National Tree Company vs. Balsam Hill: Don’t Buy an Artificial Tree Until You Read This!

About National Tree Company

National Tree Company has been a trusted name in holiday décor for over 60 years. As a leading importer and wholesaler of artificial Christmas trees, wreaths, garlands, and other festive decorations, they have a long history of bringing holiday cheer to homes. They offer a vast selection of products designed to capture the spirit of the season, from classic evergreens to whimsical accents and everything in between.

National Tree Company is known for its quality and innovation. They use advanced technologies like Feel Real® to create incredibly lifelike artificial trees that closely resemble the look and texture of natural evergreens. Their products also feature pre-lit options, easy assembly, and convenient storage solutions, making holiday decorating effortless. Beyond Christmas trees, the company offers a wide range of seasonal decorations, establishing itself as a go-to destination for festive decor year-round.

About Balsam Hill

Balsam Hill is a newer brand in the holiday décor market, but they have quickly become known for their premium artificial Christmas trees and decorations. Founded by Mac Harman, who was inspired to create realistic alternatives for people with allergies to live trees, Balsam Hill focuses on providing a luxurious and hassle-free holiday experience.

They take pride in their handcrafted trees, which are designed to mimic the beauty and realism of natural evergreens. Balsam Hill uses high-quality materials and pays close attention to detail, resulting in trees that are often praised for their lifelike appearance and feel. They also offer innovative features like Color+Clear® lights, which allow you to switch between clear and multicolored lights with a remote, and Flip Trees® for quick and easy setup. 

What to Consider?

Now that you have a better understanding of National Tree Company and Balsam Hill, let’s dive deeper into a detailed comparison of their offerings.  We’ll examine key factors like realism, convenience, variety, pricing, and customer service to help you determine which brand is the best fit for your holiday decorating needs and preferences.

1. Realism and Quality

The realism of an artificial Christmas tree is arguably the most crucial factor to consider. After all, the goal is to recreate the beauty and ambiance of a natural evergreen in your home. Both National Tree Company and Balsam Hill place a strong emphasis on realism, but they achieve it through different approaches and technologies.

National Tree Company

National Tree Company utilizes a combination of advanced technologies to create remarkably lifelike trees. Their True Needle™ technology uses injection-molded PE needles to mimic the look and feel of real needles, capturing the subtle variations in color, texture, and density. Their Feel Real® branch tip technology incorporates lifelike PE branch tips, adding another layer of realism to the tree’s overall appearance. This combination of technologies results in trees that look and feel remarkably close to the real thing.

Balsam Hill

Balsam Hill also emphasizes realism in their artificial trees. They utilize their own True Needle® technology, which focuses on replicating the natural shape, color variations, and texture of evergreen needles. They also use high-quality PVC needles in some of their trees to create fullness and a more traditional look. Balsam Hill’s trees are often praised for their lifelike appearance and attention to detail.

Verdict

National Tree Company emerges as the winner in the realism category. Their combination of True Needle™ and Feel Real® technologies creates a truly lifelike look and feel that is hard to match. The attention to detail in replicating the subtle variations in color, texture, and density of natural evergreen needles sets them apart.  Additionally, National Tree Company offers a wider variety of tree styles and shapes, catering to a broader range of preferences and decorating needs.  Balsam Hill’s trees are certainly realistic, but they lack the same level of detail and variety offered by National Tree Company.

2. Convenience and Setup

The convenience of setting up and taking down your holiday décor can make a big difference in your overall enjoyment of the season. Both National Tree Company and Balsam Hill offer features designed to simplify the decorating process, but they have different approaches and technologies.

National Tree Company

National Tree Company prioritizes convenience with features like pre-lit trees, hinged branches, and easy-to-assemble stands. Their PowerConnect™ technology makes lighting setup a breeze, as the lights are pre-wired within the tree sections and illuminate as you connect them. 

Many of their trees also come with convenient storage bags for easy takedown and year-round protection. National Tree Company’s focus on convenience ensures that you can spend less time setting up and more time enjoying your beautifully decorated home.

Balsam Hill

Balsam Hill also offers features aimed at simplifying setup and storage. Their Flip Trees® are designed to rotate into display position in seconds, and they come with built-in rolling stands for easy storage. 

They also offer hinged branches and color-coded systems to make assembly easier. Balsam Hill’s emphasis on convenience is evident in their efforts to streamline the decorating process.

Verdict

Both brands offer features that simplify setup and storage, but National Tree Company stands out with its PowerConnect™ technology, which eliminates the hassle of stringing lights and ensures a perfectly illuminated tree in minutes. Their convenient storage bags also make takedown and year-round storage a breeze. 

