Standard electric fireplaces show a flat, two-dimensional flame, but a 3-sided design wraps the fire around a corner or projects it through a see-through panel, turning a wall fixture into a room-defining focal point. You get the visual depth of a real hearth without the venting or chimney constraints, and the panoramic glass makes the flame effect feel larger than the unit itself.
I’m Rikta — the co-founder and writer behind FitlyFast. I’ve spent years analyzing heating appliance specs, installation tolerances, and flame realism technology across dozens of brands to understand what separates a convincing fire effect from a gimmicky light show.
This guide breaks down the most critical specs, installation requirements, and control features to help you find the perfect 3 sided electric fireplace for your space and heating needs.
How To Choose The Best 3 Sided Electric Fireplace
Three-sided units come in three broad installation families: recessed in-wall inserts that sit flush with drywall, wall-mounted units that hang on a surface, and freestanding models with mantel cabinets. Your room’s framing and available depth (typically 5 to 15 inches) determines which style fits. Wider units (60, 70, 80, or even 100 inches) act as statement pieces under large TVs, while smaller 50-inch models work well in bedrooms or office nooks. The flame engine—LED projection vs. RGB mixing—directly affects how natural the fire looks and how many color combinations you can dial in. Heater wattage (750W low, 1500W high) dictates supplemental warmth, not primary heating, so match the coverage area (usually 400 sq ft) to your room size.
Installation Type and Clearance
Recessed units require a framed opening with specific depth and a dedicated 120V circuit. Check the rough-in dimensions (visible versus overall) to ensure the flange covers your cutout. Wall-mounted models bolt onto studs and need side clearance for the 3-sided glass to remain unobstructed. Freestanding units with mantels need floor space and a stable surface. Every manufacturer lists minimum clearance from ceiling, mantel shelves, and TV mounts—ignoring these can trap heat or reduce flame visibility.
Flame Quality and Customization
Entry-level units offer 3 to 9 flame/fuel-bed colors with fixed brightness, while top-tier models use RGB LEDs to generate 251+ independent flame colors plus separate ember-bed hues. The number of brightness levels (typically 3 to 5), flame speed settings (usually 3), and inclusion of crackling sound (with or without volume control) separate basic ambiance from immersive realism. Also verify whether the unit ships with faux logs, crystals, driftwood, or a combination—each changes the aesthetic character of the fire.
Heater Performance and Controls
Most 3-sided fireplaces deliver 5,118 BTU via a 1500W forced-fan heater. The critical differentiators are thermostat range (62°F to 88°F), timer length (1 to 12 hours), and control methods: touch panel, IR remote, smartphone app, or voice assistant (Alexa/Google). Smart WiFi units let you schedule on/off cycles and adjust flame color from the couch, while basic units rely solely on manual buttons or remote. Always confirm whether the heater can run independently from the flame effect for year-round visual-only use.
Quick Comparison
On smaller screens, swipe sideways to see the full table.
| Model | Category | Best For | Key Spec | Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Touchstone Sideline Elite 60″ | Premium | Smart recessed installation | 60 color combos | Amazon |
| HIRESC 60″ 3-Sided | Premium | RGB color variety | 251 colors | Amazon |
| HIRESC 70″ 3-Sided | Premium | Extra-wide recessed | 71″ overall width | Amazon |
| LegendFlame 71″ Smart | Premium | 1-2-3 sided config | Configurable view | Amazon |
| HIRESC 80″ 3-Sided | Premium | Large wall focal point | 80″ width | Amazon |
| HIRESC 100″ 3-Sided | Premium | Maximum scale | 100″ overall | Amazon |
| PuraFlame Bernice 60″ | Mid-Range | Clean hidden vents | 2″ bezel trim | Amazon |
| Westinghouse 60″ | Mid-Range | Smart home integration | 144 color combos | Amazon |
| LegendFlame 50″ Austin | Mid-Range | Wall mount or recess | 5.78″ depth | Amazon |
| Silonn 50″ Smart | Mid-Range | Triple-view flexibility | 15 color options | Amazon |
| OKD 52″ with Mantel | Value | All-in-one TV stand | 36″ 3-side insert | Amazon |
In‑Depth Reviews
1. Touchstone Sideline Elite Smart 60″
The Sideline Elite 60 is the benchmark for in-wall recessed 3-sided fireplaces. Its 60-inch steel body with a minimal black frame and 5.5-inch depth fits standard wall cavities, and the 6 flame colors paired with 10 independent fuel-bed colors create 60 combinations—far more than most units at this size. The thermostat spans 68-88°F, and the 1500W heater (5,118 BTU) provides consistent supplemental warmth for rooms up to 400 sq ft.
