Giving a DNA test kit as a holiday gift is like offering a unique journey of self-discovery, wrapped in festive cheer. This gift goes beyond the holiday, providing an in-depth look into one’s genetic makeup and ancestry.
However, not all DNA kits are suitable for gifting. To help you choose, I’ve thoroughly reviewed top options, highlighting those that offer significant value and meaningful results. Additionally, many companies offer special holiday promotions, so keep an eye out for seasonal discounts.
If you want to save time, my top choice is AncestryDNA. It has the largest database of records, is very budget-friendly and has fun elements that will certainly make your friends and family happy.
Short on Time? Here are the best gift DNA kits in 2023
- AncestryDNA – Our top pick and the best gift DNA kit for anyone looking to build their family tree, connect with relatives, and understand how their genes affect their health, traits, and more
- MyHeritage – Give this DNA test kit as a gift to anyone looking to explore their ethnicity, build a family tree and enhance it with media, and connect with relatives.
- LivingDNA – Great gift for anyone looking to dive deeper into how their genes impact health and predispositions, while also building their family tree
- 23andMe– A very popular DNA test that will make anyone interested in their ancient ancestry happy.
- SelfDecode – Gift this DNA kit to anyone looking to boost their health with some personalized diet, supplement and exercise recommendations based on their DNA
- FamilyTreeDNA – This is a good gift for anyone looking to trace their maternal or paternal lineage
- Nebula Genomics – Gift this DNA kit to anyone interested in the science behind DNA sequencing and exploring their own genome
| 🧪 Sample Type | ✈ Ships outside the US? | 🌎 Free Shipping? | ❓ Free raw DNA upload? | 💰 Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| AncestryDNA | Saliva sample | Yes | No | No | Starts at $99 |
| 23andMe | Cheek swab | Yes | No | Yes | Starts at $119 |
| MyHeritage | Cheek swab | Yes | Yes (on 2 or more kits) | Yes | $89 |
| LivingDNA | Cheek swab | Yes | Yes (on 3 or more kits) | Yes | Starts at $119 |
| FamilyTreeDNA | Cheek swab | Yes | No | Yes | Starts at $79 |
| Nebula Genomics | Cheek swab | Yes | No | Yes | Starts at $249 |
Our Best DNA Testing Kits Reviewed
1. AncestryDNA – Best Value For Combining Ancestry & Health
Ancestry presents a dual package of health and ancestry tests, painting the full picture for you. Through these tests, you not only delve into your ancestry and ethnic roots but also uncover potential health risks, complete with advice on how to handle them. And the cherry on top? You can enjoy up to a 40% discount.
- 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
- Combined ancestry and health testing with reports on carrier risk and inherited diseases
- Results in 6-8 weeks
2. MyHeritage – Best for Building a Family Tree and Connecting With Relatives
MyHeritage offers one of the largest databases on the market, with over 19.4 billion records and 6.5 million DNA samples submitted. It has a great family tree building software and allows its users to add images, photo albums, and create other forms of media.
- 19.4 billion historical records (marriage, birth, death, census, and more)
- 6.5 million DNA samples submitted
- User-friendly platform and detailed breakdown of ancestry and ethnicity
- Simple saliva cheek swab
- Results within 4 weeks
3. Living DNA – Best For Budget-Friendly Specialist Ancestry
Living DNA offers huge value for such a small price. It specializes in deep ancestry, so if you have a family member interested in learning about which sub-regions their ancestors came from, it’s the perfect gift. Especially because you can save 40% if you buy the kit today.
- Trace your DNA to sub-regions in Europe, Africa, and the British Isles
- Learn about your ancestry from the last 500 years to the present day
- Interactive online platform shows migration maps and your haplogroup lineage
- Screen for health and wellness, including vitamin needs and food metabolism, with the combined kit
- Results in 6-8 weeks
4. 23andMe — Best for Wide Global Coverage and Large Database
23andMe is an extremely popular DNA test that has a large user database and wide global coverage, which makes it easy to identify relatives, as well as find your ancestral origins. It even offers Neandarthal ancestry tracing. It offers frequent discounts, and its price is low to start with, so it can be a perfect gift for someone you hold dear.
- Compares your DNA against 45 known populations
- Traces your DNA across 2750+ regions
- Includes traits report with its basic screening
- See if you have Neanderthal ancestry
- Results in 3 to 4 weeks
5. SelfDecode – Best for Health Insights Combined with Ancestry
SelfDecode is an excellent gift because of its ability to help its users understand their health and how their genes affect it. Its reports include meal and exercise plans specifically customized to genes analyzed, as well as immersive charts and ongoing updates.
- Diet, exercise, and supplement plans
- Discovers nutrient deficiencies, health risks, and food sensitivities
- DNA health reports for 350+ issues and conditions
- Ancestry and heritage reports
- Results in 6-8 weeks
6. FamilyTreeDNA – Best for Finding Relatives and Bringing Your Family Tree to Life
FamilyTreeDNA offers four DNA test options, so you have a wide variety of choices when it comes to choosing a gift. Whether it’s Paternal Ancestry, Maternal Ancestry, or Wellness test kit, you’ll find something for everyone.