While Balsam Hill’s Flip Trees® are innovative, they are limited to specific models and may not be as widely available as National Tree Company’s pre-lit and easy-assembly options. Overall, National Tree Company provides a more comprehensive and accessible approach to convenient holiday decorating.

Variety and Selection

Holiday decorating is about expressing your personal style and creating a festive atmosphere that feels uniquely yours. Both National Tree Company and Balsam Hill offer a selection of artificial trees and decorations, but their catalogs differ in terms of breadth and diversity.

National Tree Company

National Tree Company offers an extensive catalog of holiday décor, catering to a wide range of tastes and occasions. They offer a vast selection of artificial Christmas trees, wreaths, garlands, and other festive accents for various holidays and seasons. They have spooky Halloween decorations, vibrant spring floral arrangements, and patriotic accents for Independence Day. National Tree Company’s diverse selection ensures that you can find the perfect décor to personalize your home and celebrate every occasion in style.

Balsam Hill

Balsam Hill primarily focuses on Christmas trees and greenery. They offer a curated selection of wreaths and garlands to complement their trees, along with a limited selection of Christmas ornaments and other holiday decorations. Their offerings are high-quality and aesthetically pleasing, but they lack the same breadth and diversity as National Tree Company’s collection.

Verdict

National Tree Company is the clear winner in terms of variety and selection. Their extensive catalog caters to a wider range of holidays, seasons, and decorating styles, providing customers with greater flexibility and choice. Balsam Hill’s focus on Christmas trees and greenery, while offering high-quality options, limits their ability to cater to diverse decorating needs.

Pricing

Holiday decorating doesn’t have to break the bank. Both National Tree Company and Balsam Hill offer a range of products at various price points, but their pricing strategies and overall value proposition differ significantly.

National Tree Company

National Tree Company is known for providing high-quality holiday décor at affordable prices. They offer a wide range of options to suit different budgets, from budget-friendly trees starting at under $100 to more premium options with advanced features and lifelike realism that can reach over $1000. 

For instance, a 7.5-foot pre-lit tree with True Needle™ technology might be priced around $300-$500, while a similar tree from Balsam Hill could be priced at $600-$800 or more. National Tree Company also frequently runs sales and offers discounts, making their products even more accessible to budget-conscious consumers. They understand that creating a festive atmosphere shouldn’t require a huge investment, and they strive to provide value without compromising on quality or style.

Balsam Hill

Balsam Hill positions itself as a provider of premium artificial Christmas trees and decorations. Their products often come with a higher price tag than comparable items from National Tree Company. 

For example, a 7.5-foot pre-lit Balsam Hill tree with their True Needle® technology might be priced around $800-$1200 or higher. While they emphasize quality and craftsmanship, their pricing may be prohibitive for some consumers. Balsam Hill does offer occasional sales and promotions, but their overall pricing strategy reflects their focus on the higher end of the market.

Verdict

National Tree Company is the clear winner when it comes to pricing and value. They offer a wider range of price points, making their products accessible to a broader audience. Their frequent sales and discounts further enhance their value proposition, allowing customers to save money without sacrificing quality or style. While Balsam Hill’s products may be beautifully crafted, their premium pricing makes them less accessible to budget-conscious consumers. National Tree Company proves that you don’t have to spend a fortune to create a festive and stylish holiday display.

Customer Service and Support

When you’re investing in holiday décor, it’s important to know that you can rely on the company for support and assistance if needed. Both National Tree Company and Balsam Hill offer customer service and support, but their approaches and resources differ.

National Tree Company

National Tree Company is dedicated to providing a positive customer experience. They offer various channels for customer support, including phone, email, and online chat. Their customer service representatives are knowledgeable and responsive, ready to assist with any questions or concerns you may have. National Tree Company also provides helpful resources on their website, such as FAQs, instructional videos, and downloadable manuals, to guide you through setup, care, and troubleshooting. They strive to make your holiday decorating experience as smooth and enjoyable as possible.  

Balsam Hill

Balsam Hill also offers customer support through various channels, including phone, email, and text. They have a dedicated customer service team available to answer questions and assist with orders. Balsam Hill also provides resources on their website, such as a Tree Buyer’s Guide and FAQs, to help customers make informed decisions and troubleshoot any issues.

