The Best Artificial Christmas Trees, as Blind-Judged By Interior Designers
Recorded: Nov. 28, 2025, 1:02 a.m.
| Original | Summarized |
The Best Artificial Christmas Trees, as Blind-Judged By Interior Designers | WIREDSkip to main contentHand-Picked Black Friday DealsShop NowMenuSECURITYPOLITICSTHE BIG STORYBUSINESSSCIENCECULTUREREVIEWSBLACK FRIDAYMenuAccountAccountNewslettersBest Black Friday DealsBest Buy Black Friday DealsiPad Black Friday DealsBest Outdoor DealsHuckberry’s Black Friday DealsDeals DeliveredSecurityPoliticsThe Big StoryBusinessScienceCultureReviewsChevronMoreExpandThe Big InterviewMagazineEventsWIRED InsiderWIRED ConsultingNewslettersPodcastsVideoMerchSearchSearchSign InSign InNicole KinningGearNov 27, 2025 5:09 AMWe Had Real Interior Designers Pick the Best Fake Christmas TreesWIRED brought 10 of the most popular artificial Christmas trees into a studio and got three interior designers to pick the best through blind judging. For extra trimming, we checked in on how those trees fared once they were taken home and decorated.CommentLoaderSave StorySave this storyCommentLoaderSave StorySave this storyFeatured in this articleBest Overall Christmas TreeBalsam Hill Vermont White SpruceRead more$1,699 $1,199 (29% off) Balsam Hill (Color + Clear)Best Flocked Christmas TreeKing of Christmas King FlockRead more$899 $499 (44% off) King of Christmas (LED)Best Traditional Christmas TreeKing of Christmas Cypress SpruceRead more$1,899 $1,399 (26% off) King of Christmas (LED)Sturdiest Christmas TreeBalsam Hill Balsam FirRead more$1,699 $1,249 (26% off) Balsam Hill (Color + Clear)Shopping for an artificial Christmas tree can be overwhelming, especially when you’re doing it online. You’ll find yourself staring at product photos, wondering: How realistic does it actually look? Will it shed all over my living room? Can you see daylight through the branches? Are the branches strong enough to hold that lopsided homemade macaroni ornament you’ve hung on your tree since 2004?We got tired of guessing, so we did a little experiment. We brought 10 of the most popular artificial trees from three top brands (Balsam Hill, King of Christmas, and National Tree Company) and hauled them to a photo studio in Kansas. There, 10 volunteer assemblers spent a morning unboxing, building, and fluffing every tree, and three professional interior designers scored them.The judges didn’t know the brands. They didn’t know the prices. They didn’t even speak to the assemblers about how the construction of each tree went. They evaluated each tree based solely on how it looked and felt.After our day of testing, we allowed every assembler the chance to take their tree home and set it up for their family. Most did and shared their notes. We’ve added their feedback on how the assembly process went at home, plus photos of the fully decorated trees.For more holiday hosting help from WIRED, check out our Dedicated Server package. We had rival cooking robots prepare Thanksgiving dinner, set out to automate a holiday party, and tested cocktail machines to see if anyone actually needs such a contraption.Making the CutAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevronWe researched artificial Christmas trees online to see what other publications and user reviews had to say, and then lined up the 10 most popular and talked-about trees.Among them were Balsam Hill’s Classic Blue Spruce, National Tree Company’s enduring favorite Dunhill Fir, and an Amazon best-seller you can get for under $300.All trees were the same height at 7.5 feet, and judged under the same studio lighting and free of ornaments. The prices ranged from $170 to $1,700. (All prices shown below are for 7.5-foot-tall trees.) We accepted review samples of seven of the trees and purchased the other three. In the end, we had $9,540 worth of trees assembled in a rented studio.The trees were delivered to my home and then transported to a photo studio in Overland Park, Kansas, where 10 testers gathered on a Wednesday morning. Everything, from assembly to evaluation, was monitored and done under controlled conditions to ensure a fair comparison. The studio had one wall of windows letting in natural light, with the remaining space enclosed by walls and lit by white-hued recessed ceiling lights. We kept those overhead lights on throughout building and judging so the judges could properly assess needle structure, branch density, and overall shape without any atmospheric lighting skewing results.The assemblers knew which brand and model of tree they had, but were not told about the cost or reputation. Some of the trees came with included gloves to help in the fluffing process, but we issued utilitarian latex utility gloves to anyone who didn’t have them, along with scissors and box cutters to help with unboxing. As timekeeper, I hauled empty boxes out of the space to ensure each assembler could put up their tree unobstructed. Tree stands were built, branches carefully unpacked and snapped into the tree base, then fluffed and bent into shape in time for the judges to arrive. Assemblers had an hour and a half to unbox, unload, build, and fluff each tree, and most were fully assembled in about 45 minutes.Once the trees were ready, three judges—interior designers from Kansas City-based firm ML Designs—arrived to evaluate them and pick the best fake Christmas tree.How We Scored the TreesAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevronWhat did we look for while testing?Each judge was given scorecards with a rubric that added up to 25 total points. The judges scored each tree on five categories on a scale of 1-5:Realism: How closely does the tree mimic the look and texture of a freshly-cut evergreen?Fullness and shape: Does the tree have an even and dense silhouette without visible gaps, and does its overall profile feel proportionate from top to bottom?Branch structure: Are the branches sturdy, well-spaced, and capable of holding ornaments without sagging?Needle quality: Do the needles look and feel lifelike, with realistic depth and texture?Overall appeal: Once fully assembled and fluffed, does the tree look inviting and festive?The goal was to find out which tree truly looks the best when there’s no logo or price tag swaying