Michael Murtaugh/NYT Wirecutter
An actually realistic-looking tree
Our top Christmas tree pick strikes a sweet balance of cost, realism, and ease of setup. It’s full and generously sized, with branches that actually look convincing. The dual-color LEDs can switch between multicolor and warm white, and offer multiple patterns with flashing and sparkling.
Other things to know: Same drawback as any artificial tree: relatively large storage space required. Warranty covers manufacturer defects for five years and covers the LEDs for three years from purchase. Customer service is good. We have posted deeper discounts in the past, but prices on Christmas trees have skyrocketed in the past year.
Read more: The Best Artificial Christmas tree
Affordable smart-control Christmas lights
With a bright and expansive color palette and more than 100 fun and flashy preset lighting patterns, this set lets you explore the possibilities of smart holiday lighting without spending a fortune. You can even change the color of individual lights, or sync them up with music. The weather-resistant rope-light design helps prevent tangles.
Other things to know: The customization process can get a little tedious and overwhelming. One-year Govee warranty isn’t great for Christmas lights, but is fairly standard for smart-home products. Deal is for the 66-foot length.
Read more: The Best Christmas Lights
A giftable treasure chest of Japanese snacks
Chock-full of thoughtfully chosen tangy, crunchy, and sweet treats, this gift box is sure to please every palate. In addition to the curated assortment of 22 individually wrapped snacks, candies, and teas, it includes a booklet explaining each item’s origin, cultural significance, and potential allergens.
Other things to know: Bokksu has a disclaimer saying allergens are translated from the package as a reference, but it cannot guarantee their presence. Use code WIRECUTTER to get the deal price with free shipping. Ships from Japan.
Read more: 36 Gifts for People Who Have Everything
An advent calendar for coffee fans
This moody and sophisticated treasure chest contains 24 packages of distinctive whole-bean coffees from 18 regions around the world, all chosen by a hip, high-quality coffee roaster. Each two-ounce package should be enough to make two or three pour-overs or a medium pot of coffee.
Other things to know: Expensive, but perfect for that special coffee fan who will appreciate tasting their way through each of the 24 different single-origin coffees. Use code ONYXPENPALS to get the deal price.
Read more: Our 20 Favorite Advent Calendars of 2025
The feature-packed light that’s perfect for book lovers
Chic and compact, this handy little reading light boasts the most light customization of all our picks and works with both paperback and hardcover books. It’s also a breeze to use and adjust, with a slim clip and a power indicator to monitor battery life.
Other things to know: Small, and buttons can be a bit too sensitive when adjusting clip placement. get the deal price in teal with code WIRECUTTER02.
Read more: The Best Reading Light
A combination beanie-light with so many uses
This combination beanie and headlamp is recommended in multiple Wirecutter gift guides. With a bright, rechargeable light embedded in a soft, warm hat, it’s great for walking the dog after dark or staying hands-free during house projects.
Other things to know: The light charges in about two hours via USB port, and has three brightness settings. Deal on black, gray, or light gray.
Read more: The 68 Best Gifts Under $25
