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Even though you (probably) only bring out your holiday tree once a year, choosing one of the best artificial Christmas trees for your home will feel good all year round. If you’re already committed to the faux lifestyle or are just dipping your toes in, the perfect tree is out there for you and your priorities. Maybe you want something bold and full of personality (we’ve got a pink option below just for that crew!). Perhaps you’re looking to go classic, with a full lighting system included. Whatever you choose, there’s a good chance that once you go faux, you’re never going back to the real deal. There’s no watering involved, clean-up is a breeze, and they’re usually pretty easy to store in the off-season.
Our Top Picks
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Whether you deck yours out like the iconic Rockefeller tree in New York or you’re looking for something simple to match your favorite wreaths, upgrade last year’s look and invest in some new Christmas decor that’ll last a lifetime.
Best Overall Tree
Specs
- Diameter: 60"
- Weight: 63 pounds
- Branch tips: 3,272
- Additional heights: 5.5', 6.5', 9', 10', and 12'
- Warranty: 3 years
Lighting
- Light type: LED
- Light count: 1,180
- Additional lighting options: Unlit, clear, Twinkly, multicolor, and candlelight clear
This big, beautiful tree is inspired by the Fraser Fir. Known for its rich, dark green coloring and full silhouette, this tree is native to the Appalachian Mountains and has the distinction of being the type of tree most often used as the official White House Christmas tree.
To be honest, we can’t tell the difference between Balsam Hill’s faux version and the real thing. BH's impressive “true needle” foliage features 40 variations of branch types throughout and the effect is incredibly realistic.
The tree is available just about any height and light variation you could want, all of which feature an easy plug system. Easy plug trees have all the light strands plugged into the center pole, so all you have to do is place the three sections together and plug the tree into an outlet. There’s no need to ever unplug or take off any light strands.
The style pictured above is “color + clear,” which allows you to switch between multicolored lights and white lights via remote. For pre-lit trees with a single lighting style, there is an attached foot pedal to turn the lights on and off. The Twinkly light style features built-in app-controlled smart lights from Twinkly.
Reviewer: Divya Viswanathan, VP, commerce portfolio lead
- How easy was it to assemble your tree (scale of 1-10, 10 being the easiest)? 9
- What was the quality of the tree packaging? Will you be able to store your tree for future years? The tree arrived easily and without issue. I’ve just received it and haven’t needed to dismantle and store it yet, but I’d rate the quality of the packaging as a 7.
- How long did it take to fluff and prepare your tree? Did you see a lot of needle loss in the process? Very easy. It took less than five minutes from start to finish and I didn’t notice any needle loss. As a mom, I appreciate the easy setup–no fuss, no mess.
- Did your tree come with lights or decor? If so, how easy was it to install? (scale of 1-10, 10 being the easiest) Yes, the tree came with pre-installed lights, which were very easy. I’d give it a 9!
- Did your tree live up to your expectations and was the size accurate?
Yes. I’m totally obsessed with real Fraser Christmas trees, and let me tell you, this one blew me away. And can we talk about how full and perfectly shaped it is? It’s like the Christmas tree of my dreams. Plus, no stressing about overwatering or my kids making a mess. It’s a game-changer for our holiday setup, especially in our apartment with its unpredictable temperatures. So glad I went for it! - How full is the tree (scale of 1-10, 10 being the fullest) 8
- How realistic is the tree? (on a scale of 1-10, with 10 being the most realistic)? 9
Best Budget Tree
Specs
- Diameter: 59"
- Weight: 38 pounds
- Branch tips: 1,867
- Warranty: 5 years
- Additional heights: not available
Lighting
- Light type: LED
- Light count: N/A
This beauty looks like it was plucked right off the tree farm, but all you have to do is just pull it out of the box. Speaking of, let your tree breathe for a day or two after you take it out of the box. That way, the branches can fluff up on their own before you decorate the tree. The tree features hinged branches, making setup and teardown straightforward (just push each hinge down and pop into a storage bag). If you’re looking for a large tree, and a full tree but don’t want to spend a fortune, this is a good, solid pick from The National Tree Company. The National Tree Company has been making holiday trees and decorations for more than 60 years, and they have plenty more styles to choose from on Amazon and Wayfair.
Reviewer: DaVonne Bacchus, contributor
- How easy was it to assemble your tree (on a scale of 1-10, with 10 being the easiest)? 8
- What was the quality of the tree packaging? Will you be able to store your tree for future years? The tree came in a large rectangular shipping box in three unfluffed sections with a metal base, no bag or cover. The box will be of no use for future storage, luckily I own a tree storage bag I purchased years back which will come in handy when it’s time for it to be taken down post holidays. I must add, once delivered to my doorstep, I had to ask for assistance from a neighbor to help bring the heavy box up a flight of stairs.
