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In many homes, the Christmas tree is the centerpiece of holiday decor—and the topper is its crowning glory. Some folks complete a wintry theme with a snowman topper while others go the whimsical route with a Santa hat, and of course variations on the traditional angel topper remain popular. Even if you already have a family favorite, there are ample reasons to look for a new Christmas tree topper, whether it’s to suit the style of a recent room renovation, gift one to a newbie who’s just starting out with their first tree, or simply try something new for a change—and these days, there’s more variety than ever.
To help shoppers find the best Christmas tree topper for the size of the space, the size of the tree, and the overall vibe of the room, we sought expert advice from Dan Casterella, CEO of American Christmas, a company in Mount Vernon, New York, that produces complex Christmas displays for corporate clients. First and foremost, he offers this formula: “The size of your topper is based on the size of the tree, and we suggest the tree topper to be 1/7 to 1/10 of the tree.” How do you ensure that the topper truly stands out as a focal point? “The color should contrast with the color of the tree,” Casterella says. As to style, that’s entirely personal—which is why this guide includes tree toppers in a host of designs, materials, and sentiments. From simply elegant to cool and quirky, our Top Picks will help shoppers find the perfect piece to finish off their Christmas tree this year and for seasons to come.
- BEST OVERALL: Brightown Christmas Tree Topper with LED Projector
- BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Kurt Adler Gold Glittered 5-Point Star Treetop
- UPGRADE PICK: Swarovski Constella Tree Topper
- BEST ANGEL: Kurt Adler Angel Christmas Treetop Figurine
- BEST PROJECTOR: Yostyle Christmas Tree Topper
- BEST STAR: Crate & Barrel Glitter Gold Star Christmas Tree Topper
- BEST SNOWFLAKE: Pottery Barn Jeweled Snowflake Christmas Tree Topper
- BEST SANTA: Kurt Adler 10-Light Santa Treetop
- BEST PERSONALIZED: The LetterLoftUK Personalized Wire Tree Topper
- BEST ROTATING: The Bradford Exchange Motion Illuminated Tree Topper
- BEST RUSTIC: Kurt Adler Light Rattan Natural Star Tree Topper
- BEST VELVET: Lulu Home Red Velvet Bow Christmas Tree Topper
- BEST QUIRKY: D-FantiX Gnome Christmas Tree Topper
- ALSO CONSIDER: Willow Tree Hand-Painted Starlight Tree Topper
How We Chose the Best Christmas Tree Toppers
When gathering our selections for Christmas tree toppers, we took a deep dive into the market to provide an extensive list of options that span a wide range of styles, sizes, materials, and price points. Our list of recommendations covers a variety of unique Christmas tree toppers that can add a suitable finishing touch to a home.
In terms of materials, we made sure to include a host of choices to match almost any decor style, from rustic wooden star tree toppers and traditional angel tree toppers with flowing cloth robes, to more modern versions that cast light displays around the room—even motorized reindeer that carry Santa’s sleigh around the tree. For an extra-special touch, we also discovered how shoppers can order a personalized tree topper, using meaningful messages to truly customize the family Christmas tree.
Our Top Picks
The holidays just aren’t complete without a striking Christmas tree topper. The following quality models, representing a spectrum of sizes, weights, and shapes as well as glitter, angels, Santa, and stars, will help shoppers choose a beautiful finishing touch for their tree.
Best Overall
Brightown Christmas Tree Topper with LED Projector
Pros
- Snowflake light display is a great touch for a special decoration
- Lightweight plastic construction is suitable for most trees; won’t weigh them down
- Attractive price point considering the distinctive LED snowflake projection feature
Cons
- Power cord may be too short for very tall trees or trees placed far away from an outlet
- Light display can be quite bright; may be distracting in a living room
Product Specs
- Size: 10 inches tall
- Material: Plastic
- Style: Modern
Folks searching for an extra-special way to decorate their Christmas tree this year may want to consider this LED snowflake projector tree topper from Brightown. This glittery golden star topper features a small LED light projector housed inside, which shoots a tasteful snowflake light display around the room.
This 10-inch plastic topper is lightweight enough to fit atop most tree sizes, with a power cord that stretches 7.8 feet. The projector can illuminate an area between 21 and 53 square feet, depending on tree height; shorter trees provide a wider angle and will project a larger area, while taller trees project a tighter area with smaller snowflakes.
Get the Brightown Christmas tree topper at Amazon, Walmart, or Brightown.
