A see-through electric fireplace is more than just a heat source — it’s a stylish and functional centerpiece that enhances any space. Whether you want to create a seamless connection between two rooms, add warmth to an open floor plan, or introduce a modern touch to your home, these fireplaces provide both ambiance and comfort.

With so many options available, choosing the right see-through electric fireplace can be overwhelming. That’s why we’ve carefully reviewed the best models on the market, evaluating them based on ambiance, heating performance, features, efficiency, cost, and warranty. Whether you're looking for a statement piece for your living room or a practical heating solution for two spaces, this guide will help you find the perfect fit.

Let’s explore the top see-through electric fireplaces and discover which one suits your home best!

Our Criteria

• Ambiance: This refers to the visual appeal of the electric fireplace, including the realism of its flames and overall aesthetic impact.

• Warranty: Most brands provide warranties covering defects, typically ranging from 1 to 5 years, with some offering extended coverage for key components.

• Features: Electric fireplaces often include adjustable settings, remote controls, customizable lighting, flame options, and other enhancements.

• Heating Capabilities: Beyond aesthetics, an electric fireplace should provide effective heating, offering both warmth and ambiance to enhance the living space.

• Cost: A fireplace’s price should align with its heating performance, energy efficiency, features, and overall design to ensure good value for the investment.

• Efficiency: Factors such as energy-saving features, heating effectiveness, and ease of installation and placement play a key role in determining efficiency.

#1 Dimplex Opti-Myst

Pictured: Dimplex Optimyst Linear 86” Electric Fireplace With Acrylic Ice and Driftwood Media

The Dimplex Opti-Myst Series stands out with its innovative 3D flame effect and glowing logs, creating one of the most realistic electric fireplaces available. Utilizing LED lights and water vapor technology, it mimics the look of a traditional gas fireplace with rich, tall flames that fill the entire firebox. Functioning similarly to a humidifier, this technology enhances flame realism, making it a visually striking alternative to conventional electric fireplaces.

Available in 46", 66", and 86" sizes, the Opti-Myst Series offers flexible installation options. It can be used as a standalone unit, a linear firebox with insert cassettes, or converted into a see-through fireplace by removing the back panel—ideal for open-concept spaces requiring a dual-sided display.

This series supports both 120V and 240V power configurations, delivering between 3,480 BTUs at 120V and 8,189 BTUs at 240V, effectively heating up to 1,000 square feet. Its concealed ceramic heating system improves energy efficiency by 11%, and the heating function can operate independently of the flame effect.

For added convenience and safety, the Opti-Myst includes a built-in thermostat, automatic shut-off, and a programmable timer that allows users to set operating durations from 30 minutes to 8 hours.

The fireplace’s realistic flame effect is achieved through a combination of water vapor and strategically positioned LED lighting. As the mist rises through the logs or media, it simulates the natural movement of flames and smoke, while the LED lights enhance the flickering effect. Optional crackling log sound effects further enrich the sensory experience, and multicolor flame settings can be adjusted via a smartphone app.

A built-in fan at the top of the unit helps lift the flames, ensuring they fully fill the firebox for a more immersive look. The sealed water system prevents external elements, such as wind, from disrupting the flame effect, enhancing reliability and realism.

Sizes: 46" to 86" | Voltage: 120V, 240V | Heat Output: 3,480 - 8,189 BTU |  Heating Area: 1,000 square feet | Type: Built-In or Wall Mount | Warranty: 2 years

Performance

Ambiance: The Dimplex Opti-Myst Series is one of the most realistic electric fireplaces on the market, utilizing water vapor and LED lighting to create a convincing 3D flame effect. The tall, rich flames fill the firebox, while the glowing logs and optional crackling sound effects add an authentic touch. The sealed water system prevents wind disturbances, ensuring a consistent and immersive display.

Warranty: A two-year warranty is standard but not exceptional for a fireplace of this price range. A longer coverage period would provide greater peace of mind for such an advanced and premium unit.

Features: The Opti-Myst Series offers multiple installation configurations, including standalone, linear firebox inserts, and see-through designs. The multicolor flame settings, smartphone app control, built-in thermostat, programmable timer (30 minutes to 8 hours), and automatic shut-off enhance convenience and user control. The concealed ceramic heating system improves energy efficiency, and the fan-assisted vapor effect lifts the flames, making them more vivid and lifelike.

 Heating Capabilities: With 3,480 BTUs at 120V and 8,189 BTUs at 240V, the Opti-Myst Series can effectively heat up to 1,000 square feet. While sufficient for most standard rooms, larger open-plan spaces may require additional heating sources. The heat function operates independently of the flame effect, allowing for year-round ambiance.

Cost: The Opti-Myst Series is a premium electric fireplace, with higher upfront costs due to its advanced technology. While it outperforms conventional electric fireplaces in realism, the added expense and maintenance (water refills, possible plumbing kits) should be considered when budgeting for this unit.

 Efficiency: The concealed ceramic heating system improves efficiency by 11%, reducing energy consumption while delivering effective warmth. The LED lighting system consumes minimal power, making it eco-friendly and cost-effective in the long run.