- How long did it take to fluff and prepare your tree? Did you see a lot of needle loss in the process? The process of fluffing the tree took roughly an hour with a few breaks in between to rest my arms—a nice arm workout! I started from the bottom, opening up each branch, making my way up the three labeled sections. The top was a bit difficult to reach, as I am 5’ 5” and it’s a 7.5’ tall tree. My handy step ladder came of great use! Overall, the process was a clean one. I saw no needle loss. Next time I’d maybe consider having a few friends over to help fluff and decorate. If you have kids, it might be a fun task though it will be repetitive.
- Did your tree come with lights or decor? If so, how easy was it to install? (on a scale of 1-10, with 10 being the easiest)? 8. The tree came with no lights or decor and was easy to install. The bottom section was a bit on the heavier side, I’d take that into consideration if installing solo.
- Did your tree live up to your expectations and was the size accurate? Yes, it’s fluffed and tall, I love the finished product. I have high ceilings with a spacious living room—making it the perfect addition for my space. If you are in a smaller space, keep in mind, it will take up a lot of room!
- How full is the tree (scale of 1-10, with 10 being the fullest)? On a fluff scale, I'd rate the tree an 8! There are some gaps that I will fill in with ornaments and lights.
- How realistic is the tree? (on a scale of 1-10, with 10 being the most realistic)? I’m going to rate the tree an 8 on a scale of realistic appearance. This is predominantly due to the metal base. I will spruce it up with a round tree skirt and of course many presents!
Best Dunhill Fir
Specs
- Diameter: 53"
- Weight: 32 pounds
- Branch tips: 1,838
- Warranty: 2 years for the lights; 5 years for the tree
Lighting
- Light type: LED
- Light count: 500
- Additional lighting options: Color changing, pulsing
Like a real-life Douglas Fir, this faux tree is designed to have a darker hue than other evergreens. Its needles are also longer and flatter than other evergreen varieties, growing out on either side of each branch rather than all the way around it.
Reviewer: Stewart Savin, senior SEO analyst
- How easy was it to assemble your tree (scale of 1-10, 10 being the easiest)? I would give my tree an 8. You just stack the three pieces on top of each other using the center pole, let the branches fall into place (they’re on hinges), and plug the lights into each other. The most difficult part was tracking down the beginning and end of each cord and wrangling the three giant pieces.
- What was the quality of the tree packaging? Will you be able to store your tree for future years? My tree came in a large cardboard box and had no damage upon arrival. That said, there’s no chance I could have compressed the tree back into that box so I purchased a handy tree storage bag on Amazon for under $15.
- How long did it take to fluff and prepare your tree? Did you see a lot of needle loss in the process? Fluffing this tree was a process because of how compressed it was in transit. Each hinged branch has three smaller branches built with wire so you can bend them away from one another. Then each of those has all of the individual pine needle branches that can also be bent in any direction. I started from the bottom and worked up going inside to outside, basically just sticking the pine branches adjacent to the larger wire branch. I did each of these one by one but it wasn’t hard to fill out the tree since there were so many! Throughout the whole process I probably only lost two or three needles which was a pleasant surprise. I’d say it took me five hours over the course of a few days but I’m hopeful next year will be easier since I won’t fully compress the tree when I put it away for the season. A pro tip is to wear long sleeves and gloves while doing this as my skin did become irritated and I had a few scratches by the end!
- Did your tree come with lights or decor? If so, how easy was it to install? (On a scale of 1-10, with 10 being the easiest)? I’m going with a 9. My tree was fully lit, none of the lights were out or broken, and connecting them wasn’t all that difficult.
- Did your tree live up to your expectations and was the size accurate? Yes! It was wider than I expected because I was paying more attention to the height when I purchased it. It looks so grand and thankfully, fits in my space just right.
- How full is the tree (on a scale of 1-10, with 10 being the fullest)? I’m going with a 7 because I grew up with real trees at my parent’s so I can tell a difference with this one. That said, I just filled in the gaps with plenty of ornaments.
- How realistic is the tree? (on a scale of 1-10, with 10 being the most realistic)? I'd give it a 10, except for the base. The tips of the branches have more realistic needles and they become straighter the closer they are to the center pole. The only thing that makes it look unrealistic is the base, which can be covered with a tree skirt or a base cover that mimics real wood.
Best Alpine Fir
Specs
- Diameter: 61"
- Weight: N/A
- Branch tips: 3,327
- Additional heights: 7.5', 8', 9'
- Warranty: 2 years
Lighting
- Light type: LED
- Light count: 900
- Additional lighting options: 8 Lighting Modes, Timer, and Dimming Function
King of Christmas is a holiday-focused brand in the business of memory-making, with a vast inventory of artificial trees, garlands, and decorations to get your home in the Christmas spirit. The brand provides helpful written guides on assembling, shaping, and storing your tree, as well as video tutorials for a more visual learning experience. King of Christmas also donates thousands of trees to underprivileged families and communities impacted by natural disasters each year. The brand’s pre-lit Alpine Fir, a species native to Washington state, feels like spending the holidays in the Pacific Northwest, and allows you to enjoy festive vibes minus the maintenance. While pricing leans on the higher end, each faux tree is handcrafted to mirror the distinct shape, color, and growth pattern of real branches.
