This is so cute! I like that I can have the "fire" going with or without heat. The unit is not noisy; more of a comforting whirr, which I can't hear at all when the tv is on. My refrigerator is louder  than the fireplace. It is simple to switch out the logs for the crystals. The crystals are individual stones but they somehow don't look real when the fire is going. They do sparkle though! This was an "I'm bored let's order something online" purchase but there is no buyer's remorse! I'm very happy with this fireplace.