What Our Customers Are Saying

“We built a custom entertainment wall in our home and the Opti-Myst was the perfect finishing touch. I love that I could remove the back panel to create a see-through effect between the living room and dining area. The heat function is nice for chilly nights, and the ability to control the flame colors from my phone is a bonus. The sealed water system helps keep the flames stable, and I’ve never had an issue with it looking fake. If you’re thinking about getting one, do it!” — Tracy T.

"I bought this fireplace mostly for ambiance, and it delivers! The flames are so realistic that people don’t believe me when I tell them it’s electric. However, if you’re looking for a strong heat source, this might not be the best option." — Darlene C.

#2 Napoleon CLEARion Elite

Pictured: Napoleon CLEARion Elite 60" See-Through Built-In Electric Fireplace

The Napoleon CLEARion Elite Series is a line of see-through electric fireplaces that offers a truly transparent, dual-room fireplace experience. As one of the first see-through electric fireplaces, it features a perforated film that enhances its visual depth while allowing users to control transparency, switching between fully see-through, semi-transparent, or completely opaque settings. Hardwired to 120V or 240V, it delivers up to 10,000 BTUs of warmth, efficiently heating up to 800 sq. ft. with independent heat controls for each room. Sizes include a 50” and a 60”.

This model includes both crystal media and hand-painted logs with Topaz glass embers, illuminated by high-intensity LED lighting with 15 ember bed color options. Users can further personalize the flames with three color choices—blue, orange, and multi-color—along with five adjustable flame speed settings. Dual remotes allow independent control for each room, managing flame brightness, speed, blower, heat output, and timer settings.

For enhanced customization, the CLEARion Elite offers multiple front options, including black, stainless steel, driftwood, and clear black, with optional magnetic rivets for a sleek, modern look. Designed for easy installation within an 8" thick wall, it comes with two thin black powder-coated surrounds, with optional black or stainless thick-depth steel surrounds available for double 2x4 wall installations.

Its energy-efficient LED system ensures a vibrant display with minimal power consumption, making it a stylish, functional, and cost-effective fireplace solution. Heat can blow out on both sides, maximizing warmth distribution. This unit is backed by a two-year limited warranty.

Sizes: 50" to 60" | Voltage: 120v, 240v | Heat Output: Up to 10,000 BTU | Heating Area: 800 square feet | Type: Built-In | Warranty: 2 years

Performance

Ambiance: The Napoleon CLEARion Elite Series delivers a stunning, modern aesthetic with see-through flames visible from both sides. The adjustable transparency feature allows users to switch between fully see-through, semi-transparent, or completely opaque settings, making it a versatile choice for creating a luxurious ambiance. The high-intensity LED system, crystal media, hand-painted logs, and Topaz glass embers enhance the realism and depth of the flame effects.

Warranty: The two-year limited warranty is shorter than some competing brands, especially for a premium fireplace. An extended warranty would add more long-term value to the investment.

Features: The 15 ember bed color choices, three flame color options (blue, orange, multi-color), and five adjustable flame speed settings provide extensive customization. The dual remotes allow independent operation for each room, managing flame brightness, speed, blower, heat output, and timer settings. Multiple front panel choices, including black, stainless steel, driftwood, and clear black, offer further design flexibility.

 Heating Capabilities: Hardwired to 120V or 240V, the CLEARion Elite delivers up to 10,000 BTUs, effectively heating spaces up to 800 square feet. The independent heat controls for each room provide customized warmth, but larger open-plan areas may require additional heating sources.

 Cost: The high-end design, advanced technology, and unique transparency control justify the premium price tag, though additional costs for customization options (such as thicker surrounds or alternate front panels) should be considered.

Efficiency: The LED lighting system is energy-efficient, consuming minimal power while maintaining a bright and vibrant display. The heat output is well-optimized, and the independent heat controls help improve overall energy efficiency.

What Our Customers Are Saying

“This fireplace is an absolute beauty! The flames look great from both sides, and the dual-room heating feature is a game-changer. My only issue is that some of the custom front options and thicker surrounds are extra purchases, which added to the overall cost. That said, it’s still a fantastic investment for a modern home!” — Edward M.

"Visually, this fireplace is stunning. The ability to see through to the next room is a really unique feature. However, the heating performance is decent but not amazing—it works well for a supplemental heat source, but it won’t fully warm a large space on its own. If you’re buying this for ambiance and aesthetics, it’s perfect. If you need a high-powered heater, you might need a backup heat source." — Alan D.

Where To Buy?

Looking to elevate your home?

Explore the finest see-through electric fireplaces at US Fireplace Store, your go-to source for premium see-through electric fireplaces from top brands like Dimplex, Napoleon, and more.

Our selection includes sleek and modern designs that feature cutting-edge technology, ideal for any indoor space. Whether you prefer a minimalist aesthetic or a fireplace packed with advanced features, we’ll help you find the perfect fit.

Need help choosing the right model?

Our knowledgeable customer service team is here to assist you. With expert advice and personalized recommendations, we’ll guide you through realistic flame effects, installation compatibility, and everything you need to know.

🔥 Get started today — contact us now!