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Specs are compiled from manufacturer listings and verified buyer reviews and can change over time — please confirm the key details on the product page before buying.
You can mount a three-sided electric fireplace insert in a peninsula, a corner, or a partition wall — places where a standard flat-front unit would look blocked. The three-sided glass wraps the fire view around the edge so the display becomes part of the room from multiple angles, not just one straight-on seat.
I’m Mohammad Maruf — the founder and writer behind Gardening Beyond. This guide is built by comparing the manufacturers’ published specifications and the patterns across verified customer reviews, so you get each pick’s real strengths and trade-offs instead of marketing spin.
This breakdown of the electric fireplace insert 3 sided market covers ten models — from smart units with app control to straightforward heaters with a panoramic flame.
Quick Picks
- Tangkula 60 Inches 3-Sided Electric Fireplace Insert, 750W/1200W Recessed Fire Places Heater with 12 Flame Colors, 5 Brightness, 8H Timer & Overheat Protection and Remote Control — Best Value
- Legend Flame 59″ W Smart Build in Electric Fireplace Insert, 1-2-3 Sided View, Heater 750W/1500W, Multi Colors of Flame & Fuel Bed, Alexa/Google Assistant Enabled — Most Versatile
- Silonn 3-Sided Smart 50″ Electric Fireplace, Alexa & App Control Fireplace with 15 Flame Colors, Electric Fireplace Inserts Logs, 5110 BTU Heat Output, Realistic Flame and Sound — Smart Pick
- 3-Sided View Electric Fireplace Insert – Minimalist Mantel – 12 Color Flame Effect – 1500/750 Watt Heater – Remote Control – Log & Crystals (50″, White) — Mantel Package
- 60 Inch 3 Sided Smart WiFi Electric Fireplace Insert with 251 RGB Flame Colors, Recessed Heater, App & Remote Control, 750W/1500W Dual Heat for Large Room up to 400 sq ft, ETL Certified — Top Performer
- 70 Inch 3 Sided Smart WiFi Electric Fireplace Insert with 251 RGB Flame Colors, Recessed Heater, App & Remote Control, 750W/1500W Dual Heat for Large Room up to 400 sq ft, ETL Certified — Mid-Size Smart
- LegendFlame 71″ W Smart Build in Electric Fireplace Insert, 1-2-3 Sided View, Heater 750W/1500W, Multi Colors of Flame & Fuel Bed, Alexa/Google Assistant Enabled — Large Multi-View
- 80 Inch 3 Sided Smart WiFi Electric Fireplace Insert with 251 RGB Flame Colors, Recessed Heater, App & Remote Control, 750W/1500W Dual Heat for Large Room up to 400 sq ft, ETL Certified — Big Wall Piece
- Touchstone Sideline Infinity Pro 3-Sided Smart 50″ WiFi-Enabled Electric Fireplace – 80045 – Built-in – 6 Realistic Flame Colors- 13-Color Down Lighting- Crackle Sound- 1,500W Heater — Premium Realism
- 100 Inch 3 Sided Smart WiFi Electric Fireplace Insert with 251 RGB Flame Colors, Recessed Heater, App & Remote Control, 750W/1500W Dual Heat for Large Room up to 400 sq ft, ETL Certified — Maximum Width
How To Choose The Best Electric Fireplace Insert 3 Sided
The main feature that separates these units from standard electric fireplaces is the three-sided glass. That open wrap-around view dictates where you can place it: on a wall where both sides are exposed, in a room divider, or built into a cabinet island. The width of the unit — from 50 inches all the way up to 100 inches — determines whether it fills a small accent wall or anchors a great room.
Heating power vs. flame-only mode
Every model here offers a flame effect that works without the heater turned on, so you can enjoy the look year-round. When you do want warmth, the key number is the BTU (British Thermal Unit) rating. Most of these units deliver around 5,000 BTU (5118 BTU is a common spec) and cover up to 400 square feet — that is supplemental heat for a living room or master bedroom, not a whole-house furnace. The wattage, typically 750W (low) or 1500W (high), tells you how much electricity it draws. The 1500W setting is the one that actually pushes noticeable warmth.
