Pre-lit Christmas Trees for Black Friday: Features That Matter

A pre-lit Christmas tree saves hours of stringing lights, so check the lights as carefully as the tree. Compare the bulb type (LED or incandescent), warm white, cool white or multicolor, any color-changing modes, and what happens if one bulb fails. Then check the height, the shape and how the sections plug together.

Questions to ask about the lights

• LED or incandescent? LEDs run cooler and use less power. Incandescent bulbs give a warmer, classic glow.
• What color? Warm white looks traditional, cool white looks crisp, and multicolor suits a family tree. Some trees switch between them with a remote or foot pedal.
• What if a bulb goes out? Some trees keep the rest of the strand lit when one bulb fails. Check the listing for this, and for spare bulbs in the box.
• How do the sections connect? On many newer trees the power runs through the trunk, so the sections light up once they are stacked, with fewer cords to plug in.

The tree itself

Measure the ceiling height and allow room for a topper. Check the shape against the space: full, slim or pencil. Hinged branches are faster to set up than hook-on ones.

New pre-lit Christmas trees to compare

Shop black Friday pre-lit Christmas trees→

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Unlit trees, lights and other holiday pieces are on the Christmas trees and decor page.