Electric fireplaces have become one of the most popular indoor heating and design upgrades for modern homes.
They’re clean, ventless, low-maintenance, safe for apartments, and easy to install compared to gas or wood systems.
But once you decide on an electric fireplace, another question comes up: Should you choose a wall-mounted model or a fully built-in (recessed) model?
Both offer beautiful flame effects and efficient supplemental heat, but they serve different needs in terms of installation, aesthetics, performance, and long-term flexibility.
This guide breaks down the exact pros and cons of each type so you can make the right decision for your home. You can browse both styles in our Recessed and Wall Mounted Electric Fireplaces collection.
A wall-mounted electric fireplace hangs directly on the wall, similar to mounting a TV. It does not require opening the wall cavity or altering existing framing.
Most models include brackets that allow the unit to sit a few inches off the surface.
Where They’re Commonly Used:
These fireplaces are about speed, convenience, and portability.
You hang it on the wall, plug it into a standard outlet, and you’re done.
According to The Spruce, wall-mounted units are the most DIY-friendly option available, requiring no carpentry, drywall work, or permits.
Since they do not require cutting into the wall, they are the ideal solution for temporary living arrangements.
Apartment Therapy highlights wall-mounted fireplaces as a top "renter-friendly" upgrade because they leave minimal marks and can be taken with you when you move.
Great for bedrooms (above dressers), living rooms (as an alternative to artwork), or small apartments where floor space is limited.
You can move them between rooms if you choose.
Wall-mounted units typically cost less than built-in units because the installation is DIY-friendly, no framing or wall work is needed, and you don’t need an electrician unless hardwiring.
They sit shallow on the wall and look modern, especially in minimalist interiors.
Featured: Napoleon Entice 36". A classic wall-mounted unit that installs in minutes.
A built-in electric fireplace installs inside the wall cavity so the front glass sits flush—or nearly flush—with the wall surface.
This creates the cleanest, most modern architectural finish.
These fireplaces often become the centerpiece of media walls, luxury apartments, and new builds.
Built-in fireplaces feel permanent and fully integrated.
This is the biggest benefit. A recessed fireplace appears as part of the wall design, achieving a premium, custom-built appearance.
Paired with TVs, shelving, slab stone walls, or floating benches, the result is a true focal point.
Ideal Home showcases built-in electric fireplaces as the cornerstone of modern media wall designs, allowing for a sleek, clutter-free entertainment center.
Featured: Dimplex IgniteXL 50". Designed for fully recessed installations, offering a flawless edge-to-edge glass view.
Depending on the model, heat may vent from the front or bottom. Some offer no-heat flame mode with silent operation.
Many recessed fireplaces deliver a more controlled and consistent heat output.
Built-in units often range from 36" for bedrooms to 100"+ for statement media walls.
This creates a dramatic, uninterrupted flame presentation.
Since the unit sits inside the wall, wiring can be hidden or hardwired for a flawless look.
Installing one typically means cutting into drywall, creating or modifying framing, and possibly rerouting electrical wiring.
Family Handyman notes that while achievable for skilled DIYers, framing a recessed unit often requires more planning regarding stud placement and electrical access.
Because of the structural modifications, you need homeownership or landlord permission.
You’ll need to budget for the fireplace, wall work, and potentially electrical work.
Once installed, you cannot easily move it without reconstruction.
Both wall-mounted and built-in electric fireplaces normally produce 4,600–5,100 BTUs, enough for bedrooms, offices, and medium-size living rooms.
Heat output is typically the same, but built-in units may disperse heat more evenly, offer more advanced heater placement, and integrate better into media walls.
Wall-Mounted
Built-In
| Feature | Wall-Mounted | Built-In |
|---|---|---|
| Construction Required | No | Yes |
| Skill Level | DIY friendly | Professional recommended |
| Cord Visibility | Possible | Hidden |
| Mobility | Portable | Permanent |
| Cost | Lower | Higher |
| Aesthetic | Sleek | Seamless & high-end |
For detailed installation steps on both types, refer to our Wall-Mounted vs Recessed Electric Fireplaces: Design & Install Guide (2025).
Choose Wall-Mounted if You Want:
Choose Built-In if You Want:
If you’re renovating or building a media wall, built-in wins every time.
If you want a fast, stylish upgrade with minimum effort, wall-mounted is perfect.
Both are safe, energy-efficient, and excellent for indoor spaces.
We help match homeowners with the right electric fireplace based on room size, installation type, budget, and aesthetic goals.
📩 support@pureflameco.com
📞 +1-833-922-6460
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