Christmas tree buying guide
From pre-lit, real and artificial options to finding the right tree size for your home, discover all you need to know when choosing a tree this Christmas.
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By Kirsty Hudson | Last edited: September 2026
How to choose a Christmas tree?
Choosing a Christmas tree starts with three things: where it will go, how much room you have and how much setting up you want to do. Compare tree types and sizes below to find your perfect tree this festive season.
Real or artificial Christmas trees?
Both options can create a warm, Christmassy feel. The right choice depends on how much maintenance, set-up and storage you're comfortable with.
Real Christmas trees
A real Christmas tree brings natural colour, texture and scent into your home. The shape and fullness will vary from tree to tree, so it is useful to look at different ones and check measurements before you make your choice.
Common real Christmas tree types include:
- Nordmann fir: Known for its soft needles and good needle retention.
- Norway spruce: Has a traditional shape and noticeable festive scent, but may shed needles quicker than some other kinds.
- Fraser fir: Often narrower than other varieties, with strong branches and a distinctive scent.
- Blue spruce: Recognisable by its blue-green colouring and firm needles.
Note: Real trees need regular care. Keep a cut tree in a suitable water-holding stand, and position it away from fires, radiators and other heat sources.
Tip: How to choose a real Christmas tree?
Look for a tree that appears green and healthy, with the needles firmly attached.
Artificial Christmas trees
An artificial Christmas tree can be packed away and used again, provided it remains in good condition. It also gives you more control over your tree's shape, height, colour and lighting.
Artificial trees are available in a range of styles, including:
- Traditional green trees
- Snowy or frosted trees
- Pre-lit trees
- Slim and pencil trees
- Half Christmas trees
- Mini and tabletop trees
- Alternative colours
Note: Artificial trees can differ in their fullness, shape and assembly requirements. Always check the complete product dimensions, branch construction and included accessories when choosing an artificial tree.
What to look for in an artificial Christmas tree?
Small design details can make a big difference when it is time to put the tree up and pack it away.
Here are some key features to keep an eye out for:
- Hinged or fixed branches: Hinged branches fold down from the central pole. They can make setup and packing away more straightforward. Meanwhile, fixed branches may need to be shaped or attached individually. Check the assembly instructions so you know what to expect.
- Stand included: Confirm if a stand is included and look at its width as well as the overall tree diameter, particularly if the tree will sit close to any furniture.
- Tree sections and assembly: Larger artificial trees often arrive in several sections that fit together. Consider whether you can safely lift, assemble and store each section.
- Storage size: Check the boxed dimensions before buying and make sure you have space to store the tree along with its stand.
Christmas tree shapes
A tree’s shape is just as important as its height. Two trees of the same height may have very different base diameters, so make sure to measure your floor space as well as the ceiling.
There's something for everyone in our collection. Whether you prefer the classic charm of a full tree or need space-saving Christmas trees for small spaces, we've got you covered.
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Christmas tree sizes
Always measure before you buy. Refer to the tree’s maximum height, its widest diameter and leave enough room so you can set it up comfortably.
1. Measure the height
Measure from the floor to your ceiling, then allow room for:
- The tree stand or base
- Your chosen tree topper
- A small gap above the topper
- Any low lights, beams or ceiling decorations
Tip: If you already own a topper, measure it before choosing the tree. A star or tall ornament may need more space than expected.
2. Measure the width
Measure the spot where you plan to place the tree at its widest point. Think about nearby furniture, doors, curtains, radiators and walking routes.
Tip: Compare your space with the finished diameter mentioned in the product details. The size of the storage box itself will not tell you how wide the assembled tree will be.
Christmas tree size guide
| Tree height | Where it could work | What to check |
|---|---|---|
Tables, desks and compact spaces | Full assembled width | |
Smaller rooms or raised displays | Whether the stand adds to the specified height | |
Most standard rooms | If there's space for the stand and topper | |
Rooms with more ceiling height | Ceiling clearance and branch width | |
Larger rooms and open spaces | Ceiling height, access, setup and storage |
Note: This is a starting point rather than a fixed rule. Product measurements and room dimensions should decide your final choice.
Pre-lit or unlit Christmas trees?