Reviewer: Pujah Shah, global director of audience development, analytics & social
- How easy was it to assemble your tree (scale of 1-10, 10 being the easiest)? This tree was a 10/10 to assemble—I put it together solo while my two-year-old was “helping.” No sweating, no tears, and zero tangled light strings, which is basically a Christmas miracle in this house!
- What was the quality of the tree packaging? Will you be able to store your tree for future years? A+ on packaging. The packaging was solid: thick box, secure compartments, and it comes with a zippered storage bag that actually fits the entire tree, even after it’s been fluffed.
- How long did it take to fluff and prepare your tree? Did you see a lot of needle loss in the process? Fluffing took me about an hour, mostly because the branches are a little on the firm and slightly prickly side (I’d definitely recommend wearing gloves). I started from the bottom and made my way up the lettered sections. I had to circle the tree a couple of times to get the shape just right, but once everything was spread out, it looked full and sculptural. Needle loss was basically nonexistent—just a few strays.
- Did your tree come with lights or decor? If so, how easy was it to install? (On a scale of 1-10, with 10 being the easiest)? This tree comes pre-lit with 900 warm white LEDs, all routed through the convenient “power pole” system, so you don’t have to wrestle with cords or string lights manually. That said, I ran into an issue where the top section of lights wouldn’t turn on, even after checking plugs and inspecting for loose or broken bulbs. No obvious wire damage, so it’s still under investigation. Fingers crossed it’s an easy fix.
- Did your tree live up to your expectations and was the size accurate? Absolutely. I wanted something tall, sleek, and a little bit dramatic that felt intentional in a modern space but still cozy enough for family chaos. It nails both. It’s tall but not overwhelming, and once decorated, it became the star of our open foyer space.
- How full is the tree (on a scale of 1-10, with 10 being the fullest)? I’d say 7.5/10. It’s not as full as that “mall Santa backdrop” you might have in mind, but it has an intentionally airy, editorial kind of look. It gives my ornaments room to breathe and makes the tree feel designed, not stuffed.
- How realistic is the tree? (on a scale of 1-10, with 10 being the most realistic)? A strong 8/10. Up close, you’ll know it’s faux, but from across the room, it looks beautifully real.
Best Thin Christmas Tree
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Specs
- Diameter: 30"
- Weight: 15.6 pounds
- Branch tips: 641
- Warranty: 3 years
- Additional heights: 6', 9', and 12'
Lighting
- Light type: LED
- Light count: 350
- Additional lighting options: Clear
This skinny tree is perfect for a small space. It can tuck into a corner without overpowering the room. With flocking, an abundance of branches, and nine light patterns, it’s not surprising that this festive though not very realistic tree has earned more than 2,800 5-star reviews on Amazon.
Reviewer: Kristi Kellogg, contributor
- How easy was it to assemble your tree (scale of 1-10, 10 being the easiest)? 10. It was a straightforward affair that came in four sections that stacked together.
- What was the quality of the tree packaging? Will you be able to store your tree for future years? It came double-boxed. I will keep the interior box for storage. It’s just a brown cardboard box (nothing special), but should definitely work to safely stow a tree.
- How long did it take to fluff and prepare your tree? Did you see a lot of needle loss in the process? This took about twenty minutes. The tree came with helpful instructions that guided you to fluff from the interior branches out the outermost branches. That, of course, makes sense, and that's what we did. Almost every branch needed to be fluffed up, which was a lot on the 9' tree (which is what I ordered). There was no needle loss, but there was a lot of flocking that flaked off during the set up—but nothing my robo-vac couldn’t handle!
- Did your tree come with lights or decor? If so, how easy was it to install? (On a scale of 1-10, with 10 being the easiest)? Yes! It came with pre-strung lights, but you had to string each of the four sections together. It was not complicated, though, and each connector had a tag attached to it so they were all easy to spot. I'd give it a 10 for ease.
- Did your tree live up to your expectations and was the size accurate? I chose this tree because it was the perfect size to fit in our stairwell, and it lived up to the expectations. The 9' version is a relatively slim 33 inches around, so it’s perfect for an area that's small in diameter but has room for something with a lot of height (like an alcove next to a staircase). I’m very pleased with how it looks. The colored lights are cheerful and fun and can also be switched to white if you want to keep it classy.
- How full is the tree (on a scale of 1-10, with 10 being the fullest)? 9. It’s very dense and packed with branches.
- How realistic is the tree? (on a scale of 1-10, with 10 being the most realistic)?
I wouldn’t say the tree is meant to look particularly realistic, but I’m giving it an 8 because it’s very pretty and very generously flocked.
