The Ultimate Christmas Tree Buying Guide
Oct
At the most wonderful time of year, every home needs a lush, sparkling, and joyful Christmas tree. And for Singaporean homes, a hyper-realistic artificial tree makes it easy to enjoy the festive tradition of a fir tree when a real one is hard to come by.
In this guide, find out everything you need to know about buying, setting up, decorating, and storing your faux fir! From selecting the perfect shade of green to creating a showstopping display that captures the magic of Christmas, here are some tips and tricks you don’t want to miss.
Still deciding between a real and an artificial tree? Our comparison of real vs artificial Christmas trees in Singapore covers upkeep, safety and long-term cost.
Where to place your Christmas tree
Before you buy your Christmas tree, it’s handy to think about where you will place it in your home. That way, you will know the width and height to suit your space. In Singapore, Christmas trees are typically set up in the following areas:
- The entryway: Perfect for greeting guests with warm festive cheer.
- The living room: The most popular place for a tree is the largest room in your home, where everyone gathers. It’s inviting, jolly, and gets everyone in the mood for the season’s festivities!
- The dining room: A festive touch for dinners together.
See also: Best Places to Put Your Christmas Tree in Your Home
Which size tree is best?
When shopping for artificial Christmas trees, you will see there are different heights and widths to choose from. So, how do you know which one to choose?
Height
Measure the available height at the exact spot where the tree will stand. Do not choose a tree from a typical HDB, condo or landed-home ceiling height: rooms, beams and ceiling fittings can differ.
Your assembled tree, the part of the topper extending above it, and your chosen clearance must all fit below the lowest overhead obstruction. Check whether the listed tree height already includes its stand. Keep the display clear of ceiling fans and follow the clearance instructions for nearby fittings.
For example, with 240 cm of measured space, a tree measuring 183 cm including its stand and a topper extending 20 cm above it would leave 37 cm. Measure your own setup before ordering.
Which tree height fits your ceiling?
These are examples to shortlist, not guaranteed fits. Compare the actual assembled tree height with your measurement, then allow for your topper and the clearance you need. A different topper or overhead fitting may require a shorter tree.
| Measured ceiling height | Example tree height |
|---|---|
| 2.4 m | 6 ft (1.83 m) |
| 2.6 m | 7 ft (2.13 m) |
| 2.8 m | 8 ft (2.44 m) |
| 3.4 m | 10 ft (3.05 m) |
| 4.0 m | 12 ft (3.66 m) |
More sizing guidance: Artificial Christmas Tree Size Chart
Once you have measured your space, compare our 5 ft Christmas trees and 6 ft Christmas trees. Check the dimensions for the exact model and height before choosing.
Width
Measure the usable floor space, then check the widest part of the fully shaped tree at your selected height. Mark that footprint on the floor before buying. Allow room for doors, furniture, ornaments and a comfortable walking route; the stand alone does not show how much space the branches will occupy.
Short on floor space? Slim Christmas trees have a narrower base, which suits HDB flats and tight corners.
Check the dimensions for your selected model and height in the Christmas tree product descriptions. If a measurement is missing or unclear, confirm it with Mason before ordering.
See also: How to Choose the Perfect Height and Shape of a Christmas Tree for Your Home or Office
The shade, the realism, and the price
An artificial tree is often preferred over a real fir or spruce for its fuss-free upkeep: no watering, no fallen needles, and the joy of reusing it year after year. The next step is deciding on the perfect shade of green, finding a hyper-realistic design, and choosing a tree that fits your budget without compromising on style.
Shades of green
The colour of your tree really sets the tone for your whole display. Darker greens, like those found in Nordmann or Fraser firs, create a moody, dramatic look, while lighter greens, such as white pine or Scots pine, offer a fresh, airy vibe. Pick a shade that not only matches your décor but also complements the style of your ornaments.
Hyper-realistic trees
To make an artificial tree look convincingly real, focus on three key factors:
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Branch density: Fuller branches create a lush, natural silhouette.
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Needle texture: High-quality PE (polyethylene) tips mimic the look of real fir needles.
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Overall shape: Irregular, layered branches replicate the natural look of firs or spruces.
Most high-quality artificial trees combine PE tips for the outer needles with PVC (polyvinyl chloride) for the inner branches. PE provides realistic, moulded tips, while PVC adds volume and structure, capturing the natural irregularities of real firs such as Nordmann or Fraser firs.
For a closer look at both materials, read PE vs PVC Christmas Trees.