It all depends on what you fancy. A pre-lit Christmas tree has lights attached to the branches for convenience, while an unlit tree is great if you wish to add your own Christmas tree lights while decorating it with family or friends.
What makes an artificial Christmas tree look realistic?
Artificial trees use different materials and branch designs to recreate the shape and texture of a real tree.
- PE and PVC branches: PE (polyethylene) tips are moulded into a three-dimensional needle shape. PVC tips can help add volume, and so some artificial trees combine both materials.
- Branch tips and fullness: The number of branch tips can indicate how much foliage a tree has, but it shouldn't be used on its own to judge quality or fullness. Tree height, diameter and shape all affect the finished look.
- Coloured and frosted Christmas trees: From frosted foliage to a statement burgundy tree, these designs add a unique look and feel to your space. However, they might have certain care instructions, so be sure to read the manufacturer's guidelines beforehand.
Christmas tree setup tips
Real or artificial tree, baubles and Christmas tree decorations or minimalist string lights, explore our tips and advice for all kinds of tree setups.
- Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for tree setup and lighting, and use a stable stand that's designed for the size and type of your tree.
- Keep your tree away from radiators and other sources of heat.
- Check decorative lights and cables for visible damage before use.
- Place cables in a way that won't cause a trip hazard and be sure not to overload sockets or extension leads.
- Supervise children around trees, lights and decorations.
- If you're unsure about damaged lights, plugs or cables, stop using them and seek advice from a qualified electrician or the manufacturer.
- Finally, protect your tree, lights and decs with Christmas tree storage boxes and storage bags.
Christmas tree decorating tips
Once your tree is safely in place, start with lights if it's not already pre-lit. Add garlands or tinsel next, followed by larger decorations, smaller baubles, and finally the topper.
Tip: You do not need to cover every branch. Leaving a little space can help individual decorations stand out, and makes it easier to spread them evenly.
For more ways to finish your festive setup, read our Christmas decorating ideas.
Frequently asked questions about choosing a Christmas tree
What are the main Christmas tree types?
Christmas trees are generally grouped into real and artificial options. Real trees include cut, pot-grown and containerised trees, with varieties such as Nordmann fir, Norway spruce and Fraser fir. Artificial Christmas trees come in a wider range of shapes and features, including full, slim, half, snowy, coloured and pre-lit trees.
How do you pick the right Christmas tree?
Always measure the available height and width of your space before you choose. Consider space for the stand, topper and room for any nearby furniture or walkways. Next, decide between real and artificial based on your preferences, and then compare full, slim, pencil or half-tree shapes to find the right fit.
What size Christmas tree should you choose?
Choose a tree that leaves enough clearance for its stand, topper and a small gap below the ceiling. Trees of the same height can have different base diameters, so remember to look at the width as well. A tree up to 3ft may suit a tabletop, while 4ft to 5ft trees can work in compact rooms. A 6ft tree suits many standard spaces, with taller trees needing greater ceiling height.
Can a real Christmas tree last three weeks?
A fresh cut Christmas tree can last for three weeks or potentially longer when cared for correctly. Place it in a water-holding stand and check the water daily. Make sure to keep it away from radiators and other heat sources, which can increase the loss of both moisture and needles. How long your tree stays fresh will also depend on its variety and the temperature of the room.
What is the difference between a pre-lit and an unlit Christmas tree?
A pre-lit Christmas tree comes with the lights already attached, which saves time during setup and can offer a more even display. An unlit Christmas tree takes longer to decorate, but gives you the freedom to choose the kind of lights you want and see where you want to place them. You can even swap out the lights separately if needed.
Is a half Christmas tree suitable for a small room?
A flat-backed half Christmas tree can be good for a small room as it will sit closer to the wall than a traditional full tree. Other half-tree designs may have branches only on the upper section, leaving more open floor space beneath. Be sure to check the product images, shape and complete dimensions to get a better idea of what you need. A slim or pencil tree may also work if you want a narrow shape with branches around the entire tree.
How to make an artificial Christmas tree look fuller?
To make an artificial Christmas tree look fuller, start at the bottom and separate the tips, directing some upwards, some outwards and others slightly downwards. Step back regularly while you do this, to spot gaps and adjust the outer branches for an even outline. Distribute the larger decorations first and avoid forcing branches, following the manufacturer’s setup instructions to prevent damage.
