What’s the best DNA test in 2025?
The best DNA test overall in 2025 is Ancestry. It has the largest database of DNA samples in the world and this increases your chances of finding relatives. It also has one of the largest databases of historical data in the world so you can easily trace your ancestry across centuries. Right now, you can save up to 70% on AncestryDNA and other products site-wide.
If you want to look into your ancestry, a DNA test is your best bet. It can help you explore your ethnicity and heritage, trace your ancestors’ migration patterns and even connect you with relatives.
However, not all DNA tests are made the same. Some of them have smaller databases or lack features, all of which can lead to you getting inaccurate results. To make things worse, there are even fake DNA companies that could steal your data and sell it to third parties.
This is why I put my own saliva on the line and tested dozens of DNA tests in an effort to find the best one. For each kit, I evaluated how easy it was to use, how accurate the results were and more.
TLDR: My top pick is Ancestry. It has the largest database of DNA samples in the world, which means you can easily connect with relatives across the world. The information it gave me was very accurate (and even surprising — check out my full review here). Its privacy policy is solid and you can even request that your DNA data be deleted completely.
While it’s not the most affordable choice on my list, it’s definitely worth the price (and offers frequent discounts). It also won’t give you any health data, but it does show how your genetics influence your traits. And you can even test your dog’s DNA for breed and health information with its Know Your Pet DNA test.
Short on time? Here are the best DNA tests in 2024
- AncestryDNA – Best DNA test kit overall; largest sample database in the world to match with relatives easily; prices start at $99.
- MyHeritage – Best DNA kit for its affordable prices (starting at $89); great family tree builder.
- Living DNA – Best DNA kit for getting meal and exercise plans as well as ancestry information; prices start at $99.
- FamilyTreeDNA – Best DNA test kit for tracing maternal and paternal lineage; prices start at $79.
- Nebula Genomics – Best for whole genome sequencing and in-depth genome analysis; prices start at $249.
See 5 more top at-home DNA test kits | Compare the best DNA tests
How to Choose The Best DNA Test for You
DNA tests are not a “one-size-fits-all” type of product — no matter how it may seem otherwise. To get what you need out of a DNA test, you need to find one that works best for you. This can depend on what you expect.
For example, if you expect health information based on your genetics, Ancestry and MyHeritage won’t be helpful. However, LivingDNA or 23andMe might be. This is why it’s important to evaluate all aspects of a DNA service before you commit.
Here are some features to consider:
- Type of tests. Some DNA services offer ancestry tests exclusively, while others have health and behavior tests as well. Some even offer blood testing (for STDs, diabetes, etc.). It’s important to determine the type of test you need.
- Additional features. If you want to connect with relatives or build your family tree, it’s important to find services that offer that (not all of them do).
- Database size. The larger the database of DNA samples or historical records, the more likely you are to get accurate information.
- Shipping information. Most DNA tests ship everywhere in the US, but if you live in other areas of the world, you need to find a DNA test that will ship to your location.
- Your budget. While DNA tests aren’t generally expensive, you want to find one that fits your budget. Look into prices (and the value you get for the cost), as well as potential discounts.
There are other features to consider, but they might be less relevant. For example, sample type; you might prefer a cheek swab to a blood or hair sample. Or you might be looking for a site where you can upload your raw DNA data (from another DNA service) and get extra information for free.
Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect from each of these top DNA tests.
| 🧪 Type of tests | ✅ Additional Features | 📚 Database size | ✈ Ships outside of US? | 💰 Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| AncestryDNA | Ancestry, Traits, Pet DNA | Free family tree builder, historical records, match with relatives | 19 billion DNA samples; 20 billion + historical records | Yes | Starts at $99 |
| MyHeritage | Ancestry | Free family tree builder (with multimedia assistance), free raw DNA upload | 6.5 million DNA samples; 19 billion historical records | Yes | $89 |
| LivingDNA | Ancestry, Health and Wellness | Free raw DNA upload, actionable tips to improve your health (based on DNA) | 300.000 DNA samples | Yes | Starts at $119 |
| FamilyTreeDNA | Ancestry | Separate maternal and paternal tests, family finder, free raw DNA upload | 6 million DNA samples; 2 million records | Yes | Starts at $79 |
| Nebula Genomics | Ancestry | Whole genome sequencing, free raw DNA upload | N/A | Yes | Starts at $249 |
Our Best 2024 DNA Test Kits Reviewed
1. AncestryDNA – Best DNA Test Kit Overall
- Full ancestry breakdown with accurate ethnicity percentages
- Intuitive family tree builder and access to 20 billion historical records
- Tracks down relative matches from the AncestryDNA database
- Detailed results in 6-8 weeks
AncestryDNA sets itself apart with a massive database of over 25 million samples, making it easier to find and connect with unknown relatives. Getting started is straightforward. You provide a saliva sample, send it back in a prepaid package, and in a few weeks, you’ll receive an online report detailing your ancestry and possible family connections.