Smart controls and app compatibility
Some inserts come with basic remote-only operation, while others include WiFi modules that let you control flame color, brightness, heat settings, and timers from a smartphone app. The smart models often work with Alexa or Google Assistant, meaning you can say “turn the fireplace on” from the couch. If you plan to recess the unit into a wall, a smart model saves you from walking over to the control panel every time you want to change the color.
Installation type and depth
Most 3-sided inserts are designed for recessed (built-in) installation, but some also work as freestanding or wall-mounted units. The chamber depth — the space you need behind the wall — ranges from about 7 inches to 11 inches. Measure your rough opening before buying; a unit that needs 11 inches of depth will not fit into a shallow 2×4 wall without a furr-out frame.
Quick Comparison
| Model | Best For | Width | Heat Output (BTU) | Weight | Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tangkula 60″ | Budget-friendly panoramic view | 60″ | 5000 BTU | 41 lb | Amazon |
| Silonn Smart 50″ | Smart control with crackling sound | 50″ | 5110 BTU | 49.5 lb | Amazon |
| Maxhonor 50″ Mantel | Freestanding mantel design | 52.2″ | — | — | Amazon |
| Legend Flame 59″ Smart | Multi-view flexibility | 60.2″ | — | — | Amazon |
| HIRESC 60″ Smart WiFi | 251 RGB color customization | 60″ | 5118 BTU | 117 lb | Amazon |
| HIRESC 70″ Smart WiFi | Mid-size panoramic smart unit | 71″ | 5118 BTU | 131.6 lb | Amazon |
| LegendFlame 71″ Smart | Large multi-view built-in | 72″ | — | 105.4 lb | Amazon |
| HIRESC 80″ Smart WiFi | Big-wall statement piece | 80″ | 5118 BTU | 146.1 lb | Amazon |
| Touchstone Sideline Infinity Pro 50″ | Premium realism & driftwood media | 49.75″ | 5000 BTU | 69 lb | Amazon |
| HIRESC 100″ Smart WiFi | Maximum width for grand rooms | 100″ | 5118 BTU | — | Amazon |
In‑Depth Reviews
1. Tangkula 60 Inches 3-Sided Electric Fireplace Insert, 750W/1200W Recessed Fire Places Heater with 12 Flame Colors, 5 Brightness, 8H Timer & Overheat Protection and Remote Control
The affordable 60-inch that packs a surprising number of color and timer options.
You get 12 different flame colors and five brightness levels here, which beats many mid-range units on color variety alone. The 750W/1200W dual-mode heater covers up to 400 square feet, and the 8-hour timer lets you low-maintenance at bedtime. Buyers report that assembly is easy and the unit does not protrude far from the wall, leaving the top surface usable for decor.
Where this Tangkula stands out is the weight — at 41 pounds it is 8.5 pounds lighter than the Silonn 50-inch model, making it much easier to handle during installation. The 60-inch width gives you a wide flame view without the heavy 117-pound frame of the HIRESC 60-inch. The included remote works from up to 20 feet away for flame, heat, and timer adjustments.
The main trade-off: the faux logs lack the realism you would get from a premium unit like the Touchstone. Multiple owners mention the logs look a bit plastic compared to the flames themselves. If your priority is maximum realism over budget, that is worth factoring in.
What stands out
- 12 flame colors and 5 brightness levels for deep customization
- Light 41-pound build makes wall-mount installation smooth
- ETL certified with overheat protection for safety
A couple of trade-offs
- Logs look less realistic than pricier competitors
- Power cord is not flat against the wall, requiring a small gap
Who it fits: Budget-conscious buyers who want a wide 60-inch 3-sided flame display with plenty of color options and decent heat coverage for a medium room.
Consider if: Realistic log appearance is a top priority — you would want to look at a model like the Touchstone for more authentic media.
2. Legend Flame 59″ W Smart Build in Electric Fireplace Insert, 1-2-3 Sided View, Heater 750W/1500W, Multi Colors of Flame & Fuel Bed, Alexa/Google Assistant Enabled
A smart insert that adapts from a corner unit to a single-sided linear fire.
The defining trick here is the 1-to-3-sided configuration. You can install it as a full three-sided wrap-around, set it for a corner view, or run it as a single-sided linear fireplace — the same unit does all three by adjusting the glass panels. That flexibility is rare in this category and saves you from buying a different model if you rearrange the room later.
