Which stand is better for a real Christmas tree?

The Cinco Express. It holds 1.3 gal of water and grips trunks up to 6 in. The Holiday Time has no reservoir and is meant for artificial trees.

Will the Holiday Time hold a 7 ft artificial tree?

Yes, if the tree weighs 77.16 lbs or less and its trunk matches one of the four included ring sizes: 1.5, 1.25, 1, or 7/8 in.

Is the Cinco worth the extra $11?

For a live tree, yes. The water capacity and ratchet save refills and setup time. For an artificial tree, the Holiday Time does the job for less.

Which stand is more stable?

The Holiday Time has a wider 21.75 in base and a metal frame rated by tree weight. The Cinco relies on its ratchet and screws to stop shifting and twisting.

Can either stand handle a tree over 8 ft?

No. The Cinco tops out at 8 ft and the Holiday Time at 7.5 ft. A taller tree needs a larger stand.

Which is easier to store?

The Holiday Time folds down flat. The Cinco is a fixed 16 in circle that takes up shelf space year-round.

Cinco Express Christmas Tree Stand vs Holiday Time Metal Artificial Christmas Tree Stand

Buy the Cinco Express if you have a real tree up to 8 ft and want a water reservoir and a ratchet that tightens the trunk fast. Buy the Holiday Time metal stand if you have an artificial tree up to 7.5 ft and want a folding steel base for less money. As of November 5, 2026, the Cinco is $42.95 at Amazon and the Holiday Time is $31.99 at Amazon, about $11 apart.

Today the Holiday Time Metal Artificial Christmas Tree Stand costs $10.96 less at its best price.

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