While trekking to a tree farm in your favorite snow boots and a cozy sherpa is a part of so many families’ holiday traditions, there are a lot of benefits to keeping it simple and buying the best artificial Christmas tree.
For one, you don’t have to worry about removing all the fallen needles that will inevitably adorn your tree skirt before you know it (though one of the Dyson vacuums we reviewed can help with that).
Secondly, you don’t have to go through the hassle of chopping the tree down, propping it on your truck’s roof rack and crossing your fingers, hoping that the tree will (1) fit in your space and (2) stand upright. With the proper faux Christmas tree storage bag, you can skip all of that stress and simply assemble, add ornaments, and enjoy the twinkly Christmas lights in a fraction of the time.
RELATED: Balsam Hill Christmas Trees review
“There are multiple benefits of choosing artificial over real Christmas trees, ranging from ease of assembly to lifespan and can be used each year after year while still keeping their shape,” acclaimed brand Balsam Hill exclusively shared with the New York Post.
“Artificial Christmas trees are also a great option for those with allergies. And, for those who like to put up their tree early, you don’t have to worry about the tree drying out before Christmas Day. Artificial Christmas trees are also low or no maintenance.”
The golden question: what size tree should I purchase? Luckily, Balsam Hill shared its ideal cheat sheet with us.
“A good rule of thumb is to have at least 6 inches between the top of your tree and the ceiling, the brand told us. “This also accounts for a [tree] topper or any decorative tree stand that adds height to the tree. So, if you have the standard 9-foot ceiling and a 12-inch angel topper, you’d want a 7.5-foot Christmas tree. We measure our trees from the stand to the topmost tip.”
Below, find the best artificial Christmas trees that will, quite literally, *spruce* up your home. From 9-ft. pines and apartment-friendly flocks to colorful options and miniature branches for your nightstand — rest assured one of these options will have you dreaming of a white Christmas during your countdown to the 25th.
Oh, and don’t forget to check out our in-depth FAQ section for artificial Christmas tree shopping tips.
What are the best artificial Christmas trees?
Pros:
- Looks realistic with unmatched quality
- Its pre-lit option makes setup as simple as can be
- Excellent value as it’ll last for years
Cons:
- No mention on the website that this tree is recyclable or biodegradable
- Slightly high short-term cost, though multiple size options are available to meet most budgets
Balsam Hill is widely known for its field of quality faux trees, with its Balsam Fir Flip Tree being the very best we reviewed. It’s a Post Wanted team favorite brand as well and worth the slight investment if you’re searching for a new tree that’ll last for years.
“If you are in the market for an artificial Christmas tree, I highly recommend you start with the best there is — Balsam Hill trees,” New York Post Commerce Editorial Director Barret Wertz shared. “Decorating this lifelike tree makes me feel like I have been accepted to a Christmas club I didn’t know I needed. I’m looking forward to plugging in my favorite Bath & Body Works Fresh Balsam Wallflower (you heard me – they’re the best), lighting a fire, and cuddling up on the couch for a long winter’s night.”
Balsam Hill also has plenty of height, shape and lighting options to choose from before ordering. This makes it wonderful to match your tree to your desired space and vision. Each tree also comes with a premium tree stand with scratch-proof rubber feet, an off-season storage bag, soft cotton gloves to shape your tree in style, extra bulbs and fuses and an on/off foot pedal (except trees with Color+Clear Lights).
Long story short, this tree is a dream to own and adorn your home in the wintertime. Even better, it comes with a three-year limited warranty, including the factory-store lights, should anything go awry.
Size: 5.5′ to 18′ | Lights: Unlit, Clear Lights, LED Clear Lights, LED Color + Clear Lights, LED Clear Fairy Lights, Twinkly Light Show
Pros:
- Excellent value for the price as it comes with a sturdy X-shaped iron base and 450 pre-strung lights
- Top brand on Amazon
- Easy assembly
Cons:
- Only available in one height option (6′)
- Doesn’t come with an off-season storage bag, though not a dealbreaker
For less than $200, you can’t go wrong with the YITAHOME Prelit Artificial Christmas Tree. This beaut is clad with 1838 tree tips that look so real, you’ll want to skip the tree farm.
This pre-lit Christmas tree will illuminate your home with its 450 pre-strung lights, offering 11 festive and enchanting modes. You can also control the change mode by touching the button; it’s that easy!
It also features pre-connected hinged branches that fall into place during assembly. All you have to do is adjust the tips on the branches to fill noticeable gaps for the tree you’ve always dreamed of. Not only is it a top brand on Amazon but it also includes a sturdy X-shaped iron base for stability, making it an excellent value for the price. For those shopping for the best cheap artificial Christmas trees that won’t compromise quality, this one has the it factor.
