On a hook-on tree, every branch is a separate piece that has to be matched to a colour code and pushed into the right hole in the pole. On a tree with more than a thousand tips that is a long sit on the floor before a single light goes on.

The branches here are hinged, so they stay attached and drop into place as each section is lifted out. Three sections stack together, then the work left is fluffing the tips rather than sorting parts.

Seven feet up, nearly five feet across

The panel puts the tree at 7 feet with a 4.7 foot spread, which is the number people forget to check. That is a full profile shape, not a slim one, so allow a circle of clear floor around five feet wide. Sizing guides pair a 7 foot tree with an 8 or 9 foot ceiling, leaving room for a topper.

What the maker compares itself against

Three points run down this panel. A reinforced treetop that holds a star instead of bending under it. Two colours of tip through the foliage rather than one flat green. And a folding metal stand in place of the stamped plastic base that cracks after a couple of seasons. The stand here measures 21.5 inches across.

How it looks with baubles on

Dressed, the density does the work. The tips sit close enough that ornaments hang against green rather than against a gap, and the branches are stiff enough to hold a bauble out where it can be seen. At 31.5 pounds this is a heavy tree for its height, which is what the tip count costs you and also what keeps it steady.

Counted by the manufacturer. Enough to cover the pole from every angle once the tips are pulled out and spread.

Moulded PE tips give the outer branches a needle shape, while flatter PVC fills the inside for density.

Branches stay on the pole and swing down as each section is raised. Nothing to match up or hook on.

The trunk splits into three, so the tree goes up in three lifts and packs down into a manageable box.

A folding metal base, wide enough to hold a 4.7 ft spread, with three screws clamping the trunk.

The manufacturer states the tips are 100% new PE and PVC, odourless, non-toxic and flame retardant.

Ships from a Canadian warehouse, so there are no customs charges and no cross-border delays. Free shipping on orders over $150, a flat $18.90 below that, and tracking by email as soon as it leaves.

Return within 14 days of purchase, unused, in original condition and packaging.

Covered directly by the manufacturer under their warranty terms for material and manufacturing defects.

Found it cheaper at a Canadian retailer? Send us the link and we will match that price. It has to be the same item, in stock, sold and shipped inside Canada, and compared like for like on what comes in the box.

No factory string means you pick the colour, the density and where the wire runs, and nothing is stuck on the tree for good.

A 4.7 foot spread is a proper full tree. In a wide living room that bulk is what stops it looking lost.

PE holds its shape better than PVC alone, and a metal stand outlasts the plastic one that comes with cheaper trees.

What we stand behind

• The 1260 tip count, the 7 ft by 4.7 ft size, the three sections and the 31.5 lb weight are all stated in the manufacturer's specification list.
• The 21.5 inch metal stand figure comes from the maker's own description of the base.
• Ships from a Canadian warehouse, free shipping over $150, and 14 day returns unused in the original packaging.
• 14 day returns, unused and in the original packaging.

What is the difference between the PE and PVC tips?

PE tips are moulded so each needle has a round, tapered shape like a real one, and they sit on the outer branches where you see them. PVC tips are cut flat and pack in behind for density. Buying guides describe this mix as the standard way to get a realistic outline without paying for moulded needles right through the tree.

Does it come with lights?

No. This one is unlit, so any string you hang is yours to choose and yours to replace. If you would rather not do that job, the pre-lit trees in this range arrive with the lights already fitted.

How much floor space do I need?

The spread is 4.7 feet at the bottom branches and the stand is 21.5 inches across. Leave a clear circle of about five feet, plus a bit so nobody walks into a branch. Sizing guides put a tree of this height under an 8 or 9 foot ceiling.

How do I get it looking full?

Work one section at a time from the bottom up. Pull each branch out from the pole, then bend the tips up and out rather than letting them hang. It takes a while on 1260 tips, which is why fluffing guides suggest doing it in stages rather than all at once.