This is the perfect size tree for our living room, and I was so happy to find one that was NOT pre-lit. It has a very real look to it, though if you looked close enough, you could kind of tell where the middle and top section met by the difference in how the branches laid. But I suppose that could have been due to how I unfolded them, so I'll give the tree the benefit of the doubt. There are a lot of branches to unfold/bend, but that's what gives it a fuller, more real look, so I can't complain about the extra work. :) The base is nice and sturdy, and the tree held all my ornaments. Very happy with this purchase.