Is the Sideline Elite 50 worth it over the standard Sideline?

The Elite adds more flame and media bed colors, more brightness settings, a slimmer border and Wi-Fi with voice control. If you want app control and a bigger color range, the upgrade is the point.

How much space will it heat?

It puts out up to 5,000 BTU on the 1500W setting, enough to take the chill off a room of roughly 400 square feet. It is a supplement to your main heat, not a replacement.

Can I plug it in, or does it need to be hardwired?

Both work. It ships with a cord for a standard outlet, and you can hardwire it for a cleaner look. Recessed mounting needs framing and a nearby power source.

What comes in the box?

The fireplace unit, a faux log set, clear crystals, driftwood, a remote control, drywall anchors and screws, and an installation guide.

Does it work with Alexa and Google Home?

Yes. It connects over Wi-Fi, so you can turn it on or off by voice and use the Touchstone app for flame and heat settings.

The best new price was $999.00 at Best Buy as of November 4, 2026. Fireplace prices often dip around fall and holiday sales, so watch the price history before buying.

Sideline Elite 50 Inch Recessed Smart Electric Fireplace 80036: lowest price $999.00 at Best Buy, 8 stores compared

Q: Where is the Sideline Elite 50 Inch Recessed Smart Electric Fireplace 80036 cheapest?

At Best Buy, for $999.00, as of our latest check.

Q: What do buyers say about the Sideline Elite 50 Inch Recessed Smart Electric Fireplace 80036?

Rated 4.9 out of 5 from 91 ratings. Buyers like: Looks beautiful and realistic; Easy to install and operate; Wi-Fi/smartphone control is convenient.

Q: Where can I buy the Sideline Elite 50 Inch Recessed Smart Electric Fireplace 80036?

8 stores we checked sell it, including Touchstone Home Products, Inc., Lowe's, Home Depot, Best Buy, Wayfair.

What reviewers say

Rated 4.9 out of 5 from 91 ratings. Owners call it realistic-looking, easy to install and a strong finisher for basements and master bedrooms, and many single out the Wi-Fi control as a plus.

Pros

Realistic flame look
Simple installation and operation
Convenient Wi-Fi and smartphone control
Solid build quality

Cons

Heat output suits small rooms only
Recessed install takes planning

From Touchstone Home Products, Inc.

Minimal frame with wide 46 in x 14 3/8 in flame viewing area
Two heat settings (750W/1500W) with thermostat (68-88°F) or constant on
6 flame color options and 10 media bed color options
5 flame and media bed light intensity settings
3 flame speeds and timer up to 8 hours
Can be plugged in or hardwired

Materials: Black frame; faux fire log, clear crystals and driftwood media included
Fit: Recessed or wall mounted; rough opening 48 3/4 in wide x 18 1/4 in high x 5 1/2 in deep; place at least 8 in below ceiling or mounted TV and at least 6 in from
Guarantee: Standard 1-year warranty included: replacement of any non-functioning electronic parts and free phone tech support; 1-year and 2-year extended warranties availa
Returns: See the Return Policy page for all details
Shipping: Free U.S. Ground Shipping, left at the point of delivery; optional U.S. Ground Priority Shipping by quote; free Freight Lift Gate (LTL) curbside shipping for fi
Packs: Available as Fireplace Only or Fireplace with Encase Surround Mantel
In the box: Electric fireplace unit, Faux fire log, Clear crystals, Driftwood, Remote control, Installation guide

About the Sideline Elite 50 Inch Recessed Smart Electric Fireplace 80036

Product Features

• Minimal frame with wide 46 inches x 14 3/8 inches flame viewing area

• Two heat settings (750W/1500W) with thermostat (68-88°F) or constant on

• 6 flame color options and 10 media bed color options

• 5 flame and media bed light intensity settings

• 3 flame speeds and timer up to 8 hours

• Can be plugged in or hardwired

• Smartphone compatibility

• Turn on or off by voice using Amazon Alexa® or Google Home®

• Includes log set, crystals, and driftwood

Overview

The Touchstone Sideline Elite® 50 inch Smart Electric Fireplace combines a realistic flame hearth with smart-home features. The next step up from our Sideline series, with more bolder colors, features, and a low-profile slim border design. The Sideline Elite 50 inch is a favorite among smart consumers and contractors. With Wi-Fi-enabled technology, you can control the realistic flames using our mobile app or voice commands through Alexa or Google Home. The Sideline Elite offers unmatched flame quality, large format display with slim border, multiple color options, and reliable design, making it a favorite among smart consumers and contractors. The Sideline Elite transforms a simple accent wall into a striking feature, blending contemporary design with warmth and ambiance. The Sideline Elite is an environmentally friendly option to a traditional wood-burning fireplace, ensuring a clean and odorless ambiance.

Realistic Flame

The heart of Touchstone’s electric fireplaces is the impressive flame display. These flames deliver the same relaxing effect as real flames without the hassle. They create a cozy atmosphere in any room and offer 60 color combinations for customization. Operate the heat and flame settings conveniently with the remote control (batteries not included) or mobile app.

Heating Capabilities

The Sideline Elite® provides heat that takes the edge off a cool bedroom, family room or basement. It has two heat settings and a thermostat mode and can warm up a room up to 400 sq. ft. Please note that it is not intended to be the primary heat source but rather to supplement your existing heating system. Control the heat settings using the remote, app or the built-in heat timer.

Mounting and Use

The versatile Sideline Elite electric fireplace can be inserted into or mounted on your wall. Follow the provided instructions for easy installation. For optimal placement, position the fireplace at least 8 inches below the ceiling or below a mounted flat screen TV, considering its heating feature. We recommend placing the fireplace at least 6 inches from the floor.

Visit the Smart Electric Fireplace WiFi Quick Start page for more information on the WiFi-enabled capabilities, mobile app set up and smart home networking.