Best Bang For The Buck
Kurt Adler Gold Glittered 5-Point Star Treetop
Pros
- Lightweight plastic build and midrange size is suitable for most trees
- Simple star design with glitter and traditional swirls won’t go out of style
- Minimal glitter shedding; won’t make much of a mess on the tree or in storage
Cons
- Thinner plastic construction can chip and bend easily; store with care
Product Specs
- Size: 8 inches tall
- Material: Plastic
- Style: Modern
For some, the star holds significant religious meaning at Christmastime, and it’s an all-around lovely way to adorn a treetop as a traditional holiday symbol. But since the season can be expensive, it’s great that this Kurt Adler tree topper comes at an affordable price.
This 8-inch star tree topper features sparkling glitter and detailed cutouts on each arm of the star. Once the lights of the Christmas tree hit the star, it sparkles and shines beautifully. Another important plus? The ample glitter stays put instead of shedding all over the floor. For convenience, the star’s spiral base can fit trees of different sizes and allows for the use of twine or wire to secure the topper in place.
Get the Kurt Adler Star Christmas tree topper at Amazon or Walmart.
Upgrade Pick
Swarovski Constella Tree Topper
Pros
- Glittering crystals on a golden base provides an elegant and sophisticated look
- Elongated base shape makes it distinctive and easier to fit on the tree
- Minimalist and contemporary design looks great in most modern homes
Cons
- Requires delicate care, handling, storing, and cleaning due to materials
- More expensive compared to other options
Product Specs
- Size: 7.75 inches tall by 3.125 inches wide
- Material: Metal with cut crystals
- Style: Modern
Swarovski is known for excellence in everything from jewelry and watches to decorations, like this impressive piece. The Swarovski Constella tree topper, at 7.75 inches tall by 3.125 inches wide, boasts a golden rod with a spherical burst of 85 clear and gold-colored crystals. A glorious 1,922 facets catch the light to create a glittering effect.
Keep in mind that Swarovski crystals require gentle care and storage. The manufacturer does not recommend that children under the age of 15 handle this topper—it’s best for trees that are safe from young children and cats.
Get the Swarovski Christmas tree topper at Swarovski, Dillard’s, or Borsheims.
Best Angel
Kurt Adler Angel Christmas Treetop Figurine
Pros
- Angel and electric candles light up; looks lovely at night
- Flowy gown, ribbon, and feather details make this topper ornate and distinctive looking
- Includes 5 spare light bulbs; lights are easy to replace if they burn out
Cons
- Uses incandescent bulbs; this type of lighting can get hot and is less energy efficient
Product Specs
- Size: 13 inches tall
- Material: Plastic and fabric
- Style: Traditional
This Kurt Adler tree topper has all the opulence of a picture-perfect Christmas angel, including rich gold robes. Feathery wings and cascading ribbon complete the graceful and gilded look. The figure holds two glowing electric candles, and the entire angel tree topper lights up. It comes with five spare bulbs and a spare 3 amp fuse, so it’s easy to replace a light if it burns out.
At 13 inches high, this topper is appropriate for taller trees. From a major Christmas brand, Kurt Adler angels come in numerous other designs, like
in a red cloak and
in white robes.
Get the Kurt Adler Angel Christmas tree topper at Amazon, Walmart, or Bed Bath & Beyond.
Best Projector
Yostyle Christmas Tree Topper
Pros
- Rotating light projection of snowflake pattern provides a dazzling display
- Festive silver color, glittering design, and lights add to the holiday ambience
- Has an LED light projector, so it uses minimal power
Cons
- May wobble when installed; requires some clever tying to keep it steady
Product Specs
- Size: 8.85 inches wide by 9.25 inches tall by 2.75 inches deep
- Material: Plastic
- Style: Modern
The Yostyle Christmas tree topper uses an LED light projector to literally spread seasonal cheer all over the room. The glittering silver star sparkles on its own, but when plugged in, light comes through strategic cutouts, projecting charming images on the ceiling. Stars and snowflakes dance and dazzle above the tree, taking tradition to new heights. This topper also boasts a lightweight design, so at 16 ounces, it can be used on trees of various sizes.
Get the Yostyle Christmas tree topper at Walmart or Amazon.
Best Bang for the Buck
Crate & Barrel Glitter Star Christmas Tree Topper
Pros
- Bigger size and large cone-shaped holder is suitable for larger trees
- Very lightweight; can also work for smaller trees without weighing the top down too much
- Looks the same from all directions; makes for easy installation
- Available in both gold and silver to suit different decor styles
Cons
- Wide and top-heavy design can make it tip over on sparser trees
Product Specs
- Size: 16.375 inches tall by 11.75 inches wide by 10.75 inches deep
- Material: Plastic
- Style: Contemporary
The Crate & Barrel Glitter Star Christmas tree topper is a lightweight Christmas topper that makes quite a statement. Stylish “rays” reach out in every direction in a starburst effect, while the different lengths add extra dimension to the glittering design. It’s available in gold or silver to suit different decors.