Mason’s FirTECT™ Hyper-Realistic Christmas Trees take this a step further. Using 3D-moulded PE branches crafted from actual fir tips, with subtle multi-toned colouring, FirTECT™ trees achieve an unmatched lifelike appearance while maintaining fullness and durability for years to come.
Pre-lit or standard tree?
Compare standard and pre-lit options, and check the selected product page for availability.
- Pre-Lit trees have lights already fitted, so you can skip wrapping separate light strings. You still need to assemble the tree, shape the branches and follow its lighting instructions.
- Standard trees come without fitted lights, so you choose their colour, style and placement. Compare the full cost of the tree plus any lights you need with the equivalent Pre-Lit option.
Browse our Pre-Lit Christmas Trees.
Still deciding? Compare Pre-Lit and Standard Christmas trees, including setup choices and the full cost of each option.
Budget
Compare the complete display at the same tree height and setup type. A higher price alone does not tell you whether a tree fits your room or preferred style.
- Start with the tree: check the price and availability of the exact model, height and Standard or Pre-Lit option you want.
- Add what is missing: lights for an unlit tree, decorations, a topper and any storage bag you need. Reuse suitable decorations you already own.
- Check the final total: review the selected items and any delivery or setup service charges before payment.
For bundles, read the included-items list carefully. A decorations-only price should not be compared directly with the cost of a tree and decorations together.
For a comparison of traditional and hyper-realistic models, read our guide to choosing a Mason Christmas tree.
Comparing Mason’s realistic trees
Amazzonia Cashmere Pine
Bushy branches with light green texture
- Budget: Economical
- Realism: Hyper-realistic
- Density: Very dense
- Width: Wide
Abaco Giant Needle Pine
Long and lush, dark green needle pines
- Budget: Economical
- Realism: Hyper-realistic
- Density: Very dense
- Width: Wide
Astoria Douglas Fir Slim
Small lifelike needles and dense branches
- Budget: Premium
- Realism: Hyper-realistic
- Density: Very dense
- Width: Slim
Astrid Fraser Fir
Lifelike Fraser Fir with an extra-wide base
- Budget: Premium
- Realism: Hyper-realistic
- Density: Ultra dense
- Width: Extra wide
Arenaria Balsam Fir
Extra lush and ultra wide with deep green colour
- Budget: Premium
- Realism: Hyper-realistic
- Density: Very dense
- Width: Ultra wide
Aramanta Noble Fir
Majestic, medium needles in classic green
- Budget: Premium
- Realism: Hyper-realistic
- Density: Very dense
- Width: Extra wide
Choosing ornaments and lights
Which colours to choose?
To avoid feeling flustered when deciding your tree decor, simply choose a colour theme. You could choose to go all out with one colour, like gold, red, or silver, or you might want to explore a broader palette of warm or cool shades. Warm colours can range from red and gold to maroon, brown, and champagne, while cool colours include white, blue, turquoise, silver, and green.
Dark green trees are quite flexible, complementing both warm and cool themes, while lighter trees are more suited to cooler colours.
Types of ornaments
Tree lights
After shaping a Standard tree, plan and fit your Christmas tree lights before hanging ornaments. For a Pre-Lit tree, check the fitted lighting as directed in its instructions. Choose the light colour and effects to suit the atmosphere you want. See how to plan your light coverage below.
Baubles
Baubles are the classic tree ornament. They are usually round, but you can also find them in fun shapes like reindeer, snowmen, snowflakes, icicles, or even cute animals. To keep things visually interesting, try mixing baubles in different shapes and sizes. For trees shorter than 7 feet (210 cm), stick with baubles that are 6–8 cm. If your tree is taller, larger baubles in the 10–12 cm range to stay in proportion.
Tree picks and sprays
Used to add depth and texture to a Christmas tree, tree picks and sprays are decorative stems or sprigs that can be tucked into the branches. From small blossoms, berries, and pinecones, to large poinsettias, tree sprays can really fill out the space on bigger trees.
Ribbons
Tree ribbons are lengths of fabric tied into bows or draped across branches, adding movement, colour, and texture to your tree. Because they cover a significant amount of space, pair them thoughtfully with tree picks and sprays, and avoid oversized picks that might compete for attention or overcrowd the branches.
Tree topper
Every Christmas tree deserves a beautiful topper as the crowning glory. Traditional choices are a shining star or an angel. You might also like to try a large ribbon or several tree sprays together around the tree’s peak.