Best Blue Spruce Tree
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Specs
- Diameter: 60"
- Weight: 53 pounds
- Branch tips: 2,960
- Warranty: 3 years
- Additional heights: 4.5', 5.5', 6.5', 9', 10', 12', and 15'
Lighting
- Light type: LED
- Light count: 1,000
- Additional lighting options: Unlit, clear, color + clear, and Twinkly
Another one of the prettiest pre-lit Christmas trees is this Blue Spruce. The full foliage on this fake tree includes realistic needles in blue-green and silvery hues paired with light brown stems, just like an authentic Blue Spruce. Like all Balsam Hill trees, it comes with an off-season storage bag, protective gloves to use while shaping the tree branches, and extra bulbs.
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Reviewer: Andrea Lewis, contributor
- How easy was it to assemble your tree (scale of 1-10, 10 being the easiest)? Our family absolutely loves this tree! It has such a classic, cozy, and grand feel that beautifully brought the Christmas spirit to my brother's home. Assembly was pretty straightforward—I’d rate it a 7 on ease.
- What was the quality of the tree packaging? Will you be able to store your tree for future years? While it did take two of us to manage the height and width, the process was still smooth, and all the parts felt sturdy and well-made. Plus, with the durable storage bag they included, everything fit neatly back inside once the holidays were over—no hassle, just easy cleanup for next year!
- How long did it take to fluff and prepare your tree? Did you see a lot of needle loss in the process? Overall it took about 20 minutes to completely set up. The best part? No mess. This year, I didn’t have to worry about cleaning up pine needles! It was the perfect solution for our busy adult family, who just wanted to enjoy the holiday season without the inconvenience of picking out a live tree or having to dispose of it afterward. The tree really did live up to my expectations and felt like the perfect size.
- Did your tree come with lights or decor? If so, how easy was it to install? (On a scale of 1-10, with 10 being the easiest)? The tree came with warm lights that generously illuminate and were a breeze to set up. I'd give the light installation a solid 10 for ease.
- Did your tree live up to your expectations and was the size accurate? The tree really did live up to my expectations and felt like the perfect size. Beyond being regal, this tree is also a sustainable choice, which we loved. It felt sturdy and well-made, and I’m confident we’ll be using it for many Christmases to come. Overall, it was a lovely addition to our holiday traditions—elegant, easy to manage, and it captured that cozy, Christmas air perfectly.
- How full is the tree (on a scale of 1-10, with 10 being the fullest)? The fullness was also impressive—I’d rate it an 8—and the overall look was very realistic, another 8 there.
- How realistic is the tree? (on a scale of 1-10, with 10 being the most realistic)? 9
Most Affordable Flocked Tree
Specs
- Diameter: 47.2"
- Weight: 21.74 pounds
- Branch tips: 820
- Additional heights: 4.5', 6', 7.5’, 9', and 12'
- Warranty: N/A
Lighting
- Light type: Incandescent warm white
- Light count: 250
- Additional lighting options: N/A
Another tried and true, super affordable option straight from Amazon. We appreciate our contributor Brie Schwartz’s approach to the fake tree game. Instead of spending big bucks going for a super realistic tree, she aims for over-the-top flocking and lots of lights to lean into the fact that she prefers the faux variety (and to have her tree up for as long as humanly possible for the season). Go big or go home, right? If Schwartz’s approach rings true to you, too, this might be the perfect tree for your household.
Reviewer: Brie Schwartz, commerce director Glamour
- How easy was it to assemble your tree (scale of 1-10, 10 being the easiest)? 8. I grew up with fake trees (my family has always been a proponent of getting them up very early which means the living variety is a no go). Over my past 40 christmases (or at least the ones I was old enough to participate in the painstaking process of assembling), this tree, which I bought after reading some positive Amazon reviews three years ago, has been one of the simplest to assemble. (We’ve come a long way from the color-coded branches of my youth). There are only three parts: a base, a middle, and a top section. No instructions are needed. You basically just align the holes and then tighten the screws. I wouldn’t say I have the strongest hands and they’re on the small side, but I’ve never had any issues with this tree in the way that I have others (sometimes the keys are impossible to budge).
- What was the quality of the tree packaging? Will you be able to store your tree for future years? The package was a run of the mill cardboard box that I promptly discarded in favor of storing my tree in plastic garbage bags through the years. (I find it’s easier to smush the branches down and store them in parts since I live in a relatively small NYC apartment).
- How long did it take to fluff and prepare your tree? Did you see a lot of needle loss in the process? It takes about 30 minutes to fluff and prepare, and frankly, I’m always tinkering with the branches (once the ornaments are on, you’ll of course need to rearrange accordingly). It does shed a lot initially with plastic needles all over the floor, but once everything is in its place, and you do a vacuum, there’s minimum needle loss from then on. I do see one or two trickle down at night when I plug the tree in though or adjust an ornament, but it’s negligible.
