Country Living Jackson Infrared Electric Fireplace vs Real Flame Crawford Slim 48-Inch Fireplace

The Real Flame Crawford is the better-built, more versatile unit for most rooms: a slim 9.5-inch mantel that sits close to a wall, six flame colors, five brightness levels, and a programmable thermostat. The Country Living is a much larger 55-inch faux-brick surround with infrared quartz heat and app control, so it reads as furniture rather than a mantel. Owners of the Real Flame line rate it highly for looks and easy setup; the Country Living is heavier at 177 lbs and needs more floor space, so pick it only if you want the farmhouse brick look and a bigger footprint.

• Choose the Country Living if you want a wide faux-brick farmhouse surround, infrared quartz heat, and phone app control.
• Choose the Real Flame Crawford if you want a slim, wall-hugging mantel with adjustable flame colors and a programmable thermostat.