opinion. After all three judges evaluated a tree, we combined their scores to get a final score out of a possible 75 points.In the end, the top tree got 72 out of 75 points while the bottom tree scored 32 (our judges admitted to being on the nice side—only one gave a score of 1).Best Overall Christmas TreePhotograph: Jeremey Theron KirbyPhotograph: Jeremey Theron KirbyChevronChevronBalsam HillVermont White Spruce$1,699 $1,199 (29% off) Balsam Hill (Color + Clear)Balsam Hill trees are well-known among fake Christmas tree enthusiasts for their ability to mimic the look and feel of fresh-cut evergreen trees. The company has been around since 2006 and is often found atop lists of the best artificial trees. We found that the brand twinkled brightly in a blind competition, without relying on reputation. Balsam Hill’s Vermont White Spruce caught eyes the minute it emerged from the box and took the top spot on our judges' ballots. No other tree compared in thickness, and it looked incredibly luxurious. “This is like the Hermès of Christmas trees,” said assembler Lexi Wehrmeister as she unwrapped the first section.The tree’s branches slope upward naturally, making it easy to hang ornaments, and the mix of needle types gives it a realistic texture. “It’s very lush. It looks and feels expensive,” one judge noted. She also pointed out that there was no shedding, and judge Marianne Mayer agreed that the branches were extremely sturdy. The tree also comes pre-lit with LED lights that you can control with an app—get the model which does both color and clear if you want the option of having either white or colored Christmas lights. Most importantly, it looked lifelike, full, and festive without much fluffing.At home update: Assembler Lexi Wehrmeister set this tree up just a few days after taking it home. Her first observation was that you should be extra careful not to lose the little plastic end caps that come with the three. “The ends of the tree are surprisingly sharp and will slash right through the bag without them—hold onto those, for sure,” she says. The tree was “super easy to set up, and she appreciated not having to untangle strings of lights, as the pre-lit lights click together and power on with no need to plug anything together. “You just sit the tree in the stand; it’s super easy,” she says. “There are no messy lights, you just click it into place—three little clicks. You can press it on with your foot, so that’s really nice. Wehrmeister was very happy with the finished product: “She’s a beautiful tree.”Score: 72 of 75Heights available (in feet)4.5, 5.5, 6.5, 7.5, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 15, 18Width and weightWidth for a 7.5-foot tree: 5.5 feetWeight for a 7.5-foot tree: 71 poundsLighting optionsUnlit, color and clear LED, clear LED, C7 Multicolor LED, Twinkly brand app-controlled lightsLight count1,440Branch tip count2,574 for a 7.5-foot treeAccessories includedTree stand, storage bag, protective glovesWarranty3-year limited warrantyShippingFree shipping on orders $350+, $10 standard shippingWIRED/TIREDAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevronWIREDExtremely full and lushRealistic texture thanks to a mix of needle typesUpward-sloping branches make ornament hanging easyLooks full and festive with minimal fluffingTIREDHigher priceIts thickness can make disassembly challengingBest Flocked Christmas TreePhotograph: Jeremey Theron KirbyPhotograph: Jeremey Theron KirbyChevronChevronKing of ChristmasKing Flock$899 $499 (44% off) King of Christmas (LED)Flocked trees—that is, trees covered in artificial white snow made from a blend of cellulose fibers and adhesive—can be divisive. You either love them or hate them, and our judges are fans. (Then again, several assemblers who said they are not typically fans were still wowed by this tree.) King of Christmas’ King Flock, meant to mimic a subalpine fir, nails the fresh-snow look, something that’s often surprisingly hard to pull off. Its branches are incredibly thick, which makes the tree look full and realistic. Hanging ornaments may prove to be a little tricky, but the winter wonderland look is still stunning.King of Christmas is a top-rated artificial Christmas tree brand with options that run from extremely inexpensive ($280) to ultra high-end ($3,300). The King Flock is one of the brand’s signature models, and the tree also comes with some techy perks: Its assembler was stoked to discover an included remote for changing the lights and setting a timer. After we wrapped, he did add that disassembling the tree was a lot tougher than putting it up, but the shedding was still pretty minimal for a flocked tree—you won’t end up feeling like someone set off a glitter bomb in your living room. “This one feels like Christmas,” Maureen Lindstrom pointed out during judging. Hard to beat that!At home update: The assemblers didn't respond to our queries and are missing and presumed to be overcome with the spirit of Christmas.Score: 71 of 75Heights available (in feet)6.5, 7.5, 8, 9, 10, 12Width and weightWidth for a 7.5-foot tree: 4.3 feetWeight for a 7.5-foot tree: 57 poundsLighting optionsUnlit, white LEDLight count800Branch tip count1,938 for a 7.5-foot treeAccessories includedTree stand, storage bag, protective gloves, remote, and foot pedalWarranty2-year limited warrantyShippingFree shipping on US ordersWIRED/TIREDAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevronWIREDRealistic “fresh snow” flocked lookFull, thick branchesComes with a remote to change light brightness and set a timerTIREDNo option for colored LED lightsThere was some shedding even in this short testDisassembly is more difficult than setupBest Traditional Christmas TreePhotograph: Jeremey Theron KirbyPhotograph: Jeremey Theron KirbyChevronChevronKing of ChristmasCypress Spruce$1,899 $1,399 (26% off) King of Christmas (LED)This tree screams classic and cozy. When you think of a nostalgic Christmas, you think of this tree. Aside from some built-in lights, there aren’t a whole lot of frills, which is exactly the point. King of Christmas nails the balance of realism and fullness here, blending PE and PVC needles that mimic real pine while filling out the shape. The result is a full, voluptuous-looking