Most realistic electric fireplace – our top 5 picks for 2023

There are many ways to get cozy this winter.

One of the most popular is a fireplace.

Just imagine sitting in your living room, with the fire going and all you can smell is that sweet scent of burning wood.

But what if you don’t have an old-style brick fireplace or your chimney requires costly repairs?

That’s where electric fireplaces come in!

They give off the same ambiance as a traditional fireplace but without any of the hassle or smokey smell.

In today’s post, we’ll be reviewing five different models that offer the most realistic flame so you can find your perfect electric fireplace.

Are you ready? Let’s go!

In a hurry? Here’s our top 3 picks for the most realistic electric fireplace.

What are the most realistic electric fires?

Dimplex offers the most realistic electric fires of any other brand out there. While there are some other brands out there that offer realistic electric fires, Dimplex consistently provides some of the best at a reasonable price.

How realistic are electric fires?

The realism of an electric fire can vary wildly and often depends on how much you are willing to spend.

In recent years, electric fires have come a long way in terms of aesthetic realism and you can find plenty that now look as good as the real thing. But they do come at a cost.

This cost, however, often far outweighs the cost and hassle of owning the real thing.

Most realistic electric fireplace

1. Dimplex IgniteXL

The Dimplex IgniteXL offers one of the most realistic-looking flame effects when it comes to recessed electric fireplaces.

Not only does it offer super-realistic flames but the 74″ and 100″ also offer heat coverage for a room up to 1,000 sq. feet in size.

So whether you’re looking for an electric fireplace to heat a large room or to create a centerpiece, the IgniteXL has you covered on both fronts.

This recessed electric fireplace features glass-to-glass edging for a super sophisticated look in any modern home.

If you’re after an electric fireplace that you can play with the IgniteXL has a vast array of options for its flames.

You can choose from some of the more eye-catching color options or stick to the cozy glow of orange and yellow.

You can also change the color of the ember bed with six different colors to choose from.

It can be controlled on the front of the fireplace or with the super sophisticated remote control that the fireplace is supplied with.

You can change the color of the flames to fit the ambiance you are looking for or allow the fireplace to just cycle through its range of colors.

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2. Dimplex Opti-Myst

The Dimplex Opti-Myst range has long been hailed as the most realistic electric fireplace on the market.

If you’re looking for an electric fireplace for aesthetics alone and not for heat, the Opti-Myst will absolutely be your best bet.

The Opti-Myst technology provides life-like flames and creates a realistic illusion of fire and smoke.

The fireplace uses revolutionary ultrasonic technology to create its effects.

The easy-fill water tank creates a mist that rises up through the logs, the light reflects against these water molecules creating a convincing illusion of flames and smoke.

The water tank offers 14 to 17 hours of continuous operation before refilling is needed.

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3. MagikFlame Athena

The MagikFlame Athena is the most realistic electric fireplace with mantel on the market today.

The fireplace uses cutting-edge technology to create a super realistic log fire effect. It achieves this through holographic technology by projecting actual video of a real fire onto the log set.

Not only does the fireplace achieve a realistic aesthetic, but it also features actual sounds of crackling and popping logs that can be turned on or off to suit your mood.

The fireplace features over 30 flame options for you to change up as you fancy as well as 30 different fire sounds.

On top of all of these features, you can also control the fireplace from your smartphone via Bluetooth.

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4. Dimplex Revillusion

The Revillusion 25″ log set is the perfect addition to an existing fireplace or hearth.

The Revillusion flame technology and mirage panel offer larger and brighter flames across the logs for a super realistic effect.

The log set and flame effect provide some of the most realistic visuals you can get in an electric fireplace and the 360° light enhances the aesthetic impact inside your fireplace.

The grate features life-sized hardwood-cast logs for greater depth and realism.

The main thing to note with the Revillusion is that it comes supplied with a back panel that reflects the flames for added aesthetic.

This is fine if you are placing the set into a dark fireplace or in a dark room, but if it’s going to be placed somewhere on show or has lots of light, you will be able to see the back panel.

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5. Dimplex Deluxe DFI2310

The Dimplex Deluxe DFI2310 is a fantastic option if you are looking for the most realistic electric fireplace on a budget.

It features patented LED inner glow and pulsating ember technology that allow the logs and embers to glow in a random fashion to simulate the waves of natural flames.

The fireplace is designed to be easily installed and can fit into most pre-existing fireplace holes with the help of the supplied trim to cover any gaps and create a seamless finish.

The heating aspect of the fireplace means you can comfortably heat a room up to 400 sq. feet in size, perfect for any small to moderate-sized room.

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