A conical spring base covered in the same glitter slides over the top of the tree for easy installation. The dimensions of this star are big enough for a large tree yet the topper is fairly lightweight so that the tree won’t get weighed down.
Get the Crate & Barrel Christmas tree topper at Crate & Barrel.
Best Snowflake
Pottery Barn Jeweled Snowflake Christmas Tree Topper
Pros
- Intricate handmade beadwork and neutral colors provide a classic and sophisticated look
- Glass beads reflect light; adds a sparkle to the room
- At 17 inches across, this large snowflake makes for a balanced look on a big tree
Cons
- Heavy and large; not a good pick for small trees
- Requires careful cleaning due to delicate materials and bejeweled design
Product Specs
- Size: 17 inches in diameter by 5.75 inches high
- Material: Steel with glass beads
- Style: Modern with classic elements
This Pottery Barn Jeweled Snowflake Christmas tree topper is made of steel and adorned with glass beads. Light dances off the beads, giving the tree a magical feel. Beadwork done by hand means each topper is unique.
Steel creates a sturdy frame that ought to last for multiple Christmas seasons. This is a large tree topper that is 17 inches in diameter by 5.75 inches high, weighing in at 5.25 pounds. Gentle care (with no harsh or abrasive cleaners) will keep it shining brightly.
Get the Pottery Barn Christmas tree topper at Pottery Barn.
Best Santa
Kurt Adler 10-Light Santa Treetop
Pros
- Santa’s traditional fur-lined suit fits the winter season with its cozy and festive look
- Includes 10 pre-lit clear and glowy lights that twinkle at night
- 30-inch-long lead wire provides adequate reach for most homes
Cons
- Uses incandescent bulbs, which can get hot and are less energy efficient than LEDs
Product Specs
- Size: 10 inches tall
- Material: Fabric mache, plastic, and metal
- Style: Traditional
Kids of all ages often respond to the image of Santa Claus, and this topper can add that sense of wonder and magic to the tree. Dressed in a traditional faux fur-lined red coat, this Santa has loads of old-world charm. He carries a wreath and brightens the tree with 10 pre-lit lights to create an illuminated Christmas tree topper.
This 10-inch Santa suits traditional, cottage, and rustic decor styles. The topper includes a 30-inch lead wire to make connecting it to lights that much easier. If this Santa is too traditional, Kurt Adler has designs featuring other popular characters, like these cute
and
tree toppers.
Get the Kurt Adler Santa Christmas tree topper at Amazon, Walmart, or Bed Bath & Beyond.
Best Personalized
The LetterLoftUK Personalized Wire Tree Topper
Pros
- Handmade design is unique to each home; shoppers can choose a word and color
- Relatively affordable for a customized design
- Made from durable powder-coated wire; can last several years
Cons
- Wording is only visible from the front; won’t show from all angles
Product Specs
- Size: Will vary depending on the chosen design
- Material: Stainless steel wire
- Style: Modern
The LetterLoftUK personalized wire tree topper lets holiday shoppers customize their decor with their family name or other message of one, two, or three words. Family, love, or Christmas are all possibilities in keeping with the season.
Each topper is made of durable powder-coated stainless steel in five wire colors. Every topper is a little different, but the dimensions usually fall within the 10-inch-high by 8-inch-wide range.
Get The LetterLoftUK Christmas tree topper at Etsy.
Best Rotating
The Bradford Exchange Motion Illuminated Tree Topper
Pros
- Engaging topper with a festive 3D design, motion, and illumination
- Looks appealing from any direction since Santa’s sleigh and reindeer spin around the topper
- Star lights up, illuminating the topper in low-light situations
Cons
- Requires careful vertical installation; this topper is fragile
Product Specs
- Size: Sleigh and reindeer are 10 inches wide; star is 8.5 inches tall
- Material: Not specified
- Style: Traditional
The Bradford Exchange motion illuminated tree topper combines the beauty of a Christmas star with the whimsy of Santa Claus. Children and adults will be delighted when Santa’s sleigh makes its way around the tree. An 8.5-inch-tall star and 10-inch-long Santa and reindeer make this topper a crowning conversation piece for the holidays.
Each sleigh features a Thomas Kincade painting on both sides. This model does require extra care when installing, and reviewers caution that it’s fragile and can break if dropped. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and store with care.