tree without too much bulkiness. Judge Marianne Mayer appreciated its "well-balanced and sturdy" structure and highlighted the tree's rich color.At home update: Assemblers Amanda Barnes and Blake Franklin put this one up at home, and had a few notes. “It doesn’t seem to require the sections to be aligned in any specific way to connect them,” Franklin said, which made assembly straightforward. That said, the main takeaway is that the tree is heavy. Even though the included storage bag is handy, Franklin recommends transporting the 75-pound tree piece by piece if you’re climbing stairs or you’re working alone. That weight has a silver lining, though—the tree feels very sturdy, and the heft likely reflects the overall quality of the tree’s construction.Score: 67 of 75Heights available (in feet)6.5, 7.5, 8, 9, 10Width and weightWidth for a 7.5-foot tree: 5.3 feetWeight for a 7.5-foot tree: 75 poundsLighting optionsUnlit, warm white, multicolor light LEDLight count1,450Branch tip count5,219 for a 7.5-foot treeAccessories includedTree stand, storage bag, protective glovesWarranty2-year limited warrantyShippingFree shipping on US ordersWIRED/TIREDAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevronWIREDFull and lush appearance without being too heavyWell-balanced and sturdy structureNatural colorTIREDMinimal features beyond built-in lightsSturdiest Christmas TreePhotograph: Jeremey Theron KirbyPhotograph: Jeremey Theron KirbyChevronChevronBalsam HillBalsam Fir$1,699 $1,249 (26% off) Balsam Hill (Color + Clear)Balsam Hill’s Balsam Fir makes a strong first impression with its full shape and soft, light-green hue. Its sturdy branches can easily support heavy ornaments without sagging, and there was almost no shedding. Up close, though, judges noticed that some of the magic faded a bit: the branches appeared waxy, and judge Jill Connard pointed out that the needles are also flat, which takes away from the realism. Overall, it’s a tree that balances a realistic silhouette with practical durability, which is perfect if you love your tree stocked with ornaments.At home update: After assembling it at home, Alex Condon found the tree to be a perfect fit and has received numerous compliments. She says the tree is very easy to set up, and fluffing took some elbow grease, but she’s confident that the more she does it year after year, the easier it will get. Condon also noted that the large storage bag with handles was clutch. She and her family love the tree so much that they’re already planning to get a second for their hearth room.Score: 59 of 75Heights available (in feet)4.5, 5.5, 6.5, 7.5, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 15, 18Width and WeightWidth for a 7.5-foot tree: 5 feetWeight for a 7.5-foot tree: 73 poundsLighting optionsUnlit, color and clear LED, clear LED, C7 Multicolor LED, Twinkly brand app-controlled lightsLight count1,050Branch tip count5,752 for a 7.5-foot treeAccessories includedTree stand, storage bag, protective glovesWarranty3-year limited warrantyShippingFree shipping on orders $350+, $10 standard shippingWIRED/TIREDAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevronWIREDExtremely sturdy branchesMinimal sheddingFull shape and realistic silhouetteTIREDBranches and needles appear waxy up closeFlat needles detract from realismEasiest to FluffPhotograph: Jeremey Theron KirbyPhotograph: Jeremey Theron KirbyChevronChevronNational Tree CompanyDunhill Fir Tree$380 $277 (27% off) National Tree Company (Unlit)If you’re the type who wants to manipulate your tree every which way, National Tree Company’s Dunhill Fir is for you. Its assembler praised its “extremely pliable” branches, which made it easy to fluff from the bottom up. The result was a classic, dark-green tree that looks full and natural. Judge Maureen Lindstrom noted that the wrapped inner pole added to the realism: “Like it was just pulled off a truck." Between the flexible branches and soft needles, this tree is perfect for hands-on decorators who want to fluff, shape, and customize every inch.At home update: The assemblers didn't respond to our queries and are missing and presumed to be overcome with the spirit of Christmas.Score: 58 of 75Heights available (in feet)6, 6.5, 7, 7.5, 9, 10, 12, 14Width and weightWidth for a 7.5-foot tree: 4.9 feetWeight for a 7.5-foot tree: Not listedLighting optionsUnlit, clear, multicolorLight countNABranch countNot disclosedAccessories includedTree standWarranty3-year limited warrantyShippingFree delivery on all ordersWIRED/TIREDAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevronWIREDPliable branches make it easy to shapeClassic dark green appearanceWrapped inner pole adds natural lookSoft needlesTIREDRequires some effort on assemblers’ end to fluff and perfectQuickest AssemblyPhotograph: Jeremey Theron KirbyPhotograph: Jeremey Theron KirbyChevronChevronBalsam HillFraser Fir$1,149 $749 (35% off) Balsam Hill (Unlit)This Fraser Fir earned its spot for ease of assembly. Its assembler had the tree fully set up in mere minutes, needed minimal fluffing time, and spent the rest of the hour tinkering just to see if he could make it look any better than it already did. As a whole, all three judges thought the tree looked great: Lindstrom said the needles looked good from afar, and Connard concurred. Up close, though, Lindstrom noted the needles felt pretty plasticky and the branches felt weak, adding that “it feels like you might come down in the morning to find all of the ornaments have fallen off.” Mayer agreed that the branches are a bit weak at the tips, but sturdy enough at the base. Overall, it’s a quick-to-assemble, solid-looking tree that may be best dressed in just lights and ribbons.At home update: This one was passed to WIRED Reviews team director Martin Cizmar, who put the tree together with his 10-year-old daughter. The included base was somehow lost, so he had to order a replacement for same-day delivery from Walmart. “Finding a replacement stand for a trunk this thick was pretty tough, as most stands I saw sold online were half the required width, which I think speaks to how big and sturdy these Balsam Hill trees are,” he says. Big and sturdy was the theme: “Seeing the trees in a photo studio, I really did