How to Choose the Right DNA Test
With the multitude of DNA testing companies available, it’s important to carefully choose the right DNA test to suit your specific genealogical goals. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you make an informed decision and our recommendations on which tests to start with.
1. Set Your Goals:
Before choosing a DNA test, consider what you hope to achieve. Are you mainly interested in finding living relatives, uncovering your ethnic origins, or confirming existing genealogical research? Your objectives will help guide you toward the most suitable test.
2. Research Different Testing Companies:
Explore various DNA testing companies and compare their offerings. Look at factors such as the size of their databases, the range of geographic regions covered, and the depth of genealogical information provided.
3. Understand Types of DNA Tests:
Different DNA tests offer distinct insights. Autosomal DNA tests are ideal for finding relatives across all of your ancestral lines, while Y-DNA and mitochondrial DNA tests specifically trace your direct paternal and maternal lines, respectively.
4. Consider Testing Coverage:
Think about the geographic regions and populations covered by each testing company. If you have a specific interest in a particular region or population, opt for a test that comprehensively includes it.
5. Assess Additional Features:
Some testing companies offer supplementary tools such as chromosome browsers, family tree integration, and the ability to download raw DNA data. Consider these extras when making your decision and learn the tricks to saving money on genealogy and DNA testing.
7. Budget Considerations:
Consider budget for DNA test including shipping, processing, and features. Results can require unexpected and extensive research, discouraging some test-takers. Hiring a professional genealogist can help you reach your goals and is the most cost effective route for people who can’t or do not want to do the research themselves.
Recommended DNA Tests
To start your genetic genealogy research, we recommend everyone take at least 2 of the 4 most popular DNA tests currently available, and that one of those tests be an Ancestry.com DNA test.
Remember, DNA is data. Think of the companies that provide DNA testing as databanks. Each databank has specific information. For overall genealogy, Ansestry.com is an extremely valuable databank, and when you add DNA, it’s even better.
Typically, combining information from Ancestry.com DNA and another testing company will lead your researcher to the information and answers you are looking for. Below is information about the current, most popular DNA tests in the US.
Most Popular DNA Tests
As DNA testing has become increasingly popular for genealogy and ancestry research, several companies have emerged as leaders in the industry. The four most popular DNA tests in the United States are AncestryDNA, 23andMe, MyHeritage DNA, and FamilyTreeDNA.
AncestryDNA
AncestryDNA, offered by Ancestry.com, is one of the most widely recognized and utilized DNA testing services. With a database of over 18 million customers, AncestryDNA provides detailed ethnicity estimates, DNA matching with relatives, and access to a vast collection of genealogical records. Their extensive family tree-building tools make it a top choice for those interested in tracing their lineage.
23andMe
23andMe is renowned for its comprehensive health and ancestry testing. In addition to providing detailed ethnic and geographic breakdowns, 23andMe offers health-related genetic reports on predispositions to certain health conditions and traits. With over 12 million customers, 23andMe is known for its scientific approach and detailed genetic information.
MyHeritage DNA
MyHeritage DNA has gained popularity for its international reach and diverse user base. It offers detailed ethnic and geographic estimates, DNA matching with relatives, and access to historical records from around the world. MyHeritage’s unique focus on global genealogy research makes it a favorite among individuals with ancestry from diverse regions.
FamilyTreeDNA
FamilyTreeDNA stands out for its focus on connecting individuals with genetic relatives and deep genealogical exploration. It offers comprehensive Y-DNA and mtDNA testing, which are valuable for tracing direct paternal and maternal lines. With a strong emphasis on surname projects and genetic genealogy research, FamilyTreeDNA appeals to those seeking in-depth genetic connections and historical exploration.