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Top 10 Best DNA Testing Kits in 2023 - Unlock Your Ancestry

Last Updated: Nov 09, 2023

The Best DNA Testing Kits of {year}

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Recent advances in DNA testing make uncovering the mysteries behind our ancestral roots easier than ever before. In fact, a study published in Genome Biology estimates that 60 million Americans will have participated in genetic ancestry testing by 2025. This will create a vast database that can be used to offer significant benefits to consumers, according to the same study.

With so many options, figuring out which DNA kit is best for your specific needs can be a complex process. Every company leverages its own unique algorithms and research databases to determine results. This raises the question, how do you know which kit is most accurate, meets your DNA testing goals, and keeps your data safe?

To find answers to these questions, we researched and compared the top DNA testing kits in 2023, including what we like best about each kit so you can make a smart purchase more easily.

Our Top 10 Best DNA Testing Kits and Companies:

MyHeritage DNA - Best DNA testing kit overall
AncestryDNA - Best for finding genetic relatives
Living DNA - Best for accuracy in ancestral research
LetsGetChecked - Best for checking health-related issues
Futura Genetics - Best for identifying carrier genes
GPS Origins - Best for mapping ancestral migration patterns
23andMe - Best for learning about your ethnicity
HomeDNA - Best for pet DNA testing
Vitagene - Best for wellness-focused testing products
EasyDNA - Best for testing non-standard samples

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1

MyHeritage DNA

by

MyHeritage DNA -Best for uncovering your ethnic origins and finding relatives you never knew existed

Pinpoints ethnic origins across 2,114 regions
Test type: cheek swab
Best Value for Money

exceptional

9.9

2

AncestryDNA

by

AncestryDNA -Best for discovering your origins and learning about your family’s health

Results in up to 8 weeks
Historical records: 20+billion

excellent

9.5

3

Living DNA

by

Living DNA -Best for exploring your ancestry and understanding your health genetics

All information kept confidential
Results in 4-6 weeks
Test type: cheek swab

very good

8.6

4

LetsGetChecked

by

LetsGetChecked -Best for various at-home health tests

Best for various at-home health tests
Range of testing options
Test type: varied

very good

8.5

5

Futura Genetics

Futura Genetics -Best for assessing risk of common health conditions

Results in 4 weeks
Test type: saliva sample

good

8.3

6

GPS Origins

by

GPS Origins -Best for tracing the origins of your ancestry

Results in 4-6 weeks
Test type: cheek swab

good

8.2

7

23andMe

by

23andMe -Best for discovering relatives across the world

Results in 6-8 weeks
Test type: saliva sample

8

HomeDNA

by

HomeDNA -Comprehensive packages for different DNA testing

Results in 3 weeks
Test type: cheek swab

good

8.3

9

Vitagene

Vitagene -Best for skin and supplement reports

Results in 4-6 weeks
Test type: cheek swab

10

by

EasyDNA -Best for personalized wellness tips

Results in 3-5 days
Test type: Various types

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Our Methodology: How We Reviewed the Best DNA Testing Kits

To find the best DNA testing kits, we reviewed several different criteria, including:

Price
Resources
Privacy and security
Speed of results

These parameters provide a good baseline to use as you do your own analysis, narrow your options, and decide which DNA test to purchase.

Affordability

We focused on examining DNA test kits that offer excellent value with reasonable pricing. We also considered the overall cost, new subscription plans, renewals, DNA sample results, processing, and shipping costs.

Range of Information

A DNA test's ability to accurately conduct ancestry research depends on the range of information available in the company's databases. The deeper the archives, the more resourceful and accurate the company can be with its results. Most of the DNA testing companies we selected boast millions or billions of records in their archives.

Privacy

The security and sensitivity of private information are essential to DNA testing. This could be a concern for people purchasing at-home DNA tests, which is why we considered the protocols taken by each company we reviewed. The companies that made our list have protective measures in place that keep data secure. We also took into account reviews from people who've used these particular DNA testing kits and felt they were trustworthy.

