I Tested a Balsam Hill Christmas Tree and Good Lord Is It Realistic

My tree arrived in a compact (though certainly not small) bag that included the tree in four sections as well as a stand, extra bulbs and gloves for “shaping” (more on that later). Putting it together was fairly easy: you set up the base and then insert the sections into it and each other one at a time. (Pro tip: save and reattach the section labels when you break the tree down, so you remember what order they go in the following year.) The coolest part is definitely the pre-strung lights, which you can customize based on your color and temperature preferences. I had assumed that even a pre-lit tree would have multiple plugs running around it that need to be connected. But in fact, it’s all done within the tree itself, meaning that once the thing is assembled, it’s ready to plug into the wall outlet and light up. Now about the shaping: Straight out of the box (and after a year in storage), the branches are a little wonky, but they’re bendable enough that you can kind of work your way around the tree, moving them into place.

Now granted my vision isn’t what it used to be, but even from very close up, I really cannot tell the difference! The branches and shape are irregular enough to be convincing, and I like that you can pick your fullness to fit both your space and your preferences; some people like an iconic cone, while others prefer something less traditional. I also appreciate that the branches can be adjusted for ornament placing, and that you can even trim them, which I did. The only things that aren’t realistic: The base is clearly metal (not a tree trunk), but that’s easily covered with a tree skirt. And, of course, the smell, which is nonexistent. The solution: get a candle.

Theoretically, forever! Though most people report a lifespan of 8-10 years, and the company offers a 3-year limited warranty, which they honor: The top of my friend’s tree stopped lighting up, and Balsam Hill sent him a replacement section. I’ve only had my Vermont Spruce for one season, but I was impressed with how well it held up in storage over the year.

Is There Anything Not to Like About This Tree?

As previously mentioned, if you’re used to real trees, it’s odd to walk past it and not smell anything. Additionally, you have to have the space to store it. Mine takes up the room of about four sleeping bags in my basement. Finally, the price is not cheap. Though with real trees of the same size costing around $150, if you use it for seven years, you’ve gotten your money’s worth.

As much as I love the tradition of picking out a tree and strapping it to my car, I just can’t beat the ease of an artificial one—especially one that looks as realistic as Balsam Hill’s. But ultimately, so much comes down to preference. Do you hate cleaning up needles? Do you need that Christmassy smell? Do you have space to store an out-of-commission tree for 11 months a year? Go with your gut, and enjoy the season!