A see-through fireplace insert lets you enjoy a fire display from adjoining spaces, but the right choice depends on whether you want electric or natural-gas heat and how you plan to install it. The Napoleon CLEARion 60-inch is best suited to shoppers seeking a built-in, two-sided electric fireplace with listed heat output up to 10,000 BTUs. The Empire Tahoe is a natural-gas option. The other electric models offer useful alternatives, though their supplied details do not confirm a true see-through design.
| Product | Best For | Key Distinction |
|---|---|---|
| Napoleon CLEARion 60-Inch | Built-in, two-sided electric viewing | 120V/240V direct-wire; up to 10,000 BTUs |
| Napoleon Clearion 50-Inch | Adjustable glass privacy | Transparent, semi-transparent, or opaque glass |
| Empire Tahoe Premium 36 | Natural-gas installations | See-through gas fireplace with safety screens |
| LegendFlame 71-Inch | Flexible one-, two-, or three-sided views | Smart controls and configurable viewing |
| EUHOMY 60-Inch | Conventional wall-mounted or recessed electric fireplace | Multiple flame colors; not specified as see-through |
Napoleon CLEARion 60-Inch Built-In Fireplace
Best for: Homeowners looking for a large, built-in electric fireplace that can be viewed from two sides. The product is described as a true two-sided see-through fireplace, making it the clearest match for a room divider or adjoining living spaces.
Its listed installation connects directly to 120V or 240V power, and the stated heat output reaches up to 10,000 BTUs and 3,000 watts. Logs and crystal media are included, and a remote is listed. These features make it a strong option when a two-sided view and substantial listed heat output are priorities.
Limitation: This is a direct-wire built-in unit, not a simple plug-in choice. Confirm the planned opening, electrical requirements, and installation method before purchase.
Napoleon Clearion 50-Inch Wall Mount
Best for: Buyers who want a two-sided electric fireplace with control over how much can be seen through the glass. Its Privacy Glass can switch between transparent, semi-transparent, and fully opaque states, which is useful when the fireplace separates spaces that sometimes need visual privacy.
The listed flame effects include three flame colors, five flame speeds, and 15 ember-bed color options. This range supports varied visual settings, while the adjustable glass is the product’s most distinctive feature for a see-through installation.
Limitation: The supplied features do not state its heat output, electrical connection, or installation dimensions. Check those specifications against the intended location before choosing it over the 60-inch model.
Empire Tahoe Premium 36 See-Through Fireplace
Best for: Shoppers specifically seeking a natural-gas see-through fireplace rather than an electric model. The listed product is a 36-inch clean-face direct-vent fireplace, model DVCP36SP70N, with natural gas as its fuel type.
Two safety barrier screens are included. Choose this model if a gas installation is already part of the project and the product’s direct-vent format suits the home’s plans. It provides a fuel-type alternative to the electric Napoleon options in this selection.
Limitation: This model requires natural gas, so it is not a fit for buyers who need an electric fireplace or do not have a suitable gas setup. Verify venting and installation requirements with the manufacturer or a qualified installer.
LegendFlame 71-Inch Smart Built-In Fireplace
Best for: Buyers who want a wide built-in electric fireplace with a configurable viewing layout. The product can be arranged for one-, two-, or three-sided viewing, including corner configurations. That flexibility may suit a project where a standard two-sided insert is not the preferred layout.
Its overall dimensions are listed as 72 inches wide, 19.5 inches high, and 10.2 inches deep. It includes a remote and supports Alexa and Google Assistant control over Wi-Fi. Listed heater settings are 750W and 1,500W.
Limitation: The listing describes configurable side viewing, but does not explicitly identify the unit as a true see-through fireplace. Confirm that its construction delivers the through-view needed for the intended room layout.
EUHOMY 60-Inch Recessed Electric Fireplace
Best for: Buyers who want a wide electric fireplace for a wall or recessed installation and value customizable flame colors. It offers 12 flame colors, 12 ember-bed colors, five brightness levels, and a cycling color mode. The listed heating options are 750W and 1,500W, with coverage stated for spaces up to 400 square feet.
This model is a practical comparison option if the main goal is a large electric fireplace display rather than a confirmed two-sided view. It also includes a remote, timer, logs, and crystal media according to its product name and features.
Limitation: The supplied product details do not describe a see-through design. Avoid choosing it for a room divider unless the seller confirms that it can be viewed through from both sides.
Buying Guide: How to Choose a See-Through Fireplace Insert
Do you need a true two-sided view?
Check whether the product is explicitly described as see-through or two-sided. A fireplace with one-, two-, or three-sided viewing may offer a different configuration and should not automatically be treated as a true through-view unit. If the fire needs to be visible from adjoining rooms, confirm the glass and installation arrangement before ordering.
Should you choose electric or natural gas?
Electric models avoid the natural-gas fuel requirement, but they still have specific electrical and installation needs. The CLEARion 60-inch lists direct wiring to 120V or 240V. The Empire Tahoe uses natural gas. Compare the listed fuel, power connection, and venting requirements with the project site rather than assuming models install the same way.
What size and installation style fit the opening?
Measure the planned opening and compare it with the product’s overall and visible dimensions when available. Also distinguish between built-in, recessed, and wall-mounted designs. The LegendFlame listing supplies overall dimensions, while the other products may require checking additional specifications before construction begins.
Which display and heat features matter most?
For visual control, compare flame colors, brightness, ember-bed options, and privacy glass. For supplemental warmth, compare the stated wattage or BTU output; these figures are not interchangeable without considering the model’s requirements. Treat a stated room-coverage figure as a product claim and verify whether it suits the room and home layout.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a see-through fireplace insert?
It is a fireplace designed to present a fire view on two sides, often between adjoining rooms. Confirm that a specific model supports a true through-view rather than only a one-sided or corner display.
Is the Napoleon CLEARion 60-inch electric or gas?
It is an electric fireplace. Its listed installation is direct-wire to 120V or 240V power.
Can an electric fireplace provide heat?
Yes. The listed electric models include heating features, but their output and controls differ. Review each product’s stated wattage or BTU information.
Does every product in this list have a see-through design?
No. The Napoleon CLEARion models and Empire Tahoe are identified as see-through. The supplied details for the LegendFlame and EUHOMY do not confirm a true see-through design.
What should I verify before installation?
Confirm dimensions, required electrical or gas connections, venting where applicable, and the desired viewing orientation. Use qualified installation guidance when the project involves direct wiring, gas, or structural changes.