Result Speed

Time-sensitive DNA tests should be delivered quickly—so we weighed the rate of delivery heavily in comparison with our other review factors. A good example of optimal turnaround time can be seen with MyHeritage DNA: The company delivers testing results in as little as three to four weeks.

1

MyHeritage DNA

exceptional

9.9

MyHeritage Best DNA Testing Kits

Massive database and comprehensive ancestry test

Best for - Discovering genetic profiles and building family trees
Price per kit - $59 (normally $89) + shipping
Results in - 3-4 weeks

Massive database and comprehensive ancestry test

MyHeritage DNA provides tools to help you build a family tree, discover your genetic profile, and explore fun activities like animating family photos. Their test kit gives you access to over 19.4 billion family history archives and offers a detailed breakdown of both your ethnicity and the genetic groups your DNA stems from.

It leverages autosomal DNA information, comparing your chromosomes and genetic traits with people whose genetic material has been tested by the company. This can help you find unknown relatives who've used autosomal DNA test kits as well.

Blaine Bettinger, PhD, a professional genealogist specializing in DNA evidence, explains that MyHeritage DNA also offers "a chromosome browser... that allows test takers to see exactly what segments of DNA they are identified as sharing with another person." In addition, "[this browser permits] users to compare segments of up to seven genetic matches at a time."

Why we chose MyHeritage DNA: The Complete plan, MyHeritage DNA's primary offering, unlocks over 10 genealogy research tools along with ancestry information across the company's website. Plus, the 30-day free trial gives you access to billions of records and a free family tree builder.

Our experience: We found it extremely useful that MyHeritage DNA lets you manage numerous accounts simultaneously. You don't need to log in and out of different profiles to gather information. Plus, we liked that you can link multiple kits to one account and import DNA results from other companies for free.

Read MyHeritage DNA Review

PROS

Extensive knowledge base

Online genealogical tools complemented by DNA testing

Import existing family trees for free

CONS

Online genealogy tools can be expensive after the first year

Majority of historical records are outside Asia and Africa

MyHeritage DNA

2

excellent

9.5

Ancestry Best DNA Testing Kits

A leading genealogical research platform

Best for - Advanced genealogical research
Price per kit - $99
Results in - 6 to 8 weeks

A leading genealogical research platform

AncestryDNA offers several genealogical research tools, including family tree-building software, community features, and health, ethnicity, and heritage databases. It also delivers some of the best genetic testing kits on the market today and opens the door to genealogical records for over 30 billion DNA samples.

This DNA testing kit company partners with and is owned by one of the largest genealogy sites in the world Ancestry.com. Users can take advantage of this by integrating their results with their genealogical research on the platform.

If your main goal is to learn more about your family history, AncestryDNA is perfectly suited to help. DNA wellness expert, Magnolia Pretell, PhD, confirms that AncestryDNA "will give you a percentage of where your ethnicity is from." Information within both the Ancestry.com and AncestryDNA platforms spans over 80 countries, with results that paint a uniquely holistic picture of your ancestry.

Why we chose AncestryDNA: AncestryDNA and Ancestry.com offer a rare partnership that gives users access to a double-header of heritage records. Additionally, AncestryDNA uses methods like SideView technology to detect what DNA you share with your parents.

Our experience: AncestryDNA is a breeze to use. Right from the first click, you're presented with different options to help choose the best plan for your needs. When we got stuck during our research, the site allowed us to contact genealogy experts. However, it didn't provide reliable DNA health test results. If that's your main goal for purchasing a DNA test kit, this product might not be the best for you.

Read AncestryDNA Review

PROS

Billions of US and international records

Very easy to use

High-quality DNA testing is available

CONS

Above-average price range

Can’t merge family trees

AncestryDNA

3

Living DNA

very good

8.7

LivingDNA Best DNA Testing Kits

Excellent level of detail for some regions

Best for - Accuracy in ancestral research
Price per kit - $79/kit
Results in - 6-8 weeks

Excellent level of detail for some regions

Living DNA provides an extensive database to comb through, particularly if you're from the British Isles, Europe, or Africa. This is the best ancestry test to explore your geographic ethnicity.