not get an impression about how much larger they are than the cheap-o one I had before. This tree is massive and looks great in the corner of my living room. My family has collected ornaments on vacation since I was young, and we have some vintage glass ornaments from my late uncle, so I have more ornaments than I’ve ever been able to fit on a tree before, but I basically emptied the clip and used everything this year.” The tree itself was easy to put together, fairly easy to fluff, and looks proportional with 10-foot ceilings.Score: 55 of 75Heights available (in feet)5.5, 6.5, 7.5, 9, 10, 12Width and weightWidth for a 7.5-foot tree: 5 feetWeight for a 7.5-foot tree: 58 poundsLighting optionsUnlit, color and clear LED, clear LED, C7 Multicolor LED, Twinkly brand app-controlled lightsLight count850Branch count3,272 for a 7.5-foot treeAccessories includedTree stand, storage bag, protective glovesWarranty3-year limited warrantyShippingFree shipping on orders $350+, $10 standard shippingWIRED/TIREDAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevronWIREDQuick and easy setupMinimal fluffing requiredSturdy branch basesTIREDNeedles feel plasticky up closeWeak branch tips might not support heavy ornamentsCompare Our PicksModelScore Out of 75WIREDTIREDHeights Available (in Feet)Lighting OptionsAccessories IncludedShippingWarrantyBalsam Hill Vermont White Spruce72Extremely full and lush. Realistic texture thanks to a mix of needle types. Upward-sloping branches make ornament hanging easy. Looks full and festive with minimal fluffingHigher price. Its thickness can make disassembly challenging.4.5, 5.5, 6.5, 7.5, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 15, 18Unlit, color and clear LED, clear LED, C7 Multicolor LED, Twinkly brand app-controlled lightsTree stand, storage bag, protective gloveFree shipping on orders $350+, $10 standard shipping3-year limited warrantyKing of Christmas King Flock71Realistic “fresh snow” flocked look. Full, thick branches. Comes with a remote to change light brightness and set a time.No option for colored LED lights. There was some shedding even in this short test. Disassembly is more difficult than setup.6.5, 7.5, 8, 9, 10, 12Unlit, white LEDTree stand, storage bag, protective gloves, remote, and foot pedalFree shipping on U.S. orders2-year limited warrantyKing of Christmas Cypress Spruce67Full and lush appearance without being too heavy. Well-balanced and sturdy structure. Natural color.Minimal features beyond built-in lights.6.5, 7.5, 8, 9, 10Unlit, warm white, and multicolor light LEDTree stand, storage bag, protective glovesFree shipping on U.S. orders2-year limited warrantyBalsam Hill Balsam Fir59Extremely sturdy branches. Minimal shedding. Full shape and realistic silhouette.Branches and needles appear waxy up close. Flat needles detract from realism.5.5, 6.5, 7.5, 8, 9, 10, 12, 13.5, 15, 18Unlit, clear incandescent, clear LED, color and clear LED, clear fairy LED, Twinkly brand app-controlled lightsTree stand, storage bag, protective glovesFree shipping on orders $350+, $10 standard shipping3-year limited warrantyNational Tree Company Dunhill Fir58Pliable branches make it easy to shape. Classic dark green appearance. Wrapped inner pole adds natural look. Soft needles.Requires some effort on assemblers’ end to fluff and perfect.6, 6.5, 7, 7.5, 9, 10, 12, 14Unlit, clear, multicolorTree standFree delivery on all orders3-year limited warrantyBalsam Hill Fraser Fir55Quick and easy setup. Minimal fluffing required. Sturdy branch bases.Needles feel plasticky up close. Weak branch tips might not support heavy ornaments.5.5, 6.5, 7.5, 9, 10, 12Unlit, clear incandescent, clear LED, multi LED, color and clear LED, Twinkly brand app-controlled lightsTree stand, storage bag, protective glovesFree shipping on orders $350+, $10 standard shipping3-year limited warrantyMore Artificial Trees We TestedKing of Christmas’s Yorkshire Fir for $589: This tree isn’t going to fool anyone up close, but it's not without its charms. Judge Jill Connard complimented the branch placement, which gives the tree a great overall shape. However, Mayer noted that the trunk is pretty visible despite fluffing, and the needles have a somewhat papery feel, so it’s not exactly giving main tree energy.Balsam Hill Classic Blue Spruce for $999: The Classic Blue Spruce from Balsam Hill has a nostalgic look that many seek in an artificial Christmas tree. However, judges agreed that it didn’t feel premium; Lindstrom noted it reminded her of her first-ever tree as a young adult. Mayer appreciated the brown tones in the needles for added realism, but felt that the tree lacked an upscale feel. The tree’s silhouette loses fullness toward the top, and up-close inspection of the branches and needles leaves more to be desired. Despite qualms, it remains a solid, middle-grade option for those seeking a traditional look. Score: 47.5 of 75Hykolity Artificial Christmas Tree for $150: This one is one of Amazon’s top sellers, and has a 4.5-star average rating, so we had to test it. It mostly delivered on expectations; judges agreed that it’d be best suited as a budget-friendly option or in a kids’ room. If you look closely, you can see the branch wire, but judge Mayer summed it up nicely: “There’s a place for every tree.” On the plus side, the needles looked pretty realistic, and the lights included were good quality. One assembler noted that each light strand needs to be plugged into the next after assembly, which was a little confusing at first, but otherwise setup was pretty straightforward, and the price tag is inviting. Score: 46 of 75National Tree Company Dunhill Fir (Pre-Lit) for $361: This one shocked everyone in the studio, especially when compared to its fraternal twin, the non-pre-lit Dunhill Fir, which ranked much higher. Dubbed the “Charlie Brown Tree” by both judges and assemblers, it looked very bare even after lots of fluffing. The top branch wouldn’t sit upright for a star or angel; cords were exposed throughout, and there were large gaps that couldn’t quite be hidden by fluffing. What looked promising in product photos didn’t translate in person, making this one a disappointing pick for anyone hoping for a full, reliable tree. Score: 32 of 75What