Electric Fireplaces · Head-to-head
PuraFlame Klaus 33" vs Touchstone 80036
Best Insert for an Existing Fireplace
PuraFlame Klaus 33"
6.8/10
$429.99 at Amazon
Check price at Amazon
The short answer
Touchstone 80036 comes out ahead overall with 7.0/10 against 6.8/10 for the PuraFlame Klaus 33". PuraFlame Klaus 33" is stronger on flame realism & ambiance and value. Touchstone 80036 is stronger on installation & fit, controls & features and reliability & build quality. At current verified prices, the PuraFlame Klaus 33" costs about $569.01 less.
- Choose the PuraFlame Klaus 33" if: Homeowners converting an unused masonry fireplace who want the most traditional log-and-brick look.
- Choose the Touchstone 80036 if: Design-focused buyers who want the most flame, ember and media options in a smart linear fireplace and will pay for looks rather than heat.
Scores by criterion
| Criterion | PuraFlame Klaus 33" | Touchstone 80036 |
|---|---|---|
| Flame realism & ambiance | 7.8Rated most realistic by one hands-on tester; capped because there is no second tester, and CR found all tested inserts' flames fake-looking. | 7.2More color and media options than the base Sideline; no hands-on comparison found. |
| Heating performance | 6.5750/1,500 W with thermostat; owners report the thermostat is inconsistent. | 6.5Same 1,500 W / 5,000 BTU heater as the Sideline. |
| Installation & fit | 6.5Existing firebox only; no hardwire option; check the height variant. | 8.3Recessed or wall-mount at 5.5 in deep; plug-in or hardwire. |
| Controls & features | 7.0Remote, thermostat, flame-only mode and crackle sound. | 8.5App, voice, true thermostat, timer and 60 color combinations; on par with the Sideline. |
| Reliability & build quality | 6.0Owners report some heater failures; warranty is unpublished. | 6.5Touchstone build; 1-year warranty, with paid extensions available. |
| Safety & indoor air | 6.0Cool-running glass door; no UL/ETL mark found. | 6.0ETL per Bob Vila only; not shown on the maker page. |
| Value | 6.5$430 live is fair for the look, but well above its roughly $330 low. | 5.0Nearly double the Sideline's price for cosmetic upgrades. |
Specifications
| Spec | PuraFlame Klaus 33" | Touchstone 80036 |
|---|---|---|
| Install type | Fireplace insert (existing firebox) | Recessed or wall-mount linear |
| Width | 33.06 in | 49.75 in |
| Depth | 7.8 in | 5.5 in |
| Max heater power | 1,500 W | 1,500 W |
| Heat output (rated) | — | 5,000 BTU/h |
| Manufacturer-claimed heating area | 400 sq ft | 400 sq ft |
| Heater type | Fan-forced | Fan-forced |
| Adjustable thermostat | Yes | Yes |
| Flame-only mode | Yes | — |
| Wi-Fi / app / voice control | No | Yes |
| Safety listing | — | ETL per Bob Vila only; not stated on Touchstone's page |
| Warranty | — | 1 years |
PuraFlame Klaus 33"
Pros
- Most realistic look according to Bob Vila's tester
- Resin logs, brick interior and glass door
- 750/1,500 W heater with thermostat
- Flame runs without heat
- Recommended by four outlets
Cons
- Owner reports of heater and thermostat failures
- Cannot be hardwired
- Crackle sound isn't very realistic
- No published safety mark
- Listed height varies with trim
The best-looking way to convert a real fireplace, as long as you accept some reliability uncertainty.
Full PuraFlame Klaus 33" review →Touchstone 80036
Pros
- 60 flame and bed color combinations
- Log, driftwood and crystal media
- Wi-Fi with Alexa and Google
- Thermostat with constant-on option
- Recessed or wall-mount
Cons
- Premium price for the same heater as the cheaper Sideline
- Touchstone's page names no safety mark
- Limited independent testing
- 1-year warranty
A design-first choice for buyers who want to customize the look and are paying for appearance rather than warmth.
Full Touchstone 80036 review →Both products are part of our guide The Best Electric Fireplaces of 2026, where you can see every pick, how we score and current prices from each retailer.