Pre-Lit vs Non-Lit Artificial Christmas Trees

Pre-Lit Artificial Christmas Trees

When it comes to artificial Christmas trees, pre-lit versions are all about simplicity and saving time. Once you select one, there’s no need for extra light shopping. They come ready with evenly distributed lights, allowing you to just plug it in and start decorating right away.

Pre-lit trees are available in various shapes and styles. Most often, their lights emit either a cool or warm white glow, but some options offer multi-colored lights. Once you’ve chosen your color preference, there’s no need to figure out the number of lights required for your tree size. Plus, their LED lights are energy-efficient and long-lasting, guaranteeing a trouble-free Christmas for years ahead.

What makes these trees even more convenient is their click & connect assembly. This feature eliminates the need for light wrapping and searching for connectors to light up the tree. As you assemble each piece, the lights automatically connect.

Now, let’s talk pros and cons. The benefits of pre-lit trees are evident: they offer convenience, less frustration, and time savings. The lights stay in place, there’s no untangling or storing strings of lights yearly, and setup and takedown are quick because the lights are already attached.

However, there are downsides too. There’s less versatility due to limited light choices with most models, and the lights are permanently affixed, so you can’t move them. Pre-lit trees also tend to be pricier because they include lights. When buying, ensure you choose a pre-lit tree with burn-out protection or continuous lighting to prevent dark sections in your tree if a bulb goes out.

In essence, a pre-lit tree eliminates one of the most time-consuming parts of tree decorating, providing a pre-lit base to decorate. Most resemble realistic artificial pine with clear or multi-colored lights. LED pre-lit trees, specifically, are fitted with lights that lack filaments, extending their lifespan beyond traditional bulbs. Just plug in and you’re good to go!

Read more: cyber Monday Xmas tree deals

 

Non-Lit Artificial Christmas Trees

Non-lit trees demand more decorating time, but they give you the freedom to personalize. Unlike pre-lit trees, which confine you to a fixed number of lights and style, non-lit trees let you pick your preferred light type and color. You might go for a simple string light, opt for a fuller look with a cluster or compact cluster light, or even choose a pin wire light to conceal the wires.

With non-lit trees, calculating how many lights you need for an evenly lit tree becomes part of the fun. When I think about non-lit trees, three words come to mind: versatility, variety, and savings!

On the plus side, non-lit trees offer unlimited decorating options. You can change the light style or color each year. You also have the freedom to add lights differently every year, creating an entirely new look. Perhaps one year you’ll use fewer lights, then add more the next. You can wrap each branch or apply the lights in a zigzag pattern to switch things up. Moreover, non-lit trees are usually cheaper than pre-lit ones, offering cost savings.

On the downside, untangling and storing strings of lights each year can be frustrating. Decorating will take longer as you need to add the lights yourself. Also, finding the perfect non-lit tree may require searching through more retailers, as pre-lit trees are more readily available.

Non-lit artificial Christmas trees offer the convenience of an artificial tree with the added flexibility absent in pre-lit trees. They provide a more natural look, allowing you to string lights just as you would on a natural tree. Plus, you can change the lights to match your evolving decor theme over the years. That’s the beauty of non-lit trees!

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you add more lights to a pre-lit tree?

Sure! You can definitely add more lights to a pre-lit artificial Christmas tree. This is an excellent strategy to make your tree more versatile and personalized. You could spice it up with some uniquely shaped bulbs or introduce a splash of color with colored lights. It’s all about making the tree reflect your style and festive spirit.

 

How many lights do I need for an unlit tree?

The number of lights you’ll need for an unlit artificial Christmas tree really depends on the ambiance you want to create. A handy rule of thumb is to plan for about 100 lights for every foot of tree height. So, for a 6-foot tree, you’d aim for around 600 lights. If you’re interested in nailing down the perfect number, I’ve written an article that walks you through figuring out just the right amount of lights for any Christmas tree.

 

Are pre-lit trees safe?

Absolutely, pre-lit artificial Christmas trees are safe. The advancements in the production of artificial trees have significantly improved the safety of pre-lit trees, thanks to cooler bulbs and superior materials. A piece of advice from me: always check if your tree is UL approved or listed. You should be able to find this information clearly stated on the packaging. It’s a safety rating that tells you the tree has been tested and passed safety standards. I would strongly caution against buying a pre-lit tree without this certification.

How do I clean an unlit or pre-lit tree?

Cleaning an artificial Christmas tree, be it pre-lit or unlit, can be a bit of a puzzle, especially with the pre-lit ones because you have to consider electrical safety. But don’t worry, it’s not something you’ll likely need to do every year. A lot depends on how you store your tree when it’s not in use. If you’re unsure on how to go about it, I’ve got a guide that provides detailed instructions on cleaning every type of artificial Christmas tree.

 

How long do artificial trees last?

On average, an artificial Christmas tree should last you around 10 years. But remember, this can vary depending on the brand and type of tree you choose. It’s always a good idea to check the manufacturer’s website for specifics. Most of these trees come with a warranty, typically ranging from 2-3 years, with some even extending up to 10 years. But be sure to read the details carefully, as not all potential problems are covered under every warranty.