We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more >
We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more >
Artificial Christmas trees are gaining in popularity as a more convenient and versatile option. If you have decided to get one either because of allergies, for safety reasons, or because you are simply tired of endlessly cleaning up pine needles, this guide will support you in making your selection.
Table of Contents Hide
The first step in determining the size of the tree is finding the perfect spot for it to go. One important consideration while doing this is whether you want the tree to become the main focus of attention in the room, or if you would prefer a festive yet overall simpler look.
There are a variety of reasons you may want a tree that you can place up on a table or mantel, perhaps you wish to keep it out of the way of small children or pets. If this is the case, a mini tree may be perfect for you. These trees are less than 4 ft, giving the room an appropriate holiday feel without dominating it.
If, on the other hand, you are looking for a more definite Xmas vibe, but are working with a smaller space, then a small tree (4-5.5 ft) could work well for you. Place it in a less-trafficked area of the room, such as in a snug corner, to prevent it from getting bumped.
For many, a medium tree (6-7.5 ft) is the most popular option. This is the standard size and looks great in most living rooms. It creates a beautifully festival focal point, especially if placed in an area of prominence such as in front of the window.
Large trees (8-10.5 ft) can make a bigger room look absolutely magical, particularly if you have space to pull it right out into the center of the room. Make sure that you carefully measure the height of the room first to ensure that it can comfortably accommodate the tree. Go for one at least six inches lower than your ceiling to prevent the tree from bending at the top and to allow space for adding a tree topper.
There is also an extra-large tree option (12 ft+) to be used in truly cavernous rooms or ones with high ceilings. If you have the space and want to turn the entire place into a winter wonderland - then go for it. Just ensure when measuring, you are taking into account the base of the tree.
The great thing about artificial Christmas trees is that they can be specifically tailored to match the room. These days there are many different styles available meaning that you can slot a Christmas tree into nearly any kind of space.
Slender, half, and corner trees are great options for creating a festive feel in smaller or busier spaces. Or for adding just a touch of the holiday season to a room if you don't want it to be too overwhelming.
Extra full trees are by far the most realistic-looking ones. They are great for creating the full holiday effect, but they are much more difficult to tuck away into a small corner. Opt for this type of tree only if you have a nice, central space for it to stand in.
Regular full trees are a good compromise between realism and convenience. As such, these are the most popular option. They look great in most rooms without blocking off key areas.
Spiral shaped or even upside-down trees are great for people who are looking for a quirky or contemporary way to decorate a space. These can be used to accentuate the style of a room while still allowing you to get into the holiday spirit.
There is not just one kind of Christmas tree. In fact, there are many, and each one has it's own style. The most popular types of natural trees for Christmas are fir, spruce, pine, cedar, and some artificial trees have been modeled after these.
Want something totally traditional? => Fir
The noble fir is likely the most popular type of tree, and for good reason. It is designed in the traditional conical shape, in a bright green hue, and has the densest foliage. However, shorter needles make it easy to decorate without ornaments becoming lost among the needles.
Want something distinctive and stylish? => Spruce
Spruce trees also offer a traditional feel with their lovely shape and bushy branches. Although the branches aren't quite a packed in as with a fir design. However, they are suitably robust for holding up heavier ornaments, and the different lengths mean that you can display some decorations or lights more prominently.
Want something natural and woodsy? => Pine
Pine design trees are increasing in popularity as people are opting for a more natural, less sculpted effect for better realism. While the branches on this tree are sparser than either of the two above, the needles are both longer and grow in clusters, so you still get a full looking tree.
Want something contemporary and eye-catching? => Cedar
Cedars are quite a bit different from the other three trees on this list. They are usually designed smaller and narrower with downward-pointing branches. Opt for these if you want something festive but a little less traditional. They are also great for adding a touch of the holidays to smaller rooms, hallways, or even in the garden.
Another great thing about artificial trees is that they offer such a range of options when it comes to decoration. You can choose to go for a standard tree that you can then accessorize as you please, something that comes pre-decorated, saving you time and effort, or something altogether different like a silver, gold, or even pink-needled tree!
The choice about whether or not to have the lights built into the tree is of convenience and preference.
Pre-lit Christmas trees are all ready to go - you simply need to add the ornaments. Unlit Christmas trees allow for much more creative choice when it comes to selecting the color and bulb size of the lights for different kinds of looks.
Flocking is using artificial snow to give the branches of the tree, either a frosted or snow-covered look. These are great for people living in a warmer climate who love the idea of a white Christmas.
These kinds of trees are good if you are looking for something particularly eye-catching, modern, young, and fun. Colored Christmas trees are quickly gaining in popularity. They work really well in more neutral-toned rooms for a pop of extra color.
Again this is an excellent option if you are looking for something you can just put up and go. For a more traditional feel, select a pinecone or berry tree which will either work well just as it is or can be jazzed up with a little decoration.
For something really distinct, check out tinsel trees. These glitzy-looking trees add a touch of glamor to any room and require no additional accessories whatsoever to look both festive and fabulous.
When making your selection, just keep in mind that whichever type of tree you do end up purchasing, you will likely be using it for many years to come, so make sure to choose something you can enjoy in the long-term.
