Wait a minute! I know what you’re thinking.
Sion, you sell wood-burning stoves. You’re a huge fan. You think they’re the best thing since… well, ever.
That’s all correct.
So why are you currently reading a blog about the best electric stove by yours truly?
Simple: because a wood-burning stove (sadly) isn’t for everyone. And while I’d love for every home to know the glow of real flames and the crackle of burning logs, it’s not realistic for every space, budget or lifestyle.
Maybe you live in a flat with no chimney, or rent and can’t install a stove, or maybe you just don’t fancy the upkeep. Whatever the reason, you still want that cosy log burner feel, and that’s where electric stoves come in.
Electric log burner effect fires offer a no-fuss, zero-maintenance way to create the look of a real stove, with none of the chopping, stacking, or sweeping. They’re not quite the real deal (let’s be honest), but some of them come pretty close.
But not all electric stoves are created equal, so in this blog we’re sharing the best alternative to a wood-burner, so you can find the stove that’s right for you.
Why Choose an Electric Log Burner?
I gave some of the game away above – but realistically not everyone wants (or can have) a wood-burning stove.
And electric log burners are a fantastic choice for anyone who loves the look of a real fire but wants to avoid the practical challenges of owning a wood-burning stove.
The biggest draw? They can be placed anywhere – no chimney, flue, or ventilation required. That means you can pop one in your living room, bedroom, or even a snug little reading nook without any major installation work.
Then there’s the ease of use. With an electric stove, there’s no need to lug in logs, scoop out ash, or worry about smoke. You press a button, and boom – instant fire 🔥. Many models even let you use the flame effect without heat, so you can enjoy the cosy glow all year round if you fancy it.
And let’s not forget zero maintenance. No sweeping, no creosote buildup, no calling out the chimney sweep (although it does mean you’ll get to see me less). Just plug in, sit back, and enjoy.
Electric stoves can’t fully replace a wood-burning stove. They don’t give off the same deep, radiant heat, and they certainly don’t smell like a proper log fire.
But if you’re looking for convenience, style, and a bit of that log burner charm, they’re a solid choice.
Key features to look for in an electric ‘log-burner effect’ stove…
If you’re going to go electric, you might as well go for the best. Not all electric log burners are created equal, so here’s what to look for:
- Realistic flames: Some models use simple LED lights, while others use 3D holographic flames or even water vapour ‘smoke’ effects to create a much more convincing fire. If realism is important to you, go for a model with depth and movement in the flame display.
- Adjustable flame settings: Fancy a roaring blaze or a gentle flicker? Many electric stoves let you adjust brightness, flame speed, and even colour to suit your mood.
- Heat control: Some models allow you to run the flame effect without heat, so you can enjoy the aesthetic of a fire even in the summer. Others have thermostatic controls, letting you set and maintain the perfect room temperature.
- Design & build quality: Want something that looks just like a real log burner? Look for a traditional cast iron-style stove. Prefer something sleek and modern? There are contemporary glass-fronted options too.
- Remote control & smart features: If you like a bit of tech in your home, some premium models let you control everything from your phone or smart speaker.
The best electric ‘log-burner effect’ stoves
So, now you know what to look out for and why they might be the perfect solution for heating your home, let’s share some of the top electric stoves on the market.
Ps. These are our recommendations, in no particular order, and approximate prices are based on information available online.
Dimplex Opti-Myst Stove
Approximate Price: £500 – £700
Best for: those who want a realistic flame
Dimplex’s trademarked Optimyst® flame claims to be “the world’s most realistic 3D electric flame.”
It’s about as close to a real flame as you can get without actually setting something on fire. It uses water vapour to create ultra-realistic ‘smoke’ effects, making the flames look deep and natural. So if you want an electric stove that truly tricks the eye, this is the one.
There are a range of different styles and colours that use this patented flame technology, so no matter what your style, space or price point you should be able to find a stove that suits – whether it’s a traditional or more modern design.
