By Taylor Bennett 
National Tree Company 6.5 ft Pre-Lit Downswept Douglas Fir Artificial Christmas Tree Review
The holiday season is a time for warmth, family, and of course, a beautifully decorated Christmas tree. Today, we’re diving deep into the National Tree Company 6.5 ft Pre-Lit Downswept Douglas Fir Artificial Christmas Tree, a popular choice for those seeking a hassle-free and realistic-looking centerpiece for their festive celebrations.
Detailed Review
The National Tree Company’s 6.5 ft Pre-Lit Downswept Douglas Fir aims to bring the charm of a real Christmas tree into your home without the mess and maintenance. Standing at 6.5 feet tall with a 49-inch diameter, it boasts a full and impressive profile. The “Feel Real” technology, which involves molding the branches from real tree branches, contributes significantly to its realistic appearance. The 1,227 branch tips, made of crush-resistant polyethylene, provide a dense and lifelike texture that easily fools the eye.
Assembly is made relatively easy thanks to the hinged branch system. The branches simply swing down, allowing for a quick setup. National Tree Company estimates 45-60 minutes for shaping the tree, which is a crucial step involving peeling back the branches and fanning out the tips. This process is necessary to achieve the full-bodied look depicted in the product photos.
The pre-lit feature, with 650 clear UL lights, is a major convenience. The lights are pre-strung, saving you the hassle of untangling and arranging them yourself. Furthermore, the individual light operation is a plus, meaning that if one bulb burns out (and isn’t physically broken), the rest of the string will remain lit. The included metal stand provides a sturdy base, ensuring the tree remains upright throughout the holiday season.
Beyond aesthetics and convenience, safety is also a priority. The tree is constructed with high-quality, hypoallergenic, and fire-resistant materials, offering peace of mind. The company recommends positioning the tree in a prominent location, like a living room or dining area, where it can be enjoyed from multiple viewpoints, while also ensuring it doesn’t obstruct any walkways.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Realistic “Feel Real” branch tips | Initial shaping requires a significant time investment (45-60 minutes) |
| Pre-lit with 650 clear lights | Some users may find the 6.5ft height too small for larger rooms |
| Hinged branches for easy setup and storage | Potential for individual light bulbs to burn out over time (though the rest stay lit) |
| Durable metal stand included | Upfront cost can be higher than a real tree (though it’s a long-term investment) |
| Hypoallergenic and fire-resistant materials |
Excellent Alternatives
- National Tree Company 7.5 ft Pre-Lit Artificial Christmas Tree – A larger option for those with more space to fill.
- Balsam Hill Artificial Christmas Tree – Known for their ultra-realistic designs and high-quality materials.
- Puleo International Pre-Lit Artificial Christmas Tree – A more budget-friendly alternative with a good reputation.
Final Verdict
The National Tree Company 6.5 ft Pre-Lit Downswept Douglas Fir Artificial Christmas Tree offers a compelling blend of realism, convenience, and safety. While the initial shaping requires some effort, the pre-lit design, easy setup, and durable construction make it a worthwhile investment for anyone looking to simplify their holiday decorating without sacrificing the traditional Christmas tree aesthetic. It’s a solid choice for creating a warm and festive atmosphere in your home year after year.
Our Rating
★★★★☆ 4.5/5