Dimplex Ignite XL vs Evolve vs Ultra: The Three Linear Series Compared

Short answer: All three Dimplex Ignite linear series have the same heater, so choose by wall depth, fire effect and budget. The Ignite XL is the slim, lower-priced option. The Ignite Evolve is the same slim depth with more flame and ember options, app control and log media included. The Ignite Ultra is a deeper, taller fireplace with glowing logs, sound, and corner or bay installs.

Side-by-side at 60 inches

Ignite XL 60 Ignite Evolve 60 Ignite Ultra 60
Depth 5 7/8 in. 5 3/4 in. 14 1/2 in.
Framing depth 5 1/2 in. flush 5 1/2 in. flush 15 in.
Product height 15 5/8 in. 16 1/2 in. 27 1/2 in.
Viewing height 12 1/8 in. about 12 in. 16 15/16 in.
Heater 1,500 W on 120 V or 2,500 W on 240 V, on all three
Media included Acrylic ice embers Driftwood logs and tumbled glass Glowing logs and tumbled glass
Sound No No Crackling fire sound
Install Front-facing Front-facing Front, corner or bay
Approved locations Indoor and covered outdoor Indoor and covered outdoor Indoor only
Sizes 50, 60, 74, 100 in. 50, 60, 74, 100 in. 50, 60, 74, 88, 100 in.
Price at 60 in. $3,399.99 $4,029.99 $5,449.99

Specifications from Dimplex's published data for each model. Prices as of October 2026.

1. Start with the wall

The XL and the Evolve are both under 6 in. deep. They sit flush in a wall with 5 1/2 in. of framing depth, which means 2x6 studs, or they recess partly into a 2x4 wall with a trim kit. The Ultra needs a 15 in. deep cavity, so it belongs in a chase, a bump-out or a deep media wall. If you cannot build that depth, the choice is between the XL and the Evolve. Our planning guide covers the slim installs.

2. Then the fire

Ignite XL: a clean, edge-to-edge linear flame over clear acrylic embers. A driftwood and river rock kit is optional.

Ignite Evolve: more to adjust, with seven flame color themes, eight ember bed themes and five flame speeds, plus driftwood logs and tumbled glass in the box and control from the Dimplex app.

Ignite Ultra: a taller viewing area, a mirrored back for depth, logs that glow in time with the flames, nine flame color themes and crackling sound. It is the most fireplace-like of the three.

3. Heat is not a reason to pay more

Every model here has the same heater: 1,500 W on a 120 V circuit, 2,500 W at 240 V. A wider or more expensive unit does not heat more. See our electrical requirements guide.

4. Where it is going

The XL and the Evolve are approved for covered outdoor locations as well as indoors, with a shorter one-year warranty outdoors. The Ultra is indoor only. For a corner or a three-sided bay, only the Ultra does it in this group; the separate Ignite XL Bold is the slim-family option for three-sided viewing.

Which should you choose?

  • Ignite XL if you want a slim linear fireplace at the lowest price. Read the Ignite XL 74 review or see the XL 60.
  • Ignite Evolve if you want the slim depth with logs, more color control and the app. Read the Evolve 50 review or see the Evolve 60.
  • Ignite Ultra if the fire effect comes first and you can build a deep wall. Read the Ultra 60 review or see the Ultra 60.

Frequently asked questions

Which Ignite gives the most heat?

None. All three use the same 1,500 W / 2,500 W heater.

Which fits a standard stud wall?

The XL and the Evolve, partly recessed in a 2x4 wall with a trim kit or flush in a 2x6 wall. The Ultra needs 15 in. of depth.

Which can go on a covered patio?

The XL and the Evolve. The Ultra is indoor only.

Is the Ultra worth the extra money?

If you want glowing logs, sound, a taller fire and corner or bay options, yes. If you want a clean linear flame under a TV, the XL or Evolve does that for much less.

Not sure which suits your wall? Send us the wall depth and width and we will recommend one. Call 877-879-9191 or contact us.

Sources: Dimplex published specifications for the Ignite XL, Ignite Evolve and Ignite Ultra. Electrical codes vary by jurisdiction. This article does not replace the manufacturer instructions or a licensed electrician.