Size: 6′ | Lights: 450 Pre-Strung Lights
Pros:
- Plenty of height and width options to choose from
- Lights are powered by a remote control for convenience
- Realistic and full
Cons:
- Price point may be unreachable for some
- Doesn’t come with a warranty or an off-season tree bag
The Hammacher Schlemmer, The World’s Best Prelit LED Noble Fir, has its name for a reason. Molded from a live Abies procera, this model is meticulously made to resemble the authentic Noble Fir. While it’s a splurge-worthy tree, the brand has smaller sizes and width options to suit your budget if you’re unwilling to make an investment in the short term.
According to the tree’s description, the faux tree boasts “three-dimensional, injection-molded branch tips that replicate the exact growth patterns, curved, prickly needles and branch silhouettes of a freshly cut Noble Fir.” Yeah, Hammacher Schlemmer takes its trees *very* seriously.
Its 7.5-inch tree features 1,200 warm glowing LEDs — 450 more than typical trees — and provides white or multi-colored illumination (red, green, yellow, blue, purple) in one of nine dazzling effects; these include flash, twinkle and fade, operated via a remote control.
With fullness and realism that’s impressive, it’ll make Christmastime even more magical.
Size: 4.5′ to 12′ | Lights: 200 to 2,000, depending on the size
Pros:
- Editor favorite pre lit artificial Christmas tree that’s easy to assemble and take down, especially for its included off-season storage bag
- Not much “branch fluff-up” to tend to
- Hails from one of the best brands
Cons:
- Price may be unreachable for some
- Slightly heavier construction, though not a dealbreaker
After setting up the Balsam Hill Prelit Blue Spruce Artificial Christmas Tree for two seasons now, I must say that it’s a family favorite. I almost want to skip the fall season to arrive at November so my living room can be furnished with some festive flair.
As our pick for the most realistic artificial Christmas tree out there, this model doesn’t shed, doesn’t budge, and is ultra-durable. This is made possible by its easy-to-assemble design, sturdy tree base and minimal branch fluff-up.
Though it’s a surefire investment for some, it’ll be the one-and-done tree purchase that should last you for a decade. It’s a bit heavier than some other models I’ve assembled previously, but it’s not an issue at all, especially given its sturdiness and longevity.
Plus, it looks beautiful with some of my favorite ornament sets from the brand, including the Biltmore Legacy Ornament Collection ($319) and the Brilliant Bordeaux Ornament Collection ($219),
Size: 4.5′ to 15′ | Lights: Unlit, LED Color + Clear Lights, Clear Lights, LED Clear Lights
Pros:
- Fair price point
- Available in unlit and pre-lit options
- Multiple sizes available
Cons:
- Some reviewers say the model isn’t as tall as full as pictured, though not a dealbreaker
Some people consider the best artificial Christmas trees with lights to be the only option. However, if you want an unlit tree or simply love the traditional string of lights to wrap around yourself, the National Tree Company Duxbury Artificial Green Tree is a great option. Offered at a great price at Wayfair, you’ll find multiple size options that should meet most budgets.
Specifically, its crush-resistant branch tips are molded from real tree branches for an authentic living tree appearance. While some shoppers say it’s not as realistic as pictured, most are pleased with their artificial tree purchase, and if you’ve been searching for an artificial christmas tree sale, Wayfair is always a safe bet.
Size: 4.5′ to 7.5′ | Lights: Unlit, Prelit
Pros:
- Excellent value, as its tallest 9-inch size is $260 at most
- Includes a 90-day manufacturer’s warranty and a durable tree stand
- Has a dense, full look
Cons:
- Doesn’t come with an off-season storage bag
- Only available in warm light options, which may not be preferred by all shoppers
Other brands on this list offer trees up to 15 feet tall, but the 9-foot Naomi Home Christmas Tree with Lights is one of the best for your money, especially if you don’t want to spend upwards of $3,000 on an artificial Christmas tree.
Namely, this forest lookalike can be less than $100 if you opt for its 4.5-foot size, with its tall 9-foot showpiece $260 at most. Its included metal stand is trusty and offers peace of mind that it isn’t going anywhere during the holiday season, while its 900 warm lights ensure your living room or entryway has a cozy, inviting vibe.
Depending on the size, there are 679 to 2,532 branch tips that are hinged underneath its dazzling lights, evoking a realistic and dense look. For height and price, it’s wholly worth the cost.
Size: 4.5′ to 9′ | Lights: 200 to 900 warm lights, depending on the size
Pros:
- Great for apartment-like spaces and small rooms in the house, including bedrooms
- Fair price point, with plenty of size options to choose from
- Boasts an elegant, snow-flocked design
Cons:
- May not be as durable as some other artificial trees on this list, though it comes with a stand
- Only available in white light options, which may not be preferred by all shoppers
Photogenic and priced fairly, the Best Choice Products Flocked Pencil Christmas Tree is elegant, aesthetically pleasing for the wintertime and…dare we say “demure?” We don’t prefer to go for an all-white artificial Christmas tree since those look gimmicky, but instead, opt for flocked.