- Percentage breakdown of your ancestry
- 30+ health and trait reports
- Connect with relatives and build your family tree
- A simple cheek swab is all it takes
- Results in 4 to 8 weeks
Get Started With FamilyTreeDNA
7. Nebula Genomics – Best for Science-Based Approach
Nebula Genomics offers a different approach to Ancestry and DNA testing – it offers whole genome sequencing which gives accurate, detailed results. It’s a bit more expensive, but it’s well worth it for the wealth of insights into your ancestry and health you will receive.
- Deep ancestry reports and decodes ~20,000 genes
- Detection of rare genetic mutations and conditions
- Allows you to research your own genome
- Free shipping and easy to use
- Results in 8-10 weeks
Get Started With Nebula Genomics
Why DNA Test Kits Make Great Gifts
Here are several compelling reasons why gifting someone a DNA test kit is a fantastic idea:
1. Discover Your Ancestry: A DNA test kit possesses the unique power to reveal ancestral heritage. Through the examination of genetic markers, these tests create a detailed portrait of an individual’s ethnic lineage and geographic origins. Envision the thrill of discovering ties to far-off places, rich cultures, and ancient customs. This exploration into history enhances the understanding and value of one’s heritage, reinforcing a more profound sense of self.
2. Connect with Long-Lost Relatives: DNA test kits offer more than personal exploration; they can facilitate meaningful connections with previously unknown relatives. Through extensive DNA databases, these tests can match individuals with relatives they never knew existed. Suddenly, family trees expand, and connections are made across generations, creating a network of shared genetic heritage. It’s an opportunity to reach out, build relationships, and forge bonds that transcend time and distance.
3. Gain Valuable Health Insights: In addition to uncovering ancestry, DNA test kits provide valuable health insights. Many tests offer reports on genetic predispositions, carrier status for inherited conditions, and information about how genetics may influence certain traits or sensitivities. This knowledge empowers individuals to make informed decisions about their well-being, enabling proactive measures and potential prevention of certain conditions. It’s like having a personalized health roadmap that contributes to a healthier and more fulfilling life.
4. Personalized Wellness: DNA test kits have gained popularity for their ability to personalize wellness journeys. By analyzing genetic variations, these tests offer tailored recommendations on nutrition, exercise, and lifestyle choices. With this information, individuals can optimize their well-being by aligning their habits with their unique genetic profiles. It’s a revolutionary approach to self-care that promotes a healthier lifestyle and enhances overall quality of life.
5. Educational and Engaging: Beyond the personal benefits, DNA test kits provide an educational and engaging experience. They ignite curiosity about genetics and the intricate nature of human existence. Exploring the science behind DNA analysis and understanding how genetic information is decoded can be an enlightening and enriching adventure. It’s an opportunity to inspire a deeper appreciation for the marvels of life and the remarkable stories etched in our genes.
Which Kit Will You Choose?
Who doesn’t want to learn more about their ethnic origins, family migration maps, and health status? Your family members can discover all that and more, with the gift of a DNA test.
If you want to give the best Christmas gift ever, go for Ancestry. With its huge database, ability to track down long-lost relatives, and accurately identify ethnic maps, it’s everything you could need from a test.
FAQs on DNA Kits as Gifts
What is a DNA kit?
A DNA kit enables people to gather their own DNA easily, typically through a cheek swab or saliva collection. This sample is sent to a lab for evaluation, yielding data on ancestry, genetic characteristics, and possible health concerns.
How accurate are DNA kits?
The accuracy of DNA kits can differ based on the company and the type of analysis conducted. In general, reputable DNA testing companies offer reliable and accurate results. However, it’s crucial to keep in mind that while ancestry-related information is generally dependable, health-related data should be interpreted cautiously and verified by healthcare professionals.
What can DNA kits reveal?
DNA kits can reveal a range of information about an individual. Ancestry DNA tests can provide insights into a person’s ethnic origins, regional heritage, and even identify potential relatives. Some DNA kits also offer health-related information, such as carrier status for certain genetic conditions, predispositions to diseases, or traits like lactose intolerance or hair color.
Are DNA kits private and secure?
Privacy and security are important concerns when it comes to DNA kits. Reputable DNA testing companies have privacy policies in place to protect customers’ data and typically allow individuals to control the sharing of their genetic information. However, it’s crucial to carefully review the company’s policies and understand how your data will be used before using a DNA kit.
Can DNA kits be used for paternity testing?
Yes, DNA kits can be used for paternity testing. There are specific DNA testing kits designed for paternity and relationship testing purposes. These kits compare the genetic information between the alleged father, child, and, if available, the mother, to determine the likelihood of a biological relationship.
How long does it take to get DNA kit results?
The turnaround time for DNA kit results varies between different companies and the type of analysis being conducted. Generally, it can take anywhere from a few weeks to a couple of months to receive your results. However, some companies offer expedited processing for an additional fee, which can provide results in a shorter time frame. It’s important to check the specific company’s website or contact their customer support for the most accurate information regarding result timelines.
