A popular rule of thumb is about 100 lights for every foot of tree height. That gives a well-lit, classic look. You can go lower for a soft glow or higher for a dazzling, bright tree.

Quick chart by tree height

Tree height Soft glow Classic (100 per ft) Extra bright
4 ft 200 400 600+
6 ft 300 to 400 600 900+
7 ft 400 to 500 700 1,000+
7.5 ft 450 to 550 750 1,100+
9 ft 600 900 1,300+

Adjust for the tree’s shape

A full tree has more surface to cover than a slim or pencil tree of the same height. For full trees, lean toward the higher numbers. For slim trees, the lower end usually looks right. Flocked trees reflect light, so they can look bright with fewer bulbs.

Bulb size changes the look

The rule assumes standard mini lights. Larger bulbs such as C6 or C7 give off more light each, so you need fewer. Tiny fairy or micro lights are less bright individually, so you need more to get the same effect.

How to wrap lights so they look even

  1. Plug the strand in first to check that every bulb works.
  2. Start at the bottom near the outlet, with the plug end at the trunk.
  3. Work up the tree in sections, weaving lights from the trunk out to the tip of each branch and back. This gives depth instead of a single outer layer.
  4. Step back every few rows and squint: dark patches stand out clearly.
  5. Finish at the top, keeping a little slack to connect to the next strand.

Safety tips

  • Use lights with a safety listing from a recognized lab such as UL or ETL.
  • Check the box for the maximum number of strands you can connect end to end, and never exceed it.
  • Do not use indoor lights outside.
  • Turn lights off when you go to bed or leave the house, or use a timer.

Skip the math

A pre-lit tree comes with the light count already matched to its height. Compare them in our pre-lit Christmas trees guide, or browse indoor string lights to light your own tree.