Here’s an overview of the Best Wood Burning that we’ll explore today:
Wood-burning fireplace inserts and their accessories play a pivotal role in modern hearths by improving burning efficiency, heat distribution, and overall ambiance while also offering practical considerations like maintenance and safety. In this comparison, I test and evaluate five distinctly different products that span traditional cast-iron grates, flat-steel grates, and electric log-set inserts to help you decide what best matches your space, budget, and heating needs. My methodology combines a close reading of specifications with practical use-case analysis: assessing build quality, airflow and log-support design, ease of installation or setup, predicted heat delivery, maintenance implications, and value for money at their current prices. Price range coverage from $39.89 to $269.00 reflects a spectrum from budget essentials to more capable, feature-rich options. The lineup includes Luoieo, WILLOW WEAVE, Riseon, Hi Flame, and Legend Flame, highlighting how traditional grate design and modern electric inserts compete in 2025.
1. Fireplace Grate
- Brand: Luoieo
- Manufacturer: Luoieo
Overview: This heavy-duty cast-iron fireplace grate is designed to lift firewood off the fireplace floor and improve airflow underneath the logs. It uses thick welds, 1/2 inch by 1/2 inch square bars with a 3/4 inch diagonal layout, and weighs about 12 pounds (5.5 kg). The 21.8 inch width and 10.4 inch depth (5.5 inch height) position it well for mid-to-large hearths, and Luoieo offers five sizes to fit a wide range of openings. A key benefit is that it’s ready-to-use with no assembly required, and the raised 4-inch clearance beneath logs enhances oxygen flow and ash management. The product is marketed as suitable for indoor and outdoor use, extending its versatility beyond the living room hearth.
Performance-wise, the raised profile improves primary air intake from beneath the logs, which can help sustain a cleaner and more even burn with fewer logs collapsing into the ash bed too early. The cast-iron construction promises durability under repeated high-heat exposure, and the thick welds reduce warping compared with average steel grates. The main caveat is weight and the potential for surface rust if exposed to humidity without proper maintenance. Because this is a non-assembled insert, it’s especially convenient for families who want a straightforward setup and consistent fit in a broad range of fireplace widths.
Pros
- Sturdy cast-iron construction for long-term durability
- Four legs provide stable support and reduce wobble
- Raised 4-inch clearance improves airflow and ash management
- Multiple size options (18, 21, 24, 27, 30 inches) for broad hearth compatibility
- Ready-to-use with no assembly required
Cons
- Heavy compared with steel grates, which may complicate replacement or repositioning
- Cast iron requires dry storage and maintenance to prevent rust
- Non-adjustable gaps may limit log handling for very large or irregular pieces
2. 17“ Fireplace Grates Wood Stove Grate Rack Stove Burning Rack Heavy Duty Solid Steel 7-Bars Firewood Holder Easy Assembly Fire Grate for Indoor Hearth Outdoor Firepit Matt Black
- Brand: WILLOW WEAVE
- Manufacturer: WILLOW WEAVE
Overview: This 17-inch heavy-duty grate uses flat bars (1 inch wide, 5/16 inch thick) made from wrought iron with a powder-coated black finish. It weighs about 10.5 pounds and features seven bars with eight legs, designed to hold logs securely while promoting airflow. Assembly is required using included bolts, tools, and supporting legs. The grate’s compact footprint and flat steel construction emphasize ease of cleaning and a clean aesthetic suitable for many indoor fireplaces, stoves, or even outdoor fires.
Performance-wise, the raised—yet shallow—profile (2.5 inches high, extending to 4 inches overall with legs) maximizes air ingress from underneath while keeping the overall footprint manageable. The seven-bar arrangement and sturdy eight-legged support help prevent logs from tipping and maintain embers for a steady burn. However, at 17 inches wide, it’s best for smaller or mid-sized hearth openings, and some users may prefer a wider grate for larger, longer-burning logs. Assembly is straightforward but adds a step before use.
Pros
- Flat-steel design provides a strong hold on logs
- Good airflow with a 2.5-inch air gap beneath logs
- Short assembly time with included tools and hardware
- Sturdy 8-leg support minimizes deformation
- Appealing powder-coated finish
Cons
- Only 17 inches wide, limiting larger fires
- Assembly required, which may be inconvenient for some
- Not as tall or deep as larger grates for bigger log piles
3. Electric Fireplace Logs 20-Inch
- Brand: Riseon
- Manufacturer: Riseon
Overview: Riseon offers a 20-inch electric fireplace log insert with a 1500W quartz-tube infrared heater and resin birch-appearance logs to simulate a traditional flame. It provides five flame options and five air-speed settings, plus sleep and timer modes and a remote control. The unit is designed for table-top or freestanding use and emphasizes year-round ambiance with supplemental heat. It includes an automatic overheat protection cut-off for safety and operates with minimal noise (≤40 dB).