- Did your tree come with lights or decor? If so, how easy was it to install? (scale of 1-10, 10 being the easiest) The tree is pre-light and super simple to assemble. The key is simply to make sure the wires are aligned in the back so there’s nothing unsightly upfront. Also, again, I’ve had the three for three years and I’ve yet to need to replace a bulb–knock on…fir.
- Did your tree live up to your expectations and was the size accurate? The tree looks as it does in its photos, and even better in person (the pictures online don’t do the width at the base justice–it’s not a pencil tree, if that’s what you’re going for). Since I’ve had this tree, it’s endured multiple trips in a trunk (in garbage bags) back and forth from my in-laws house where it was stored in a closet, and also recently, in a storage space where it was not-so-gently thrown about. It’s a sturdy tree that has incurred tons of banging over the years, and it still looks as good and fluffy as new. One thing to note though is that there is a strong chemical odor initially that makes you want to sneeze (as is often the case with cheap, flocked trees). But I did get over it quickly, and after a proper vacuum. Hanging incense stems on it also helped. After a day I didn’t notice the smell, or perhaps it just aired out.
- How full is the tree (scale of 1-10, 10 being the fullest) 7. It’s pretty full but there are some gaps between branches.
- How realistic is the tree? (on a scale of 1-10, with 10 being the most realistic)? It’s very difficult to find cheap artificial trees that look totally real and are under $150, so in the past few years, I’ve been opting for flocked trees since they’re not supposed to actually appear to be something you’d find in the forest. As far as intentionally “costume” snow covered trees goes, I’d say this is about a 7. It looks lush in one my one-bedroom apartment, and again, since it doesn’t necessarily have to look like something that occurs in nature, I think it feels more luxe.
Best Under-$100 Tree
Specs
- Diameter: 43.3"
- Weight: 10.47 pounds
- Branch tips: 1,346
- Additional heights: 4.5', 6', 7.5’, and 9'
- Warranty: N/A
Lighting
- Light type: N/A
- Light count: N/A
Let us set expectations here: For a tree that’s under $100, you are probably not going to find the highest quality option for your Christmas tree. That said, we wanted to put one to the test to see how it held up in person. If you are looking to prioritize price over super realism, we think this option makes a lot of sense.
Reviewer: Lauren Arzbaecher, commerce producer
- How easy was it to assemble your tree (scale of 1-10, 10 being the easiest)? 8
- What was the quality of the tree packaging? Will you be able to store your tree for future years? The tree came unwrapped in the cardboard shipping box, but everything was secure inside. Although the branches flatten to fit back inside the box, to properly store the tree securely I think I’ll need to buy a separate storage bag, as the box had some dings from the shipping process.
- How long did it take to fluff and prepare your tree? Did you see a lot of needle loss in the process? It took about 45 minutes to set up the tree, the majority of that time being spent on fluffing out the branches. I noticed a good amount of needle loss during the process, though the branches didn’t look barren because of it.
- Did your tree come with lights or decor? If so, how easy was it to install? (scale of 1-10, 10 being the easiest) No, the tree came unlit.
- Did your tree live up to your expectations and was the size accurate? I’m fairly new to artificial trees, having grown up with a freshly cut tree each Christmas in my family’s home and not having had much space to decorate in apartments since. So it’s safe to say my expectations were pretty low in something artificial measuring up to the real thing. For under $100, this option is nice enough if you’re looking to get a larger tree on a budget, but I wouldn’t say it’s realistic. Up close, the look of the branches on this tree read less like needles and more like green fringe, having square edges rather than pointed. The lower layers are a bit bare, only having branch tips at the very end with the bare metal being somewhat visible towards the center. Fully decorated, I was able to fill the gaps with lights and ornaments, which gives it a more cozy look.
- How full is the tree (scale of 1-10, 10 being the fullest) I’d give it a 5 for fullness. The top half of the tree is nice and full, though the bottom branches are a bit sparse. Even with a good amount of fluffing, the bottom layers need some lights and larger ornaments to really appear full.
- How realistic is the tree? (on a scale of 1-10, with 10 being the most realistic)? Overall, I would go with a 3. However, I wouldn’t say this tree is meant to pass for realistic, but you can get a lot of height at a small price tag. The square look of the needles up close and somewhat bare center layers of the branches is where it loses its realism, but some artful fluffing and hefty dose of decorations helps hide those drawbacks a bit.
Best Pre-lit Christmas Tree
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Specs
- Diameter: 24"
- Weight: 11.84 pounds
- Branch tips: 741
- Additional heights: 7.5’, 9', 12'
- Warranty: 3 years
Lighting
- Light type: LED
- Light count: 150
- Additional lighting options: 10 light functions: Demo, steady warm white, steady multi, twinkling warm white, slow fade warm white, slow fade multi, slow color variable, fast flip warm white to multi, slow flip warm white to multi and slow fade warm white to multi
Home Depot’s Grand Duchess Christmas tree is internet famous for a reason. The TikTok-viral holiday decor favorite first gained traction a few years ago; creators found the tree’s easy set up and realistic appearance provide an impressive canvas for both minimal decorations as well as ornament-maxxing. The micro fairy LED lights are equipped with 10 settings that allow you to mix up your decorations with elegant white lighting schemas or fun multicolor displays.