The platform is designed with a user-friendly interface, making it easy to explore features like ethnicity estimates and DNA matches. The results are presented clearly, so you don’t need any background in genetics to understand them. Your DNA data is securely stored, with certification from external regulators, and your personal information is only shared with your consent. You also have full control over who can view your family tree.
However, it’s worth noting that AncestryDNA does not include health-related services, a feature available with some other providers like LivingDNA. But for those focused on uncovering their ancestry and creating a family tree, this absence of health analysis may not pose a major issue. AncestryDNA is proficient in delivering a comprehensive and precise understanding of your genetic heritage.
Ancestry offers various subscription plans that complement the DNA test by granting you access to their extensive collection of historical records and family trees. One popular option is the U.S. Discovery package, which focuses on US records. If you’re interested in global records, the World Explorer package broadens the scope to include international data. The All Access plan provides a more comprehensive offering, including records from other services like Newspapers.com and Fold3, a resource for military records.
| Pros | Cons |
| Largest consumer database of DNA samples in the world | Health testing not available |
| Easy testing and fast results | |
| Affordable prices |
2. MyHeritage – Best Affordable DNA Test Kit
- Search through 19.4 billion of records
- Bring your ancestors to life with photos, music videos, and more
- Great for tracing ancestry in Europe
- Results within 4 weeks
- Prices start at $89
MyHeritage offers a cost-effective approach to DNA testing, providing a range of features without breaking the bank. With a simple cheek swab, you can send your DNA for analysis. Within three to four weeks, you’ll receive a detailed ancestry report and an ethnicity estimate via their online portal. This makes it an accessible choice for those new to DNA testing. If you already took a DNA test but you want some extra data, you can submit your raw DNA results to its platform for free and get your reports within 48 hours.
One of the standout features is the DNA Matching service. It automatically compares your DNA to others in the MyHeritage database, helping you identify relatives you might not know about. This goes hand-in-hand with their extensive family tree builder, which makes visualizing your lineage straightforward.
In terms of database size, MyHeritage falls a bit short when compared to AncestryDNA. However, it compensates for this with its robust international data sets. If your lineage has roots outside the United States, you might find that MyHeritage provides a more thorough investigation into your global ancestry.
Another beneficial feature is the Quick Ethnic Estimate, a video that interprets your DNA sample in real-time, giving you immediate insights into your ethnic background. This makes it one of the quickest ways to get a snapshot of your genetic heritage. You’ll also get free access to family-building tools and some records.
| Pros | Cons |
| Free family tree building + cheap prices | Health testing not available anymore |
| Diverse ethnic groups and a good European user base | Allows data access to law enforcement |
| Upload DNA data for free |
3. Living DNA – Best for Getting Meal and Exercise Plans
- Traces your DNA to sub-regions in Europe, Africa, and the British Isles
- Predicts your ancestry from the last 500 years to the present day
- Screen for health and wellness, including vitamin needs and food metabolism, with the combined kit
- Both reports ready in just 6-8 weeks
- Prices start at $119
Living DNA specializes in providing detailed regional breakdowns, particularly for Africa, Europe, and the British Isles. With coverage spanning over 150 worldwide regions and an even finer focus on sub-regions, it gives you a granular look at your ancestry. After you send in your saliva sample, you’ll receive a comprehensive report that pinpoints your heritage, often down to a specific region like a county in England.
One of the notable features is the wealth of historical context it provides. Your online report includes interactive maps with color-coded migration lines, migration maps, and haplogroup information. This information shows you where each side of your family comes from, enhancing your understanding of your genetic makeup.
Compared to other services, Living DNA offers a longer view into your family history, tracing your lineage back 500 years. The online dashboard allows you to explore your ancestors’ movements around the globe. While this historical reach may not be as extensive as Ancestry or MyHeritage, it makes up for it by offering a detailed health and wellness test at no extra charge.