Gazco eReflex 75R Electric Stove
Approximate Price: £1,200 – £1,500
Best for: those who want a modern aesthetic
If you prefer a more contemporary look, the Gazco eReflex 75R is a stunning option. It features an advanced LED flame that moves naturally, creating a deep and layered fire experience, with a variety of customisable settings to adjust flame colour, brightness, and speed to suit your mood or home décor. This sleek and modern design makes it perfect for anyone who wants their electric fire to be a statement piece as well as a heat source.
Designed for both wall-mounted and inset installation, this stove fits seamlessly into modern interiors. It provides up to 2kW of heat but also allows you to enjoy the flame effect without heating, making it suitable for year-round use.
For added convenience, it comes with a remote control, so you can adjust settings effortlessly from anywhere in the room.
Warmlite Rochester Electric Stove
Approximate Price: £100 – £150
Best for: those on a budget
For those on a budget, the Warmlite Rochester offers classic log burner aesthetics without the high-end price tag. While the flame effect might not be as sophisticated as those found in higher-end models, it still creates a welcoming and atmospheric feel.
It’s easy to install, compact, and provides a cosy, warm glow, making it a great choice for smaller spaces or as a supplementary heating option. The stove features a traditional cast-iron design, adding a rustic charm that complements a variety of interiors.
Plus, with its 2kW heat output, it provides a decent level of warmth for its size, ensuring that even on colder evenings, you can enjoy a comfortable space without cranking up the central heating.
Celsi Electriflame VR Rochester Stove
Approximate Price: £569.95
Best for: those who want a blend of affordability and realism
The Celsi Electriflame VR Rochester Stove is a blend between flame realism, and affordability in comparison to some of the other electric stoves we’ve shared.
It uses 3D flame projection to create depth and movement, making it one of the more convincing options at this price point. Unlike standard LED flame effects, its layered projection gives the illusion of real burning embers, adding to the authenticity.
The compact yet stylish design makes it a versatile option for both traditional and contemporary interiors.
With a 2kW heat output, it provides sufficient warmth for smaller to medium-sized rooms, and the flame effect can be used independently, allowing you to enjoy the cosy ambiance all year round. If you’re after a realistic look without breaking the bank, this is a solid option.
How wood burning stoves and electric stoves compare on heat output
We’re not going to go too much into the difference, as we’ve already highlighted why electric stoves can be a good choice.
However, it’s important to understand that a wood-burning stove and an electric stove operate very differently in terms of heat output. Even if an electric stove claims a 2kW heat output, it won’t provide the same warmth as a real fire.
Let’s get into the science of why 🔬
A wood-burning stove produces radiant heat, which warms objects and surfaces in the room – walls, furniture, and floors – all of which help retain and distribute warmth more efficiently. Typical wood burners range from 4kW to 12kW, with some even higher. A well-insulated home with a 5kW stove can often heat a medium-sized room or more without needing additional heating. Even after the fire has died down, the stove body retains heat, keeping the space warm for longer.
In contrast, a 2kW electric stove provides direct heat, meaning it warms the air rather than radiating heat in the same way a real fire does. This means it’s better suited for smaller rooms or as a supplementary heat source rather than primary heating. Unlike a wood-burning stove, once an electric stove is turned off, the warmth dissipates quickly. If your home is draughty or has high ceilings, a 2kW electric stove may struggle to provide lasting warmth.
If heat output is your main priority, a wood-burning stove will always outperform an electric stove, delivering stronger, longer-lasting warmth. However, if you’re looking purely for aesthetics and some extra heat, an electric stove can still add cosiness and comfort to a space.
Is an electric log burner stove right for you?
At the end of the day, the choice between a real wood-burning stove and an electric alternative comes down to what’s most important to you.
If you want the full experience of crackling logs, natural radiant heat, and the satisfaction of lighting and tending a real fire, then nothing beats a wood-burning stove.
But if you’re after convenience, instant warmth, and a low-maintenance alternative, an electric log burner could be the way to go.
You’ll still get that cosy flickering flame, and you won’t have to think about logs, cleaning, or chimney maintenance.
Just remember, an electric fire will never truly replace a wood-burning stove. But for those who can’t have the real thing, they’re a pretty decent alternative.
If you are thinking about getting a real wood-burning stove, let’s chat and see how we can help you reduce energy bills and increase the cosy-factor of your Welsh home.
