We’re proud to carry the full Dimplex fireplace and Napoleon fireplace lineup here at The Great Fire Company, but customers are constantly asking us for help choosing between a Dimplex vs Napoleon electric fireplace. So, we’ve put together this comparison guide!
First things first - these are two top-tier electric fireplace brands. You really can’t go wrong either way. It just comes down to your budget, your space, and what matters most to you in a fireplace.
Dimplex is known for its flame-effect engineering and holds a bunch of patents for its designs - from the Optimyst water-vapor system to the Revillusion depth panel that makes a built-in firebox look more like a real masonry opening. These start around $1,250.
Napoleon takes a different approach, designing electric fireplaces with a modern, high-impact style. Their Entice and Trivista lines use bright LED flames, bold ember beds, and large glass viewing areas that stand out on a feature wall. They’re more affordable, starting at $799.
We’re going to take a closer look at Dimplex vs Napoleon fireplace differences below to help you figure out which makes the most sense for YOU. Get in touch with our customer care team for one-on-one support today, and we’ll point you in the right direction!
Napoleon vs Dimplex Electric Fireplace (Fast Facts)
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Fast Fact |
Dimplex |
Napoleon |
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Signature Flame Technology |
Optimyst water vapor & Revillusion depth projection for realistic, layered flames. |
Bright multi-color LED flames with strong ember bed visibility and crisp outlines. |
|
Best Visual Style |
Traditional fireboxes & high-realism built-ins. |
Modern linear fireplaces with bold color output. |
|
Installation Strengths |
Deep fireboxes, multi-sided linear options, vapor cassettes. |
Shallow wall-mounts, clean linears, see-through electric options. |
|
Heat Output |
Typically 4,500–5,000 BTU on 120V. |
Comparable 4,500–5,000 BTU with stronger forward airflow on large models. |
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Standout Models We Carry |
Optimyst Linear, Revillusion Fireboxes, IgniteXL/Bold, Evolve Series. |
Entice Series, Alluravision Deep, Trivista Primis, Clearion Elite. |
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Best Fit For |
Homeowners wanting the most natural flame presentation. |
Homeowners who want a clean linear look with strong color control and simple installation |
Why We Love Dimplex Fireplaces
Dimplex has been shaping the electric fireplace category for decades as part of the Glen Dimplex family. This global manufacturer was developing electric flame systems long before most competitors entered the space.
Homeowners who care about authentic flame presentation tend to gravitate toward Dimplex since their logs, ember beds, vapor cassettes, and projection panels look much closer to wood or gas compared to standard LED-only displays.
You’ll gain access to quite a few sizes and build styles, from traditional fireboxes that replace an old wood-burning cavity to large linear units for new construction. These are some of the most popular series:
- Optimyst Linear (46”-86”): A water vapor cassette creates a rising flame column with movement and depth that behaves more like a real fire than any LED system can.
- Revillusion Fireboxes (24”-42”): A see-through projection panel behind the log set gives the firebox interior more dimension when recessed into a wall or framed opening.
- IgniteXL & IgniteXL Bold (50”-100”): Large linear models with edge-to-edge glass, layered lighting. You get multi-sided installation in the Bold line for corner/bay layouts.
- Evolve Built-In Series (50”-100”): Clean-faced recessed linears with a taller viewing area and advanced ember bed lighting for modern media walls and contemporary builds.
There are consistent themes across the Dimplex lineup - deeper flame effects, strong build quality, and really solid, long-lasting units you’re proud to show off to guests. They’re not the cheapest fireplaces we carry here at The Great Fire Company, but they’re worth every penny.
We actually have another resource comparing Dimplex vs Modern Flames if you want to weigh other options - but you came here to learn about Dimplex vs Napoleon electric fireplace, so let’s introduce the other half of our comparison below!
Why We Love Napoleon Fireplaces
Napoleon has been building hearth products for over 50 years now. What started as a small steel fabrication shop in Barrie, Ontario has become one of North America’s most trusted fireplace manufacturers.
That heritage is actually pretty apparent in its designs today: clean metalwork, strong glass assemblies, and heating hardware that feels more substantial than what you usually see in this category.
Here are a few Napoleon series that consistently perform well for our customers:
- Entice Series (36”-72”): Shallow wall-mount models with bright multi-color LED flames, strong ember bed lighting, and plug-in convenience for fast installation.
- Trivista Primis (50”, 60”): A true three-sided linear design with adjustable flame and ember colors, giving you a panoramic view when installed in a corner or partial wall.
- Clearion Elite See-Through (50”): One of the only fully see-through electric fireplaces available. Perfect for a shared opening between two rooms with independent heat controls on each side.
- Alluravision Deep Linear (42”-100”): Wide, frameless linear models with deeper ember beds and crisp flame colors that stand out well beneath a mounted TV or on a feature wall.
Across the entire Napoleon lineup, you can expect bright, defined flame colors, wide glass fronts, and clean installation with clear framing instructions. The heating systems are consistent across sizes, and most units come ready for either plug-in use or hard-wiring - so you can start enjoying your new fireplace ASAP, potentially without professional installation!
Whether you’re looking for a Napoleon electric fireplace for your living room or a Napoleon outdoor fireplace for your patio, we can help connect you with the ideal fit for your space. Get in touch today for guidance, or learn more about Dimplex vs Napoleon Electric Fireplace below.
