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    DNA Tests Compared

    Which one is right for you?

    AncestryDNA — most users

    • Largest database — 23+ million users.
    • Best for finding living relatives.
    • $99 (often $59 on sale).
    • Detailed ethnicity breakdown.
    • Connects to Ancestry.com tree (subscription extra).
    • Best general-purpose option.

    23andMe — health focus

    • Adds health risk factors to ethnicity.
    • $119 (Ancestry-only) or $229 (with Health).
    • FDA-approved for some health markers.
    • Smaller database than Ancestry.
    • Detailed maternal + paternal lineage.
    • Best if curious about genetic health risks.

    MyHeritage DNA

    • Strong in European family research.
    • $89 standard price.
    • Color photo restoration features.
    • Animate old photos with AI.
    • Family tree builder included free.
    • Good for European immigration ancestors.

    FamilyTreeDNA

    • Y-DNA + mtDNA tests for direct lines.
    • $79–$249 depending on test.
    • Best for serious genealogists.
    • Indigenous + African American specialty tests.
    • Smaller database for matches.
    • Most scientific approach.

    Privacy considerations

    • Read each company's privacy policy.
    • Some share with law enforcement.
    • Some sell anonymized data to research.
    • Can opt out of sharing.
    • Can request deletion any time.
    • 23andMe + Ancestry have strong privacy options.

    How DNA tests work

    • Order kit online — arrives in mail.
    • Spit in tube or cheek swab.
    • Mail back in prepaid envelope.
    • Results in 4–8 weeks.
    • Login online to see ethnicity + matches.
    • Match list can lead to unknown relatives.

    AncestryDNA for most seniors

    For most seniors interested in family history, AncestryDNA at $99 (or $59 on sale) is the best starting point. The huge database means you'll find lots of cousin matches that can break through brick walls in your family tree. Wait for Black Friday or Mother's Day sales. If genetic health concerns matter to you too, 23andMe Plus Health is the alternative pick.