Smart integration includes both Alexa and Google Assistant, plus a dual-flame color design that combines orange with eight other accent colors. The fuel bed also lights up in eight colors. Buyers describe the flames as “very realistic” with sound that crackles like a real fire. At a 10.2-inch depth, this unit is 39% deeper than the 7.36-inch Silonn 50-inch, meaning you need more cavity space behind the wall.
The one-year limited warranty is standard for the price tier, and the unit is CSA certified. One reviewer noted the only thing missing is a glowing ember effect on the logs, which would push the realism even higher.
Multi-view flexibility: You can change the viewing configuration from 1-sided to 3-sided, making this the most layout-adaptable insert in the lineup.
Smart controls: Works with Alexa and Google Assistant for hands-free heat and flame adjustments.
Best for: Anyone who plans to rearrange furniture often or wants the option to use the fireplace in a corner now and a wall later.
Skip if: Your wall cavity is shallow — the 10.2-inch depth may require a furr-out frame.
3. Silonn 3-Sided Smart 50″ Electric Fireplace, Alexa & App Control Fireplace with 15 Flame Colors, Electric Fireplace Inserts Logs, 5110 BTU Heat Output, Realistic Flame and Sound
A 50-inch smart unit that brings 15-color flames and built-in crackling sound.
This Silonn model packs 15 flame colors, five brightness levels, and three flame speed settings — giving you more color variety than the 12-color Tangkula. The 5110 BTU heater (about 1500W) covers rooms up to 400 square feet, and the adjustable thermostat ranges from 68°F to 88°F. Customers note decent heat output and quiet operation, with the remote and app control working smoothly after initial WiFi pairing.
One feature that stands out is the built-in speaker that simulates the crackling sound of burning wood. Combined with the 1:1 replicated resin faux logs, the audio-visual mix creates a campfire atmosphere that the silent units cannot match. The LED top lights, flames, and crystal fire bed each have 15 independent color options, so you can mix and match the look.
At 49.5 pounds this unit is heavier than the Tangkula 60-inch by about 8.5 pounds, but the 7.36-inch depth is shallow enough for most standard wall cavities. The installation is flexible: wall mount, recessed, or freestanding.
Standout features
- 15 independent color options for flames, crystals, and top lights
- Crackling sound adds an extra sensory layer
- Three installation methods: wall mount, recessed, or freestanding
Potential downsides
- Flames look very fake in the red setting, per buyer feedback
- Some units arrive with a bent sheet metal piece (cosmetic only)
Reach for this if… you want the most color customization and audible crackling sound in a smart-controlled 50-inch package.
Look elsewhere if… flame realism is non-negotiable — the red flame setting looks artificial, and the log set is clearly faux.
4. 3-Sided View Electric Fireplace Insert – Minimalist Mantel – 12 Color Flame Effect – 1500/750 Watt Heater – Remote Control – Log & Crystals (50″, White)
A freestanding 50-inch unit with a white mantel, ideal for renters who cannot recess.
Unlike most inserts that require recessing into a wall, this Maxhonor model comes as a complete mantel package in a white painted finish. The 5.1-inch solid base keeps it stable on the floor, and the three-sided tempered glass gives the wrap-around view without any carpentry work. Assembly takes about an hour, and reviewers point out the instructions are clear enough for one person.
The flame effects come in 12 colors with five brightness levels, and the 1500W/750W heater adjusts from 64°F to 82°F, covering up to 400 square feet. The 1-to-8-hour timer is useful for energy saving overnight. Shoppers say the flame is not hyper-realistic but creates a cozy ambiance, and the 50-inch size works well under a TV without overwhelming the wall.
The main limit here is the engineered wood and metal construction — it is not as heavy-duty as a recessed-only metal unit, and the mantel adds bulk (52.2 inches wide, 32.9 inches tall). That said, for anyone who cannot cut into drywall, this is the only plug-and-play mantel option in the list.
Room-ready design: No recessing needed — the mantel stands on its own and includes the 3-sided firebox inside.
White finish sticks out: The painted white mantel is a specific look that does not suit every decor style; black is more common in this category.
Perfect for: Renters or anyone who wants a 3-sided fireplace without cutting into walls — just assemble and plug in.
