Modern Flames Orion Multi vs. Slim vs. Traditional - Which is for You?

So you’ve found that the Orion Series electric fireplaces are top in the market and you're thinking about getting one. Maybe you’re not sure which one is right for you?

After reading this article you will understand the key differences so that you can choose the option that’s best for you. We will cover the features that are the same, main differences, and the nuances of each unit to help you make the most informed decision possible.

If you’re not sold on the Orion Series electric fireplaces, we will also make some recommendations on some other fireplaces that you will want to take a look at.

Let’s get started!

What’s the Same Between the Three?

The Orion Flame Technology

First, it’s important to note that Modern Flames is doing something that nobody else is currently doing in the electric fireplace market. They are using their HELIOVISION multi-dimensional flame pattern which displays flames virtually on a high definition screen.

They actually built a fire and had a movie studio record footage of it. That footage is what is displayed on the fireplace. When you turn on a Modern Flames Orion electric fireplace you are actually looking at the recording of a real fire giving it a very realistic appearance.

This flame technology is the exact same in all three of the Orion Series models.

Flame Features

All three models have the same flame features:

• 6 Flame Colors
• 10 Ember and Downlighting Colors
• Ambient Crackle Sounds
• 3 Flame Speeds
• 5 Flame Intensity (Brightness) Setting

Wifi-Enabled with App Control

You can use the Modern Flames App on all three models to control all of the settings on the unit. You can even program custom color combinations to display at scheduled times. The app gives you the ability to customize further than just using the remote.

Both include Logs and Glass Media

Each unit comes with Western Driftwoods Logs and Black Glass Media to enhance the appearance of the flames. The log set on the Traditional is a little different than those on the Multi or Slim, but we will cover the difference in a little bit.

Warranty

Modern Flames puts extra care into ensuring that you receive a product that is going to last. They back their products with a 5-year warranty and have technicians available by phone to troubleshoot any technical issues you may experience. 

What’s Different Between the Three?

The Modern, Linear vs. Traditional Look

Multi & Slim

These models are more modern in appearance with a slim profile and long, linear build. The log set on these models is slimmer show casing more of the included glass media which can give your space a more contemporary look.

Traditional

The Traditional comes with a one-piece LED log set that that looks more like a pile of burning logs. The flames are also closer together to give the appearance a blazing fire like you would see in a traditional fireplace.

You’ll first want to consider what kind of space you want to create and then decide which look you like better. From there you can check out the specifications to make sure your preference will work for your space!

At this point you probably have a preference between for either the Multi and Slim or the Traditional. We will mostly be comparing the Multi vs. Slim from here, but we will discuss the pros and cons of the Traditional as well.

Sizes & Installation

Which unit is right for you will depend on the look you want to achieve, but it will also depend on the layout of your home and whether or not the electric fireplace will fit into your desired space.

Let’s take a quick look at the dimensional specs for these three units and their installation options.

Built-in Installation: Orion Multi vs. Orion Slim vs. Orion Traditional

Multi & Slim

Each of these units can be either built-in or wall-mounted.

If you want to install your unit as a built-in, choosing between the Multi and Slim will come down to the available space you have and the style of installation.

The Multi has a depth of over 9” meaning you will need a large wall or custom framing to house the unit whereas the Slim has a depth of 6.31” and can be recessed into a 2”x6” wall.

The biggest difference between the Multi and Slim is that the Multi has three-sided glass and the Slim has only one glass face. The three-sided glass allows you to install the unit as a bay-view with all three sides showing, or on a corner wall with two sides showing. This can help you achieve a truly custom and elegant look in your space.

Another reason you may choose the Multi over the Slim is if you want to achieve a clean-face built-in installation. This means that the glass of the fireplace is flush with the wall. The Slim cannot be installed flush and will have a slight bevel of about a half inch for the frame.

Traditional

Unlike the other two units, the Traditional cannot be wall-mounted. It can be inserted into an existing fireplace which is a huge benefit because it makes for an easy installation.

With the Traditional you have the option to purchase the Surround for the Orion Traditional Insert allowing you to slide the fireplace into an existing opening and cover the gap between the opening and the fireplace.

This helps you achieve a clean finished look without having to build out the framing to finish it!

Wall-Mounted Installation: Orion Multi vs. Orion Slim

Multi & Slim

You can install either of these units wall-mounted, but you will want to take into account the depth of each. The Multi comes in at a 9.8” while the Slim comes in at a 6.31” depth.

The smaller profile of the Slim works better as a wall-mounted install than the Multi for some, while others still like the look of three-sided glass on the wall. With the Multi you have the option to purchase the Floating Mantel Set that beautifully accompanies a wall-mounted install.

The mantel set comes in ready to finish for custom paint, weathered walnut, coastal sand, or driftwood gray.

Traditional

The Traditional is a built-in or insert install only. This unit cannot be wall-mounted.

Heat Output

Multi

The Multi can put out 5,000 - 10,000 BTU’s. The Multi has the highest capability for heat output, but how much of it you can use depends on your installation. You can only get 10,000 BTU’s if you hard-wire the unit.

Slim

The Slim only puts out 5,000 BTU’s. This is about the standard on most electric fireplaces.

Traditional

The Traditional can produce 5,000 - 8,300 BTU’s. It can give you a little more heat output than the Slim, but just like the Multi it has to be hard-wired in to achieve the 8,300 BTU's.

Price

Budget is another factor that will play into deciding if one of these units is right for you. The Orion Series is arguably the best electric fireplace out there. However, it’s also the most expensive electric fireplace out there. The price tag depends on the size and comes in at:

Multi

$5,499 - $12,999

Slim

$4,499 - $7,999

Traditional

$2,249 - $5,999

If you want realistic flames but the price of the Orion Series is more than you want to spend check out our collection of Realistic Electric Fireplaces. 

We also recommend looking at the Dimplex IgniteXL Bold. This fireplace is often compared to the Modern Flames Orion Series. It has very similar features and flame appearance with pricing ranging from $3,699 - $5,499.

Conclusion: Modern Flames Orion Multi vs. Slim vs. Traditional

The Orion Series by Modern Flames is one of the best electric fireplaces on the market and is currently the best virtual electric fireplace out there. It has what we believe are the most realistic flames for an electric fireplace.

So which one is right for you?

ORION MULTI - Go with the Multi if you:

• Modern/elegant look
• Want multiple sides of glass showing
• Want to do a clean-face/flush install
• Want to wall mount with the floating mantel set
• Need more heat
• Need a 120” linear fireplace

ORION SLIM - Go with the Slim if you:

• Modern/elegant look
• Want to wall-mount with a slimmer profile
• Need to recess into a 2”x6” wall
• Want flames appearing closer to the glass

ORION TRADITIONAL - Go with the Traditional if you:

• Want a traditional shape and look
• Want to install insert
• Like a beefier log set

One isn't better than the other and ultimately the choosing between the models comes down to your preference. Whichever you choose, we think you’ll be happy with your purchase!