Flame realism stands out here: three speed settings and five intensity levels allow fine-tuning from a subtle ember glow to a roaring fire effect. The unit ships with faux logs, driftwood, and crystals, so you can switch the look without buying accessories. Owners consistently report whisper-quiet fan noise and reliable WiFi connectivity through the app, which also supports scheduling and Alexa voice control.
Installation requires an exact 58 7/16″ x 18″ x 5 1/8″ recessed opening, and the unit can be plugged in or hardwired. The clean, flush fit with a thin flange makes it look like a custom built-in rather than a retrofit. Combine that with memory recall of your last flame setting and the ability to turn it on via a wall light switch, and you get the most flexible, future-proof unit in this roundup.
Why it’s great
- 60 flame/fuel-bed color combinations
- App, Alexa, and wall-switch control
- Includes logs, driftwood, and crystals
Good to know
- No crackling sound effect
- Recessed opening must be precise
2. HIRESC 60″ 3 Sided Smart WiFi
With 251 RGB flame colors, a separate ember-bed color set, and an independent downlight, the HIRESC 60-inch delivers the highest color customization in this size bracket. The 3-sided glass gives a panoramic view, and the unit supports fully or semi-recessed installation. Heat output matches the 5,118 BTU standard, with dual 750W/1500W settings and a thermostat adjustable from 62°F to 82°F.
The Smart Life app control is the standout feature—you can mix red, green, and blue channels to dial in any hue, set five brightness levels, and program a 1-to-8-hour timer. Crackling sound is included, which adds to the realism. Owners emphasize how quiet the fan runs and how the cool-to-touch glass makes it safe for households with children or pets.
ETL certification covers overheat protection, and the unit ships with both a log set and crystals, giving you two aesthetic options out of the box. At 117 pounds and 11 inches deep, this is a substantial piece that requires solid wall framing, but the flush-mount result looks completely integrated with the surrounding drywall.
Why it’s great
- 251 independently mixable flame colors
- Quiet fan and cool-touch glass
- Smart Life app with scheduling
Good to know
- Heavy at 117 pounds
- Requires 11-inch recess depth
3. HIRESC 70″ 3 Sided Smart WiFi
The 70-inch variant from HIRESC extends the same 251-color RGB engine and Smart Life app control to a wider form factor, making it ideal for covering large wall spans or acting as the visual anchor in an open-concept living area. Its 71-inch overall width and 21-inch height require a substantial framed opening, but the payoff is a flame display that feels cinematic.
Heat specs mirror the 60-inch version—dual 750W/1500W heater, 5,118 BTU, adjustable thermostat, and 400 sq ft coverage—so you aren’t sacrificing warmth for size. The unit includes both log set and crystals, and the three-sided glass allows viewing from nearly 180 degrees. Owners report that the cool-to-touch glass and ETL overheat protection make it suitable for busy family rooms.
Installation favors fully or semi-recessed mounting rather than surface-mounting, given the 11-inch depth. At 131.6 pounds, this is a two-person job. Once in place, the flush trim and lack of visible venting (the heater vents through the top front) create a clean, low-profile look that blends with modern interiors.
Why it’s great
- Extra-wide 71-inch overall span
- 251 RGB colors plus separate downlight
- Top heater vent keeps glass clean
Good to know
- Needs deep 11-inch recess cavity
- Very heavy, install requires help
4. LegendFlame 71″ Smart Build-In
LegendFlame’s 71-inch build-in model stands out because it can be configured as a single-sided, corner (two-sided), or true three-sided fireplace by adjusting the finishing material up to the edge. This flexibility is rare—most 3-sided units lock you into one orientation. The visible flame area measures 70.9″ x 15.7″, and the dual-flame color design combines an orange base with eight secondary hues for layered effects.
The fuel bed includes eight color options for the logs, and the unit ships with remote control plus full Alexa and Google Assistant integration. The 1500W quartz heater delivers 5,100 BTU, and the thermostat holds temperatures from a standard range. CSA certification covers safety, and the unit can be plugged in or hardwired. Owners praise the realistic crackling sound and the ability to choose from log sets, crystals, or pumice stones.
At 105.4 pounds and 10.2 inches deep, it’s lighter than the HIRESC 70-inch but still requires a framed opening. The 1-2-3 sided config makes this a smart choice if you plan to change the layout of a room later, because you can repurpose the fireplace in a corner or on a single wall without buying a new unit.
Why it’s great
- Configurable 1, 2, or 3-sided view
- Voice control via Alexa and Google
- Multiple fuel-bed media included
Good to know
- Only 8 fuel-bed colors (not RGB)
- No dedicated app for color mixing
5. HIRESC 80″ 3 Sided Smart WiFi
Stepping up to 80 inches, this HIRESC model offers the same 251 RGB color engine and dual 1500W heater but scaled for very large wall surfaces or rooms with vaulted ceilings. The 80-inch overall width (plus 21-inch height) creates an imposing focal point under a large TV or above a long media console. Like its 60-inch and 70-inch siblings, it supports full or semi-recessed installation and can be either plugged in or hardwired.
