The current standard 7.5-foot color-changing Classic Fraser Fir still lists 1,671 tips, 700 LEDs and a 52-inch diameter. It now includes a remote and advertises 11 lighting effects alongside the foot pedal; the version in our earlier catalog was recorded without a remote. This finding applies to that configuration, not automatically to other heights, clear-light versions or rolling-base options.

The remote is a useful everyday improvement if the tree sits behind furniture or you like changing effects. The unchanged tip and light counts don't suggest a major change to its basic appearance. We haven't verified a new needle-material specification or retested its light quality, so our buying advice stays broadly the same. The control update alone isn't a reason to replace a working older tree.

At 50% PE, you're getting realistic molded needles on the exterior branches where you'll actually see them, with traditional PVC filling out the interior. This is an honest middle-ground approach—not trying to pretend it's an ultra-realistic tree, but providing visible realism where it matters. Up close, you'll still see the PVC branches, especially deeper in the tree. From across the room, it reads as convincingly realistic. This is exactly what you should expect at this PE percentage and price point.

The color-changing versions let you switch between white and multicolor lighting. The current standard 7.5-foot listing has 700 LEDs, 11 effects, an included remote and an on/off foot pedal. That is a useful control update from the configuration recorded in our earlier review.

Don't assume every size or older listing includes the same controller. The clear-light and rolling-base configurations need their own specification checks. Trunk wiring connects the lights as the sections are stacked, which is a familiar convenience rather than a reason on its own to choose this tree.

The 7.5ft and 9ft sizes are available with Grow & Stow technology—a wheeled metal base that lets you roll the tree around and flip it up for storage. This is legitimately useful if you have limited storage space or difficulty lifting heavy trees. The flip mechanism lets you fold the tree up vertically against a wall. Just know you're paying a premium for this feature compared to the standard variants.

This tree represents Balsam Hill's retail strategy—getting their mid-tier quality into big-box stores at competitive prices. You're not getting flagship Balsam Hill quality, but you are getting better construction than most budget brands. The 50% PE is honest for this tier. The range of sizes and the Grow & Stow options add flexibility. Skip this if you want ultra-realistic trees (look at 70%+ PE) or if you're on a tight budget (plenty of decent all-PVC trees cost less).

Buyers who want some PE realism without paying premium prices. The 50% PE content puts this squarely in the mid-tier—better than budget all-PVC trees but not trying to compete with 80%+ PE flagships. Good for those who prioritize having both clear and multicolor lighting options. The Grow & Stow variants work well if you have storage constraints or mobility issues, though you'll pay extra for the wheeled base.