Shopping for a pre-lit Christmas tree? If the range of lighting options feels overwhelming, keep in mind that there are two main types to choose from—incandescent and LED Christmas tree lights. Each offers its own advantages, and understanding the differences can help you choose the option that’s right for your home.
Incandescent Tree Lights
Traditional incandescent light strings work by heating a metal filament to produce light, which means the bulbs also become warm during use.
Balsam Hill uses commercial-grade filaments and durable glass casings on trees with incandescent lighting. We also feature patented technology that allows the lights to stay lit even if one bulb is loose or broken.
LED Tree Lights
LED Christmas bulbs use light-emitting diodes that produce very little heat.
On Balsam Hill trees with Candlelight™ LEDs, the light temperature is carefully controlled to deliver a consistent, warm glow—rather than a cold or overly harsh light.
Comparing Options: Factors To Consider
Energy Efficiency
Thanks to their long lifespan and durability, LED lights are the more energy-efficient option for Christmas tree lighting.
- LED Lights – Use up to 90 percent less energy than incandescent bulbs, while offering a wide range of colours and bulb styles.
- Fibre Optic Trees – These trees often rely on LED lighting, making them an energy-efficient choice.
- Smart Lights – Typically LED-based, smart Christmas lights include features like programmable timers and dimming options to help maximize energy savings.
Cost
LED bulbs may come with a higher upfront cost, but their low energy consumption and long lifespan make them more cost-effective over time.
Incandescent bulbs, on the other hand, may appear less expensive initially but can lead to higher costs due to increased electricity use and more frequent bulb replacements.
Light Quality & Durability
Traditional incandescent Christmas lights are known for their clear, warm glow, giving Christmas trees a classic and familiar look. Today’s LED Christmas lights can produce the same warm illumination, making it difficult to tell them apart from traditional bulbs.
Balsam Hill’s durable pre-lit trees feature premium, commercial-grade LED lights designed to last. If one bulb is removed or burns out, the rest remain lit, ensuring consistent brightness throughout the season.
Variety & Availability
The selection of incandescent and LED lights varies by retailer. Christmas trees with incandescent lights are widely available both online and in-store, offering a broad range of options. Some retailers, however, may carry a more limited selection of trees with LED lights.
Balsam Hill offers an extensive range of LED lighting options, including app-controlled Twinkly® lights and delicate micro-LED fairy lights, giving you more ways to customize your tree’s look.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Christmas Lights Are Better, LED or Incandescent?
LED lights are more energy efficient, last longer, and stay cooler than incandescent lights, though they usually cost more upfront. Incandescent lights offer a warm, familiar glow and a lower initial cost, but they use more energy and have a shorter lifespan.
Is It Worth Switching to LED Christmas Lights?
Yes. In terms of energy use and longevity, LED lights are a smart investment. While they may cost more initially, they’re more energy efficient because they don’t rely on heat to produce light. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, LED lights use about 75 percent less energy and can last up to 25 times longer than traditional incandescent bulbs.
Is There a Downside to LED Lights?
The main drawback of LED lights is the higher upfront cost, which may be a consideration for budget-conscious shoppers. However, the long-term energy savings and durability often outweigh the initial expense.
Are Incandescent Christmas Lights Being Phased Out?
Many retailers still carry incandescent Christmas lights. That said, more shoppers are choosing LED options due to their energy efficiency, longer lifespan, and compatibility with smart lighting features.