Size Do You Need?AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevronA good rule of thumb is to choose a tree that leaves about 6 to 12 inches between the top (with the topper on) and your ceiling. For standard 8-foot ceilings, a 7- or 7.5-foot tree usually looks best. Smaller spaces like apartments or secondary rooms work better with 6-foot or slim trees.What Tree Shape Should You Choose?AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevronIt depends on your space and the look you want.Full trees: Have a traditional silhouette and work well in larger rooms where you want a lush focal point.Slim trees: Offer the same height but with a smaller footprint. Perfect for apartments, tighter corners, or spots where you need extra floor space.Pencil trees: Tall and narrow, and ideal for entryways, offices, or secondary spaces where you want a tree that doesn’t take up a whole lot of room.What Does Branch Tip Count Mean?AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevronA higher tip count generally means a fuller, more natural-looking tree. For a 7.5-foot tree, 1,500-2,500 branch tips is generally the sweet spot for realism.Is a Fake Tree More Sustainable Than a Real Christmas Tree?AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevronIt depends on how long you use it. Most artificial trees are made from PVC and metal, which aren’t biodegradable. But if you keep the same tree for more than five years, it can have a lower carbon footprint than buying a real tree every year, according to the American Christmas Tree Association. The lifespan of an artificial Christmas tree depends on its quality, materials, and care. On average, a good-quality tree can last 7 to 10 years, while higher-end models may last up to 15 years with proper maintenance.Is a Fake Tree More Affordable?AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevronOver time, yes. While a quality artificial tree is an investment upfront, you’ll save money by reusing it year after year. Plus, there are no yearly disposal costs.How Do You Fluff Your Tree?AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevronStart at the bottom and work your way up, using your hands to separate and spread out each branch and tip to fill gaps. Shape branches in different directions for a natural look. It takes some time, but it’s the key to a full, realistic-looking tree. Depending on the tree, you may need protective gloves to protect your hands from poky branches and needles.How Many Feet of Christmas Lights Do You Need?AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevronGovee recommends about 100 lights per foot of tree height. For example, a 7-foot tree would call for about 700 lights. How many lights per food is dependent on brand; check out the brand we recommend in our guide to the Best Smart Christmas Lights.My Pre-Lit Tree's Lights Don't Work. How Do I Fix Them?AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevronPre-lit trees usually fail because of broken bulbs, loose wiring, a blown fuse, or worn-out light strings. To fix them:Check or replace any burnt or missing bulbs. String lights often won’t work if one goes out.Swap the fuses in the plug (many pre-lit trees include extras).Use a light tester to identify the dead bulb or section.If you’ve tried the above and the lights still don’t work, you can remove the old string and add your own lights rather than replace the whole tree.How Should You Store Your Tree?AccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevronDisassemble the tree carefully, compress the branches, and store it in a sturdy tree bag or the original box. Keep it in a cool, dry place like a closet or basement. Humidity or direct heat can cause damage or dust buildup.Power up with unlimited access to WIRED. Get best-in-class reporting and exclusive subscriber content that's too important to ignore. Subscribe Today.CommentsBack to topTriangleNicole Kinning is a contributor at WIRED, focusing on testing mattresses and other home goods. Nicole has previously been on staff at Kansas City magazine, Better Homes & Gardens, and Hometalk. She’s rooted in Kansas City, and when she’s not clacking away at a keyboard, she enjoys brewery-hopping and thrifting. ... Read MoreContributorLinkedInTopicsShoppingholidaysChristmasDedicated ServerRead MoreThe Best Smart Christmas LightsControl these smart lights with a voice command or a tap on your phone. 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The Best Artificial Christmas Trees, as Blind-Judged By Interior Designers | WIREDSkip to main contentHand-Picked Black Friday DealsShop NowMenuSECURITYPOLITICSTHE BIG STORYBUSINESSSCIENCECULTUREREVIEWSBLACK FRIDAYMenuAccountAccountNewslettersBest Black Friday DealsBest Buy Black Friday DealsiPad Black Friday DealsBest Outdoor DealsHuckberry’s Black Friday DealsDeals DeliveredSecurityPoliticsThe Big StoryBusinessScienceCultureReviewsChevronMoreExpandThe Big InterviewMagazineEventsWIRED InsiderWIRED ConsultingNewslettersPodcastsVideoMerchSearchSign InSign InNicole KinningGearNov 27, 2025 5:09 AMWe Had Real Interior Designers Pick the Best Fake Christmas TreesWIRED brought 10 of the most popular artificial Christmas trees into a studio and got three interior designers to pick the best through blind judging. For extra trimming, we checked in on how those trees fared once they were taken home and decorated.CommentLoaderSave StorySave this storyCommentLoaderSave StorySave this storyFeatured in this articleBest Overall Christmas TreeBalsam HillVermont White SpruceRead more$1,699 $1,199 (29% off) Balsam Hill (Color + Clear)Best Flocked Christmas TreeKing of Christmas King FlockRead more$899 $499 (44% off) King of Christmas (LED)Best Traditional Christmas TreeKing of Christmas Cypress SpruceRead more$1,899 $1,399 (26% off) King of Christmas (LED)Sturdiest Christmas TreeBalsam Hill Balsam FirRead more$1,699 $1,249 (26% off) Balsam Hill (Color + Clear)Shopping for an artificial Christmas tree can be overwhelming, especially when you’re doing it online. You’ll find yourself staring at product photos, wondering: How realistic does it actually look? Will it shed all over my living room? Can you see daylight through the branches? Are the branches strong enough to hold