This health component analyses your genetic response to vitamins, and food metabolism rates, and even offers personalized exercise recommendations. So, not only do you get insights into your ancestral past, but also valuable information that can guide your lifestyle choices today.
Finally, whether you opt for the ancestry or health and wellness test, Living DNA offers free return shipping for your sample. You can expect to receive your detailed online report within 6-8 weeks of submitting your sample.
| Pros | Cons |
| Meal and exercise plans with health reports | Smaller user database (less samples) |
| Granular focus on sub-regions | Customer support a bit limited |
| Trace your lineage 500 years back | Slightly more expensive than competitors |
4. FamilyTreeDNA – Detailed Maternal and Paternal Lines
- Maps your ethnic origins with accurate percentages and geographical maps
- Deeper ancestry insights that show which DNA you share with ancient European groups
- Family finder finds your DNA paternal and maternal matches
- Results in as little as 2 weeks
- Prices start at $119
FamilyTreeDNA offers specialized Y-DNA and mtDNA tests, allowing you to trace both your male and female ancestral lines separately. After submitting a cheek swab, you get a report that takes your heritage back to its African roots and details your family’s migratory paths. The service also provides insights into the history of your surname.
What sets FamilyTreeDNA apart is its focus on detailed ethnicity percentages, based on over 60 populations. The test can even detect regions that constitute less than 1% of your DNA. This is complemented by an interactive map and historical facts for each region, enriching your understanding of your lineage.
Compared to mainstream services like AncestryDNA, FamilyTreeDNA delves deeper into ancient times. Although its database may not be as extensive, it offers unique insights into whether you carry autosomal DNA for ancient European groups like neolithic hunters, early farmers, and bronze-age invaders.
Another feature worth noting is the family finder tool, which scans its database for DNA matches, allowing you to organize relatives by maternal and paternal lines. The service also includes a chromosome browser that shows precisely which DNA segments you share with your matches.
FamilyTreeDNA supports data uploads from AncestryDNA and 23andMe, expanding your options for analysis. Depending on the test you choose, you can expect your results in 2-8 weeks. This flexibility and depth make FamilyTreeDNA a valuable tool for anyone looking to explore beyond standard ancestral timelines.
| Pros | Cons |
| Separate maternal and paternal DNA testing | Smaller user database |
| Shipping available almost worldwide | Law enforcement can see your data without a warrant |
| Stores data for up to 25 years (you can test again later) | Some privacy concerns |
Get Started With FamilyTreeDNA!
5. Nebula Genomics – Whole Genome Sequencing
- Decodes more of your DNA than other companies
- Report covers 27 health traits and behaviors
- Genome explorer helps you learn more about your genetic variants
- Bonus ancestry information including haplogroup mapping
Nebula Genomics offers 30 x whole-genome sequencing, which means it decodes all of your DNA to identify every genetic marker you carry. This does come at a price, though. The individual kits are quite expensive, and you also have to pay a regular subscription fee on top of that.
For that fee, you do get comprehensive health testing with some ancestry information thrown in, too. It screens for 27 health traits relating to various aspects of your wellness. We learned about factors like earwax type, freckling, snacking behavior, nicotine response, and muscle strength.
It takes a while to get your reports –we had to wait 13 weeks.
We liked that your health traits are categorized into four buckets: appearance and hormones, behavior and perception, body and athleticism, and nutrition and diet. It makes your report easy to navigate.
Nebula comes with a research library which is a feature we haven’t seen before. This allows you to explore your genetic variants yourself, analyze your genomes, and read articles relating to your DNA. Some of it is quite technical, though.
Alongside health, you get some ancestry information which includes mtDNA and Y-DNA mapping. This means you can see how both sides of your family moved around the globe and where your heritage comes from.
| Pros | Cons |
| Analyzes 100% of your DNA | Very expensive |
| Stringent privacy policies | Sometimes the results are confusing |
| Super detailed results | No genetic counseling |
Get Started with Nebula Genomics!
6. SelfDecode – Upload Existing DNA For Instant Results
- Tests over 83 million genetic variants
- Subscription service with access to 350 reports
- Pro Connect model allows your health practitioner to order lab work, see your results, & more
- Recommendations on supplements you can buy through the platform
SelfDecode lets you upload raw DNA data from AncestryDNA, FamilyTreeDNA, and Courtagen, which saves you the usual waiting time of 6-8 weeks. When we tested it, we got our chosen reports instantly. You will get over 350 reports, including health reports for all major categories, diet and nutrition reports, biohacker reports, and personality reports.
