Bests & Worsts Reviews from Amazon

Extra cheesy is what I expected when I saw the price and read a few of the reviews were from people who recived them specifically to provide a review. I like those reviews but in the back of my mind I always wonder if the review would be the same if they had paid for the product. Anyway the short version is that once set up, this tree is impressive with a couple of quirks. The Box I had an artificial 7.5 tree from Costco for years. It was HUGE, even when packed and super heavy. We bought a special rolling cart/bag for it. If I had to guess, these boxes are so smal by comparison I could fit 4 to 6 of these trees in that bag now. Now the compact packing size is because the "needles" look exactly as pictured. They fold nice and flat and the whold thing isnt too heavy to move on your own. Inside the box: There's two parts to the tree itself, a base with two thumb screws, two LED lights for the fiber optics and the power plug. There is a switch on the power cable and it plugs into a green box on the tree (also with a button). Set up: Setup was really easy. It took about 10 minutes although I probably would spend more time spreading out the branches. The hardest part to figure out was that the lights plug into the round things on the tree. Light Show: Now seriously, the reviews said it was bright, but holy cow! I think it was a team of six people that weren't exactly clear what the tree was supposed to do. There are 6 modes (or more.) As others have mentioned, some modes are better for clubbing while others would be better left on emergency vehicles. Everyone in my house pretty much hates those modes but they are kinda cool for a minute provided strobing lights are ok with you. We learned there are 2 control switches for the lights. We haven't mastered them but one is for the lower fiber optic lights and the other is for the LEDs and upper fiber optic lights. Although I have yet to find a steady mode (always on) the slow fade in and out is very nice. At one point we disconnected the power to the LED lights leaving only the fiber optic ones on, that was an even softer effect. It does look beautiful when lit and even though I despise twinkle lights, I like the effect. Can it hold ornaments? Probably most regular/light ornaments will be fine. Some areas can probably hold a little more weight but that ashtray or handprint the kids made in pottery class might have to find a new home. Downsides: Usually I call it "the bad". For now I'll leave the stars on and let you know some things you may expect. Some lighting modes are harsh. The two button controls are weird and don't help if the lighting between the top and bottom of the tree get on different timing. The LEDs are as bright or brighter than a flashlight. Upsides: Inexpensive. Compact when it needs to be and full size when it is time. It has a very nice glowing mode and it looks beautiful when it is on. Conclusion: I'd buy this tree again despite the downsides and urge the manufacturer to use a single switch and light controller for the modes. I also hope I can find a "solid color" mode but for $99 shipped, this is a heck of a deal.