that lopsided homemade macaroni ornament you’ve hung on your tree since 2004?We got tired of guessing, so we did a little experiment. We brought 10 of the most popular artificial trees from three top brands (Balsam Hill, King of Christmas, and National Tree Company) and hauled them to a photo studio in Kansas. There, 10 volunteer assemblers spent a morning unboxing, building, and fluffing every tree, and three professional interior designers scored them.The judges didn’t know the brands. They didn’t know the prices. They didn’t even speak to the assemblers about how the construction of each tree went. They evaluated each tree based solely on how it looked and felt.After our day of testing, we allowed every assembler the chance to take their tree home and set it up for their family. Most did and shared their notes. We’ve added their feedback on how the assembly process went at home, plus photos of the fully decorated trees.For more holiday hosting help from WIRED, check out our Dedicated Server package. We had rival cooking robots prepare Thanksgiving dinner, set out to automate a holiday party, and tested cocktail machines to see if anyone actually needs such a contraption.Making the CutAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevronWe researched artificial Christmas trees online to see what other publications and user reviews had to say, and then lined up the 10 most popular and talked-about trees.Among them were Balsam Hill’s Classic Blue Spruce, National Tree Company’s enduring favorite Dunhill Fir, and an Amazon best-seller you can get for under $300.All trees were the same height at 7.5 feet, and judged under the same studio lighting and free of ornaments. The prices ranged from $170 to $1,700. (All prices shown below are for 7.5-foot-tall trees.) We accepted review samples of seven of the trees and purchased the other three. In the end, we had $9,540 worth of trees assembled in a rented studio.The trees were delivered to my home and then transported to a photo studio in Overland Park, Kansas, where 10 testers gathered on a Wednesday morning. Everything, from assembly to evaluation, was monitored and done under controlled conditions to ensure a fair comparison. The studio had one wall of windows letting in natural light, with the remaining space enclosed by walls and lit by white-hued recessed ceiling lights. We kept those overhead lights on throughout building and judging so the judges could properly assess needle structure, branch density, and overall shape without any atmospheric lighting skewing results.The assemblers knew which brand and model of tree they had, but were not told about the price or reputation. Some of the trees came with included gloves to help in the fluffing process, but we issued utilitarian latex utility gloves to anyone who didn’t have them, along with scissors and box cutters to help with unboxing. As timekeeper, I hauled empty boxes out of the space to ensure each assembler could put up their tree unobstructed. Tree stands were built, branches carefully unpacked and snapped into the tree base, then fluffed and bent into shape in time for the judges to arrive. Assemblers had an hour and a half to unbox, unload, build, and fluff each tree, and most were fully assembled in about 45 minutes.Once the trees were ready, three judges—interior designers from Kansas City-based firm ML Designs—arrived to evaluate them and pick the best fake tree.How We Scored the TreesAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevronWhat did we look for while testing?Each judge was given scorecards with a rubric that added up to 25 total points. The judges scored each tree on five categories on a scale of 1-5:Realism: How closely does the tree mimic the look and feel of a freshly-cut evergreen?Fullness and shape: Does the tree have an even and dense silhouette without visible gaps, and does its overall profile feel proportionate from top to bottom?Branch structure: Are the branches sturdy, well-spaced, and capable of holding ornaments without sagging?Needle quality: Do the needles look and feel lifelike, with realistic depth and texture?Overall appeal: Once fully assembled and fluffed, does the tree look inviting and festive?The goal was to find out which tree truly looks the best when there’s no logo or price tag swaying opinion. After all three judges evaluated a tree, we combined their scores to get a final score out of 75 points.In the end, the top tree got 72 out of 75 points while the bottom tree scored 32 (our judges admitted to being on the nice side—only one gave a score of 1).Best Overall Christmas TreePhotograph: Jeremey Theron KirbyPhotograph: Jeremey Theron KirbyChevronBalsam HillVermont White Spruce$1,699 $1,199 (29% off) Balsam Hill (Color + Clear)Balsam Hill trees are well-known among fake Christmas tree enthusiasts for their ability to mimic the look and feel of fresh-cut evergreen trees. The company has been around since 2006 and is often found atop lists of the best artificial trees. We found that the brand twinkled brightly in a blind competition, without relying on reputation. Balsam Hill’s Vermont White Spruce caught eyes the minute it emerged from the box and took the top spot on our judges' ballots. No other tree compared in thickness, and it looked incredibly luxurious. “This is like the Hermès of Christmas trees,” said assembler Lexi Wehrmeister as she unwrapped the first section.The tree’s branches slope upward naturally, making it easy to hang ornaments, and the mix of needle types gives it a realistic texture. “It’s very lush. It looks and feels expensive,” one judge noted. She also pointed out that there was no shedding, and judge Marianne Mayer agreed that the branches were extremely sturdy. The tree also comes pre-lit with LED lights that you can control with an app—get the model which does both color and clear if you want the option of having either white or colored Christmas lights. Most importantly, it looked lifelike, full, and festive without much fluffing.At home update: Assembler Lexi Wehrmeister set this tree up just a few days after taking it home. Her first observation was that you should be extra careful not to lose the little plastic end caps that come with the three. “The ends