Everything to deck the halls: a tree that looks real, tested lights, ornaments that won't shatter, and storage so next year is easy.
Updated October 2026 · save to pinterest
best for: A tree that'll last a decade
A realistic prelit tree that Bob Vila's testers picked as their favorite after trying more than two dozen.
best for: First apartment or first tree
A full, affordable prelit tree with hinged branches that fold out fast.
best for: The snowy look on a budget
A flocked tree with a snowy look, for less than most real trees cost over a few years.
best for: Real trees
For real trees: a foot-pedal stand that clamps the trunk straight in seconds. No more crawling around tightening bolts.
best for: Most trees and mantels
Long warm-white LED strands with multiple modes for trees, mantels and windows.
best for: Show-off trees
App-controlled lights you can map to your tree and set to custom colors and animations.
best for: Classic multicolor trees
Classic multicolor mini lights in energy-saving LED.
best for: Never forgetting the lights
Put your tree and window lights on a schedule so they turn on at sunset and off at bedtime.
best for: Filling a whole tree
A big set of matching shatterproof ball ornaments in coordinated colors. Safe around kids and pets.
best for: Every tree
You always need more hooks than you think.
best for: Finishing the look
A plush skirt that hides the stand and looks great under presents.
best for: Artificial trees
A heavy-duty bag with handles and wheels for trees up to 9 ft. Better than a ripped box.
best for: Protecting special ornaments
Divided slots keep ornaments from clinking and breaking in storage.
A common rule of thumb is about 100 mini lights per foot of tree height, so a 7-foot tree needs around 700 lights. Use more for a brighter look.
A good artificial tree costs about as much as 3–5 years of real trees and can last a decade. Real trees smell better but need watering and cleanup.
Most people decorate the weekend after Thanksgiving. In 2026 that's November 28–29.