You can also take a DNA test with SelfDecode and get an analysis of over 83 million genetic variants. SelfDecode also partnered with Lab Test Analyzer, so you can also order lab works through this platform and with its Pro Connect model, allow your doctor to order tests for you, analyze them, or see your results.
We were impressed by the list of kits covering mental wellbeing, too. You can learn about stress, mood, anxiety, and cognitive function. Additionally, SelfDecode incorporates a Lifestyle questionnaire which gives them further insight and more information to deliver accurate results.
We found our reports to be quite detailed, with plenty of actionable recommendations tailored to our researcher’s genes. It tells you which biomarkers were tested and the genetic variant you carry, which is useful if you plan on taking your results to your doctor. SelfDecode will also give you recommendations for supplements based on your results, and you can purchase them through the platform. And with SelfDecode’s app, you can build your own meal plan.
Get Ongoing Health Reports with SelfDecode!
7. My Toolbox Genomics – Get Meal and Exercise Plans
- Valuable insights into your nutrition and health
- Screens for intolerances and allergies
- Meal and exercise plans
- Results in 4 weeks
If you’re looking for a powerful tool to take control of your dietary habits, then the My Toolbox Geonomics’ DNA kit is exactly what you need. With this kit, you’ll receive valuable insights into your deficiencies, metabolism, taste preferences, and meal planning. The best part is that it’s all customized just for you, so you can make informed decisions about your nutrition.
Once you send in your sample to the testing lab, you can expect the process to take around four weeks. However, the wait is well worth it. By analyzing more than 50 genes and 26 traits, this kit provides you with a personalized nutrition plan aligned with your objectives. Whether you’re trying to lose weight, build muscle, or improve your overall health, this kit has got you covered.
Another great feature of the My Toolbox Geonomics’ DNA kit is the customized 7-day meal plan. This plan is tailored to your unique needs and preferences, including easy-to-follow recipes complete with calorific information. While it doesn’t provide macronutrient information, the meal plan includes actionable tips to help you optimize your diet, such as incorporating oily fish, using different cooking oils, or drinking fiber-rich smoothies for breakfast. You also have access to the genotype test results behind each recommendation.
In addition to identifying nutritional deficiencies and recommending supplements, the My Toolbox Geonomics’ DNA kit also screens for intolerances, particularly gluten. It even evaluates your sensitivity to caffeine and alcohol, providing guidance on consumption limits. With this information at your fingertips, you can make informed decisions about what to eat and drink, leading to better overall health.
The My Toolbox Geonomics’ DNA kit also offers tailored exercise information, including a fitness routine with comprehensive instructions for every exercise, workout frequency, and rest days. This personalized exercise plan will help you get on the right track towards achieving your fitness goals.
Reach Your Health Goals With My Toolbox Genomics
8. EverlyWell – Wellness Tests For Allergies, Sleep, & Stress
- Tests your stress levels, sleep quality, food intolerances, and environmental allergies
- Offers personalized advice on lifestyle changes to improve your health
- At-home STD testing available with subscription options
- Results take 5 days
Everlywell has a huge variety of at-home wellness tests that screen every aspect of your health. There are tests for sleep, stress, hormones, heart health, fertility, and allergies. In fact, you have over 35 tests to choose from.
You get a highly detailed report that shows every genetic marker screened for and your results. For example, when we took the sleep and stress test, we could see whether cortisol levels are high, low, or medium, with actionable advice on what to change.
Allergy screening can help you understand which intolerances you may have so you can alter your diet and food to improve your health.
And the metabolism test evaluates the three key hormones that your body needs to maintain a healthy metabolism, and how this might affect your energy and weight.
Our researcher found taking the test quick and easy, with just saliva or finger-prick blood samples. And you get free returns to the lab.
Your sample is reviewed by independently-certified physicians, then uploaded to your online dashboard. Usually, this is around 5 days after the lab receives your sample. But we got ours in two days.
You can buy various at-home STD tests, too. There’s the option to buy a subscription, so you can choose which STD tests you want, and they’re delivered to your door every month. It also means they’re cheaper.
Get Health Insights with Everlywell!
What Can a DNA Test Tell You?
A DNA test reveals detailed information about your genetic composition. It determines your ethnic background by showing the percentages of your ancestry from different global regions, such as finding out you are part European, Asian, or African. Many services offer further breakdown into smaller regions for a more comprehensive view of your heritage.
