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Architectural Digest Tests 13 Artificial Christmas Trees for 2026 Holiday Season

publication · 2026-10-06

In its 2026 review of artificial Christmas trees, Architectural Digest evaluated 13 different models based on several criteria. The top pick for Best Overall was Balsam Hill's Fraser Fir Tree, which boasts 3,272 branch tips and 1,180 lights. For those seeking affordability, the National Tree Company Downswept Douglas Fir Tree was recognized as the Best Tree Under $500, while the Holiday Aisle Pre-Lit Dunhill Fir Tree was named Best Tree Under $1,000. The Best Alpine Fir award went to King of Christmas's Alpine Fir. Additionally, Balsam Hill's Classic Blue Spruce was honored as the Best Spruce, and Yaheetech's Pre-Lit Flocked Tree earned the title of Best Flocked Tree. Other notable mentions included Quince's Spruce Pre-Lit Tree, McGee & Co.'s Grandis Fir, Best Choice Products' Pencil Tree, and various trees from The Holiday Aisle. Designers provided decorating suggestions, highlighting the advantages of pre-lit trees.

Key facts

  • Architectural Digest tested 13 artificial Christmas trees for its 2026 guide
  • Balsam Hill Fraser Fir Tree was named Best Overall with 3,272 branch tips and 1,180 lights
  • National Tree Company Downswept Douglas Fir Tree won Best Tree Under $500 with a five-year warranty
  • The Holiday Aisle Pre-Lit Dunhill Fir Tree took Best Tree Under $1,000 with 500 lights
  • King of Christmas Alpine Fir was named Best Alpine Fir with 3,327 branch tips and 900 lights
  • McGee & Co. Grandis Fir Pre-Lit Faux Tree was selected Best Designer Tree and is marked down 50 percent
  • Jeff Leatham advised buyers to "always, always, always go for pre-lit" trees
  • Shea McGee recommended 7 to 7.5 feet as the ideal tree height for most standard spaces

Entities

Artists

  • Jeff Leatham
  • Shea McGee
  • Kendall Jenner
  • Kathy Hilton
  • Annie Sloan
  • Kris Jenner
  • Divya Viswanathan
  • DaVonne Bacchus
  • Stewart Savin
  • Pujah Shah
  • Andrea Lewis
  • Brie Schwartz
  • Kate McGregor
  • Charlotte Collins
  • Kristi Kellogg
  • Lauren Arzbaecher
  • Jake Smith
  • Alyssa Marino Williams
  • Dorcia Kelley
  • John Derian
  • Christopher Radko

Institutions

  • Architectural Digest
  • Balsam Hill
  • National Tree Company
  • The Holiday Aisle
  • King of Christmas
  • Yaheetech
  • Quince
  • McGee & Co.
  • Best Choice Products
  • Amazon
  • Wayfair
  • Glamour
  • Kelle Miles Studio
  • Anthropologie
  • Twinkly

Locations

  • New York City
  • United States
  • Washington
  • Appalachian Mountains
  • Brooklyn
  • Pacific Northwest

Sources