The company is led by a group of UK-based experts and researchers and has a reputation for well-detailed results, access to resources and research, and good customer service. It also lets you publish an ancestry book featuring your story. This is a personal, visual way to explain your results and share them with friends and family—we didn't see this option with any of the other kits we evaluated.

To top it off, Living DNA can identify rare genetic diseases, providing insights into genes that may help fight cancerous cells. For example, it may track genes like BRCA1, a marker for breast cancer.

Why we chose Living DNA: We like Living DNA's testing options and affordable prices, along with its straightforward and easily accessible services. The exciting part for us is how this test kit combines ancestry research and personalized medical insights through forensic DNA testing.

Our experience: Living DNA's ancestry test offers a subregional analysis for certain areas like Europe, Africa, and the British Isles. The well-being upgrade is an impressive add-on; it breaks down vitamin response and food metabolism, offering nutritional advice, and exercise and recovery tips.

Read Living DNA Review

PROS

Advanced details for Africa, Europe, and British Isles

Haplogroup reports give ancient ancestry

Portal is easy to navigate

CONS

Relative newcomer to DNA testing market

Smaller user database than market leaders

Living DNA

4

very good

8.6

LetsGetChecked Best DNA Testing Kits

At-home testing for medical conditions

Best for - Access to in-depth screening options
Price per kit - $99-$299/kit
Results in - 2 to 5 days

At-home testing for medical conditions

LetsGetChecked isn't a traditional DNA test. Instead, it looks for health-related issues, like hormone level imbalances, sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), or kidney and liver health. The aim is to provide accurate biological information about your wellness before visiting your doctor.

The company offers several health-focused tests and screenings that can help you double-check for risks, heart problems, vitamin deficiencies, and assorted lifestyle factors that may negatively impact your well-being. These results can guide you in making better lifestyle choices.

As with any at-home health or DNA tests, we recommend you speak with your healthcare provider about your test results. With LetsGetChecked tests, this is even more important. Because the company focuses predominantly on health screening (and not ancestry tracking), seeking proper medical attention and advice before taking action based on your test's final results is essential.

Why we chose LetsGetChecked: LetsGetChecked's virtual one-on-one sessions make testing exceptionally easy. You simply download an app to your Android or iOS device and gain access to the kit's tools and resources (including guidance on when and how to take each test). Because their tests are primarily tied to health screening, your results are 100% encrypted and protected by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA).

Our experience: LetsGetChecked had the fastest turnaround time (2 to 5 days) and returned our results quickly and seamlessly. We were also impressed with the test's accuracy; the company follows the same checks and balances as a standard blood test at your doctor's office.

Read LetsGetChecked Review

PROS

Discreet at-home testing

Results available in 2-5 days

Medication available for certain conditions

CONS

Some tests require at-home blood test

No genetic testing

LetsGetChecked

5

Futura Genetics

very good

8.5

Futura Genetics Best DNA Testing Kits

Cutting-edge glimpse into your future health

Best for - Identifying carrier genes
Price per kit - $465
Results in - 4 weeks

Cutting-edge glimpse into your future health

Futura Genetics offers test kits for DNA profiling and identifying carrier genes. It harnesses the power of advanced technology to analyze your genes and aims to help improve overall health and extend longevity.

To make this happen, the company tests for distinct indicators to determine genetic health risks and 28 of the most common diseases. Although it uses a saliva sample collection method (some people may prefer a cheek swab), it still gets the job done.

After receiving your test samples, Futura Genetics conducts a careful analysis to provide you with an extensive overview of the results. This comprises a 26-page health report, complete with nutritional advice based on the findings.

Why we choose Futura Genetics: Futura Genetics' scientific techniques, paired with a personalized health overview that includes nutritional advice, make their testing process feel more human and personal. We also liked the speedy results delivery and the comprehensive report.

