Artificial Christmas Tree Shopping Guide - Investing for Yearly Holiday Cheer

There comes a moment in every family’s holiday journey when you start to wonder if it’s finally time to invest in an artificial Christmas tree. Maybe you’re tired of sweeping pine needles every morning. Maybe someone in the family has allergies. Maybe the cost of fresh trees keeps going up—or maybe you’re simply ready for a flawless, picture-perfect tree that looks good from Thanksgiving weekend through New Year’s Day.

Choosing an artificial Christmas tree isn’t as simple as walking into a store and grabbing the first one you see. Today’s artificial trees come in dozens of shapes, heights, lighting options, colors, branch styles, assembly systems, and price points. A great artificial tree can last your family 10–20 years, making it one of the smartest holiday investments you can make. But a low-quality one can sag, fade, tangle, or look sparse after just a couple seasons.

This ultimate guide covers everything—from how to choose the perfect artificial Christmas tree, to understanding materials, height, styles, lighting, pricing, long-term savings, care, storage, and expert shopping tips. Whether you’re decorating your home, rental property, photography studio, or Airbnb, this guide will help you find the perfect artificial Christmas tree for your holiday traditions.

Why Choose an Artificial Christmas Tree?

Before we dive into specifics, it helps to understand why so many families are switching from real to artificial trees.

1. Cost Savings Over Time

A high-quality artificial tree can last a decade or more. If your family spends $80–$150 each year on a real tree, you’re looking at $800–$1,500 spent over ten years. A premium artificial tree costs anywhere from $250–$1,200 depending on brand and size—but you only buy it once.

2. No Allergies, No Mess, No Needles

No more itchy eyes. No watering. No drooping branches after the first week. And no trail of pine needles trailing across your living room and down the hallway. Artificial trees stay tidy, clean, and consistent throughout the entire season.

3. You Can Put It Up Early (or Keep It Up Longer!)

If you’re the type who wants your tree up by November 1st—or you love enjoying the glow through January—an artificial tree is perfect. It never dries out, fades, or becomes a fire hazard.

4. Better for Families with Pets & Kids

Cats climbing the tree… toddlers pulling on branches… a heavy real tree drying out dangerously. Artificial trees are safer, sturdier, and easier to secure.

5. A Picture-Perfect Shape Every Year

Artificial Christmas trees are crafted to look full, symmetrical, and lush—no gaps, crooked trunks, or uneven sides. You always get a “photo-ready” Christmas look.

Fake Christmas Trees vs. Real Christmas Trees – Pros & Cons

When it comes to choosing your Christmas tree, most families fall into one of two camps—Team Real Tree or Team Artificial Tree. Both options bring their own unique charm to the holiday season, but each comes with its own set of benefits and drawbacks. Here’s a helpful comparison to guide your decision.

Artificial (Fake) Christmas Trees

Pros

Reusable for Years
A high-quality artificial tree can last a decade or more, making it a long-term investment that pays for itself over time.
Low Maintenance
No watering, no sweeping up needles, no sap—just assemble and decorate.
Allergy-Friendly
Great for families sensitive to pine, mold spores, or seasonal allergens commonly found in real trees.
Consistent Appearance
Every branch looks perfect. No odd gaps, uneven spots, or bare patches.
Wide Variety of Styles
From flocked to colorful to ultra-slim pencil trees, artificial trees give you aesthetic flexibility you can’t achieve with real trees.
Fire-Resistant Materials
Most modern artificial trees are made with flame-retardant materials, offering added peace of mind.

Cons

Higher Upfront Cost
Quality artificial trees can be expensive initially, even though they save money long-term.
Storage Space Required
After the holidays, you’ll need a place to store the tree (often a large, awkwardly shaped box).
Less Authentic Scent & Feel
You won’t get the fresh pine smell or the textural charm of a real tree (though you can simulate it with scented ornaments or essential oils).
Environmental Impact (Varies)
They’re made of plastic and metal and are not recyclable. It typically takes several years of reusing the tree before it’s considered more eco-friendly than purchasing real trees annually.

