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The Best Christmas Tree Lights To Light Up Your Festive Nights

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By Old House Journal Review Team
Last updated: 18 Jul 2023

During the festive season, as the chill of winter settles in and the aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg fills the air, one thing captures the essence of Christmas like no other — the enchanting glow of Christmas tree lights. Embracing the holiday spirit, they embody warmth and joy, casting a gentle radiance that transforms your space into a winter wonderland. The allure of Christmas tree lights lies not only in their ability to illuminate the darkness but also in their power to ignite cherished memories and kindle the imagination. 

But with so many different types, colors, and sizes to choose from, finding the perfect set of Christmas tree lights for your needs and budget can be quite intimidating. To lend you a helping hand, we’ve listed the top Christmas tree lights for 2023 that will bring cheer for years to come. We’ll also share a comprehensive buying guide to help you make an informed purchase.

Best Overall
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Twinkle Star Christmas Tree Lights
Buy on Amazon
Most Versatile
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PREXTEX Christmas Tree Lights
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Most Vivid Effects
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HOME LIGHTING Christmas Tree Lights
Buy on Amazon
Most Premium
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Brizled Christmas Tree Lights
Buy on Amazon
Most Durable
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JMEXSUSS Christmas Tree Lights
Buy on Amazon

Choosing Quality Christmas Tree Lights: A Buyer's Guide

Imagine a majestic tree standing tall, its branches cascading with a tapestry of radiant lights, illuminating the darkness with vibrant colors. Christmas tree lights, the luminous heart of holiday decor, have an ethereal power to transform any space into a magical wonderland.

With so many options available on the market, finding the perfect set can be overwhelming. That’s where our expert buying guide comes in to help you navigate all the choices, ensuring that your investment in Christmas tree lights will illuminate your home with joy for years to come.

How To Pick the Right Christmas Tree Lights

Color of lights

When considering the color of lights, the most common choices are warm white or multicolor. White lights have a warm, inviting glow with a natural-looking appearance that is perfect for cozy holiday settings. On the other hand, multicolored lights tend to have more vibrant, fun colors that can be cheerful and exciting. Whichever you choose, make sure that you select a set that provides enough strands and bulbs to cover your desired area.

Wattage

Regarding wattage, low-voltage LED lights are becoming increasingly popular because they are more energy efficient and longer lasting than traditional incandescent bulbs. Low-voltage LED strings are also much cooler to touch which makes them safer around children and pets. Consider which wattage best suits your needs when selecting your Christmas tree lights.

Number of lights

The number of lights on a strand will vary depending on the size of your tree and how many strands you need to adequately cover it. Smaller trees may require fewer lights per string, while larger trees require more, so it’s important to consider both when determining which set to purchase. Additionally, some options come with multiple strings, so check the packaging to see how many strands are included in the box before deciding.

Length of strands

When looking at the length of strands, you must ensure you have enough strings to properly cover your tree or other intended space. Most Christmas tree lights come in sets ranging from 25 to 100 feet long, so be sure you have enough length for your needs before buying them. Additionally, if you plan on connecting multiple strings together, make sure they are all compatible with one another before purchasing them.

Number of strings

Depending on the size and shape of your tree or the area you want to be covered, you need to determine how many strings are needed before selecting your lights. Many sets come with multiple strands but you may need additional ones if you need more coverage. Check the packaging to see how many strands come in each set so you don’t under or over-purchase for your needs.

Bulb type

Christmas tree lights come in many different bulb types, including standard mini bulbs, cone-shaped bulbs, bubble-shaped bulbs, and more! Decide which type best suits your needs before purchasing. For example, if you want a shimmering effect across a wide area, then bubble-shaped bulbs may be ideal, whereas if you’re looking for a classic look, standard mini bulbs may be best for you.

Connectable or standalone

Another important factor to consider is whether or not the lights are connectable or standalone. Standalone means they do not connect, whereas connectable means they can be connected for even longer lengths (this usually requires an additional plug).

Connectable lights are ideal if there is an area that requires extensive coverage. In contrast, standalone lights may be better suited for smaller areas like mantles or porches where shorter lengths are needed.

