Why Buy an Artificial Tree?
If you’re on the fence about buying an artificial tree, there are a few compelling reasons to finally make the purchase. Switching to an artificial Christmas tree offers long-term value. Pay once and enjoy it for years to come. Unlike real trees, there are no falling needles to clean up or worries about your favorite furry family members nibbling on the branches. Setup is quick and easy each season, especially if you purchase a pre-lit tree.
What Size Artificial Christmas Tree Do You Need
Grab your measuring tape and find out what your ceiling height is. That’s the most important number when you’re shopping for an artificial Christmas tree. Due to their popularity, these trees come in a range of sizes from 4 feet to 15 feet. And just like in nature, the width and shape of the tree varies, so you can find the best option for your room size and furniture layout.
Measuring Ceiling Height for an Artificial Christmas Tree
No complex calculations here. Simply figure out the ceiling height in the room where you want to place your tree. Then subtract about a foot to accommodate your favorite tree topper. No angel, star or anything else that might take up some serious space? Then you have several more inches to play with. If you’re wondering how tall a Christmas tree should be for an 8-foot ceiling, your range would be anywhere from 6.5 feet to 7 feet depending on your tree topper and how much space you like between the top of your tree and the ceiling.
Choosing the Right Artificial Tree Shape
Artificial Christmas trees come in various shapes to fit different spaces and styles.
Full trees offer a classic holiday tree shape that’s ideal for large, open rooms.
Slim artificial trees are great for small spaces without sacrificing height.
Pencil trees are even thinner, allowing them to fit in tight corners or small apartments.
The most space-conscious option is a flat-backed tree. The design allows one side to sit flush against the wall, while still delivering holiday cheer. It’s another great option for an apartment or a tight space.
Lighting Options: Pre-Lit vs. Unlit Artificial Christmas Trees
When deciding between pre-lit and unlit artificial Christmas trees, it's important to consider three things: convenience, customization and energy efficiency. Pre-lit trees offer hassle-free setup with professionally spaced lights. Most versions now use energy-efficient LED bulbs, which last longer and consume less power than traditional incandescents. However, if a section of lights fails, repairs can be tricky. They’re also available in white, clear, multicolor and even color-changing lights, so you don’t have to sacrifice creativity for ease.
If your family loves to switch up lighting color or styles, unlit trees let you personalize your lighting each year and replace strands easily if needed. They're a great option for design-savvy households who don’t want the same look year after year. If efficiency is important to you too, it's easy to find single energy-saving LED strands.
Artificial Christmas Tree Lights: Bulb Style
There’s more to consider than a pre-lit or unlit artificial Christmas tree. Pre-lit Christmas trees come with a wide range of light bulb shapes. Here are some options for you to shop:
Mini lights: This light shape is probably what you think of when you think of string lights. They create a delicate, twinkling look that feels festive. Pay attention to the color temperature of the white version of these lights, some cast a warmer, yellow glow while others offer a brighter white look.
5mm LED lights: Offer a uniform glow and exceptional durability. Unlike traditional mini lights, 5mm LEDs have a flat-topped, cylindrical shape that disperses light evenly in all directions, creating a vibrant and balanced appearance. They're also energy-efficient, using significantly less electricity while lasting much longer than incandescent bulbs. These lights stay cool to the touch, making them safer for homes with children or pets.
G12 globe lights: Shaped like round berries, these lights add a touch of texture and visual interest to your tree. Their distinctive shape stands out more than traditional mini lights, making them a great choice for those looking to add a playful or modern twist to their Christmas tree.
With so many light shapes available, it's easy to find a style that complements your holiday décor while also providing energy efficiency and long-lasting performance.
Understanding Branch Material and Realism
The goal of pretty much every artificial tree is to look like a real Christmas tree. One of the ways to find a realistic artificial Christmas tree is to pay attention to the materials used to make the tree and the needles on the tree.
PE (Polyethylene) vs. PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) Artificial Christmas Trees
Artificial Christmas trees are commonly made from two types of materials: PE (polyethylene) or PVC (polyvinyl chloride. PE trees are made using injection-molded branches that closely replicate the shape and texture of evergreen needles. This gives them a highly realistic look and a more natural feel, making them ideal for those who want a tree that looks nearly lifelike. The high-tech process does translate to higher prices for these types of trees.