Real Christmas Trees

Pros

The Classic Christmas Experience
Visiting a tree farm, choosing your favorite, and tying it to the car is a beloved family tradition.
Natural Evergreen Scent
Nothing replicates the fragrance of a fresh-cut tree filling your home.
Eco-Friendly When Sourced Responsibly
Real trees are biodegradable, can be composted, and are often grown on sustainable farms that replant every year.
No Long-Term Storage Needed
Once the season ends, the tree is recycled—not stored in your home.

Cons

Ongoing Annual Cost
Buying a real tree each year can become expensive, especially for premium or large sizes.
Maintenance Required
Real trees need water, drop needles, and sometimes bring sap or bugs indoors.
Short Lifespan
A real tree only stays fresh for a few weeks before it begins drying out.
Fire Risk When Dry
Without proper watering, real trees can become a fire hazard if they dry out near lights or heaters.
Allergies Are Common
Mold spores and natural allergens in real trees can bother sensitive family members.

Types of Artificial Christmas Trees

There are five main categories of artificial Christmas trees, and choosing the right style will help you invest wisely.

1. PVC Trees (Budget-Friendly)

PVC trees are the most affordable because they’re made of thin, flat plastic strips cut into needle shapes. They’re lightweight, easy to assemble, and widely available. While they don’t look as realistic as higher-end options, they’re perfect for:

Families on a budget
Kids’ bedrooms
Office or classroom trees
Smaller apartments

Pros: lightweight, inexpensive, easy to decorate
Cons: less realistic, needles may bend over time

2. PE Trees (Most Realistic)

PE (polyethylene) trees are crafted using injection-molded plastic, which means the needles look extremely close to real pine, spruce, or fir branches. Most premium Christmas trees use a blend of PE + PVC, giving you realistic outer branches with PVC filling for fullness.

Great for:

Main living rooms
Christmas photo setups
Homes that want a “magazine look”

Pros: incredibly realistic, durable, luxurious appearance
Cons: more expensive

3. Mixed-Material Trees (PE + PVC)

This is the most popular style because you get the benefits of both:

Realistic outer tips
Full volume inside
A more affordable price than 100% PE

These are considered the “sweet spot” for most families.

4. Flocked & Snow-Kissed Trees

These trees have artificial snow applied to the branches for a winter wonderland look. They instantly make a room feel magical and pair beautifully with pastel, Scandinavian, and farmhouse decor.

Pros: dramatic, stylish, perfect for Instagram
Cons:

Can shed during setup
Heavier
Harder to vacuum around

5. Decorative & Specialty Trees

These include:

Pencil trees (thin & sleek)
Corner trees (flat back for small spaces)
Half trees (for apartments or photo studios)
Upside-down trees
Colorful trees (pink, black, white, champagne, gold)

Specialty trees are perfect for modern homes, limited spaces, or crafting themed rooms like:

A kids’ tree
An entryway tree
A themed tree for your photography blog
Holiday rentals

Choosing the Right Height

Tree height completely changes the look of a room. Here’s a simple guide:

4–5 ft Trees

Kids’ rooms
Tabletops
Small apartments
Offices

6–6.5 ft Trees

Standard homes with 8 ft ceilings
Small living rooms
Entryways

7–7.5 ft Trees (Most Popular Height)

Perfect for:

Most suburban homes
Townhouses
Apartments with tall ceilings

It gives a dramatic presence without feeling oversized.

8–9 ft Trees

Ideal for:

Two-story homes
Large living rooms
Homes with cathedral ceilings

10–12 ft Trees

Perfect for:

Luxury homes
Hotels
Retail spaces
Photography studios

Always leave at least 6–12 inches between the tree and your ceiling if you plan to use a tree topper.

Full, Slim, Pencil, or Sparse? Understanding Tree Shapes

Shape matters just as much as height. Here’s how to choose:

1. Full Trees

The classic Christmas tree shape—big, wide, and lush. Great for large living rooms and families who want lots of ornament space.

2. Slim Trees

Narrower than a full tree but still full enough for traditional decorating.