Additionally, DNA testing helps you locate relatives. It compares your DNA to others in a database, potentially uncovering distant or unknown family members. These services often indicate how closely you’re related and the exact DNA segments you share.
For those curious about ancient lineage, some DNA tests can trace your roots back to early civilizations, indicating connections to groups like the Vikings or Roman soldiers. They may focus on maternal (mtDNA) or paternal (Y-DNA) lines for more specific ancestral information.
Health-related DNA tests examine genetic markers linked to various health conditions and traits, such as disease risk or nutrient metabolism. This information can be pivotal for lifestyle adjustments or medical decisions.
Ethnicity Estimate
One of the primary features of a DNA test is the ethnicity estimate. By analyzing specific markers in your DNA, the test can break down your ancestry into percentages related to global regions. For example, your report may indicate that you’re 40% East Asian, 30% European, and 30% African. This gives you a general idea of where your ancestors come from and forms the basis for deeper exploration into your heritage.
Genetic Matches
Genetic matching is another core feature. The DNA test compares your genetic data to a database of other users to identify relatives. This could range from immediate family members to distant cousins. Usually, the service will show how much DNA you share with your matches and may categorize them by the degree of your relationship, such as first cousin or second cousin once removed.
Family Lineage
Some DNA tests offer specialized Y-DNA and mtDNA testing, which allows you to trace your paternal and maternal lines separately. These tests often delve deep into history, tracing lineage back to ancient civilizations or even specific ancient groups like Vikings or Roman soldiers. Knowing your maternal and paternal lineages can provide a more comprehensive view of your ancestry.
Migration History
Certain tests provide detailed information on how your ancestors migrated over time. These often come in the form of interactive maps that show migration routes your forebears likely took. Some even include historical facts or timelines that give context to these migrations, helping you understand the forces that shaped your family’s past.
Family Documents
Some DNA services supplement genetic data with access to historical records or family documents. These can include birth certificates, marriage licenses, or even military service records. These documents can help corroborate the genetic data, making your family history more robust and complete.
Genetic Health Risks
Health-focused DNA tests screen for genetic markers associated with various medical conditions and traits. From this, you can get an idea of your risk levels for certain diseases, how your body processes certain nutrients, and even your carrier status for conditions like cystic fibrosis. While not a replacement for professional medical advice, this information can be valuable for making informed lifestyle choices.
How to Order and Take a DNA Test
The first step is identifying which DNA test you need to take. After you’ve compared the best DNA tests and found the one you want, here’s how to order and take a DNA test:
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Place an order through the website
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Provide a physical address where the testing kit can be mailed
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Perform the test as instructed on the packaging of the testing kit
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Return the testing kit to the testing company (some companies include a pre-paid envelope while others require you to get your own postage)
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Wait for your test to be processed (usually, around 2-4 weeks, though some tests have a waiting period of up to 8 weeks)
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Receive and review your results, either via mail or an online system
Types of DNA Tests
With so many DNA tests out there, it can be overwhelming to find the one that’s right for you. Here’s our roundup of the best DNA tests in each category to help you decide.
1. Ancestry
Many ancestry DNA tests like Ancestry perform an autosomal test, meaning they look for genetic patterns across your chromosomes. This is great for everyone, regardless of biological sex, to identify overall ethnic percentages and even uncover some fun things about your DNA.
Some ancestry tests also analyze Y-DNA and mtDNA; if you’re interested, Living DNA is a great option. These look for patterns in your Y and X chromosomes, which help trace your paternal and maternal lineage. With these tests, you can see where in the world your family comes from and even discover migration maps.
If you’re studying your heritage because you want to find DNA matches and perform genealogical research, you should look for an ancestry testing service like AncestryDNA that allow you to contact genetic matches and build a family tree.
2. Family Tree Builders
AncestryDNA has the best family tree builder available. It performs genetic testing, allows you to contact genetic matches, has an extensive database of historical documents needed for advanced genealogical research, and allows you to easily build and share a family tree. They even send you hints and tips to help you find matches and records.
3. Health and Wellness
Health and wellness tests explore how your DNA impacts your predisposition for certain diseases, as well as whether you might carry the genes for specific health conditions.
Companies like EverlyWell use finger-prick blood tests instead of saliva samples to more closely look at a person’s current health, testing for things like hormonal balance, food allergies, and vitamin levels.