Not ideal if: You need a built-in flush look or prefer a dark finish; the white mantel is the only color option.
5. 60 Inch 3 Sided Smart WiFi Electric Fireplace Insert with 251 RGB Flame Colors, Recessed Heater, App & Remote Control, 750W/1500W Dual Heat for Large Room up to 400 sq ft, ETL Certified
A 60-inch smart insert with 251 flame colors and independent control of three light zones.
The headline number here is 251 RGB flame colors — you mix red, green, and blue LEDs to dial in anything from a soft amber to an electric blue. That versatility goes beyond any other model in this lineup. The Smart Life app lets you control flames, ember bed, and downlight independently, so you can have blue flames with a warm ember glow and cool accent lighting all at once.
The 5118 BTU heater (1500W high / 750W low) covers 400 square feet with an adjustable thermostat from 62°F to 82°F. Buyers praise the heat output and how quiet the fan runs. The 60-inch width fits standard fireplace openings, and the 11-inch depth requires a deeper cavity.
ETL certification and cool-to-touch glass add safety confidence. The unit supports both plug-in and hardwired connections, giving you flexibility during the build.
Why it stands out
- 251 RGB colors for near-infinite flame customization
- Smart Life app, remote, and panel controls all work independently
- Quartz heating element with quiet fan operation
Installation notes
- 117-pound weight requires two people for recessed installation
- 11-inch depth needs a deeper wall cavity than most 2×4 framed walls
The smart choice for: Anyone who wants the full spectrum of flame colors and app-based control in a 60-inch recessed format.
Consider if: Weight and depth are concerns — this is not a lightweight unit and needs adequate structural space.
6. 70 Inch 3 Sided Smart WiFi Electric Fireplace Insert with 251 RGB Flame Colors, Recessed Heater, App & Remote Control, 750W/1500W Dual Heat for Large Room up to 400 sq ft, ETL Certified
A 71-inch version of the RGB flagship, balancing width and weight better than the 80-inch.
This 70-inch model (actual dimensions 71 inches wide) gives you the same 251 RGB flame colors, 5118 BTU heater, and Smart Life app control as the 60-inch HIRESC but stretches the flame view 11 inches wider. The 131.6-pound weight is about 14.6 pounds heavier than the 60-inch — a manageable increase for noticeably more screen real estate.
The 11-inch depth, 400-square-foot heating coverage, and adjustable thermostat (62°F to 82°F) are identical to the 60-inch and 80-inch siblings, so the trade-off is purely width versus weight. Buyers report that even at this size the unit runs quietly and the heater warms a large living room effectively during winter. The ETL certification and cool-to-touch glass are the same safety features as the smaller version.
If 60 inches feels tight for your wall but 80 inches is overkill, this 70-inch slot hits a balance. The included crystals and log set give you two fuel-bed looks to switch between.
Width-to-weight ratio: 71 inches of flame view at 131.6 pounds is a better midpoint than jumping straight to 80 inches and 146.1 pounds.
Same feature set: All the smart controls, RGB mixing, and safe glass of the HIRESC family at a mid-size width.
Best for: Living rooms or media walls where 60 inches looks small but 80 inches is too dominant.
Skip if: Your wall cavity is shallow — the 11-inch depth still needs a furr-out or deeper rough opening.
7. LegendFlame 71″ W Smart Build in Electric Fireplace Insert, 1-2-3 Sided View, Heater 750W/1500W, Multi Colors of Flame & Fuel Bed, Alexa/Google Assistant Enabled
The big brother of the Legend Flame 59-inch, offering the same configurable view at 72 inches.
This is the larger version of the Legend Flame smart insert (product #2), scaled up to a 72-inch overall width with a 70.9-inch visible fire area. It keeps the same 1-to-3-sided viewing configuration, so you can run it as a full three-sided wrap, a corner install, or a single-sided linear display. The dual-flame color design mixes orange with eight other colors, and the fuel bed has eight color options.
At 105.4 pounds, it is about 11.6 pounds lighter than the 71-inch HIRESC model despite being an inch wider — a nice advantage for handling during installation. The 5.5-inch chamber depth is notably shallow, making it one of the best options for standard 2×4 walls where a deeper unit like the Legend Flame 59-inch (10.2 inches) would not fit. Alexa and Google Assistant integration are built in.