Perfect for:

Corners
Behind sofas
Near doorways

3. Pencil Trees

Tall and very slim. Ideal for tight spaces like:

Apartments
Hallways
Bedrooms

Great for multiple-tree homes.

4. Sparse / Minimalist Trees

These Scandinavian-inspired designs show more of the trunk for a modern, airy look.

Great for:

Minimalist homes
Neutral or rustic decor
Designers and content creators

Pre-Lit vs. Unlit: Which Should You Choose?

Lighting is one of the most crucial choices you’ll make—so let’s break down your options.

Pre-Lit Trees

Pre-lit trees come with lights installed, which saves time every year.

Pros:

Saves hours of work
Even light distribution
Looks more professional
Easier setup for busy families

Cons:

If a light strand goes out, repair can be tricky
More expensive

Most premium trees offer lighting systems where if one bulb goes out, the rest stay lit.

Types of Lights on Pre-Lit Trees

Warm White LED (Most Popular)

Cozy and classic
Energy efficient
Doesn’t overheat

Multicolor LED

Perfect for children or nostalgic homes.

Color-Changing LED

Switch between warm white and multicolor with a button or remote—ideal for families who love both looks.

Twinkle / Sparkle Functions

Adds elegance and depth to your tree.

Unlit Trees

An unlit tree gives you full control. Some families love stringing their own lights because:

You prefer a specific brand
You want a themed look (gold lights, rainbow lights, fairy lights)
You want total control over brightness

Branch Quality & Realism

When you’re investing in an artificial tree, branch quality is where your money matters most.

Look for:

✔ Molded PE tips
✔ Sturdy metal hinges
✔ Dense PVC fillers
✔ Strong wire branches that hold heavy ornaments
✔ Realistic texture & color gradation

Avoid:

✘ Sparse branches
✘ Floppy or weak tips
✘ Obvious plastic shine
✘ Visible gaps around the trunk

High-quality trees should look full even before you fluff them.

Assembly Systems: What to Look For

Different trees have different setup styles.

1. Hinged Branches (Best)

Branches are permanently attached. You just unfold and fluff.

2. Hook-In Branches (Cheapest)

You manually insert each branch. These trees are inexpensive but time-consuming.

3. Easy-Connect Poles (Premium)

Lights connect automatically through the trunk—no separate plugs.

4. Pre-Shaped Trees (Luxury)

These trees “remember” their shape from year to year. Minimal fluffing required.

How Much Should You Spend?

Artificial Christmas trees come in all prices, but here’s a general guide based on size and quality:

Budget Trees ($50–$150)

Best for:

College students
Kids’ rooms
Small apartments

Expect PVC needles and minimal realism.

Mid-Range Trees ($150–$350)

Most shoppers find the best balance here.

Expect:

PVC + PE blend
Good fullness
Warm white LED lighting

Premium Trees ($350–$800+)

These are the “investment trees.”

Expect:

High levels of PE realism
Advanced lighting
Flawless branch structure
Long lifespan

Luxury Trees ($900–$1,800+)

Used by:

Interior designers
Hotels
High-end homes
Holiday photographers

Expect:

Ultra-realistic molded needles
Memory-shape technology
Color-changing LED systems

If you’re buying for content creation, this is the level that photographs brilliantly.

Where to Buy a Quality Artificial Christmas Tree

Here are the most reliable retailers (each with strengths):

1. Balsam Hill

Known for:

Most realistic trees
Beautiful PE models
Long warranties
Stunning lighting options

2. Home Depot

Offers:

Affordable + mid-range options
Good return policies
Reliable quality

3. Target

Perfect for families needing:

Budget options
Stylish flocked trees
Modern slim trees

4. Costco

Amazing value for:

Large trees
Pre-lit options
Strong warranties

5. Wayfair

Large selection, great for finding:

Unique shapes
Unusual colors
Hard-to-find sizes

6. Amazon

Convenient for:

Fast shipping
Budget trees
Specialty trees

But always check reviews for shedding and quality.