4. Diet and Fitness
Diet and fitness DNA tests see how your body processes the nutrients it receives from food and exercise. A DNA test like Living DNA tells you which foods you should be eating for optimal nutrition, based on your body’s specific needs.
It actually gives you a list of over 100 foods. You can also learn which foods to avoid, whether you might have any intolerances, and, depending on which test you choose, get personalized meal plans.
DNA tests like Living DNA give you personalized workout recommendations so you can maximize your body’s performance based on your genetic type. It tells you which exercises to do and when, for how long, and even how your body builds muscle and recovers from exercise.
5. STD Tests
You can test for a number of STDs like HIV, syphilis, and chlamydia with at-home testing kits. Instead of going through the trouble and awkwardness of making a doctor’s appointment, you can screen your sexual health at home.
EverlyWell is a great choice, with a huge list of individual STD tests and bundle kits. They’re delivered in discreet packaging to your door, with a simple swab, urine, or finger-prick blood sample. And they can give you your results in a matter of days.
6. Pet DNA
Your pets also have unique DNA that can be used to determine their breed type, the likelihood of shedding, coat length, and patterning.
Apart from satisfying your curiosity, knowing the ethnic heritage of your four-legged friend can help you to increase their overall health by giving them the right kind of food, activity, and medical treatment that their breed requires.
DNA tests like Embark, Wisdom Panel or Ancestry’s Know Your Pet can tell you which breeds are in your dog’s genetic makeup over four generations, their breed characteristics and personality type, and even their risk of health conditions.
Best DNA Kits: Comparison Table
| Tests Available | Collection Methods | Ships Outside of US | Customer Support | Starting Price | |
| AncestryDNA | Ancestry, Family Tree | Saliva sample | ✔ | ✔ | $99.00 |
| MyHeritage | Ancestry, Family Tree | Cheek swab | ✔ | ✔ | $89.00 |
| Living DNA | Ancestry, Health & Wellness, Diet & Fitness | Cheek swab | ✔ | ✔ | $119.00 |
| FamilyTreeDNA | Ancestry, Family Tree | Cheek swab | ✔ | ✔ | $79.00 |
| Nebula Genomics | Health & Wellness, Ancestry | Cheek swab | ✔ | ✔ | $249.00 |
| SelfDecode | Health & Wellness, Diet & Fitness, Ancestry | Cheek swab | ✔ | ✔ | $99.00 |
| Everlywell | Health & Wellness, STDs, Diet & Fitness | Finger-prick blood test, urine sample, saliva sample, cheek/vaginal/rectal swabs | ✖ | ✔ | $99.00 |
How We Tested the DNA Kits
In order to determine the DNA testing companies that offer the best service and most accurate information, we went through the experience of being customers ourselves. It’s important to note that we didn’t receive any “free tests” in exchange for positive reviews. Instead, we personally took the tests to provide an unbiased assessment.
Here’s exactly what we evaluated in each test:
- Ease of Use: We examined the kits for their user-friendly design, fast shipping, clear instructions, and simple collection methods to ensure a hassle-free experience.
- Result Accuracy: We ensured that the tests were conducted in accredited labs known for delivering reliable and precise results that you can trust.
- Turnaround Time: We considered the speed at which the results were provided to avoid prolonged waiting periods.
- Detailed Reports: We scrutinized the reports for their comprehensive and highly informative nature, ensuring they offered useful insights and all the necessary information you need.
- Customer Support: We assessed the availability and quality of customer support channels to ensure that assistance is readily available when needed.
By thoroughly examining these factors, we aimed to provide an objective evaluation of the DNA testing companies, enabling you to make an informed decision based on reliable information.
Are There Any Risks Associated with DNA Tests?
In general, no. There are no physical risks associated with taking a DNA test. That said, for precautionary measures, you should consult with your doctor before taking a DNA test while pregnant.
However, there are some dangers of DNA testing. For example, if you send off your unique genetic code to a fake DNA testing company, it is possible that it could steal your DNA information, your payment information, and maybe even your overall identity.
We’ve tested over 100 DNA kits and all the companies on this list are 100% safe and legitimate.
Please remember that consumer-based health and wellness DNA testing is not a substitute for medical advice. You still need to consult with a medical professional before starting or changing any kind of medical regimen.
DNA Testing and Privacy Issues
All reputable DNA testing companies have a privacy policy in place that explains how your DNA can and can’t be used.