The one-year limited warranty covers defects, and buyers consistently describe the flames as realistic with convincing crackle sound. The only repeated critique is the lack of a glowing ember effect on the logs.
Shallow depth advantage: At just 5.5 inches chamber depth, this fits flush into standard 2×4 walls where 10-inch-deep units require a furr-out.
Configurable viewing: Same 1-2-3 side flexibility as the 59-inch, just wider.
Reach for this if… you need a 72-inch insert that fits into a standard-depth wall cavity without extra framing.
Look elsewhere if… a glowing ember bed on the logs is important to you — this unit does not have that effect.
8. 80 Inch 3 Sided Smart WiFi Electric Fireplace Insert with 251 RGB Flame Colors, Recessed Heater, App & Remote Control, 750W/1500W Dual Heat for Large Room up to 400 sq ft, ETL Certified
An 80-inch RGB powerhouse that commands the wall with a 146.1-pound frame.
This is the widest HIRESC model before the massive 100-inch version, and at 80 inches of flame view it will dominate a large entertainment wall or great room. The 251 RGB colors, independent flame/ember/downlight controls, and Smart Life app are the same as the 60-inch and 70-inch siblings, so you get no extra features — just more horizontal flame spread.
The 146.1-pound weight is the heaviest in the HIRESC lineup outside the 100-inch, so you definitely need a helper and a sturdy wall frame. The 5118 BTU heater still covers 400 square feet, and the adjustable thermostat runs from 62°F to 82°F. Buyers rave about the heat output and quiet fan, noting the unit feels solid and well-constructed. ETL certification and cool-to-touch glass provide the usual safety safeguards.
The 11-inch depth remains unchanged from the smaller HIRESC models. The installation kit includes crystals and a log set for two distinct fuel bed looks.
Where it excels
- 80 inches of continuous flame view for large-scale wall installations
- Same deep RGB customization as the popular 60-inch HIRESC
- Quiet operation and strong heat output for big rooms
Installation reality
- 146.1 pounds requires two-person lift and sturdy mounting
- 11-inch depth still demands a deeper-than-standard wall cavity
Best for: Homeowners with a wide wall space who want the biggest RGB flame display without jumping to the 100-inch size.
Consider if: Weight and depth are critical — the 80-inch is heavy and deep, so measure your wall cavity and plan for support.
9. Touchstone Sideline Infinity Pro 3-Sided Smart 50″ WiFi-Enabled Electric Fireplace – 80045 – Built-in – 6 Realistic Flame Colors- 13-Color Down Lighting- Crackle Sound- 1,500W Heater
The 50-inch that focuses on flame realism and premium media over raw color count.
Where other units brag about 251 colors, the Touchstone Sideline Infinity Pro keeps it to six realistic flame colors and puts the engineering into how the flames look and move. The ember bed has 13 color options with four predefined levels plus a pulsating setting, and the included media — painted crushed glass crystals and realistic driftwood — looks more authentic than the standard resin logs in lower-priced models, according to reviewers. The 13-color downlighting adds another layer of ambient control.
The 1500W/750W heater covers up to 400 square feet with an adjustable thermostat from 68°F to 88°F. The built-in crackle speaker adds the wood-burning sound effect. Owners mention the flames look very realistic and the Touchstone is a clear step up from cheaper units. The WiFi app and Alexa integration work reliably, and the 9.25-inch depth fits into most standard wall cavities.
One overlooked detail: there is no panel lock when the unit is off, meaning children could accidentally activate the controls. That is a small safety gap that keeps a few reviewers from giving a perfect score.
Authentic materials: Painted crushed glass crystals and driftwood replace the plastic-looking logs found in more budget-friendly models.
Smart but no child lock: The panel stays active when off, so accidental activation by toddlers is possible.
Reach for this if… flame realism and premium media are your top priorities over having hundreds of color options.
Look elsewhere if… you need a child-proof control panel or want more than six flame color choices.
10. 100 Inch 3 Sided Smart WiFi Electric Fireplace Insert with 251 RGB Flame Colors, Recessed Heater, App & Remote Control, 750W/1500W Dual Heat for Large Room up to 400 sq ft, ETL Certified
The full-wall statement: a 100-inch-wide insert that turns an entire wall into a flame display.