Reviewer: Nashia Baker, senior commerce editor
- How easy was it to assemble your tree (scale of 1-10, 10 being the easiest)? 8. The tree only comes with three parts which I loved for a streamlined setup. The only issue I had was with a stopper-like plug that was tough to get off of the lower part of the tree—it was impossible to put the bottom half of the tree into the potted base without removing it. With some force, I was able to get it off, but the instructions didn’t note that this would be included, so I wasn’t sure if the tree was defective at first.
- What was the quality of the tree packaging? Will you be able to store your tree for future years? The tree packaging is good quality. The box matched the tree’s small size, so I won’t have to worry about finding a space to store a bulky package after the holidays. The box itself is durable, so I plan to keep the tree inside of it for the foreseeable future.
- How long did it take to fluff and prepare your tree? Did you see a lot of needle loss in the process? The tree branches are pretty clumped together, versus having lots of individual limbs to bend. The branches aren’t super flexible, but it’s definitely possible to fill up bald areas with the right fluffing technique. I spent about 30 minutes stretching and zhuzhing when it arrived and will continue tweaking it throughout the festive season. There was little to no needle loss throughout the process, a major plus for someone like me who likes to fluff here and there without making a mess on any given day.
- Did your tree come with lights or decor? If so, how easy was it to install? (On a scale of 1-10, with 10 being the easiest)? The color-changing micro fairy LEDs were incredibly easy to activate. I attached a plug from the top and bottom parts of the tree to power the lights. I like the steady warm white light setting most, but I honestly plan on using them all depending on the holiday decor I put out throughout the season.
- Did your tree live up to your expectations and was the size accurate? I live in NYC where storage space is usually pretty tight, so I wanted a petite tree that would be easy to tuck away after the holiday season. This one is adorable, lightweight, and pretty easy to assemble overall. I can tell that the branches are sturdy enough to hold heavier ornaments, and the base is level so it won’t tip over. For anyone without space constraints, the tree comes in 7.5-, 9-, and 12-foot options as well so you can go bigger and more dramatic.
- How full is the tree (on a scale of 1-10, with 10 being the fullest)? I give the tree’s fullness an 8. It has several layers of branches made with durable needles. The fluffing I’ve done has made a big difference right out of the box. There’s plenty of potential for others with this tree to fluff to their desired level.
- How realistic is the tree? (on a scale of 1-10, with 10 being the most realistic)? 8. The branches are a bit stiffer and the branches kind of stick straight out, the tree might not be as natural looking as some others on the market. However, lighting is the main draw of the design and it doesn’t require too much shaping, so it’s more ideal for those who like to fill up empty spaces with ribbon and other decorations.
Best Tinsel Tree
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Specs
- Diameter: 53”
- Weight: 19 pounds
- Branch tips: 1,350
- Warranty: None
- Additional heights: 4.5’, 6’, 9’
Lighting
- Light type: None
- Light count: N/A
- Additional lighting options: None
A pink tinsel tree may seem like a bold choice and it is—in fact it is a bold choice we applaud. When it comes to the most realistic artificial Christmas trees, this option may not be the one, but it’ll become an instant conversation starter and set the tone for your specific holiday spirit. The tree comes with a stand and would look incredible covered in monochromatic decorations. Fluffing will take a while (up to 90 minutes, according to the manufacturer) but it’ll all be worth it when you have the coolest tree on the block. It’s the perfect solution for those seeking out a new tree with massive personality.
Best Flocked Tree
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Specs
- Diameter: 56"
- Weight: 31 pounds
- Branch tips: 4,097
- Warranty: 3 years
- Additional heights: 6', 9', 12', and 15'
Lighting
- Light type: LED
- Light count: 700
This tree has it all: flocking, lights, and towering height. As the name suggests, this particular tree style is inspired by the evergreens found in the Yukon Territory in Canada. The asymmetry of the soft green branches gives it an organic, natural look. If you’re looking to turn your home into a winter wonderland, look no further than this frosted beauty.
Best Porch Tree
Specs
- Diameter: 27"
- Weight: 24 pounds
- Branch tips: 1,025
- Warranty: 1 year
Lighting
- Light type: Clear incandescent
- Light count: 250
Another one of our top picks is this slim tree with incandescent lights, designed for outdoor use. Not only are the lights outdoor-safe, but the sturdy branches are rust-resistant. They’re also, of course, fluffy and realistic looking, as is the base, which mimics a true tree trunk, complete with notching and grooves. The tree plugs into a standard outlet and features a 60-foot cord. It comes with ten extra bulbs and five fuses, which are always handy to have around when (eventually) a bulb burns out.