Dimplex vs Napoleon Electric Fireplace: Key Differences You Need to Know
We have really strong relationships with both of these brands here at The Great Fire Company, and we mean it when we say these are two of the BEST options in our catalog. Each has strong build quality and dependable heat that holds up for years.
That said, there are meaningful nuances in the way they create flame effects, frame their units, and build their fireboxes. That translates to differences in performance AND cost that you need to be aware of. Here’s our breakdown on the Dimplex vs Napoleon electric fireplace debate.
Realistic Flame Effects
You can’t beat the flame realism Dimplex has to offer. Their Optimyst water vapor fireplace line is truly one-of-a-kind. A water vapor cassette creates a rising flame column with natural movement.
But even the IgniteXL and Bold linears use layered LED lighting that stretches across the full glass panel without a visible hot spot. The Revillusion series relies on a projected inner panel, which brings out a sense of depth you usually only see in gas or wood-burning units.
Napoleon takes a different route in how its fireplaces put out flames. Most rely on vivid LED flames with strong ember bed colors and crisp flame outlines. They look great, don’t get us wrong - but Dimplex is in a league of its own here.
Still, the Napoleon Entice and Alluravision Deep models have tall, bright flames that work extra well under a mounted TV or in a media wall. The Clearion Elite is one of the few fully electric see-through units available, so that’s something to take note of as well.
Heating Hardware and Output
Most Dimplex and Napoleon units fall in the same general range as far as heat output goes. They’re electric fireplaces, so don’t expect more than 4,500-5,000 BTU on 120V. Both brands use fan-forced heaters for supplemental heat.
We’ve found that Napoleon’s larger models can sometimes feel stronger because their heater placement pushes air forward more directly. Homeowners notice this in bedrooms and living areas.
Neither brand is meant to replace a furnace, though. You’re choosing these fireplaces for ambiance above all else, unless you’re installing them in a small-to-medium-sized room.
Framing, Depth, and Style
One of the biggest differences between the Dimplex vs Napoleon electric fireplace comparison is the styles you’ll have access to with either brand.
Napoleon leans heavily into linear modern fireplaces. The Alluravision Deep series has a deeper ember bed and a clean frameless look. The Entice wall-mount electric fireplace series is really popular in apartments/remodels where cutting into studs isn’t an option. One style that stands out is the Trivista Primis, a true three-sided design for partial walls or room dividers.
On the other hand, you get a lot more flexibility with Dimplex fireplaces. Their Revillusion and Deluxe built-ins are great for replacing an old wood-burning cavity. Meanwhile, IgniteXL Bold models support single-sided, corner, or three-sided installations. There’s something for everyone under the Dimplex catalog.
Controls, Operation, and User Feel
Both brands include remotes that handle flame settings, heat, timers, and ember bed tones. There are subtle differences between Dimplex vs Napoleon electric fireplace features here, though.
Dimplex units typically provide more granular control of flame layers, brightness levels, and interior lighting. Napoleon tends to keep the interface simple: clear buttons, quick color changes, and predictable presets that are easy to pick up right away.
Neither brand burdens you with complicated menus, which is really nice.
Construction, Materials, and Long-Term Reliability
Dimplex builds heavy fireboxes with solid internal components, especially in the Revillusion and IgniteXL lines. Their projection panels, logs, and water vapor hardware hold up extremely well over time. Napoleon matches them with strong metal housings, durable framing brackets, and thick glass fronts on larger linear units.
This aspect of the Dimplex vs Napoleon electric fireplace comparison is a wash in our experience. Both brands run reliably for years. We stand behind each of these manufacturers; otherwise, we wouldn’t sell them!
Brand Support and Warranties
You’ll have access to a strong warranty with brand support whether you go with a Dimplex vs Napoleon electric fireplace.
Replacement parts for major Dimplex lines (Revillusion, IgniteXL, Optimyst) are easily available. Most models are backed by a 2-year warranty. On the other hand, Napoleon has strong product support in North America and offers a similar 2-year warranty.
From our side, we see consistent warranty handling from both manufacturers, and both brands communicate clearly when customers need service. We said it before, and we’ll say it again - these are brands we’re proud to sell here at The Great Fire Company!
Pricing and Value For the Money
Napoleon typically comes in lower on large linear models, especially in the Entice and Alluravision Deep ranges. You get pretty strong flame colors and large viewing areas without climbing into a premium price tier, with models starting at right around $800. Its most expensive fireplaces, though, are really expensive - we carry models that cost over $18,000.
Dimplex fireplaces are more expensive on the lower end with models starting at $1,250 or so, but you’ll notice their premium-level fireplaces are under $10,000.
Either way, you’ll gain access to the lowest prices on a Dimplex vs Napoleon electric fireplace right here at The Great Fire Company. We have a price-matching policy if you find a better deal. We also offer hassle-free financing so you can get the fireplace you want without stressing.
Bringing Our Dimplex vs Napoleon Fireplace Guide to a Close
This Dimplex vs Napoleon electric fireplace comparison should leave you with a clear understanding of which best suits your preferences and budget.
Dimplex leads the way in lifelike flame systems with water vapor and projection technology that makes a built-in firebox look naturally layered. Napoleon has bold LED flames and wide linear formats that fit cleanly into modern media walls.
Both are exceptional brands, and both are available here at The Great Fire Company for the lowest pricing and best customer service every step of the way.
If you’re still stuck choosing between a Dimplex vs Napoleon fireplace, don’t hesitate to reach out! Tell us about your space and we’ll match you to the right fireplace in minutes.