Environmental Considerations

There’s debate about which is better for the environment, but an artificial tree becomes the greener choice when you:

Use it for at least 8–10 years
Store it carefully
Choose a recyclable model when possible
Avoid buying a new one every couple years

Meanwhile, artificial trees don’t require pesticides, trucking each year, or disposal at the end of the season.

How to Make Your Artificial Tree Look Full & Expensive

Even the best tree needs proper fluffing.

1. Fluff Every Branch Tip

Pull branches outward and alternate their directions.

2. Work Layer by Layer

Start at the bottom, then move up.

3. Add Ribbon for Extra Fullness

A cheap way to elevate the look.

4. Mix Textures

Incorporate:

Thick garlands
Beaded strands
Large statement ornaments

5. Add Lighting Depth

Layer additional fairy lights even if your tree is pre-lit.

6. Use Decorative Picks

Frosted berries, pinecones, gold stems, and floral sprays add luxury.

Caring for Your Artificial Christmas Tree

Proper care makes your investment last.

1. Store It in a Climate-Controlled Space

Avoid:

Attics
Damp basements
Hot garages

Heat and moisture degrade plastic over time.

2. Use a Storage Bag (Not the Box)

Boxes break down. A tree bag protects from:

Dust
Bugs
Humidity

3. Handle Lights Carefully

When removing lights, do not pull hard on branches.

4. Fluff Gently

Over-bending branches can weaken wires.

5. Spot Clean as Needed

Use a microfiber cloth to remove dust before decorating.

Who Should Invest in a Premium Artificial Tree?

While budget trees are great for certain spaces, investing in a higher-end model is ideal if:

You decorate early every year
You want a tree that photographs beautifully
You host holiday gatherings
You create Christmas blog or Pinterest content
Your kids love decorating and need sturdy branches
You want to stop buying real trees annually

Premium trees hold shape, color, and quality for many years—and they become part of your family traditions.

Choosing Christmas Ornaments and Holiday Decor to Complement Your Artificial Tree

Once you’ve invested in an artificial Christmas tree, the next step is choosing ornaments and decor that enhance its beauty and create a cohesive, magical holiday atmosphere in your home. The right ornaments can completely transform even a simple artificial tree into a breathtaking centerpiece your family will remember year after year. Whether your style is nostalgic, modern, rustic, glam, or child-friendly, the decor you choose helps define the personality of your holiday season.

1. Start with a Color Palette

Before buying any ornaments, sketch out a color scheme that matches your home décor and the style of your tree.

Popular color palettes include:

Classic Red + Gold – warm, traditional, and family-friendly
Silver + White + Crystal – elegant, frosty, and winter-themed
Rose Gold + Champagne – chic, feminine, and modern
Forest Green + Wood + Burlap – rustic, farmhouse-inspired
Navy + Gold – rich, bold, and sophisticated
Candy Colors (pink, turquoise, lime green) – perfect for kids’ spaces and whimsical trees

Choosing colors first helps prevent impulse buys that don’t fit your aesthetic and allows your ornaments to feel intentional and curated.

2. Mix Ornament Sizes for a Designer Look

A professional-looking Christmas tree uses a blend of sizes to create depth and dimension.

Include a mix of:

Large bulbs (4–6 inches)
Medium ornaments (standard round bulbs, characters, specialty shapes)
Small fillers (tiny stars, mini ornaments, pearl strands, bells)

Large ornaments help fill gaps in artificial trees and make the tree look fuller. Smaller ornaments add sparkle and detail.

3. Use Statement Pieces to Elevate the Tree

Every tree should have several “wow factor” pieces that pull the entire look together. These may include:

Oversized floral stems
Glittered or frosted branches
Extra-large shatterproof ornaments
Unique character ornaments (like nutcrackers or woodland animals)
Handmade family ornaments (try our DIY Christmas Salt Dough Ornaments and Popsicle Stick Snowman Ornament)
Textured pieces like woven stars, knitted hearts, wood carvings, or ceramic pieces

On a neutral or flocked tree, bold statement ornaments stand out beautifully.