All controls—Smart Life app, remote, touch panel—are identical, so you get the same 5 brightness levels, 1-to-8-hour timer, crackling sound, and thermostat range. The quartz heater runs silently, and owners consistently note the color saturation and smooth transitions between RGB settings. The included log set and crystals offer two distinct looks, and the ember-bed LEDs can be turned off separately for a more subtle glow.
At 146.1 pounds, this unit demands a well-framed wall opening and likely professional installation. The 11-inch recess depth also rules out shallow 2×4 walls without furring out. But for buyers who want the widest practical flame display before jumping to the 100-inch version, this is the sweet spot for scale versus install complexity.
Why it’s great
- Massive 80-inch overall width
- Full RGB customization with app
- Silent fan and cool-touch glass
Good to know
- Requires deep 11-inch cavity
- Nearly 150 pounds
6. HIRESC 100″ 3 Sided Smart WiFi
The 100-inch HIRESC is the largest 3-sided electric fireplace in this lineup—essentially a full-wall accent piece. It uses the same proven 251 RGB LED system, Smart Life app, and dual 1500W heater, but the sheer width transforms it from a fireplace into architectural lighting. The thermostat range expands to 50°F-99°F, giving finer control at the low end for flame-only use without heat.
Timer flexibility increases to 0.5-12 hours, and the included crystals, log set, and installation kit match the smaller models. Despite its size, the unit keeps a 11-inch depth, so the framing requirements don’t change—just the width of the rough opening. Owners who have installed this model frequently mention the dramatic improvement in perceived room size, as the three-sided glass projects the flame effect across the entire wall.
This is a premium investment both in dollars and installation effort. The 100-inch width means it will span most standard walls, so you’ll likely need to frame a specific recess rather than use an existing opening. For buyers with a large great room or open-floor-plan basement, this creates a centerpiece that rivals gas or wood fireplaces in visual impact without the venting.
Why it’s great
- Unmatched 100-inch panoramic flame
- 251 RGB colors with app control
- Extended 0.5-12 hour timer
Good to know
- Professional install almost mandatory
- Cannot use in standard wall openings
7. PuraFlame Bernice 60″ Smart Linear
PuraFlame’s Bernice 60-inch uses a concealed heater vent and a slim 2-inch extruded aluminum trim to achieve a near-seamless flush look that many competing units can’t match. The vent is hidden behind the top bezel rather than sitting in the middle of the glass, preserving an uninterrupted flame view. It accepts both wall-mounting and recessed installation, plus a freestanding option with optional legs.
The flame engine offers 9 colors for both the flame and fuel bed, plus adjustable brightness and crackling sound. Driftwood and crystals are included, and you can swap between them to change the fire’s character. The 1500W heater covers 400 sq ft with a 60-84°F thermostat, and the unit connects to Alexa or Google Assistant for voice control. Owners highlight the realistic flame projection and the clean aesthetic that doesn’t scream “electric heater.”
Wiring flexibility is a plus: choose plug-in or hardwired. At 6 inches deep, it’s shallower than the HIRESC units, making it easier to fit into existing construction. The only common complaint is that the crackling sound lacks a volume adjustment, but for buyers prioritizing a minimal visual profile, the Bernice delivers a premium look at a mid-range investment.
Why it’s great
- Concealed top heater vent
- 2” aluminum trim for flush fit
- Includes driftwood and crystals
Good to know
- Crackling sound lacks volume control
- Only 9 flame colors
8. Westinghouse 60″ Electric Fireplace
The real differentiator is the media set: you get faux logs, camphor wood pieces, and crystals, giving three distinct aesthetic personalities from one box. The 5 brightness levels and 5 flame speeds allow granular atmosphere tuning.
Smart control comes via the Westinghouse app, Alexa, and Google Assistant, plus the included remote. The thermostat spans 62-82°F, and the 1500W heater shifts between low and high output. Installation supports both wall-mount and flush recessed mounting, with a 5.5-inch depth that fits most standard walls. Owners compliment the build quality and the realistic ember glow, though some note the heater is better suited for supplemental use rather than warming a large open space.
One practical detail: Westinghouse recommends at least 11.8 inches of clearance from ceilings and mantels, and warns against sharing a circuit with other appliances. The unit weighs under 60 pounds, making it one of the lighter premium-sized fireplaces here, which simplifies wall-mounting without extra bracing.
