These candles aren't like most of the flickering candles out there. They flicker and glow in the entire top half of the candle, not just the flame part. You can shut the flicker off and just have light or switch back and forth. This is the perfect set to use as a centerpiece. I put them on a pretty tray and arranged greenery and christmas balls around them and with the remote, I can switch them on without having to disturb the arrangement. Very nice set. I am very happy with mine.