Verdict

Both National Tree Company and Balsam Hill offer customer service and support, but National Tree Company’s dedication to customer satisfaction shines through in their responsive and helpful approach. Their variety of contact options and comprehensive resources make it easy to get the assistance you need, when you need it. While Balsam Hill provides adequate customer support, National Tree Company goes the extra mile to ensure a positive and stress-free experience for their customers.

Warranty

A warranty can provide peace of mind and protection for your investment in holiday décor. Both National Tree Company and Balsam Hill offer warranties on their artificial Christmas trees, but the terms and coverage differ.

National Tree Company

National Tree Company offers a 3-year limited warranty on their 6.5 ft. and taller artificial Christmas trees (1-year warranty for white trees). This warranty covers manufacturer defects in materials and workmanship for the tree’s frame, foliage, hinges, and stand. For pre-lit trees, the warranty also covers the light sets and PowerConnect™ system for 3 years. However, there are some exclusions, such as damage from misuse, neglect, normal wear and tear, and outdoor use.

Balsam Hill

Balsam Hill offers a 3-year limited warranty on their regular and sale-priced artificial Christmas trees. This warranty covers manufacturer defects in the tree’s lights (excluding burned-out bulbs), frame, foliage, hinges, and stand. They also offer a 60-day limited warranty on clearance trees. Balsam Hill’s warranty excludes normal wear and tear, damage from misuse or neglect, and intentional alteration.

Verdict

Both National Tree Company and Balsam Hill offer warranties on their artificial Christmas trees, but National Tree Company’s warranty appears to be more comprehensive. It covers a wider range of potential issues, including flocking loss and damage to the PowerConnect™ system. Additionally, their 3-year warranty applies to all trees 6.5 ft. and taller, whereas Balsam Hill’s 3-year warranty only applies to non-clearance trees. This suggests that National Tree Company has greater confidence in the durability and longevity of their products.

National Tree Company vs. Balsam Hill: What Do Customers Think?

Customer reviews offer a glimpse into the real-life experiences and satisfaction levels of those who have purchased products from these brands. Both National Tree Company and Balsam Hill have garnered a considerable number of reviews, and analyzing these reviews can help us understand how they compare in terms of customer perception.

National Tree Company

National Tree Company enjoys a strong reputation among its customers, with many reviewers praising the quality, realism, and value of their products. Customers often highlight the lifelike appearance of National Tree Company’s artificial trees, with many commenting on how closely they resemble real evergreens.

One reviewer shared, “My Mom loves pinecones and berries, so I got her this Garland. She loves it so much, she bought another one for the kitchen.” The ease of setup and storage is another frequently mentioned positive point. 

Customers appreciate the convenience of pre-lit trees and the simple assembly process. One reviewer stated, “The PERFECT tree for my family room decorations. It’s full and has fantastic lighting.” 

Then, many reviewers appreciate the wide variety of styles and options offered by National Tree Company, allowing them to find the perfect tree or decoration to match their individual preferences and needs. 

Furthermore, customers also often mention the affordability of National Tree Company’s products, especially compared to the cost of buying real trees year after year. One reviewer commented, “Looks like a Balsam Hill tree for half the cost. Buy this tree. It’s worth the price.”

Balsam Hill

Balsam Hill also receives positive feedback from its customers, with many praising the premium quality and realism of their artificial trees. Reviewers consistently highlight the lifelike appearance of Balsam Hill’s trees, with many stating that they are difficult to distinguish from real trees. 

One reviewer shared, “The biggest compliment we receive from our guests is that they think it is real.” Customers appreciate the quality and craftsmanship of Balsam Hill’s trees, noting their attention to detail and durable construction. One reviewer mentioned, “This was my first purchase from Balsam and my expectations were exceeded. Beautiful ornaments, even better than the pictures show.” 

Many reviewers find Balsam Hill’s trees easy to assemble, thanks to features like hinged branches and clear instructions. Several reviewers mention positive experiences with Balsam Hill’s customer service, describing them as helpful and responsive.

Overall Customer Sentiment

Both National Tree Company and Balsam Hill receive positive feedback from their customers, with reviewers praising the realism, quality, and convenience of their products. However, there is a key difference in the overall sentiment: customers consistently emphasize the value and affordability of National Tree Company’s products, making them a popular choice for budget-conscious decorators, while Balsam Hill caters to a more discerning customer who is willing to pay a premium for top-tier quality and features. 

In conclusion, both brands have satisfied customers, but National Tree Company seems to have a broader appeal due to its combination of quality, variety, and affordability. Balsam Hill, on the other hand, caters to a more niche market of customers who prioritize premium quality and are willing to pay a higher price.