4. Add Texture Through Decorative Picks and Sprays

Decorative picks are one of the best-kept design secrets for making artificial trees look lush and expensive. Tuck them into empty spots after you’ve fluffed the tree.

Great options include:

Iced berry stems
Pinecones
Glitter branches
Magnolia leaves
Champagne sprays
Snowflakes
Ribbon sprays

These fill spaces and add visual movement, especially if your tree is slim or sparse.

Along with visual texture, you can bring your tree to life with DIY Essential Oil Blends that Make Your Home Smell Like Christmas.

5. Ribbons: The Designer’s Trick for a Luxe Tree

Ribbon is inexpensive, reusable, and gives an instantly elevated look.

Two popular ribbon styles:

Cascading Ribbon:
Twirl ribbon down the tree in loose curls for fullness.

Layered Ribbon:
Use two ribbons together—a textured one and a sheer one—for a multi-dimensional look.

Tip: Wired ribbon is easiest to shape and position.

6. Create Balance with Ornament Placement

A beautifully decorated tree isn’t just about buying pretty ornaments—it’s about placement.

Follow these tips:

Place large ornaments deep inside the branches for dimension
Hang medium ornaments at mid-depth
Add small ornaments on the outer tips
Step back every few minutes to check balance
Spread colors and textures evenly

This prevents “heavy spots” where one area looks overloaded.

7. Don’t Forget the Tree Topper

Your tree topper completes the look. Depending on your aesthetic, choose from:

Angel or star (traditional)
Oversized bow (elegant)
Rustic wooden star
Glittered burst topper
Floral arrangement topper
Light-up LED toppers

Modern toppers sit deeper into the tree instead of perched on top, which helps them stay secure.

8. Add Meaningful Family Ornaments

Even the most professionally designed trees feel warmer when they include sentimental touches. Add:

Baby’s first Christmas ornaments
Travel ornaments from family vacations
Handmade crafts from your kids
Personalized ornaments with names or dates
Annual photo ornaments

An artificial tree becomes part of your family history when it holds memories from each year.

9. Coordinate Surrounding Holiday Decor

To create a cohesive Christmas look, match your ornaments with surrounding decor:

Stockings
Mantel garlands
Wreaths
Table runners
Pillow covers
Holiday village displays
Nutcrackers
Candleholders
Tree skirts or tree collars

Using the same color palette makes your home feel polished and intentional.

10. Tree Skirts, Tree Collars & Base Decor

The base of your tree is just as important as the top.

Tree Skirts:

Cozy faux fur
Knitted or quilted fabrics
Traditional plaid
Burlap farmhouse textures

Tree Collars:

Woven baskets
White metal collars
Rustic wood
Gold, silver, or matte black metal

Tree collars feel especially modern and hide the tree stand beautifully.

Add “base ornaments” like wrapped empty boxes, lanterns, or a miniature village to complete the look.

Don’t forget to add plenty of space at the bottom for your DIY Christmas village with train that rides around the base of your Christmas tree.

11. Decorating Multiple Trees? Try Themed Looks

If you’re someone who decorates multiple trees for different rooms (or blogs!), themed trees are a fun way to express creativity:

Candy Cane Tree – red + white stripes
Winter Wonderland Tree – silver, white, crystal
Gingerbread Tree – brown, white, pastel candy colors
Santa’s Workshop Tree – bright red + green
Woodland Tree – pinecones, owls, faux fur, warm lights
Pastel Ballet Tree – blush, tulle, nutcracker ornaments

This is especially popular in homes with kids or holiday content creators.

Final Thoughts: Is an Artificial Christmas Tree Worth It?

Absolutely. A high-quality artificial Christmas tree isn’t just a purchase—it’s an investment in years of joyful holiday memories. It saves money over time, fits any style or space, and brings consistent beauty season after season.

Whether you’re a Christmas-obsessed mom, a content creator decorating multiple rooms, or someone ready to avoid the holiday tree scramble altogether, an artificial tree offers beauty, convenience, and magic without the stress.