Energy efficiency

Energy efficiency is becoming increasingly important when choosing lighting products due to their varied electricity consumption. Look for features such as LED technology which uses up to 80% less energy compared to incandescent bulbs to save money in the long run. Additionally, look for a UL listing to indicate safety features that can also help save energy over time.

Indoor or outdoor use

Lastly, consider whether or not you plan to put your lights indoors or outdoors when selecting a set. Typically indoor sets will come with lower wattage than outdoor sets and other safety features like insulated cabling. Outdoor sets should also have weatherproof ratings so it’s worth double checking this before purchasing one to use outside.

Comparing the Top Christmas Tree Lights of 2023

1

Twinkle Star Christmas Tree Lights

– Best Overall
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Buy on Amazon

The Twinkle Star Christmas Tree Lights bring an impressive and unique element to any holiday decor. With 300 LED lights, this set provides a warm white and multicolor display that can be alternated in eight lighting modes. Perfect for indoor or outdoor trees, these lights are waterproof with a rating of IP44, ensuring protection from rain and other wet weather. They are 6.5 feet long with 12 strands and 25 LEDs per strand. The extension cord is fairly long too, offering plenty of room to hang them. This pick also comes with a star topper to add an extra special touch to your tree.

Installing these Christmas tree lights is easy. No intricate winding around branches is needed; just hang the black plastic rings atop the tree and then hang the light cord. The convenience of the remote control adds another element of ease of use to these lights. With one click, you can turn each color of light on or off separately or both at the same time. You also have the option to set a timer so you don’t have to worry about forgetting to turn off your lights at night. Not only do they stand out aesthetically, but their convenient design and user-friendly features make them the best overall Christmas tree lights on our list.

Pros
  • Easy to install
  • Comes with 300 lights
  • Includes control box and remote control
Cons
  • Only one option for solid
2

PREXTEX Christmas Tree Lights

– Most Versatile
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Buy on Amazon

These PREXTEX Christmas Tree Lights are the perfect versatile addition to any holiday decor. With 20 feet of 100 clear white lights on green wire, you can easily add sparkle and shine to your home. The warm string lights make excellent decorations for Christmas, Halloween, Valentine’s Day, and more. They have a protective coating so you can use them to decorate your indoor or outdoor space with ease. 

These lights come with two flasher bulbs to create a twinkle effect that offers a fairy-light look. Setup is very easy, as each set can connect up to five sets for a total of 500 lights, making them great for large spaces. With the included end connector and the sufficient gap between bulbs, connecting multiple strands is fast and simple. So, if you’re looking for quality Christmas lights that you can use for any occasion, these are the perfect choice. They also come with two extra bulbs and two replacement fuses, ensuring your decorations shine brightly all season.

Pros
  • Connects to create a longer strand
  • Provide enough lights to circle a tree 
  • Easy to install 
Cons
  • Lights may stop twinkling after extensive use
3

HOME LIGHTING Christmas Tree Lights

– Most Vivid Effects
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Buy on Amazon

The HOME LIGHTING Christmas Tree Lights are the perfect way to add holiday cheer to any home. These lights offer a warm white glow and feature 200 LED bulbs connected by 66 feet of green wire. These lights have eight different lighting modes, from flashing to twinkle, that can suit any mood or occasion. The low voltage keeps them cool after hours of use, and the plug-in design makes use effortless.

The waterproof construction and sufficient length, including the 17-foot adapter wire, make these Christmas tree lights ideal for decorating indoor and outdoor spaces. Whether it’s lining the roof, trees, or windows of your home, these festive lights will turn any space into a winter wonderland. Perfect for Christmas, parties, weddings, and anniversaries, this multifunctional string light set will surely bring joy to all who see it. With all the unique and fun light functions available that can be controlled with just a press of a button, these lights are sure to add some extra vivid sparkle to your decorations.