At 100 inches wide, this HIRESC model is the largest 3-sided insert in the lineup and essentially turns your wall into a linear fire feature. The 251 RGB color engine, Smart Life app, and 5118 BTU heater are the same as the smaller HIRESC units, but the 100-inch frame demands serious planning — you need a wall opening that can accommodate the width and the 11-inch depth.
The thermostat range here is wider than the other HIRESC models, adjustable from 50°F to 99°F, giving you more fine-tuning at both ends. The programmable timer also extends to 12 hours (versus 8 hours on the smaller versions), which is useful for overnight heating schedules. Customers note that even at this scale the unit runs quietly and the heat output is substantial enough for large open-plan spaces.
The metal construction feels solid, and the included crystals and log set give you two fuel-bed looks. The weight is not listed in the official specs, but given the 80-inch model is 146.1 pounds, expect the 100-inch to be significantly heavier — two strong helpers and proper structural support are mandatory.
Commanding presence: 100 inches of flame view — the widest 3-sided insert available in this data set.
Extended timer and thermostat: 0.5 to 12 hours timer and 50°F to 99°F range give more control than the standard 8-hour / 62°F-82°F setup.
Best for: Grand living rooms, open-plan spaces, or media walls where a 100-inch linear fire is the centerpiece.
Skip if: You have a standard-sized wall or need a unit that fits into a standard 2×4 framed opening — this requires a custom built-in approach.
Understanding the Specs
BTU and Wattage
BTU (British Thermal Unit) measures heat output. Most 3-sided inserts deliver around 5,000 BTU, enough to supplement heat in a room up to 400 square feet. The wattage (750W on low, 1500W on high) tells you the electrical draw — the 1500W setting pushes the most warmth. Any unit also works in flame-only mode without the heater, so you get the visual year-round.
Three-Sided Glass and Viewing Configurations
A 3-sided insert has glass on the front and both sides, wrapping the flame display around the edge of the unit. Some models also let you switch to a 1-sided or corner configuration by adjusting the glass panels — useful if you rearrange the room later. The visible fire area (the glass height and width) varies between models and affects how much flame you actually see.
RGB Color Count and Zones
Color count ranges from 6 (Touchstone) to 251 (HIRESC models). More colors mean more precision in matching your decor or mood. Higher-end units also split control into independent zones — flames, ember bed, and downlight — so you can mix cool flames with a warm ember glow. Brightness levels (typically 3 to 5 steps) and flame speed settings give you further fine control.
Installation Type and Rough Opening
Most 3-sided inserts are designed for recessed (built-in) installation, but some also support wall-mount or freestanding placement. The chamber depth (the space behind the visible glass) ranges from about 5.5 inches to 11 inches. Before buying, measure your rough opening — especially depth. A unit with 11-inch depth may not fit into a standard 2×4 wall (about 3.5 inches deep) without a furr-out frame.
FAQ
Can a 3-sided electric fireplace insert be recessed into a standard wall?
Do these units provide enough heat for a large living room?
Can I use the flame effect without turning on the heater?
What is the difference between 1-sided, 2-sided, and 3-sided viewing?
How do I control the fireplace — remote, app, or voice?
Do these inserts make crackling or burning sounds?
What safety certifications should I look for?
How wide are these inserts — will a 60-inch model fit my wall?
Can I install a 3-sided insert in a corner?
Do I need professional installation or can I do it myself?
Final Thoughts: The Verdict
For most buyers, the electric fireplace insert 3 sided winner is the HIRESC 60-inch Smart WiFi model because it packs 251 RGB flame colors, quiet 5118 BTU heat, and full app control into a 60-inch recessed frame that fits standard wall openings. If you want the most realistic flame effect with premium driftwood and crushed glass media, grab the Touchstone Sideline Infinity Pro 50-inch. And for a budget-friendly 60-inch with 12 flame colors and remote control, the Tangkula 60-inch delivers solid value without the heavy price tag.
How We Picked
We do not accept paid placement. Every pick is matched to a real buyer and a real use-case; we do not hands-on test units.
Sources & Methodology
Specifications: manufacturer listings and product documentation. Review insights: verified customer reviews, as of July 2026. Pricing: not shown on this page (it changes often); check the current price via the retailer link.
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