Our experience: Before taking the test, we participated in a Futura Genetics live genetic counseling session with a licensed physician. This provided valuable insights to guide us through the testing process. After receiving our results, we had the opportunity for follow-up discussions, which made the experience feel more like a visit with a traditional doctor.

Read Futura Genetics Review

PROS

Scientifically supported insights

Lifestyle advice for lowering disease risk

Detailed disease and risk information

CONS

No ancestry report

No information on health or other traits

Futura Genetics

6

GPS Origins

good

8.4

GPS origins Best DNA Testing Kits of {year}

Precision geographic mapping of your roots

Best for - Mapping ancestral migration patterns
Price per kit - $149/kit
Results in - 4 to 6 weeks

Precision geographic mapping of your roots

Compared to other genealogical companies, GPS Origins (owned by HomeDNA) boasts a wide range of geographic research results spread over 900 regions.

With innovative technology, it can dig deeper into the general area from which your ancestors may have come, and identify the precise location—even down to the city. You can even follow your genealogical journey along a map to see the direction your family may have moved, and the villages, cities, countries, and even islands that they likely passed through.

To make this happen, GPS Origins examines thousands of autosomal biomarkers, highlighting their uniqueness. With a heavy focus on location-specific migration, this particular DNA kit also breaks down its reports into gene pools, giving you a close-up view of your genetic makeup and family's ethnic culture.

Why we chose GPS Origins: The mapping features and distinct geographical bells and whistles that GPS Origins offers set it apart from the competition. Its all-in-one tools also check the genes controlling healthy weight, skincare, and paternity.

Our experience: We were impressed with the gene pool profile available to GPS Origins subscribers. The interactive map was a big bonus for our ancestral research, showing detailed information on both our maternal and paternal ancestors and their migration journeys.

Read GPS Origins Review

PROS

Free shipping

Health tests available

Robust migration tracking reports

CONS

Higher price than other kits

Limited customer service options

GPS Origins

7

23andMe

23andme Best DNA Testing Kits

Your history—and health—all in oneVisit Site

Best for - Learning about your ethnicity
Price per kit - From $99 to $199
Results in - 3 to 4 weeks

Your history—and health—all in one

23andMe offers DNA-based ethnicity estimates. It uses ancient haplogroups (maternal and paternal lineages that share a common ancestor) and Neanderthal information to track your roots. The service can find your closest living relatives using DNA samples—going back as far as six to eight generations.

The genetic health reports based on the samples you give 23andMe offer a robust snapshot of your ancestry and health. For example, revealing the science behind your eye color and what influences your smell, taste, and facial features. The evidence-backed reports screen for potential risks tied to various diseases, including respiratory and oncology issues.

Although the company's genealogical test is not as precise as others, 23andMe is one of the most accurate DNA kits on the market for ethnicity research.

Why we chose 23andMe: 23andMe provides a superb and comprehensive genetic health report. Through haplogroup data, they're able to dig deep into your ancient roots. They also have a feature that allows you to study different ancestry timelines and connect with DNA-matched relatives by sending them a message.

Our experience: When it comes to customer service, we think 23andMe is a top performer. Interactions with the company were helpful and comfortable. Interestingly, 23andMe allows users to voluntarily participate in genetic research by linking their information to further studies—we like that this is an option and that you can opt out whenever you want.

Read 23andMe Review

PROS

Excellent genetic health information

Haplogroup reports show ancient roots

Gives estimate of Neanderthal heritage

CONS

No genealogy research available

Health test requires upgrade

23andMe

8

HomeDNA

good

8.4

Wide variety of DNA test kit typesVisit Site

Best for - DNA test-taking enthusiasts of all kinds
Price per kit - From $79
Results in - 4 to 8 weeks

Wide variety of DNA test kit types

HomeDNA processes raw data about your genes and is best suited for more specialized testing and DNA research into ancestral origins. Aside from being a go-to for paternity testing, HomeDNA does a good job with DNA origins testing through its subsidiary, GPS Origins.

