This study examined the windbreak effects of different tree-shrub configurations through wind tunnel experiments. Using Populus euphratica Oliv. and Tamarix chinensis Lour. as model species, six rows of front-tree-back-shrub arrangements in a triangular layout were tested under varying spacing patterns. Four spacings of P e (7.5 cm x 7.5 cm, 7.5 cm x 10 cm, 7.5 cm x 12.5 cm, 10 cm x 10 cm) and four spacings of T cs (5 cm x 5 cm, 5 cm x 7.5 cm, 5 cm x 10 cm, 7.5 cm x 7.5 cm) were analyzed. Tree-shrub combinations significantly outperformed pure stands. The configuration of P e (7.5 cm x 10 cm) with T c (5 cm x 10 cm) achieved the highest efficiency, with an average of 27.1% and a peak of 47.13% at 7 H. This configuration was effective up to 15 H and showed slower efficiency decline at higher wind speeds. Vertically, most combinations reached maximum efficiency at 20 cm height, while pure T c peaked at 51.96% at 3 cm and pure P e at 36.33% at 20 cm. Overall, the optimal configuration was P e spaced at 7.5 cm x 10 cm and T c at 5 cm x 10 cm, which not only enhanced protective performance but also reduced planting density. These findings provide valuable scientific references for designing windbreak and sand-fixing forests in arid regions, supporting ecological restoration and sustainable land management in desert-oasis transition zones.