Best Upside-Down Tree
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Specs
- Diameter: 60"
- Weight: 39.6 pounds
- Branch tips: 1,293
- Warranty: None
Lighting
- Light type: None
- Light count: N/A
- Additional lighting options: None
Shake things up with an upside-down Christmas tree–and yes, this is very much a thing. The tree design is inspired by trend that dates back to the Middle Ages, when households in Central Europe would hang trees from their ceilings. Ariana Grande is also a fan of this quirky trend. While hanging a seven-foot tree upside down in your living room might be a bit of a hassle, you can get the same effect with an upside-down tree like this that rests securely on a on a base. What it lacks in lighting it makes up for in festive novelty.
Comparing Our Top Picks
| Artificial Tree Model | Price | Branch Tips | Additional Heights | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Balsalm Hill Fraser Fir (7.5') | $1,699 | 3,272 | 5.5', 6.5', 9', 10', and 12' | 3 Years |
| National Tree Company 'Feel Real' Christmas Tree (7.5') | $520 | 1,867 | N/A | 5 Years |
| The Holiday Aisle Dunhill Fir Tree with Clear Lights (7.5') | $480 | 1,838 | 10', 12', 14' | |
| Grand Duchess Twinkling Balsam Fir (7.5') | $347 | 3,271 | 4', 9', 12' | 3 Years |
| King of Christmas Alpine Fir Artificial Christmas Tree (7.5') | $699 | 2,817 | 8', 9' | 2 Years |
| Best Choice Products Flocked Pencil Christmas Tree (7.5') | $140 | 641 | 6', 9', and 12' | 3 Years |
How We Reviewed the Trees and Why You Should Trust Us
We always research products thoroughly before including them, and test nearly every single one. Our reviews are thorough, in-depth, and honest. We put ourselves in the shoes of the shopper (because most of the time, we are the ones shopping!), and make sure that we’re answering the questions that we would want answered in the buying process.
We favored natural-looking trees that are easy to set up. We also took shipping into account and tested trees that arrive not only in style, but with speed.
All trees that were reviewed were unboxed, set up (and lit up) by our contributors. They lived with trees and experienced all they had to offer firsthand, so that they could share the real deal with our readers.
Got Questions about Christmas Trees? We’ve Got Answers
What size Christmas tree is right for me?
The height of your fake Christmas tree first and foremost depends on the height of your ceiling, of course. A good rule of thumb is to keep your tree at least 1.5 feet lower than your ceiling, otherwise it will look crowded.
Who should buy fake Christmas trees?
Some people want to avoid the hassle (and extra cost) of buying a fresh tree each year, while others are allergic to real trees or are concerned about the fire safety hazard that comes along with real trees (they can become highly flammable as they dry out). Others (including people with pets) know that a real Christmas tree can be bait for disaster. Fresh or faux is really a matter of personal preference, and anyone who wants a fake Christmas tree should go for it.
What’s the best real Christmas tree to buy?
Again, that’s completely a matter of personal preference. Trees come in a variety of hues, some with a dark green, some with a blue tint, and others with a bright shade. Some have spiky needles while others are soft to the touch. Trees vary by geographical region and what's native to your area, but some of the most popular options used as Christmas trees across the U.S. include the Fraser Fir, Balsam Fir, Douglas Fir, and Blue Spruce (all of which are available in faux varieties, as well!).
Which artificial Christmas trees are the best value for money?
We spent a good deal of time making sure you had lots of price options to choose from on this list. We have options under $75 and options that can tap out over $2,000 with all the bells and whistles. We would also recommend thinking about the cost per use of your fake Christmas tree. If you spend a lot on a high quality tree now, it is much more likely that it will last your family for many, many years. Spending less on a tree of lesser quality might mean purchasing another one a few seasons down the line. All of that to say, it totally depends on your budget and what you’re looking to do with your tree. Also, there are lots of Black Friday Christmas tree deals happening as we speak. Hopefully this will cut some of the costs associated with a purchase as important as your household’s tree.
What is the most realistic brand of artificial Christmas tree?
For this, let‘s check the stats. Based on the trees we've tested over the years, these are the most highly rated for realism, according to our team of testers. We would definitely recommend giving these trees a closer look if finding the most true-to-life tree is your goal:
- 9/10 for the Balsam Hill Fraser Fir Tree
- 10/10 for the Holiday Aisle Pre-Lit Dunhill Fir
- 10/10 for the Grandin Road Woodside Christmas Tree
- 9/10 for the Balsam Hill Classic Blue Spruce Artificial Christmas Tree
How do you fluff your tree?