Kits are affordable and HomeDNA's sample extraction process is easy enough to complete. The company also offers genetic health tests that can identify your sensitivity to some foods, pet dander, and skin care products.

With HomeDNA, you can import reports from other genealogy research websites to help track results. The reverse is also possible—you can export your results from HomeDNA to other websites. You can also track your DNA migration pattern to see the ancestral interaction between your maternal and paternal lines.

Why we chose HomeDNA: HomeDNA boasts the number-one ranked paternity test in the US (according to the product site) and offers accurate results at a budget-friendly price. Plus, the easy-to-use kit is one of the few we reviewed that extends DNA testing services to pets.

Our experience: We found the online platform easy to navigate, and liked that you can shop for health and beauty products based on your sensitivity results, which is a convenient and helpful add-on.

Read HomeDNA Review

PROS

Large selection of test kits

Provides access to raw data

Detailed, very specific results

CONS

No family tree services

Cannot expedite results for most tests

HomeDNA

9

Vitagene

Vitagene Best DNA Testing Kits

Health and wellness tips based on your DNAVisit Site

Best for - Wellness-focused testing products
Price per kit - From $89 to $169
Results in - 3 to 8 weeks

Health and wellness tips based on your DNA

Vitagene puts wellness at the heart of all its services, making it the ideal option if you're looking for personalized health tips based on your genetic makeup. (Although the company offers ancestry test services, they're not as effective as Vitagene's genetic health tests.)

Vitagene testing options include diet, supplementation, fitness, and skin reports. There are also tests for genetic risks, certain skin conditions, endurance abilities, and nutritional deficiency. In addition, the company's collection of products includes a COVID-19 test kit.

Why we chose Vitagene: Vitagene provides several detailed health reports that aren't available in most competitors' kits. We were also drawn to the company by its wellness-focused testing products, which include inflammatory testing, a sleep and stress test, and a thyroid test.

Our experience: Although Vitagene offers several how-to resources and an FAQ section for users to peruse online, there's not much information to read through. Luckily, the test was pretty intuitive to use; it required a basic cheek swab and only took a couple of minutes. We also found customer service reps to be friendly and responsive.

Read Vitagene Review

PROS

Useful wellness tips

Supplement advice based on DNA

Offers health add-on if you already have DNA data

CONS

Low level of detail for ancestry report

Website FAQs are limited

Vitagene

10

EasyDNA

EasyDNA Test

Wide range of DNA tests with fast processingVisit Site

Best for - Researching the origins of departed family members
Price per kit - From $80 to $433
Results in - 1 to 6 weeks

Wide range of DNA tests with fast processing

In addition to an oral swab, EasyDNA uses hair samples to perform detailed DNA tests. The company can also confirm the presence of DNA in a relative's ash sample by testing cremated remains.

It offers various test types, such as prenatal and paternity testing. So whether you'd like to know the gender of your child, learn more about your genetic health, or identify the origins of a deceased loved one, EasyDNA has you covered. The company's wide range of services differentiates it from other testing kit providers.

EasyDNA's kits include relationship, drug, and clinical testing options. As its name suggests, this kit focuses on making it easy for you to get specialized and specific DNA tests from a single provider.

Why we chose EasyDNA: EasyDNA provides accurate and fast results. For the number of tests they offer, their speed is outstanding. They also offer a wide range of services and a commendable customer support system. EasyDNA is currently available in 25 countries—we're impressed with how prevalent the kits are, and that customer service can accommodate several languages.

Our experience: We contacted customer support for help through email and WhatsApp, and experienced responsive and helpful exchanges. We also found quality resources on the EasyDNA website to benefit both curious potential customers and first-time or existing users.

Read EasyDNA Review

PROS

Wide variety of DNA tests

Results in 3-5 days

Works with accredited laboratories

CONS

No database for finding relatives

Does not include access to raw data

EasyDNA