Why it’s great
- 144 flame/fuel-bed color combos
- Three media sets included
- Light enough for simple wall mount
Good to know
- Heater is supplemental, not primary
- Dedicated circuit recommended
9. LegendFlame 50″ Austin Recessed
The LegendFlame Austin 50-inch is a shallow-depth 3-sided insert at only 5.78 inches deep, making it one of the easiest to fit into standard 2×4 wall cavities without furring out. It supports both recessed and wall-mounted installation and comes with two wiring options—plug-in or hardwired. The flame engine offers multicolor flames with a separate fuel-bed color, plus crackling sound and five brightness settings.
Log set and crystal stones are included, giving you two ready-to-use looks. The upper front heater blows warm air through a top-vent design, with high (1500W) and low (750W) settings. Owners consistently mention the realistic flame quality and the smart-home compatibility (Alexa/Google via the Tuya app), which adds voice control without needing a separate hub.
At 62.6 pounds, it’s manageable for a two-person wall mount, and the 50-inch width fits nicely under smaller TVs or above narrow mantels. The only common critique is that arranging the faux logs and stones behind the glass can be slightly fiddly, but the end result—especially with the multicolor ember glow—rivals units costing significantly more.
Why it’s great
- Shallow 5.78-inch depth for easy fit
- Smart home voice control
- Two wiring options
Good to know
- Media arrangement takes patience
- Limited to 50-inch width
10. Silonn 50″ 3-Sided Smart Fireplace
The Silonn 50-inch offers three installation modes—wall-mounted, recessed, or freestanding with brackets—giving you maximum placement flexibility. The triple-view glass creates a 360° visual effect, and the 15 flame colors, 15 fuel-bed colors, and 15 LED top-light colors combine for extensive customization. Flame speed has three levels, brightness offers five steps, and the included crackling sound adds auditory depth.
Heating performance matches the 5,110 BTU standard with a 68-88°F thermostat and dual 750W/1500W settings. Smart control covers four methods: touch panel, IR remote, smartphone app, and Alexa voice commands. The timer ranges from 0.5 to 8 hours. Owners praise the realistic 1:1 resin faux logs and the fire-shaped panel that creates convincing flame projections rather than flat LED strips.
One unique advantage is the ability to run the top LED lights independently from the flame and heater, functioning as accent lighting for the room. The 49.5-pound weight makes it the lightest 50-inch option here, and at 7.36 inches deep, it fits most shallow cavities. The fan can be audible on the high setting, but service-related reviews indicate responsive customer support if issues arise.
Why it’s great
- Three installation options included
- Independent top LED accent lights
- Lightest 50-inch unit at 49.5 lbs
Good to know
- Fan can be audible on high heat
- Flame realism is good but not top-tier
11. OKD 52″ Electric Fireplace with Mantel
The OKD 52-inch is the only freestanding mantel unit in this roundup, combining a 36-inch 3-sided glass electric fireplace insert with a full media cabinet that supports TVs up to 65 inches. The mantel top holds up to 120 pounds, and the rustic oak finish with simulated stone veneer creates a traditional farmhouse look. This is the best pick for renters or anyone who can’t cut into walls.
The insert itself offers three flame colors (red, orange, blue), five brightness levels, and a 64-82°F thermostat controlling the 5,118 BTU heater. A 1-to-9-hour timer reduces energy use overnight. The 3-sided glass provides a wider viewing angle than typical front-only mantel units, and the flame effect uses 3D projection technology for depth. Owners consistently mention easy assembly (labeled parts, two separate boxes) and quiet fan operation.
One drawback is that the simulated stone is a printed veneer rather than real texture, so buyers expecting three-dimensional stone may be disappointed. But as a complete package—TV stand, electric fireplace, storage cabinet, and cord management—it’s the most turnkey solution here, requiring zero construction beyond screwing panels together.
Why it’s great
- Complete mantel/TV stand combo
- No wall cutting needed
- 120-pound mantel capacity
Good to know
- Stone veneer is printed, not real
- Bulky assembly (two boxes)
FAQ
Can a 3 sided electric fireplace be used in a corner?
Do 3 sided electric fireplaces produce enough heat to warm a room?
What is the difference between a 3 sided and a 2 sided electric fireplace?
Final Thoughts: The Verdict
For most users, the best 3 sided electric fireplace is the Touchstone Sideline Elite 60 because it balances premium flame customization (60 color combos), smart app/Alexa control, and a flush recessed design that looks like a custom built-in. If you want unlimited color options and app-based RGB mixing, grab the HIRESC 60″ 3 Sided Smart WiFi. And for a turnkey solution that requires zero wall work, nothing beats the all-in-one mantel package of the OKD 52″ Electric Fireplace with Mantel.











