"We decided to settle the debate once and for all by bringing the best-selling artificial trees from three leading brands into a studio for a blind-judged contest. We got 10 trees from Balsam Hill, King of Christmas, and National Tree Company, then found 10 assemblers to put the trees together and fluff them. Next, our panel of three interior-designer judges assessed the results."
"All products featured on WIRED are independently selected by our editors. However, we may receive compensation from retailers and/or from purchases of products through these links. Learn more. You can spend hours scrolling through lists of the best artificial Christmas trees and still end up wondering what to buy. How real does it actually look? Is it appropriately full? Does it shed? Are the branches strong enough to hold that lopsided homemade macaroni ornament you've hung on your tree since 2004?"
"Crucially, the judges didn't know the brand or price of each tree-they picked the winners based on what they could see and touch. There were some surprises along the way, and we learned quickly that sometimes the gift in the biggest, shiniest box isn't the best. Be sure to check out WIRED's other seasonal buying guides, including the best smart Christmas lights, advent calendars, and stocking stuffers."
Ten best-selling artificial Christmas trees from Balsam Hill, King of Christmas, and National Tree Company were assembled and fluffed by ten volunteers in a studio for blind judging. Three interior-designer judges evaluated the trees without knowing brand or price, comparing realism, fullness, shedding, and branch strength. All trees measured 7.5 feet and were photographed under the same studio lighting without ornaments. Prices spanned roughly $170 to $1,700. Selection of contenders came from research of publications and user reviews and included models such as Balsam Hill's Classic Blue Spruce and National Tree Company's Dunhill Fir, plus an Amazon best-seller under $300.
Read at WIRED
Unable to calculate read time
Collection
[
|
...
]