As we set up each tree with each stand (in the pouring rain), we noted how difficult it was to get the tree into the stand, position it, and fasten the tree inside. A unique design makes clamping a tree in the Krinner far easier than in any kind of stand we’ve found. And if you want to save yourself the trouble of getting tangled up in tree lights, consider a beautiful pre-lit Christmas tree.

Both are more expensive than the Tree Genie XXL and will have a more limited appeal, due to their looks. Argos Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority as a credit broker (713206), and works exclusively with the lender, Home Retail Group Card Services Limited trading as Argos Card and Argos Financial Services, who are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority to provide credit (716148).We tested the Krinner on two trees: a 6-foot-8 tree, which we put up unassisted, and a bigger 8-foot-4 tree, which was easier with a second person. We’d add the Cinco is likely to be better able to compensate for crooked trees or trees with knots or other odd shapes at the point where it attaches to the stand. The bases for Christmas trees are usually plain, which is why our Christmas tree skirts are a wonderful way to add some extra decoration. The patented safety belt with its step by step ratchet mechanism provides additional safety when readjusting, so that the tree will not fall over. Operating one of these Christmas tree stands is simple, simply place your tree within the base and use the foot pump or screws to tighten the base around it.

But 2½ gallons is plenty large: A tree of roughly 6 to 8 feet in height has a trunk diameter of about 4 to 6 inches, and will usually take in 1½ gallons or less per day. All these potted Christmas tree varieties are average or low shedding, meaning they’ll retain their waxy soft needles throughout the season. To test the stability of the stands, we used twine and a force gauge to pull on the trees until they tipped over. It fits trees up to six feet, has a deep water reservoir if you need to keep your tree watered and is handmade in the UK from sustainable wood.To monitor how our picks hold up over time, every Christmas season we dust them off and put them to use. inch diameter trunk, some other stands’ screws could barely extend far enough to meet the trunk (and they wouldn’t work with a tree any smaller than that). Despite newer models and options being available, we still feel confident that this product is one of the best choices, and therefore have included it in The Best Christmas Tree Stands. Setup is truly accomplished in seconds—and not having to get on all fours to do it makes this product a winner. However, there is no overflow tray, a feature some other stands have that we’d like to have seen here.