While nothing beats the smell and aesthetic of a real Christmas tree, they’re not exactly easy to maintain. Plus, the cost of purchasing a fresh tree every year adds up.
Fear not, an artificial tree can be just as magical, and it’ll get you through many holiday seasons to come.
Other than longevity, there are plenty of great reasons to make the switch from a real tree to a faux one. Not only will you cut down on your mess and post-tree clean-up time, but you’ll likely save some money in the long run.
Here, we’ve rounded up all the best Christmas trees to invest in, catering to a range of budgets, sizes and aesthetics.
The best artificial Christmas trees to buy in 2024
01
Deluxe Reno 210 pine tree 951 tips in green
$349, Myer
Best artificial Christmas tree overall
The Deluxe Reno tree from Myer is a no-brainer if you’re after a luscious, elegant and realistic-looking Christmas tree that doesn’t come with all the extra bits and bobs (LED lights or detailing). Filled to the brim with dark green branches and a sturdy base, it’s the high-quality tree you and your family will enjoy for years to come.
Countless reviewers have even admitted it’s hard to tell if this tree is artificial.
“Awesome very realistic tree,” one of the many five-star reviewers said. “I was hesitant to purchase as we have always had a real tree but decorated it’s hard to tell the difference”
Another person said: “Beautiful tree which looks real. Easy to assemble. Nice and full and can be fluffed up to suit. Great size in both height and width.”
Height: 210cm
Key features:
- Extra lush branches
- Deep green colour
- Three-part design makes it easy to assemble and disassemble
- Free delivery
02
Arrow pine flocked pre-lit Christmas tree
$499, Myer
Best artificial snow-flocked Christmas tree
We may not have a white Christmas down here in Australia but pop this tree in your living room and your space will instantly be transformed into a winter wonderland. Featuring tips with a heavy coating of faux snow and delicate lights placed throughout, this is the perfect pick for those after a snowy-looking tree.
“The tree not only looks like a real tree but was the easiest tree to put up,” one of the many five-star reviewers admitted. “It took us only minutes from start to finish! And with all the lights having snow effect they are hidden as well. We love it!”
Another person wrote: “High quality and convenient! So glad I got this. Easy to set up and it looks incredible, I’ve had so many compliments!!!”
Height: 210cm
Key features:
- Pre-lit
- Free delivery
03
Silver glitter spruce LED Christmas tree
$699.99, Adairs
Best runner-up artificial snow-flocked Christmas tree
Add some sparkle to your festivities with this sophisticated tree dazzling with silver glitter frosted tips that mimic snow. It comes with LED lights intertwined so there’s no need to lug out your box of extra lights sitting in storage.
Height: 213cm
Key features:
- Comes with LED lights
- Adairs Linen lovers receive a discount ($629.99)
04
Christabelle green 1.2m artificial Christmas tree with 300 tips
$55, MyDeal
Best budget-friendly artificial Christmas tree
Although a budget-friendly option, this tree comes with a high tip count for an abundant, luscious look. The metal base is also incredibly sturdy, with enough height underneath for all your presents.
Height: 120cm
Key features:
- Sturdy metal stand
- More needles for a lush look
- Easy assembly and disassembly
05
Royal deluxe pre-lit Christmas tree
from $279, Temple & Webster
Best pre-lit artificial Christmas tree
You’ll love the lush and full branches on this robust tree from Temple & Webster. It comes with attached fairy lights that are fitted with seven flashing effects and a steady light option, allowing you to create the perfect festive atmosphere. It’s available in four heights so there’s an appropriate size for every space.
Many reviewers have even admitted this high-quality tree “looks realistic”.
“I love this tree,” one five-star customer wrote. “Hinged branches make it much easier to put up than my old tree. It’s extremely full, and really nice to look at. The lights look great and were easy to connect. I also noticed that I didn’t lose any foliage while putting it together, where as my old tree would drop bits everywhere. The base is very strong, heavier and thicker metal than I’ve had before. There was no wobble even before I tightened the screws. I honestly can’t fault it, it was even boxed well and the instructions were straight forward. The quality and colour of the foliage make it look posher than I paid. It looks super fancy.”
Height: Available in four sizes — 150cm, 180cm, 210cm and 240cm
Key features:
- Hinged branches
- 400 pre-assembled warm white ELDs
- Seven flashing effects and a steady option on the lights
- Low voltage IP20 transformer
- Two-year warranty
06
LED fir snow Christmas tree
$189.95, AURA Home
Best petite pre-lit artificial Christmas tree
Bring the Christmas spirit to your home with this 60cm tall tree. Though petite in height and width, this luxurious fir tree is not short in style and lustre.
Height: 60cm
Key features:
- 80 LED lights
- Scandinavian look
07
Jingle Jollys Christmas tree
$119.95, Kogan
Best white artificial Christmas tree
For a different take on a classic green tree, this all-white one will bring a whole level of enchantment to your space. Adorned with 1000 PVC tips, this tree flaunts a symmetrical and compact design with bushy branches that will leave you, your family and your guests in awe — year after year.
Height: 210cm
Key features:
- 1000 tips
- Sturdy metal stand
- Non-toxic and odour-free material
Is it better to get a real Christmas tree or fake one?
Fake Christmas trees have their pros and cons, just like real trees.
On the one hand, fake trees are super convenient. You can set them up and take them down in a flash, and you don’t have to worry about watering them or cleaning up fallen needles. They can also save you money in the long run, since you can use the same tree for many years.
On the other hand, they obviously aren’t the real thing and do not have that nice Yuletide pine smell. Fake trees are usually manufactured from plastic and metal but if you use your fake tree for at least 10 years, it can have a lower carbon impact over time than getting a new real tree every year.
Ultimately, the decision of whether to get a real or fake Christmas tree is a personal one. If you’re looking for a convenient and low-maintenance option, a fake tree is a good choice. But if you’re concerned about the environment, you may want to consider getting a real tree from a sustainable source.
How do I choose a quality artificial Christmas tree?
Below are several factors you should consider when shopping for the perfect fake Christmas tree:
- Height and width: This is the most obvious one because you’ll need a tree that fits your space. Most artificial trees come in one of three widths — full, slim or pencil. In terms of height, they can range from tabletop size to up to over four metres. To ensure the best tree for your home, measure the spot where you plan to display it and make sure to leave enough room around and above it. Ideally, you want to allow for at least 15 centimetres from the ceiling and surrounding wall/s.
- Branches: Artificial trees come with two types of branches — hinged or hook-in. Hinged trees consist of just a few parts and have permanently fixed branches that are easier to set up. Hook-in branches are individually hooked into a specific spot on a central pole. They take more time to put together but tend to be less expensive.
- Lights: Do you want a tree that comes with lights or do you already own lights? Pre-lit trees can be more expensive but they will save you time and stress when it comes to assembling and disassembling.
- Material: Fake trees that mimic real evergreens are made from one of two plastics — PVC and PE. PVC needles are attached to the fake tree branches using wires, while PE fake trees are fabricated and better resemble a real tree. Then, there are other materials, like feathers and tinsel, for those who want a different tree aesthetic.
Looking to save money on gifts this festive season? Check out our coupon codes for Myer, The Good Guys and more.
