The Orion Slim uses Heliovision technology, which projects a virtual flame image rather than relying on LED light refraction. The result is a flame that looks noticeably more realistic than any LED-based electric fireplace on the market. If flame realism is the most important factor in your decision and the budget works, this is the one we recommend.

Why We Recommend It

• Heliovision produces a flame picture with depth, movement, and color that LED fireplaces can't replicate. Three flame patterns (wood-burning, gas, and hybrid) with six color options give you 18 display combinations.
• Built-in 5,000 BTU heater warms rooms up to 400 sq ft with front vents. This is a fully functional fireplace, not just a visual display.
• At 5-3/4" deep, it fits in a standard 2x6 wall for a clean recessed installation. Surface mount bracket is also included if you prefer to mount it directly on the wall without framing a recess.
• WiFi + app control (Modern Flames app) with Alexa and Google Home compatibility. Includes weekly scheduling and thermostat control for the heater.
• Ambient crackling sound system, multi-color ember bed, and adjustable downlighting round out the experience.

Worth Knowing

• At $4,279, it's the most expensive fireplace on this list. The price reflects the Heliovision technology.
• Requires a dedicated 20-amp circuit. Most of the other models on this list run on a standard 15-amp.
• 120V only, no 240V option. If you need higher heat output for a larger room, the Evolve or Ignite XL offer 240V configurations with significantly more BTUs.
• Hardwire or plug-in, both options are available.

Specs

The Evolve is the newest addition to Dimplex's Ignite lineup and represents a meaningful step forward in their LED flame technology. Compared to the Ignite XL, the Evolve produces a deeper, more layered flame with better color transitions and more realistic movement. It also adds flame color options that the standard Ignite XL doesn't offer. If you want Dimplex's best LED flame with the most features, this is it.

Why We Recommend It

• The flame technology is a genuine improvement over the Ignite XL. It's not a subtle difference. The Evolve's flame has noticeably more depth and dimension.
• 5,118 BTU at 120V, or up to 8,530 BTU at 240V. The 240V option heats rooms up to 1,000 sq ft, making this a serious supplemental heat source.
• New tumbled glass media in amber, charcoal, and white, plus lifelike driftwood media molded from real logs. Looks great with the flames off too.
• Compatible with the Dimplex Flame Connect app for phone control.
• At 5-7/8" deep, it fits in a standard 2x6 wall. Optional trim kit available for walls shallower than 6".

Worth Knowing

• Recessed installation only. You'll need to frame a recess or use an existing opening. No surface mount option.
• $550 more than the Ignite XL. The upgraded flame technology accounts for the difference.
• Available in 120V or 240V. If you want maximum heat output, plan for 240V wiring during your build.

Specs

A note on sizing: the Landscape Pro Slim doesn't come in an exact 50" width. The closest options are 44" and 56". We're including the 56" here because most customers shopping in this size range have wall space that accommodates it, and it's too strong a recommendation to leave out.

Where the Dimplex models produce more independent, separated flames (which gives them a gas fireplace look), the LPS has a full, continuous flame bed that fills the base. The result is a warmer, less "gas-like" aesthetic that a lot of customers prefer. It also offers more color options for both the flame and ember bed than the Evolve or Ignite XL, so you can really dial in the exact look you want.

Why We Recommend It

• Full, continuous flame bed gives a different look than the separated flames on the Dimplex models. If you've seen an Ignite XL in person and thought it looked too much like a gas fireplace, the LPS is worth a look.
• More flame and ember bed color options than the Evolve or Ignite XL. You can customize the flame color, ember bed color, and media combination to get exactly the look you want.
• Comes with three media options out of the box: crystals, rocks, and logs. No extra accessories needed.
• At $2,499, it's $1,100 to $1,780 less than the other fireplaces on this list.
• 5,000 BTU heater with front top vents. Heats rooms up to 400 sq ft.
• 5-1/2" deep. Fits standard 2x6 walls.

Worth Knowing

• The 56" width is 6" wider than a true 50" fireplace. Measure your wall space and TV pairing.
• Recessed installation only. No surface mount option.
• LED flame quality is good for the price, but side-by-side with the Orion or Evolve, you'll see the difference. At $1,100+ less, most customers find the trade-off reasonable.
• 2-year warranty vs. 5 years on the Dimplex models. Something to factor into your decision.
• Hardwire only. No plug-in option.
• 120V only. No 240V option for higher heat output.

Specs

The Ignite XL has been one of the most popular linear electric fireplaces for years. It has a large installed base, a long track record of reliability, and more real-world customer feedback than most fireplaces in this category. The flame technology is the previous generation compared to the Evolve, but it's still a good-looking fireplace that a lot of homeowners are happy with.

Why We Recommend It

• Proven reliability over years of sales. The XL has been through enough real-world installations that you know exactly what you're getting.
• Dual voltage: 5,118 BTU at 120V or 8,530 BTU at 240V, heating up to 1,000 sq ft. Same heating specs as the Evolve.
• Recessed installation only with optional trim kits. One of the easiest fireplaces in this category to retrofit into an existing opening.
• Edge-to-edge flame bed with no visible gaps. The XL's continuous flame line is one of its best visual features.
• At $3,049, it sits in the middle of this list price-wise.

Worth Knowing

• Recessed installation only. No surface mount option.
• The flame technology is a generation behind the Evolve. It's still good, but the Evolve is noticeably better in a side-by-side comparison. If flame quality is your top priority and budget allows, the Evolve is the upgrade path.
• Acrylic ice media is the default ember bed. It's a clean, modern look, but some customers prefer the driftwood aesthetic of the Evolve or Orion.

Specs