National Tree Company vs. Balsam Hill: Promotions and Discounts

Both National Tree Company and Balsam Hill offer various promotions and discounts throughout the year, making it easier for customers to afford their holiday décor. However, their approaches to promotions differ slightly.

National Tree Company

National Tree Company frequently runs seasonal sales, especially after major holidays like Christmas. These sales can offer significant discounts on trees, wreaths, garlands, and other decorations. 

For example, they offered a promotion in December last year where orders over $125 received a free premium gift in the US. They also offer coupons and promo codes on their website and through email newsletters. 

Currently, they have a “Winter Savings Event” with up to 40% off and free shipping. You can also find various coupon codes on their website for deals like $15 off orders of $350 or more, $20 off orders of $500 or more, and so on.

Balsam Hill

Balsam Hill also offers promotions and discounts, but they tend to be less frequent and less aggressive than National Tree Company’s. 

They occasionally have sales events, like their current “End of Season Sale” with up to 50% off and free shipping. They also offer a “Branch Sample Kit” where the cost of the kit is credited towards your next tree purchase. 

As of now, Balsam Hill has a “Winter Savings Event” with up to 40% off and free shipping. They also offer coupons for dollar-off discounts based on the total purchase amount, such as $15 off $350, $20 off $500, and so on.

Verdict

Both brands offer promotions and discounts, but National Tree Company seems to have more frequent sales and a wider range of coupon options. Balsam Hill’s promotions may be more targeted towards specific products or higher purchase amounts. 

National Tree Company vs. Balsam Hill: Shipping and Returns

When it comes to getting your holiday décor delivered safely and efficiently, or handling returns and exchanges, both National Tree Company and Balsam Hill have policies in place to assist their customers. However, there are some key differences that set National Tree Company apart and make them a more appealing choice for those seeking a hassle-free shopping experience.

National Tree Company

National Tree Company offers a variety of shipping options to meet different needs and budgets, including standard shipping, 2-day express shipping, and freight shipping for oversized items. They also offer free ground shipping for all orders in the contiguous US. This is a major advantage for customers who are looking to save money on shipping costs.

In terms of returns, National Tree Company offers a 30-day return window and provides prepaid return shipping labels for all products purchased in the contiguous US. This makes it easy and affordable for customers to return items if they are not satisfied. Additionally, their policy of providing a full refund for returned items, regardless of the reason for return, demonstrates their confidence in the quality and value of their products.

Balsam Hill

Balsam Hill also offers a variety of shipping options, including standard shipping, 2-day express shipping, and 1-day shipping. They also offer free standard shipping for all orders in the contiguous US. However, they do not offer freight shipping for oversized items, which can be a disadvantage for customers who need to purchase large items.

Balsam Hill’s return policy is also customer-friendly, with a 60-day return window and prepaid return shipping labels for most products. However, they do charge a fee for return shipping on some items, which can be a deterrent for some customers.

Verdict

Overall, National Tree Company’s shipping and return policies are more customer-friendly and offer greater value compared to Balsam Hill. Their focus on providing convenient and affordable shipping options, combined with their generous return policy and commitment to customer satisfaction, makes them a more appealing choice for those seeking a hassle-free and enjoyable shopping experience.

Who Will You Shop With?

After a thorough examination of National Tree Company and Balsam Hill, it’s clear that both brands offer attractive options for holiday decorators. However, National Tree Company proves to be the superior choice for those seeking a combination of quality, variety, value, and convenience.

National Tree Company excels in creating realistic artificial trees, evident in their use of advanced technologies like True Needle™ and Feel Real®. They offer a diverse selection of tree shapes, sizes, and styles to suit every taste and space, ensuring you can find the perfect centerpiece for your holiday décor. Their pre-lit options, easy assembly features, and helpful resources make decorating a breeze.

But what makes National Tree Company truly shine is its ability to provide all of this at a price that is accessible to a wide range of customers. They offer exceptional value without compromising on quality or aesthetics. Their frequent sales and discounts make their products even more budget-friendly, allowing everyone to experience the joy of creating a beautifully decorated home for the holidays.

Balsam Hill offers high-quality and realistic trees, but their premium pricing and more limited selection make them less versatile and accessible. National Tree Company’s dedication to providing both quality and affordability, combined with their wider range of products and exceptional customer service, makes them the clear winner in this comparison.

If you want a festive and memorable holiday experience without overspending, National Tree Company is ideal. Their focus on customer satisfaction, innovative products, and affordable prices make them a trustworthy brand to bring your holiday vision to life.

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