Some shoppers may prefer a slim tree as it’s apt for small spaces, including somewhat narrow entryways, apartment living spaces and bedrooms. It also fares well as an “alternate” tree if you’d like to decorate your home more this year.
Available from 4.5 to 12 inches, you can customize how large you’d like your new artificial Christmas tree to be despite its already slim design. It’s also known to take the difficulty out of assembly with its three-step process: simply connect the base to the largest section of the tree, attach the remaining sections and fluff the branches.
Size: 4.5′ to 12′ | Lights: 150 to 950 white lights, depending on the size
Cons:
- Price may be unreachable for some, as you’re picking up only one tree (though you can add as many to your cart!)
- Doesn’t allow for creativity when decorating, as ornaments are included upon purchase
Leave it to Pottery Barn to have one of the most dazzling of small artificial Christmas trees, fit for your fireplace mantle or coffee table. Giving us all the wintertime nostalgia and Candy Land vibes, this miniature tree can be picked up in either 18-inch or 24-inch sizes or can be purchased as a set for $129.
The prelit, pre-assembled tree is truly dressed to impress. We see the vision now: Your Samsung Frame TV displaying a snowy wintertime backdrop, a festive Anthropologie candle flickering and your home feeling like Christmas Joy from wall to wall.
Size: 18″ to 24″ | Lights: 35 mini lights
Pros:
- One of the fullest options on this list
- Flocked white overlay allows you to keep it as a “winter tree” decoration, which may entice you to keep it up for longer
- Includes a durable tree stand
The Three Posts Kinsey Flocked Alaskan Artificial Christmas Tree is an elegant tree that almost looks like it belongs on the set of “The Nutcracker.” Polished and photogenic, it’s a full option with well-designed branches that are a blank canvas; simply select your favorite ornaments and enjoy its snow-fallen base.
With a durable tree stand, the white artificial Christmas tree model is built to last. Not to mention, we love how it’s smocked white all over, which may encourage you to keep it as a “winter tree” decoration and not take it down immediately after December 25.
Size: 4.5′ | Lights: None
Pros:
- Offered in multiple size options
- Literally pops up, making it the easiest to install
- Fully decorated and especially perfect for small spaces and busy people
Cons:
- Some reviewers say the included lights may not last as long as expected
With more than 3,000 glistening reviews on Amazon, the BrylaneHome Prelit Pop-Up Christmas Tree is an option to *pop* into your cart. Shoppers love how simple it is to assemble it — pretty thoughtless, to say the least — and it’ll be fully dressed and ready to dazzle in no time.
Not only does it pop up, but it also includes lights and decorations. It’s like it was sleigh-driven from Santa’s Workshop, allowing you to take the busy work out of hand-dressing it with ornaments. (Oh, and freeing up a weekend!)
Size: 4.5′ to 7.5′ | Lights: 450 Clear + Twinkling Lights
Pros:
- Well-made, realistic-looking branches with durable LED lights (also available in unlit)
- Includes a metal stand, off-season storage bag and shaping gloves
- Looks lovely in any home
Cons:
- Price may be unreachable for some, though offered in a wealth of size options to hopefully meet most budgets
If you’re eyeing a brand-new artificial Christmas tree, look no further than the King of Christmas Queen Flock Artificial Christmas Tree, which has a wealth of customizations to choose from. It boasts the most generous size range among any retailer on this list, as well as the ability to choose from one-, two- or three-year warranty options should you want to add protection to your purchase.
We’re pretty obsessed with how this tree looks, especially for its heavily flocked branches, the blend of realistic and classic needle tips, and hinged sections for easy setup. With a metal stand, off-season storage bag and shaping gloves, its warm and cozy vibes are immaculate.
Size: 6.5′ to 12′ | Lights: 650 to 1700 Warm White LED Lights, depending on size
Pros:
- Pre-lit and dimmable
- Very realistic looking
Standing at 7.5 feet and pre-lit for convenience, the Grand Duchess artificial tree remains a popular option. It comes in three, easy-to-connect parts, virtually removing the guesswork of the setup.
The TikTok viral tree is not easy to come by, as people remain obsessed with its hyperrealistic look. However, we were able to find it at Ebay — you’re welcome.
Ideal for those seeking a plush, authentic-looking fir, memory wire in the branches reduces the need for excess shaping. The lights are dimmable, too, but can also trinkle, as well as slowly fade on and off. A remote control is included for those who like to have more control of the lighting experience, plus there’s a timer if you’d like to turn the tree on or off when you’re not around.