Get the Bradford Exchange Christmas tree topper at Amazon or Bradford Exchange.
Best Rustic
Kurt Adler Light Rattan Natural Star Tree Topper
Pros
- Appealing rustic design made from twisted pieces of rattan material
- Simple star design dotted with clear lights is well suited for country, cottage, and other rustic decor styles
- Includes extra light bulbs and an extra fuse in case some bulbs go out
Cons
- Reviewers note it’s quite top-heavy, so it may not stay put on small or slim trees
Product Specs
- Size: 10.5 inches tall by 9.5 inches wide by 3 inches deep
- Material: Rattan
- Style: Rustic
Rustic Christmas decor calls for a natural-looking topper, and this rattan option from Kurt Adler fits the theme perfectly. It’s on the simpler side, with a five-point star design entwined with rattan to make it look like it grew in the forest. A green base helps attach the topper to the tree and blend it together. A 60-inch brown lead wire also helps this topper blend into the tree.
Among the twisted details are 10 clear incandescent lights, which emit a lovely glow when switched on. Four spare bulbs and one spare fuse are included in case a light or two goes out.
Get the Kurt Adler Light Rattan Christmas tree topper at Amazon or Walmart.
Best Velvet
Lulu Home Red Velvet Bow Christmas Tree Topper
Pros
- Bright red velvet with gold stitching makes this bow look extra festive
- Large bow size and long 48-inch streamers add oomph to many tree sizes
- Very versatile and easy to install; has a string on the back and can be used for applications beyond a tree topper
Cons
- Not very sturdy; held together with some wire and can come apart if kids or pets tug on the strands
Product Specs
- Size: 48 inches long by 13 inches wide
- Material: Velvet
- Style: Traditional
Luxurious velvet and long ribbon strings make this bow Christmas tree topper instantly eye-catching. The bow measures 13 inches across and there are four 48-inch ribbons cascading down. The bright red material festooned with sparkly gold details looks festive for the season.
Since this topper is fabric, it’s very lightweight and easy to tie to the top of a tree with the string attached to the back. This makes it a good choice for decorating other spots too, like along a stair railing, adorning a wreath, or as the centerpiece for a mantel—anywhere folks can use a giant Christmas bow!
Get the Lulu Home Christmas tree topper at Amazon.
Best Quirky
D-FantiX Gnome Christmas Tree Topper
Pros
- Distinctive and adorable topper; great for rustic and personality-filled Christmas trees
- Large size works well on big trees and easily slides over treetop
- Presses flat for more compact and easy storage after Christmas
Cons
- Larger size and out-there design may overpower smaller trees
Product Specs
- Size: 25 inches tall by 9 inches wide
- Material: Fabric
- Style: Modern
Gnome for the holidays! If the spirit of Christmas means laughter, consider this oversize ornament that doesn’t just top the tree—it practically swallows it. The 25-inch tall by 9-inch wide gnome tree topper boasts a ludicrously long beard, large cap, and festive mittens to make even a true Scrooge crack a smile. The topper manages to be funny, festive, and oddly modern at the same time.
The versatile piece can also sit on a mantel or function as a silly centerpiece. This gnome is built over a spring, so it can be pressed flat for easier storage when the holiday season is over.
Get the D-FantiX Christmas tree topper at Amazon.
Also Consider
Willow Tree Hand-Painted Starlight Tree Topper
Pros
- The bottom of the angel is hollow, so it fits right on the tree without a stand
- Has a flat base so it can be used as a tabletop or mantel decoration; stands by itself
- Metal star is encrusted with glitter that sparkles when hit by lights
Cons
- Some reviewers note the narrow bottom hole is too small for some trees
Product Specs
- Size: 12 inches tall by 6 inches wide by 3 inches deep
- Material: Resin and metal
- Style: Traditional
Folks favoring holiday decor with subtle sophistication may appreciate this lovely hand-painted tree topper. A deceivingly rustic design in muted earth tones offers elegance to a design scheme. The minimalist angel figure is surrounded by a glittering star that looks modern yet still reflects Christmas symbolism. The topper can also double as a mantel or table decoration.
This 12-inch resin angel is hollow, so the top branches can fit inside to keep the topper in place. The lack of an additional base means it must be fitted snugly to the top of the tree; ensure that the tree is hearty enough to support topper before attaching.
Get the Willow Tree Christmas tree topper at Amazon, Hallmark, or Willow Tree.