PVC trees use flat plastic strips twisted around wire branches, resulting in a fuller look that’s less realistic up close but still festive. PVC trees are generally more affordable, making them a popular choice for budget-conscious shoppers. Many high-end trees now feature a mix of both materials. PE needles on the outer branches for realism and PVC inside for volume and structure—combining beauty with affordability.
Select a Tree Family That Fits Your Style
Artificial Christmas trees are often designed to mimic the look of specific tree species, with some of the most popular being fir, pine and spruce.
Fraser or Douglas Fir artificial Christmas trees, have soft, flat needles and a classic, symmetrical shape, making them a favorite for traditional holiday decorating. Their branches are dense and well-suited for hanging heavier ornaments.
Pine artificial Christmas trees, typically have longer, more flexible needles that give a slightly more rustic look. They’re great for casual or natural-themed décor.
Spruce artificial Christmas trees, like the Blue or Norway spruce, feature short, stiff needles and sharply angled branches that create a fuller silhouette with a more structured appearance.
Each tree family offers a unique style, allowing you to choose one that best fits your holiday aesthetic. There are also trees available that don’t identify as one tree family and may borrow characteristics from different types. Choose the version that you find yourself gravitating to and that shows off your favorite ornaments best.
Consider the Tree Stand Type
The best artificial Christmas tree stand offers stability without drawing too much attention away from the main attraction. Choose from a variety of stand base styles, each offers different benefits and visual appeal.
Leg bases, typically made of metal or plastic, are sturdy and provide balance, but they may feel less decorative. A tree blanket or tree collar is an easy way to hide a leg base.
A flat base offers a low-profile look and increased stability, making them ideal for tight spaces, though they may be harder to level on uneven flooring.
Potted bases mimic the look of a real tree planted in a decorative container, adding charm and elegance—however, they’re usually heavier and less adjustable.
Burlap bases are popular for a farmhouse aesthetic, often concealing a standard stand beneath soft fabric. While burlap adds warmth and texture, it may not be as stable on its own and is best for smaller trees.
Other Convenient Artificial Christmas Tree Features
There a few other features that make an artificial tree irresistible to anyone looking for more holiday convenience.
- A remote control: Some trees come with features like color-changing lights that can be controlled via a remote. Letting you change up your whole holiday decorating scheme with the push of a button.
- Push button for lights. No more crawling under the tree to plug in your tree lights. A simple step-on switch makes it easy to turn lights off and on.
- Easy storage. Choose a tree that fits your storage situation, certain versions can be disassembled into multiple pieces so they can be easily packed up.
Final Tips for Choosing an Artificial Christmas Tree
Before you choose an artificial Christmas tree, familiarize yourself with the below topics. It ensures that you find something that is both functional and fits in with your Christmas décor scheme. If you want to see your options in person, head to your local Lowe’s to check out our expansive selection of artificial trees.
- Tree height
- Tree shape
- Pre-lit or unlit
- Bulb type
- PE vs. PVC
- Tree family
- Tree stand type
- Special features
Artificial Christmas Tree Buying FAQs
What is the Most Realistic Artificial Christmas Tree?
A PE tree features branches that are molded specifically to look as realistic as possible. Coupled with the coloring and features of a real tree type, a PE or combination PE and PVC tree will get you close to the look of a real tree.
How Do I Choose the Right Size Artificial Christmas Tree?
Measure your ceiling height and leave enough space to account for your favorite tree topper.
Are Pre-Lit Christmas Trees Worth It?
If you don’t like stringing lights on your Christmas tree year after year, it saves you time and offers consistent and even light placement. So whether it’s worth it is a personal decision. Some people like options and doing different things with their trees. Make the right choice for your preferences.
Can You Replace Lights on a Pre-Lit Tree?
You can replace lights on a pre-lit artificial Christmas tree, but the level of difficulty depends on the type of lights and how the tree is designed. For advice related to your specific tree, check the user manual to see how easy or hard it is to replace non-working lights.