In general, when you hand over your DNA to a testing company, you give permission for it to use your DNA sample to further its research and testing capabilities. Your DNA is always anonymized before any kind of research or analysis takes place.
That said, some DNA testing companies also have policies in place that allow law enforcement to access your DNA sample if they have a legitimate and legal reason to do so.
In 2018, police were able to catch a wanted serial killer through DNA samples his distant family members had submitted through the open-source genealogy website GEDmatch. Some people view this kind of thing as an invasion of privacy, and this has sparked a large debate over whether or not consumer DNA testing is actually secure. And there is still no legal consensus on whether or not DNA taken from a DNA test company can legally be used in court to identify a suspect.
That said, almost 100% of the time, your DNA is safe, private, and anonymous. It only has the potential to be used against you if you buy through an untrustworthy company or if you do something illegal.
FAQs
How does DNA testing work?
DNA testing works in a number of ways depending on which type of DNA test you’re taking.
In its simplest form, DNA testing works like this:
- If you’re taking an ancestry test, the laboratory compares your DNA sample against another DNA sample that is known to have certain qualities (like belonging to a certain ethnicity).
- If you’re taking a health and wellness test, the laboratory looks for certain genetic signatures that are medically known to produce a certain kind of effect (like predisposing you to a certain disease).
How accurate is DNA testing?
Most genetic testing companies advertise a 99% accuracy rate. Depending on the type of test you take, this could be even as high as 99.9%. Remember, it’s impossible to get a test that’s 100% accurate. We’ve thoroughly tested all of the companies on this list and found them to be very accurate.
How much does a DNA test cost?
The cost of a DNA test is dependent on a lot of different things, like what type of test it is, what information you’re getting, and whether or not the company is reputable.
In general, for a basic ancestry DNA test, you shouldn’t spend more than a couple of hundred dollars. For example, you can get an AncestryDNA test kit for $99 and MyHeritage for only $39 with its flash sale. Some companies bundle ancestry testing with health and wellness testing, and this can raise the price substantially.
Overall, for a detailed ancestry test coupled with a pretty detailed health and wellness test, you won’t need to pay more than $300.
What is an ethnicity estimate?
Your DNA contains unique genetic markers that, when compared with other DNA samples, can be used to identify common patterns in ethnic heritage.
The ethnicity estimates you receive from a DNA test are based on similarities with other DNA tests from a known geographic and ethnic lineage. This provides a controlled and correlated estimate of which part of the world and which ethnic group your DNA originated from.
Can I take my DNA health test results to a doctor?
Absolutely! Not only can you, but you should also take your DNA results to a doctor.
You and your doctor can review the DNA test results and come up with a proper treatment for you based on your specific genetic makeup. Any information you can provide about your body’s biological makeup will be extremely useful for a doctor when treating you, especially when it comes to your risk of health conditions.
How long does an ancestry DNA test take?
There are many different DNA tests available for ancestry, and their turnaround times vary widely. With most tests, your waiting time will be around 6 weeks, though some DNA tests do give results sooner, like MyHeritage (3 to 4 weeks).
What do my DNA ancestry results mean?
After you take an ancestry DNA test and send in your sample, the testing company analyzes and interprets your DNA, then sends you a report – either posted on its website, via a mobile app, or through a PDF or even a printed book.
At a minimum, an ancestry DNA test estimates what percentage of your ancestry comes from various ethnicities and where in the world those ancestors probably originated. It tells you that you’re 38% one ethnicity and 15% another ethnicity, for example.
Most ancestry tests go a little further by also giving you a list of your genetic matches, based on people’s DNA they hold in their database. Essentially, these people are your relatives, such as your 3rd cousin, great-uncle, 2nd aunt, or something else.
More comprehensive ancestry reports can cover additional things – like what maternal and paternal haplogroups you’re descended from, going back hundreds of thousands of years.
What do ancestry DNA test results look like?
Ancestry tests always deliver some sort of report that summarizes and explains findings. Usually, this is a PDF report through an online dashboard, but it might be a combination. For example, you can get interactive maps to trace heritage and haplogroup lineage with a service like AncestryDNA. Some even have mobile apps.
Your report usually includes a breakdown of all the ethnicities in your DNA with percentages. These are typically reflected on a heat map so you can visualize your heritage around the world and learn more about each location.
Most ancestry DNA test reports also show you which biomarkers were tested and the exact genetic variant you carry.
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