Fluffing your artificial Christmas tree is the key to convincingly faking the real thing. Most of the time, your tree will arrive with all the branches up-turned straight out of the box, and you’ll first want to mount the tree in its stand or collar. Next comes the actual fluffing—as reviewer Pujah Shah mentioned, it’s a smart idea to wear some work gloves to avoid any pricking that might occur while you’re working through the branches. Starting at the bottom, you’ll fan the largest branches down, layer by layer, until you reach the very top (where the branches become much shorter). If your branches have smaller tips built in, we like the center-right-left method of starting toward the base of the tree and positioning the smaller tips first center, next towards the right, and lastly towards the left, until you’ve reached the end. After that, you’ll go branch by branch, noticing that your tree looks full and much more lush with each adjustment. Afterwards, all that’s left to do is make any minor fixes to eliminate bald spots and voila!
Is it better to get a pre-lit tree or to do it yourself?
Choosing if you want your tree pre-lit is one of the first decisions you’ll make when navigating the vast artificial tree world. Pre-lit options are the preference of holiday decor gurus like Kathy Hilton, who told us “lighting is everything,” when it comes to the tree. A main draw for artificial Christmas trees, shoppers like that pre-lit options are convenient to set up (opposed to blindly garlanding string lights), and they guarantee your lighting scheme will look uniform. That said, drawbacks include potentially difficult repairs—while you can easily unstring removable lights to troubleshoot, built-in LEDs might pose bigger technical issues—and styling options are more limited. On the other hand, stringing your own lights may be a more complex, time-consuming process, but you’ll ultimately have more control over which areas of your tree are spotlighted.
How should you decorate your Christmas tree?
You’ve gotten your tree up, fluffed the branches, and poured yourself a nice cup of hot cocoa or eggnog to celebrate—now comes the fun part: decorating. While there’s no right way to decorate your Christmas tree, we looked through our archives for some tips and tricks to give your setup some extra sparkle.
If your mentality is “more is more,” your holiday hero will be Kathy Hilton, who greeted AD back in 2021 with four artificial Christmas trees decked out with all the bells and whistles (emphasis on the bells). One tip we’d steal from Hilton is the idea that the decorations don’t have to go up all at once. “I normally start decorating in October, then keep adding until December,” says Hilton.
Kendall Jenner, on the other hand, favors a more traditional tree, dipped in nostalgic classics like tinsel, twinkle lights, and vintage Christopher Radko ornaments that were passed down by her mother, Kris. And since we have a feeling you have your own collection of heirloom Christmas decorations that have been collecting dust, we’d look to the supermodel for inspiration.
Color scheming your ornament display is one way to set yourself apart from the pack. “Red and green are traditional Christmas colors, but I love to break away from tradition and use bright jewel tones to create a dramatic and sophisticated look for the holiday season,” says Annie Sloan, color expert and creator of Chalk Paint. Stylist Dorcia Kelley of Kelle Miles Studio also suggests using a planter instead of a traditional tree stand or skirt for a modern look. “When hanging ornaments, you want to make sure you’re hanging it towards the end of the branch instead of right at the tip. This way, they’ll be more stable,” she says.
We also recommend playing with shapes, textures, and finishes, to create as much interest as possible. AD’s perfect Christmas tree (pictured at the top of this article) features lots of vintage-inspired John Derian ornaments that bring on the kitsch, accented with classic ball ornaments in a range of sizes to create depth and dimension. A color palette of muted blue and bold metallic hues complement the deep green branches while slivers of silver tinsel add holiday pizzazz.
Expert Tips to Bring the Best Fake Christmas Trees to Life
The easiest way to make your artificial Christmas tree look like a real tree is to, well, cover it up. Go heavier on the decorations this year: Think garland, Christmas lights, pinecones, ornaments, a tree topper, etc. We're talking the works. Check out our go-to holiday decor tips that will make the best Christmas trees look even more magical.
It’s affordable in bulk, doubles as a garland, and covers quite a bit of real estate from low to high.
A dead giveaway—no pun intended—that your tree’s a fake is the base: that plastic, mechanical-esque tree stand. Cover that metal stand up with a festive tree skirt (or basket!) as you would with real Christmas trees.
If your tree doesn’t have pre-strung lights, head to the holiday aisle for some white or multicolored lights. They’ll draw the eye to the center of the tree and take the attention off of the branches. Besides, you can never have too many lights in your home decor during the holiday season.
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This tip is genius: Bolster the PVC branches with small sprigs from a real pine tree. Green floral wire is your friend here. Starting closer to the trunk of your artificial tree, adjoin a small, real sprig to a fake branch with a few twists of wire. Repeat as often as you’d like, scattering the pieces consistently around your tree. You’ll get that amazing smell of the season with a fraction of the needles. Visit your local nursery for scrap evergreen or find options on Etsy. You can do this with both bare and flocked artificial Christmas trees and get a stunning result.
Choose big, sturdy blooms and tuck them into the gaps in your artificial Christmas tree once it’s fully decorated. You can go faux, or use the real thing (you can keep real flower cuttings fresher longer by housing stems in water tubes, as florists do).
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