Our showroom features over 50 electric fireplaces, and our job is to advise clients on the differences. Everyone wants to know ‘Which one is the best?’ When it comes to linear fireplaces, two of our most popular options are the Dimplex Ignite XLF50 vs. Napoleon Alluravision NEFL50CHD.
Quick Comparison: Dimplex Ignite XLF50 vs. Napoleon Alluravision NEFL50CHD
| Dimplex Ignite XLF50 | Napoleon Alluravision NEFL50CHD | |
| Overall size | 51.5” x 16.875” x 5.875” | 52.75” x 17.375” x 5.8125 |
| Installation depth | 3.5” or 5.5” | 6.0625” |
| Flame colours | Yellow | Yellow, orange, blue or combined |
| LED accent lighting | 7 settings under ember media | 6 settings under ember media, plus canopy lighting |
| Standard ember media | Clear crystals | Clear crystals, mirrored crystals, driftwood log set |
| Optional ember media | Driftwood & pebble kit | |
| Voltage | 120 or 240 | 120 or 240 |
| Heat output | 5118 to 8530 BTUs | 5000 to 9000 BTUs |
| Warranty | 2 years; first year Parts & Service; second year Parts Only | 1 year; Parts Only |
| Price | $2099.00 CAD | $1449.00 CAD |
A closer look at Dimplex Ignite XLF50 vs. Napoleon Alluravision NEFL50CHD
The Napoleon Alluravision NEFL50CHD offers a lot of ‘bang for the buck’, so it’s ideal for clients who are on a tight budget. However, the flame effect on the Dimplex Ignite XLF50 makes it one of our top sellers. The reason that the flames are only available in yellow is that Dimplex is focused on providing the most realistic flame possible. This means that it cannot change to blue or violet or deep orange. However, the LED light effects under the ember bed more than makes up for any lack of colour in the flames. You can keep the ember bed turned off, for a natural look, or add one or multiple colours under the dancing flames.
Another area where the Dimplex Ignite XLF50 surpasses the Napoleon Alluravision NEFL50CHD is in the heating options. On paper, both fireplaces have the same heating output. However, the Dimplex heater is more responsive and more flexible, with Eco and Heat Boost options. The Eco feature is meant to save energy, but it has the added bonus of making the fan quieter when you’re watching TV. The Heat Boost function offers maximum output for a limited time, when you need warmth in a hurry.
When it comes to depth, slim is in. The Napoleon Alluravision NEFL50CHD has a skinny cousin, the NEFL50CHS, which is only 4.25” deep. The Dimplex Ignite XLF50 offers an optional trim kit, to allow the unit to be installed into a 2×4 frame, rather than 2×6. The trim kit covers the part of the unit that projects from the wall, for a neat finish. The benefit of this approach is that you don’t sacrifice flame quality in order to fit the fireplace into a 2×4 wall.
Dimplex Ignite XLF50 vs. Napoleon Alluravision NEFL50CHD: And the winner is….
If you’re on a tight budget, go for the Napoleon. If you want the most realistic flames, choose the Dimplex. Either way, you will have a beautiful fireplace that you can enjoy for years.
Stylish Fireplaces & Interiors specializes in electric fireplaces and custom design. Their Toronto-area all-electric showroom features over 50 fireplaces on display, along with the finishing materials for any project. Their expert staff can advise on design and installation. They ship across Canada.