23andMe
What We Like
- Leading technology to genotype your DNA—a custom Illumina HumanOmniExpress-24 format chip
- Ancestry Service: Get a breakdown of your global ancestry by percentages, connect with DNA relatives and more
- Health + Ancestry Service: Receive 90+ online reports on your ancestry, traits and health - and more
- DNA analysis performed in US laboratories certified to meet CLIA standards
- Genotyped 5+ million customers around the world
- Reports meet FDA standards for clinical and scientific validity
- Test type: Saliva sample
- Cost: $69 - $139
Bottom Line
23andMe was founded in 2006 and is one of the oldest DNA testing providers. While most of the other DNA test providers might be more affordable, it's hard to argue with the accuracy provided by 23andMe. Their scientific standards are unmatched and we highly recommend buying one of their test kits if you are interested in learning more about your genetic ancestry and health.
MyHeritage DNA
What We Like
- Uncover your ancestral origins and discover new relatives
- You can add names, dates, photos and stories and share with your family
- Receive email alerts with Smart Matches and Record Matches revealing new family tree connections, records and newspaper articles about your ancestors
- 3.2 Billion profiles - 100 Million users - 43 Million family trees
- The most recommended DNA testing service
- Results in 4-6 weeks
- Test type: Cheek swab
- Cost: $79
Bottom Line
MyHeritage DNA is the most recommended DNA testing provider out there, and you really can't go wrong with this company. Their focus is primarily on your ancestral origins, and you can even sign up to receive emails when new information related to you becomes available. At $79 per test their pricing is affordable, and you can expect results in 4-6 weeks.
Ancestry DNA
What We Like
- Find your origins in more than 350 regions around the world—2x more geographic detail than any other DNA test
- Trace your ancestors’ journeys over time
- The world’s largest consumer DNA database matches you to more living relatives
- Learn, compare, and share discoveries about 18 of your most interesting personal traits
- Combine what you learn from your DNA with over 100 million family trees and 20 billion records for more insight into your genealogy and origins
- Test type: Saliva sample
- Cost: $59
Bottom Line
At only $59 per test, Ancestry DNA is the most affordable DNA test provider we looked at, which makes it an ideal gift for friends and family.
Living DNA
What We Like
- More detailed DNA testing than other providers
- Detailed 3-in-1 DNA ancestry test
- Pinpoints and provides percentage breakdowns for your ethnicity within 80 worldwide regions
- Trace your origins back via both your maternal and paternal ancestors
- All information is kept confidential and secure
- Phylogenetic tree
- Test type: Cheek swab
- Cost: $79 + shipping
Bottom Line
Over 100 of the world's leading scientists, academic researchers and genetic experts from around the world have collaborated to create Living DNA. Its parent company, DNA Worldwide Group, is a world leading DNA testing firm run by David Nicholson and Hannah Morden-Nicholson.
Toolbox Genomics
What We Like
- Toolbox Genomics takes your unique DNA testing results and analyze them to give you a personalized, scientific, easy-to-understand Health Action Plan™
- Genetic insight into the 5 essential domains for optimal health and wellness
- Process is quick and easy
- DNA products designed to help you achieve your genetic potential
- Recommendations based on comprehensive and ongoing reviews of the most up-to-date research
- Your genetic information is not permanently stored
- Test type: Cheek swab
- Cost: $159
Bottom Line
Toolbox Genomics focuses on uncovering insights from your DNA profile to help you live a healthier life. Several DNA products are offered to choose from, including health enrichment, weight management, nutrition optimization and endurance performance.
GPS Origins
What We Like
- DNA results with a level of specificity no other test can replicate
- Going back 1,000+ years
- Exclusive familial geographic results
- Personal gene pool percentages
- Informative ancestral stories & more
- 100% testing done in their own labs
- Test type: Cheek swab
- Cost: $199 + Free Shipping
Bottom Line
DNA testing from GPS Origins is a little more detailed than many of the other testing companies, but their pricing is on the more expensive side. If you are most interested in finding out specifically where your ancestors came from in the world, then GPS Origins is your testing provider.