Jump to Our Top Picks
What to Consider When Choosing a Christmas Tree Topper
Tree toppers come in styles as varied as other Christmas ornaments, with goofy animal and gnome toppers as well as the traditional angels, stars, and spires. Part of the decision depends on how often individuals replace their Christmas ornaments.
Some folks prefer a classic topper to hand down to the next generation, while others typically change their Christmas decor’s theme every year or so and want a topper to match. The following factors and features are important to also keep in mind.
Size and Weight
The topper’s size and weight are among the first considerations, since these should be in proportion to the tree’s size and fullness. A topper that’s too large and heavy can visually and physically overpower the tree, while a delicate 4-inch star topper might seem lost on a 12-foot tree. Avoid any Christmas tree decorating fails with these general guidelines:
- 4- to 5½-foot tree: toppers up to 5 inches long by 3 inches wide
- 5½- to 6½-foot tree: toppers up to 7 inches long by 5 inches wide
- 6½- to 7½-foot tree: toppers up to 8 inches long by 6 inches wide
- Over 8 feet: toppers up to about 9 inches long by 7 to 8 inches wide
Keep in mind other factors that determine whether a topper will suit a specific tree. The wider and taller the Christmas tree, the smaller the tree topper will look. Personal preferences factor into how shoppers want the overall tree to appear, too. Some people like how a 12- to 13-inch topper can make their tree seem taller.
Consider the thickness and strength of the tree as well. If going for a live tree, know that some species of evergreens are hardier and better suited for large toppers than others. Noble firs, for example, are known for their strong branches and can hold a larger Christmas tree topper. Artificial trees offer some flexibility in tree topper size because the top branches can be adjusted to offer more support for a heavier tree topper.
Material
Plastic, wood, glass, crystal, metal, and resin are all common materials used to make tree toppers. The material chosen should complement the rest of the Christmas ornaments; a metal tree topper may look out of place with ornaments made of natural materials like wood, burlap, and cotton.
Material also influences the topper’s weight. Plastic weighs less than most other materials, making these tree toppers easier for a tree to support. Larger trees can support the weight of heavier toppers.
Anything more than 1.5 to 2 pounds would be considered on the heavier side. Check the package or product description for the topper’s weight, although it may not be listed. Pay attention to design as well. Manufacturers may use lightweight material, like plastic, and create hollow toppers to reduce weight, making some models deceptively light for their size.
Style and Theme
Christmas tree themes vary far and wide. Classic elegance, contemporary minimalism, cottage, and retro are only a few of the themes commonly available. Classic, traditional themes typically revolve around spiritual symbols like stars and angels, which can be either simple and rustic or elaborate and opulent.
Folks who like a homespun look may consider toppers featuring visible wire, wood, and hand-tied ribbon for a handmade feel, which complement plaids, buffalo check, and other casual Christmas decor. Shoppers who prefer decorations with trendy flair will find plenty of options to choose from. A spire topper in an unusual color like pink, baby blue, or black complements many modern themes. New Christmas color schemes pop up every year, so shoppers can change their topper based on their latest favorite.
Features and Accessories
Christmas tree toppers run the gamut from simple to complex. Basic models, like a simple star tree topper, just sit on top of the tree, yet some models play music, move around, feature Christmas lights, and display special effects. Many of these extra features add weight, so the tree will need to support not only the topper but the batteries or electrical components needed to power the bells and whistles.
Tree toppers sometimes include a few accessories to make installation easier, such as extra wire to secure the topper, replacement LED lights, and matching ornaments or tree skirts. While these accessories may be helpful and add to a coordinated look, make sure that they’re of equal quality to the tree topper itself.
FAQs
The sheer number of Christmas tree toppers available can be especially overwhelming if decorating a Christmas tree for the first time or starting from scratch. Check out these tips and pointers to help you choose and use the best tree topper for your specific holiday style.
Q. What should you put on top of a Christmas tree?
Religious symbols like stars and angels still rank as some of the most popular tree toppers. However, Santa Claus, spires, and snowflakes in traditional Christmas colors of red, green, silver, and gold are popular, too.
Q. How big should a Christmas tree topper be?
Christmas tree toppers are generally proportional to the size of the Christmas tree—the larger the tree, the larger the topper. However, some people prefer a small or oversize topper just because they like the look. Your only real limit is the tree’s strength; some toppers may simply be too heavy for a small, spindly tree.
Q. How do you get a Christmas tree topper to stay on?
If you have an artificial tree, you can often adjust the branches to offer more support for the topper. Floral wire or twine are inexpensive ways to anchor the tree topper to an artificial or real tree. Simply tie the wire or twine to the topper, then weave it through the branches. Do this on several sides of the topper for greater stability.
