Is the Sideline Elite 72 worth $1,599?

If you want a large, slim-bezel linear fireplace with app and voice control, it is a strong pick. At $1,599 at The Home Depot as of November 4, 2026 it is at the top of its recent range, so a sale price would make it easier to justify.

How is it different from the standard Sideline?

The Elite adds Wi-Fi app control, Alexa and Google Home voice control, more flame and media colors, and a slimmer border. The core recessed design and 120V heater are similar.

Can it heat a whole room?

It produces up to 5,100 BTU and is rated for about 400 sq. ft. That suits a den or bedroom, but it will not replace central heat in an open living area.

Does it need to be hardwired?

No. It can plug into a standard 120V outlet or be hardwired. Hardwiring hides the cord but requires an electrician.

What comes in the box?

The fireplace, a remote control, a log set, crystals, and driftwood. You supply the framed opening and the power connection.

Fireplace prices usually dip during fall and winter holiday sales and around major appliance promotions. Track the price history here and buy when it drops below the current $1,599.

Sideline Elite 72 Inch Recessed Smart Electric Fireplace 80038

Q: Where is the Sideline Elite 72 Inch Recessed Smart Electric Fireplace 80038 cheapest?

At The Home Depot, for $1,599.00, as of our latest check.

Q: What do buyers say about the Sideline Elite 72 Inch Recessed Smart Electric Fireplace 80038?

Rated 4.9 out of 5 from 54 ratings.

Q: Where can I buy the Sideline Elite 72 Inch Recessed Smart Electric Fireplace 80038?

4 stores we checked sell it, including The Home Depot, Amazon, electricfireplaces.com, Touchstone Home Products, Inc..

4.9

Best price now

$1,599.00at The Home DepotObserved Nov 4, 2026, 6:25 PM

Compared across 4 stores. Prices are checked against each store and labelled with when.

Visit The Home Depot

What reviewers say

Owners rate it highly, at 4.9 out of 5 from 54 ratings, and most praise the flame realism and the smart controls. Complaints tend to be about heat output and installation planning rather than reliability.

Pros

Realistic flame look
Easy app and voice control
Slim frame and wide viewing area
Good build quality

Cons

Modest heat for large rooms
Installation requires planning the opening and power
Remote and app setup takes some fiddling

About the Sideline Elite 72 Inch Recessed Smart Electric Fireplace 80038

Product Features

• Minimal frame with wide 68 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® 72 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. 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.

Transform your space with ease using our add-on Encase Wood Mantel. Crafted from 100% real wood pine, this mantel requires no assembly with included hanging boards and hardware. Its solid wood construction provides a durable platform for display and storage, making it the ideal addition to your Touchstone fireplace.

All Touchstone mantels are designed for use with Touchstone Electric Fireplaces. If considering use with a different fireplace, we recommend consulting a professional installer for compatibility and safe installation.