of the tree are surprisingly sharp and will slash right through the bag without them—hold onto those, for sure,” she says. The tree was “super easy to set up, and she appreciated not having to untangle strings of lights, as the pre-lit lights click together and power on with no need to plug anything together. “You just sit the tree in the stand; it’s super easy,” she says. “There are no messy lights, you just click it into place—three little clicks. You can press it on with your foot, so that’s really nice. Wehrmeister was very happy with the finished product: “She’s a beautiful tree.”Score: 72 of 75Heights available (in feet)4.5, 5.5, 6.5, 7.5, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 15, 18Width and weightWidth for a 7.5-foot tree: 5.5 feetWeight for a 7.5-foot tree: 71 poundsLighting optionsUnlit, color and clear LED, clear LED, C7 Multicolor LED, Twinkly brand app-controlled lightsLight count1,440Branch tip count2,574 for a 7.5-foot treeAccessories includedTree stand, storage bag, protective glovesWarranty3-year limited warrantyShippingFree shipping on orders $350+, $10 standard shippingWIRED/TIREDAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevronWIREDExtremely full and lushRealistic texture thanks to a mix of needle typesUpward-sloping branches make ornament hanging easyLooks full and festive with minimal fluffingTIREDHigher priceIts thickness can make disassembly challengingBest Flocked Christmas TreePhotograph: Jeremey Theron KirbyPhotograph: Jeremey Theron KirbyChevronKing of ChristmasKing Flock$899 $499 (44% off) King of Christmas (LED)Flocked trees—that is, trees covered in artificial white snow made from a blend of cellulose fibers and adhesive—can be divisive. You either love them or hate them, and our judges are fans. (Then again, several assemblers who said they are not typically fans were still wowed by this tree.) King of Christmas’s King Flock, meant to mimic a subalpine fir, nails the fresh-snow look, something that’s often surprisingly hard to pull off. Its branches are incredibly thick, which makes the tree look full and realistic. Hanging ornaments may prove to be a little tricky, but the winter wonderland look is still stunning.King of Christmas is a top-rated artificial Christmas tree brand with options that run from extremely inexpensive ($280) to ultra high-end ($3,300). The King Flock is one of the brand’s signature models, and the tree also comes with some techy perks: Its assembler was stoked to discover an included remote for changing the lights and setting a timer. After we wrapped, he did add that disassembling the tree was a lot tougher than putting it up, but the shedding was still pretty minimal for a flocked tree—you won’t end up with glitter bomb in your living room. “This one feels like Christmas,” Maureen Lindstrom pointed out during judging. Hard to beat that!At home update: The assemblers didn't respond to our queries and are missing and presumed to be overcome with the spirit of Christmas.Score: 71 of 75Heights available (in feet)6.5, 7.5, 8, 9, 10, 12Width and weightWidth for a 7.5-foot tree: 4.3 feetWeight for a 7.5-foot tree: 57 poundsLighting optionsUnlit, white LEDLight count800Branch tip count1,938 for a 7.5-foot treeAccessories includedTree stand, storage bag, protective gloves, remote, and foot pedalWarranty2-year limited warrantyShippingFree shipping on US ordersWIRED/TIREDAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevronWIREDFull and lush appearance without being too heavyWell-balanced and sturdy structureNatural colorMinimal features beyond built-in lightsBest Traditional Christmas TreePhotograph: Jeremey Theron KirbyPhotograph: Jeremey Theron KirbyChevronKing of ChristmasCypress Spruce$1,899 $1,399 (26% off) King of Christmas (LED)This tree screams classic and cozy. When you think of a nostalgic Christmas, you think of this tree. Aside from some built-in lights, there aren’t a whole lot of frills, which is exactly the point. King of Christmas nails the balance of realism and fullness here, blending PE and PVC needles that mimic real pine while filling out the shape. The result is a full, voluptuous-looking tree without too much bulkiness. Judge Marianne Mayer appreciated its “well-balanced and sturdy structure” and highlighted the tree’s rich color.At home update: Assemblers Amanda Barnes and Blake Franklin put this one up at home, and had a few notes. “It doesn’t seem to require the sections to be aligned in any specific way to connect them,” Franklin said, which made assembly straightforward. That weight has a silver lining, though—the tree feels very sturdy, and the heft likely reflects the overall quality of the tree’s construction. “Finding a place for this tree in my living room was easy, and it feels very substantial,” Barnes added. Franklin and Barnes both commented that this tree's sturdiness means you don't have to worry about it wobbling on holidays when guests come over.Score: 67 of 75Heights available (in feet)6.5, 7.5, 8, 9, 10Width and weightWidth for a 7.5-foot tree: 5.3 feetWeight for a 7.5-foot tree: 75 poundsLighting optionsUnlit, warm white, and multicolor light LEDLight count1,450Branch tip count5,219 for a 7.5-foot treeAccessories includedTree stand, storage bag, protective glovesWarranty2-year limited warrantyShippingFree shipping on US ordersWIRED/TIREDAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevronWIREDExtremely sturdy branchesMinimal sheddingSturdy branch basesQuickest AssemblyPhotograph: Jeremey Theron KirbyPhotograph: Jeremey Theron KirbyChevronBalsam HillBalsam Fir$1,699 $1,249 (26% off) Balsam Hill (Color + Clear)Balsam Hill’s Balsam Fir makes a strong first impression with its full shape and soft, light-green hue. Its sturdy branches can easily support ornaments without sagging, and there was almost no shedding. Up close, though, judges noticed that some of the needle appeared waxy, and judge Jill Connard pointed out that the needles are also flat, which takes away from the realism. Overall, it’s a tree that balances a realistic silhouette with practical durability, which is perfect if you love your tree stocked with ornaments.At home update: After assembling it at home, Alex Condon found the tree to be a perfect fit and has