Pros
  • Long wires enable easy connection 
  • Easily connect multiple strands 
  • Many settings for a customizable experience 
Cons
  • Not ideal for outdoor usage
4

Brizled Christmas Tree Lights

– Most Premium
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Buy on Amazon

If you’re searching for a premium option that’s packed with features, the Brizled Christmas Tree Lights are another great option for any festive occasion. The string of 200 LED color-changing tree lights is powered by a safe adapter and includes a remote control, making setup and usage effortless. With 11 lighting modes available, you can choose from a steady warm white or multicolor combination. This pick also offers dimmable features where the lights can be set to customizable brightness to create the perfect atmosphere depending on the occasion. 

This string of Christmas tree lights is end-to-end connectable, meaning you can connect up to three sets for 600 LEDs and 197 feet total. This lets you put up the desired decorations without worrying about running out of sockets. Plus, you can use the remote control to change lighting modes, adjust brightness, use timer settings, and turn the lights on/off.

Pros
  • Eleven different patterns with a remote
  • Perfect length for connection
  • White or multicolored settings
Cons
  • Remote may wear out
5

JMEXSUSS Christmas Tree Lights

– Most Durable
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Buy on Amazon

The JMEXSUSS Christmas Tree Lights are the ideal choice for long-lasting holiday decorations that can withstand regular wear and tear. With unparalleled brightness and sheen, these lights can turn any indoor or outdoor area into a festive wonderland. The bulbs are constructed from crystal clear LED bulbs that can shine with a 360-degree viewing angle, and the plug improves bulb brightness stability. The bulbs are filled with adhesive layers for anti-freezing and anti-oxidation performance in snowy conditions. They are also IP44-certified waterproof, so they can withstand heavy rain if you keep the plug dry. This set of white Christmas lights is soft and not dazzling, allowing them to add a classic charm to your Christmas decor. 

These lights come with eight different lighting modes, so you can adjust them to fit any occasion or mood. These different settings make the lights perfect for romantic anniversaries, joyous Christmases, weddings, and surprising your loved ones. All the modes are easy to activate — you simply need to press a button on the adapter. Suitable for indoor and outdoor use, these lights feature 100 LED bulbs and a long lead wire to hang them away from the area you wish to decorate. The lights’ transparent wire helps them stay hidden inside garlands or Christmas trees.

Pros
  • Weatherproof LED bulbs are built to last
  • Eight blinking settings to choose from 
  • Thick and durable cord
Cons
  • Some find them very small

People Also Asked

Q: How do I hang Christmas tree lights without tangling them?

A: Start by untangling the lights and carefully wrapping them around your arm or a piece of cardboard. Begin at the bottom of the tree, securing the lights to branches with twist ties or clips. Work your way up, spacing the lights evenly and hiding the cord.

Q: How many Christmas tree lights do I need for my tree?

A: The general rule is to use 100 lights for each foot of tree height. For instance, a 6-foot tree would require around 600 lights. But personal preference and branch density can affect this. Consider using more lights for a fuller look or fewer lights for a more minimalist appearance.

Q: Can I leave my Christmas tree lights on overnight?

A: You should turn off Christmas tree lights when you're not around or when you go to sleep. Leaving them unattended for long periods can pose a hazard or waste energy. Invest in a set with a timer or use smart plugs to automate the lighting schedule and ensure they're turned off at appropriate times.

Q: How should I safely store my Christmas tree lights?

A: Start by carefully removing the lights from the tree and untangling them if necessary. Wind them around a reel or piece of cardboard to prevent tangling. Store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, extreme temperatures, and moisture. Using storage containers specifically designed for lights can help protect them for longer.

Q: Can I connect multiple sets of Christmas tree lights together?

A: Yes, you can connect multiple sets of lights if they are compatible. Check the manufacturer's instructions or packaging to determine the maximum number of sets that can be safely connected. It's essential not to exceed the recommended wattage or overload the electrical circuit to prevent damage or fire hazards.

Lighting Living Room
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By Old House Journal Review Team
The Old House Journal Review Team’s product reviews and in-depth guides are here to help you restore, repair, update, and decorate your home. The content is created by The Old House Journal Review Team. The Old House Journal editorial staff is not involved. Old House Journal is reader-supported: When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. All questions regarding articles or product testing can be sent to aimperiapt@gmail.com
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