Performance-wise, the infrared heating can warm a room efficiently in moderate-sized spaces (rated 200–300 square feet). The flame effect can be used independently of heat, offering flexibility in all seasons. Since it’s electric, there are no emissions or chimney requirements, but the heat source depends on electricity availability and may add to utility costs if used extensively. The primary limitation for a true wood-fire experience is the non-real flame and the lack of actual wood combustion—this is a visual heater with supplemental warmth rather than a real wood-burning insert.
Pros
- Up to 1500W of heating for quick room warming
- Realistic resin logs with 5 flame options
- Remote control and timer for convenience
- Overheat protection and quiet operation
- No installation required; plug-and-play
Cons
- Not a real wood-burning insert; relies on electricity
- Heat output may feel insufficient in very large rooms
- Flame effect is cosmetic rather than traditional wood fire
4. HiFlame Fireplace Log Grate Heavy Duty Solid Steel Wood Burning Fire Place Wood Stove Firewood Holder
- Brand: Hi Flame
- Manufacturer: Hi Flame
Overview: HiFlame’s log grate measures 13 by 10 inches and weighs about 9.37 pounds. It’s a solid steel grate intended for wood stoves, fireplaces, or fire pits, featuring gas-shielded welding and heat-resistant paint for durability. It’s a compact, no-fuss grate with a single-shelf design suitable for smaller hearths or portable setups. The product emphasizes rugged all-steel construction and straightforward use.
Performance-wise, the 13×10 inch footprint makes this grate ideal for tighter spaces or insert openings where a smaller burn area is sufficient. The heavy-duty steel construction and gas-shielded welds suggest strong resistance to high temperatures and long-term stability. A downside in practical terms is its limited log capacity due to the compact size, which may require more frequent reloads for longer fires. It also offers no adjustable features, so use-case flexibility is limited to standard burning.
Pros
- Compact footprint fits small fireplaces and stoves
- Rugged all-steel construction with gas-shielded welding
- Heat-resistant paint enhances longevity
- Low-profile design for versatile placement
- No assembly required
Cons
- Limited log capacity due to small 13×10 size
- No adjustable features or height customization
- Not ideal for larger fires or open-hearth use
5. LegendFlame 25″ W Free Standing Electric Fireplace Log Set (EF484)
- Brand: Legend Flame
- Manufacturer: Legend Flame
Overview: LegendFlame’s EF484 is a large 25-inch freestanding electric log set designed to drop into an existing opening or cabinet. It delivers up to 1500W (5000 BTU) of heat with LED flame effects and a realistic ember bed. It’s designed for easy installation, operating on standard 120V power, and includes a remote control. With a 25-inch width and 20-inch height, it suits larger openings and spaces, offering a strong visual impact and solid heat for many living areas.
Performance-wise, the EF484 is capable of heating spaces up to about 400 square feet, making it one of the more capable electric options in this list. The LED flame is energy-efficient and allows year-round use with or without heat, which is a plus for apartments or rooms with seasonal usage. It’s CSA certified and comes with a remote, but it is a premium-priced unit. The main considerations are its reliance on electricity (no wood burning) and the need for a properly sized opening to maximize visual impact.
Pros
- Large footprint with strong visual appeal
- Powerful heating option (up to 1500W / 5000 BTU)
- Realistic LED flame with ember bed and remote
- Easy freestanding installation; suited for existing openings
- CSA certified and year-long use with or without heat
Cons
- Premium price point at $269.00
- Not a wood-burning insert; requires electrical power
- Requires adequate opening size for optimal display
Frequently Asked Questions
We’ve compiled answers to the most common questions about wood burnings to help you make an informed decision.
Conclusion
Final thoughts: For budget, solid mid-size open-flame performance, Luoieo and HiFlame gratings are compelling with proven cast-iron or steel builds.
For smaller openings or a quick upgrade, Willow Weave offers good airflow and straightforward setup.
If you want year-round ambiance with clean operation and don’t need real wood burning, Riseon and LegendFlame EF484 present top-tier electric options, with EF484 delivering the most heat and the largest visual footprint among the reviewed units. Choose based on whether authentic wood heat, ease of installation, or electric ambiance best fits your home and lifestyle..