received numerous compliments. She says the tree is easy to put up, and fluffing took some elbow grease, but she’s confident that it will get easier with more use. Condon also noted that the large storage bag with handles was clutch. She and her family love the tree so much that they’re already planning to get a second for their hearth room.Score: 59 of 75Heights available (in feet)4.5, 5.5, 6.5, 7.5, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 15, 18Width and weightWidth for a 7.5-foot tree: 5 feetWeight for a 7.5-foot tree: 71 poundsLighting optionsUnlit, clear incandescent, clear LED, color and clear LED, Twinkly brand app-controlled lightsLight count1,050Branch tip count5,752 for a 7.5-foot treeAccessories includedTree stand, storage bag, protective glovesWarranty3-year limited warrantyShippingFree shipping on orders $350+, $10 standard shippingWIRED/TIREDAccordionItemContainerButtonLargeChevronWIREDExtremely sturdy branchesMinimal sheddingFull shape and realistic silhouetteTIREDNeedles appear waxy up closeFlat needles detract from realismBest Overall Christmas TreePhotograph: Jeremey Theron KirbyPhotograph: Jeremey Theron KirbyChevronBalsam HillVermont White Spruce$1,699 $1,199 (29% off) Balsam Hill (Color + Clear)More Artificial Trees We TestedKing of Christmas’s Yorkshire Fir for $589: This tree isn’t going to fool anyone up close, but it’s not without its charms. Judge Jill Connard complimented the branch placement, which gives the tree a great overall shape. However, Mayer noted that the trunk is pretty visible despite fluffing, and the needles are inky, so it’s not exactly giving main tree energy. “That said, with its color and high tree density, the Yorkshire Fir can still fill a room,” Connard said. “Looks like Christmas!” The shape also works well with families and those with limited space. At 8 ft, it is slightly taller than our Top and Second Choices, so keep this in mind. It’s recommended for those who want more of a "wow" factor.King of Christmas’s Yorkshire Fir for $589: This tree isn’t going to fool anyone up close, but it’s not without its charms. Judge Jill Connard complimented the branch placement, which gives the tree a great overall shape. However, Mayer noted that the trunk is pretty visible despite fluffing, and the needles are inky, so it’s not exactly giving main tree energy. “That said, with its color and high tree density, the Yorkshire Fir can still fill a room,” Connard said. “Looks like Christmas!” The shape also works well with families and those with limited space. At 8 ft, it is slightly taller than our Top and Second Choices, so keep this in mind. It’s recommended for those who want more of a "wow" factor.Our Top Choice: Balsam Hill Vermont White SpruceThe Balsam Hill Vermont White Spruce is an outstanding choice as Best Overall, and comes in both 7.5-foot and 9-foot varieties. At 7.5, this tree won for a massive set of reasons and received a high score of 72 out of 75. At 9-ft, however, this tree has a more substantial feel, but falls slightly behind with a score of 68. This tree is full, lush, can be used for long-term decorating, looks expensive, and is the closest to replicating a real tree. One customer, Jessica, commented that “she’d feel guilty if she didn’t use the tree every holiday season,” and that it's "worth the splurge" to ensure she gets the most out of her gift. The tree’s shape is well-balanced, and the needles are not as waxy as other trees we tested, and most importantly, it’s easy to fluff. This is the tree for those who don’t want to spend hours making their tree look perfect.At Home Update: For many testing purposes, trees didn’t come with a full set of instructions. One of the biggest complaints was that the tree came with what felt like a set of "accessories" that was not particularly helpful. In addition, several testers pointed out that the trees came in oversized boxes for the size that they were. Our testing team estimates that these boxes are "perfect" for shipping purposes, but can be a challenge to transport. A few testers were even frustrated with the placement of the end caps – they seemed to be made or positioned to create a little gap. But we don't think this will detract from your enjoyment of the tree.It’s just a matter of time before more artificial Christmas trees become a staple to any home. This all-time classic is just getting started, and will remain a popular choice for both families and decorators alike. Our team is ready to continue testing the latest innovations in artificial trees. Before you buy an artificial tree, here are our biggest takeaways:Be sure to look for one that fits your space and budget. Be sure to check the reviews and read customer opinions before settling on a tree.A good quality artificial tree may also last years, and one that is well-made will definitely provide a long-lasting investment.More Artificial Trees We TestedA couple weeks were spent testing 11 trees from multiple brands to get some comparisons for our readers. The products were tested and analyzed based on a variety of qualities that include the height, branching, needle qualities, and overall realism. These trees include: Bosc Design; Home Dynamix; National Tree Company; Miracle Christmas Tree; Snow Forest; and more. This provided us with a fantastic array of options that we didn’t discover until we began the testing process. We were impressed with our findings, and we’re excited to share our top choices with you. For our top pick, we recommend the Balsam Hill Vermont White Spruce, and for all other options, be sure to keep reading to see our other favorite picks. This list is guaranteed to provide you with some excellent options for your holiday decorating fun.These trees have one crucial quality in common: The realistic feel for that classic Christmas tree. We believe this is what sets this category apart, and it’s what makes our testing process so important. At the end of the day, we know you are seeking a tree that can really “wow” your family and friends, and that’s what we’re here to help you find. With our expert insight, you’ll be equipped to make the best choice for your house!With this expertise, you’ll find the perfect tree for your home. * **Height:** 7.5 ft |