The Pros and Cons of LED Christmas Lights

Updated: Sep. 08, 2023

LED lights are all the rage because of their long lives and energy efficiency. But they're not a perfect solution.

It’s time to deck the halls for the holidays and you’re trying to decide if it’s time to switch over to LED Christmas lights. But are LEDs right for you?

Which Christmas Lights Are Right for You?

Unlike traditional Christmas lights, which utilize a filament to produce their holiday glow, LED Christmas lights use light-emitting diodes. This makes the lights more efficient and longer-lasting than your old-school Christmas lights.

Here’s a look at the top pros and cons of LED Christmas lights:

Pros of LED Christmas Lights

  • LED Christmas lights won’t be hot to the touch, so they are safe for use if you have young children or pets.
  • Plus, you don’t have to worry about the lights overheating and causing your holiday wreath.
  • LED lights are efficient so they won’t result in sky-high energy bills—as the typical Christmas lights electric bill can certainly add up—even if you decide to go all out and decorate your home like Clark Griswold.
  • You’ll have plenty of choices. LED Christmas lights come in all kinds of shapes, styles, sizes and colors so you can find the perfect lights for your style.

Cons of LED Christmas Lights

  • One of the clear drawbacks to LED Christmas lights is the upfront cost. They are more expensive than traditional lights, however, remember that cost will likely be offset over time with lower energy bills along with the fact you likely won’t have to replace them as often.
  • LED light can be harsh for some. In fact, the blue light from LEDs can cause some people to feel nauseous or get headaches.

Whichever lights you choose, you’ll need to figure out the best lighting for your space. Plus, you can use this Christmas tree light hack to make your lights shine even brighter this year. Here is a homeowner’s guide to holiday lighting to help.