are all set.
Cons for this electric fire include it having a noisier operation and possibly not lying flush against the wall along the top edge, especially if your wall is not completely flat.
Pros:
- Stylish white mantel
- Crystal, pebble and log effect
- Remote and touch panel control
- 10 colours with 5 brightness levels
- Timer can be set for up to 8 hours
Cons:
- May not lie flush against the wall
- May be slightly noisy during use
8. Dimplex CMT20 Clement (Best Inset)
The Dimplex 037824 CMT20 Clement Electric Inset Fire is designed to be fitted into a standard 18” fireplace cavity, as well as conventional flue pipes. It is very simple to install using the spacer kit provided.
Having a black, traditional log fire design, this fireplace creates super-realistic flames due to its use of specialised Optiflame technology. A 2kW fan heater with two settings produces long-lasting warmth. When combined with the glowing flames, it will turn any cold room into a snug haven.
Heat settings are controlled by way of a panel concealed beneath the heater canopy. Should the user wish to, the flame effect can be turned on without activating the heater.
This model does not include a thermostat but does have intelligent safety functions. Should this fire be left on for too long, its cut-out system will automatically turn off the heater to prevent overheating. This is a great feature for careless or forgetful individuals who may fail to remember that the fire is on.
Pros:
- Spacer kit provided
- Fits all standard fireplace cavities
- Intelligent shut-off safety function
- Optiflame technology
- Cosy log fire design
Cons:
- No thermostat
- Fan can be noisy
- Can be slow to fully heat a room
9. TruFlame Wall-Mounted Electric Fire (Best Value)
The TruFlame Wall-Mounted Electric Fire with Pebble Effect will make a classy centrepiece in any room.
Crafted from attractive black curved glass, this fireplace offers a wealth of practical features while lending a stylish feel to your home.
The flame effects are produced by energy-efficient LED bulbs, which have such a long life they are unlikely to ever need changing. Flames can be displayed either alone or in combination with three available heat settings.
In addition to the LED flame effect, there are 7 mood lighting options to choose from. These gently illuminate the wall behind the fire to create an even more cosy feel.
Furthermore, the screen itself has a futuristic built-in menu display that lights up in response to commands from the clicker supplied. Once you have made the changes required, the menu gradually fades away to nothing, only reappearing when summoned by pressing the clicker buttons again.
This displays time and day, has 10 timer settings, thermostat settings, 3 heat settings and 5 flame brightness options. Heat is directed from the top of the fire but angled out into the room. This means you can safely install this fireplace below a shelf or television if you wish, so long as you leave more than 8 inches between them.
Pros:
- Built-in menu display
- Energy efficient LEDs
- 7 coloured lights
- 3 heat settings
- Can be safely mounted under TV
Cons:
- Can be a little noisy
- Heavy to mount
- Cable is only 1 metre long
10. VonHaus Electric Stove Heater w/ Burner Flame Effect (Vintage Choice)
If you are facing the colder months on a budget, then look no further than the VonHaus Electric Stove Heater w/ Burner Flame Effect.
This 1850-watt freestanding electric heater has a homey, traditional design, while also being one of the most affordable models on the market. Finished in matte black with copper-effect trims, it looks great too.
Delivered fully assembled, this electric heater requires no awkward installation. Simply place where required and plug it in to receive instant warmth. Weighing only 7 kg, it is also highly portable and therefore easy to move around should you wish to switch rooms.
The VonHaus Electric Stove Heater offers two heat settings (925W or 1850kW) which should be suitable to effectively warm most rooms quickly. It includes a thermostat that will turn the heater on or off to effortlessly maintain the desired room temperature.
In line with similar products, the flickering log fire effect can be adjusted or switched off without affecting the heat settings. Should this fireplace become close to overheating, the heater will automatically cut-off, preventing any risk of damage. This sure is the best electric stove fire if you are on a budget.
Pros:
- Portable, freestanding design
- Economical
- Traditional design with realistic flame
- Thermostat
- Safety cut-off feature
Cons:
- Buttons sometimes get stuck upon cooling
- The fan stays on when the heater cuts off
- The heating component has a short life
Benefits of Electric Fires
When it’s cold out, some of the best ways to warm up is to use an electric shower to heat the water, soak in inflatable hot tubs or snuggle near a fire. Real open fireplaces and log burners with stove fans are certainly attractive, but they are not always suitable or convenient for every home. Luckily, electric fires can help replicate the atmosphere of real fireplaces, but without any of the associated risks and frustrations. Here, we take a look at some of the benefits of owning one.
Adjustable Heat Levels
Traditional open fireplaces generally take some time to catch and build into a roaring fire that emits generous amounts of heat. Not only does this mean you have to light the fire in advance to feel the benefit, but it also means that once the room is heated, you can’t simply “turn it down”.
Often, this leads to a frantic opening of windows to achieve a comfortable temperature. Electric fires are easy to control for optimum comfort. Once they are turned on, the warmth is immediately felt and can be adjusted at the touch of a button or the turn of a knob.
Furthermore, in many cases, you can choose to turn the heat off altogether and simply display the flame effects for a comforting glow.
Safety
If your household includes children or pets, an electric fireplace is clearly the better option than real burning fireplaces.
Because no actual combustion takes place, there is no risk of carbon monoxide poisoning, coal dust inhalation, or air pollution like there is with real fireplaces.
Moreover, some electric fires have a built-in auto cut-off safety feature, which turns off the fire should it become too hot. This is especially useful for electric fireplaces which do not have thermostats and maybe accidentally left switched on for lengths of time.
Thermostat Controls
Many electric fires include built-in thermostats to automatically maintain your desired temperature. Simply set the temperature you prefer, and the fire will adjust the heat intensity as needed to keep that temperature constant.
Some electric fires have thermostat controls on the unit itself, while others have them integrated into the remote control. This saves a lot of hassle getting up and down to tweak the heat settings.
Furthermore, many new models allow the user to pre-program the on/off times for the days ahead, so you will not even have to remember to turn the heater on when you come home.
The Hottest Electric Fireplace on Our List
Choosing an electric fireplace is obviously an important decision, and every one of the best electric fires featured in this review would make a great choice in any home. However, in our opinion, the hottest we have seen is the Dimplex Castillo 2 KW. We were mesmerised by its elegance and wonderfully realistic flame effect.
You can even opt to use its lighting effect to create a cosy ambience without turning on the heating function. The thermostat automatically switches on and off to maintain the desired room temperature. And thanks to its freestanding design, you can easily install it on a flat wall or fit it into your existing fireplace.
Overall, we believe the Dimplex Castillo 2 KW is the best on our list.
Additional Resources
Kelly is an expert in consumer product research, which is very important when it comes to finding the most useful and aesthetically pleasing items for your home. This became her passion after finding it very time-consuming to wade through all the product information online.
She has a keen attention to detail which she brings to her articles, Kelly’s goal is to help you find what you need without spending too much time searching for it.