Ornaments chart: How many to choose for your tree
Use these suggested quantities as a starting point for planning, not a required shopping list. Tree width, ornament size, how many sides you decorate and your preferred coverage all affect the result. Lay out the decorations you already own before adding more.
| Tree Height | Baubles | Picks/Sprays |
|---|---|---|
| 5 ft | 24–36 | 6–8 small, 4–6 medium |
| 6 ft | 36–48 | 8–10 small, 6–8 medium |
| 7 ft | 48–54 | 10–12 small, 8–12 medium |
| 8 ft | 54–72 | 12–16 small, 10–12 medium |
| 10 ft | 72+ | 24 small, 12–16 large |
| 12 ft | 72+ | 36 small, 16–24 large |
How many sets of lights do you need?
A set is not a fixed amount of light. Check the specific product’s illuminated length, number and spacing of LEDs, and any recommendation for your tree’s height. The cable running from the plug to the first light does not add lit coverage.
- Match the tree: consider its height and width, and whether you want to light all sides or mainly the visible front.
- Choose the effect: a light spiral around the outside uses a different amount from wrapping individual branches.
- Check the exact light product: compare its specifications and recommended use, rather than transferring a set count from a different light string.
- Check before buying extras: for a Pre-Lit tree, review its fitted lighting first. For separate strings, follow the manufacturer’s connection limits and compatibility instructions.
If you are unsure, ask Mason to confirm the light product and quantity for your chosen tree model and height. Do not assume that one set will cover every 6 ft tree.
How much ribbon should you buy?
Plan ribbon by usable length and width, rather than an undefined number of sets. Long vertical runs, small bows and tucked loops use different amounts. Check what one roll or pack contains and allow for your chosen design.
See also: How to Decorate a Christmas Tree
Our Christmas Tree Starter Kits include a tree, lights, baubles and a topper. Premium Bundles are coordinated decoration sets; a tree is optional and priced separately. Check the included items and your selected options before ordering.
Browse Premium BundlesTree set up tutorial
For illustrated assembly instructions, follow our Christmas tree setup guide.
Allow time for unpacking, securing the stand, joining the sections and shaping the branches before decorating. Hinged branches can simplify assembly where fitted, but opening the main branches is not the same as fluffing every tip. The time needed varies with the model, height and amount of shaping. Follow the instructions supplied with your tree.
Storing your tree
By the time mid-January rolls around, the holiday festivities start to wind down, and in Singapore, you’ll see that many malls are already gearing up for Lunar New Year with their displays.
To make decorating for next year a lot simpler, it’s wise to plan ahead for how you’ll store your tree and ornaments. Make sure to look at the packaging dimensions on each product page, and consider getting a Christmas tree storage bag to keep your tree and decorations protected during the off-season.
To help your tree last many seasons:
- Take the tree apart fully before storing it.
- Store it in a cool, dry place.
- Use silica gel packs or a dehumidifier.
- Avoid compressing the branches.
If you want a detailed guide, don’t miss our video on how to safely dismantle and store your tree, ensuring it remains in tip-top shape for many Christmases ahead.
Christmas tree buying checklist
Before you buy, check that you have:
- Measured the actual available height and floor space, including room for the topper and open branches
- Decided between a slim and a wide tree
- Chosen PE, PVC or a blend of both
- Decided on a pre-lit or standard tree
- Checked the full cost of the selected tree, lights, decorations and any delivery or setup service
- Confirmed the light product and coverage you need, if buying separate lights
- Planned where to store the tree after Christmas
Choosing a trustworthy seller
When buying an artificial Christmas tree, it’s important to shop with a seller you can trust. Use our guide below:
| Qualities To Check | What This Tells You |
|---|---|
| Detailed product information | Check the tree height, branch materials, and ensure your favourite ornaments will fit. |
| Hinged branches | Branches hinged to the trunk open quickly for setup. |
| Customer reviews | Real photos and feedback from past buyers show how the tree looks in real homes. |
| Warranty or guarantee | Indicates the seller’s confidence in their product. |
| Clear return policy | Offers peace of mind if the tree doesn’t meet your expectations. |
| Responsive customer support | Reliable, helpful service is a good sign of a trustworthy brand. |
Trust in Masons Home Decor
Before choosing your tree, read customer reviews and compare the specifications for your selected model and height. If you prefer to see the trees in person, check our showroom page for the location and current opening hours. Review the warranty and return terms for the items you plan to buy.