Size: 7.5 feet| Lights: 2,250 Warm LED Lights
Pros:
- Slim build
- Comes in two sections for a quick setup
Cons:
- Overall, this tree has great reviews, though some customers complain about its durability
Corner artificial trees are all the rage, and we’re loving how affordable this one is. The Costway 7.5 feet Pre-Lit Hinged Pencil Christmas Tree is ideal for those low on space and comes pre-lit, so no worries of detangling lights.
The tree comes in two pieces, plus its metal stand, making the setup an under 30 minute affair. While the PVC branches could be more realistic (in our opinion), many folks who purchased the tree on Walmart are thrilled with the overall look.
Size: 7.5 feet| Lights: 350 white lights
An FAQ on Buying Artificial Christmas Trees
Ahead, the Post Wanted team gives you the 411 on shopping for artificial Christmas trees online, highlighting the key information to keep in your back pocket (or bookmarked on your phone).
What type of artificial tree should I get?
Akin to shopping at a suburban tree farm, hand-choosing your artificial Christmas tree requires some thought and attention to preferences. Aesthetics, maintenance and space are additional considerations.
Most common — and most readily available to order online — are classic Christmas trees. Commonly offered in various sizes and styles (pre-lit or unlit), you’ll find mostly PVC or PE that mimic real pine or fir trees.
What are artificial trees made of?
Artificial trees are constructed from a variety of materials, each offering unique looks and benefits:
- PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride): Typically used in many artificial trees, PVC is a type of plastic that’s durable, long-lasting and can be molded into different shapes. They tend to have a more rigid appearance but can be very cost-effective.
- PE (Polyethylene): This material is used to create a more realistic, authentic appearance. PE is sometimes used in combination with PVC to make the branches and foliage look more lifelike. It’s flexible and has a softer, more natural feel.
- Wire: A handful of artificial trees use metal wire in their construction, especially for the branches. This offers some flexibility in shaping and positioning the tree.
How many branches should an artificial tree have?
The number of branches on an artificial Christmas tree is largely dependent on the size you go for. The same holds true for lights: the taller the tree, the more bulbs you’ll find — if it’s a pre-lit tree, that is.
If a full and realistic-looking tree is what you’re after, choose one with a higher number of branches. Trees with more branches tend to look more lifelike and can better mimic the density of a natural tree. This may come with a high sticker price, but it is commonly worth it as you’ll likely hold onto the tree model for longer.
Additionally, if you plan to decorate the tree heavily, a higher branch count might be beneficial. More branches provide more places to hang ornaments and decorations. However, if space is limited or you prefer a minimalist look, a tree with fewer branches might be more appropriate.
How much does an artificial Christmas tree cost?
There are many factors that impact an artificial Christmas tree’s price. The Post Wanted team broke down the cost in ranges based on the general going rate for your next ornament-topped purchase:
- $50 to $150: These trees are usually around 4 to 6 feet and made from PVC. While they’re not the most realistic due to their low branch count, they’re a basic option that’ll do the job.
- $150 to $300: These trees are often larger — around 6 to 8 feet — and may be a combination of PVC and PE materials. In turn, they’re often fuller and more realistic.
- $300 to $600+: Often prelit and made with high-quality materials, these trees are usually the most realistic and may last for longer. Some options may even exceed $1,000, depending on the make, what’s included (i.e., a tree stand and an off-season ornament bag) and other factors.
Why are artificial Christmas trees so popular?
“We see more and more people buying an artificial Christmas tree every year, whether it is their only tree, a complement to a real tree, or they have multiple artificial trees throughout their home,” Balsam Hill exclusively shared with The Post.
Not only do people love the ease and convenience of an artificial tree, but you oftentimes don’t have to sacrifice realism, especially if you opt for a model with a high branch count.
Artificial Christmas trees are also great for those with allergies or who are immunocompromised. “This year, we are hearing from several customers that they want to put up their tree early,” Balsam Hill added. “An artificial tree is perfect for that as it doesn’t require watering, so you don’t have to worry about it drying out.”
How to select the right artificial Christmas tree, per Balsam Hill
Think of height
Most people start their tree search with height. A good guide is to have at least 6 inches between the top of your tree and the ceiling, per Balsam Hill. This also leaves room for a topper or a stand, which adds height to your tree.
So, if you have the standard 9-foot ceiling and a 12-inch angel topper, you’d want a 7.5-foot Christmas tree. We measure our trees from the stand to the topmost tip.
Think of shape
After height, shape is often the next decision. How full do you want your tree to be? How wide or narrow? The space you are putting your tree in can be a deciding factor for this, or it may be a personal preference.
If you grew up in the Northeast, for example, you might like the fuller look of our Vermont White Spruce. Every year this is one of our best-selling trees.
Think of lights
Shoppers will also want to select what kind of lights they would like, if any. Some retailers offer a mix of colored and white options, while others boast warm or white built-in illuminators.
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