AncestryDNA vs FamilyTreeDNA: Which Is Best? (Review)

OneBrowsing

4.5

(Reviews: 70K)

Est. users: 20M

Price Ranges: $99 - $149

4.5

(Reviews: 800)

Est. users: 1.5M

Price Ranges: $79 - $119 - $159

AncestryDNA vs FamilyTreeDNA

AncestryDNA and FamilyTreeDNA are two popular genetic testing services used for ancestry and family history research. AncestryDNA is well-known for its extensive database, which aids in finding distant relatives and providing detailed ethnicity estimates based on autosomal DNA. FamilyTreeDNA, on the other hand, offers a wider range of testing options, including Y-DNA and mtDNA tests, which can provide more in-depth insights into paternal and maternal lineages.

AncestryDNA

  1. Largest customer database
  2. Focuses on ethnicity estimates
  3. No Y-DNA or mtDNA tests
  4. Subscription required for full features
  5. Simplified family matching system
  6. Popular for beginners
  7. Integrated with family trees

FamilyTreeDNA

  1. Offers Y-DNA and mtDNA tests
  2. More tools for genetic genealogy
  3. Detailed ancient origins breakdown
  4. No subscription for basic features
  5. Smaller customer database
  6. Catered to advanced users
  7. Allows raw data uploads

Key Differences

  1. Database Size

    AncestryDNA has one of the largest databases of DNA test results, which increases the chances of finding genetic matches and relatives.

    Winner: AncestryDNA

  2. Autosomal DNA Testing

    Both companies offer autosomal DNA testing, which is used for ancestry and ethnicity estimation. The accuracy and technology used are comparable.

    Winner: Its a tie

  3. Results Interpretation

    FamilyTreeDNA offers more detailed tools for analyzing DNA, such as chromosome browsers and raw data downloads, which can be beneficial for advanced users.

    Winner: FamilyTreeDNA

  4. Ethnicity Estimates

    AncestryDNA provides detailed ethnicity estimates with visual aids and historical context, giving users a comprehensive view of their ancestry.

    Winner: AncestryDNA

  5. mtDNA and Y-DNA Testing

    FamilyTreeDNA offers mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) and Y-DNA testing, which are not available with AncestryDNA. These tests help in tracing deep maternal and paternal lineages.

    Winner: FamilyTreeDNA

  6. User Community and Resources

    AncestryDNA has a large, active user community and provides extensive resources for building family trees and gathering genealogical records.

    Winner: AncestryDNA

  7. Cost and Value

    Pricing and associated value can vary. AncestryDNA often provides good value considering its database size, but FamilyTreeDNA offers more specialized tests for specific needs.

    Winner: Its a tie

Distinct Features

AncestryDNAFamilyTreeDNA
Integration with Ancestry family treesY-DNA and mtDNA testing options
Historical records search and integrationSpecific haplogroup assignments
Ancestry Thrulines featureFamily Finder Matrix for comparing DNA with specific matches
Advanced ethnicity estimates with specific percentage breakdownsAncientOrigins feature
DNA story with historical contextAbility to upload DNA data from other services for free
Regularly updated ethnicity estimates with global regionsDetailed chromosome browser for analyzing genetic segments
Integration with Ancestry's genealogical research toolsAdvanced matching tools for Y-DNA and mtDNA

Pricing Overview

AncestryDNA

  1. Basic Plan ($99) - Ideal for individuals interested in basic ancestry information
  2. Premium Plan ($149) - Suitable for users seeking detailed ancestry insights

Basic Plan

$99 / One-time

Entry-level plan for exploring your ancestry

  • Ethnicity Estimate

  • DNA Matches

  • Interactive Tools

Premium Plan

$149 / One-time

Enhanced plan with more detailed information

  • Everything in Basic Plan

  • Additional Regions

  • Priority Support

FamilyTreeDNA

  1. Family Finder ($79) - For individuals exploring their ancestry
  2. Y-DNA ($119) - Ideal for males researching their paternal lineage
  3. mtDNA ($159) - Suitable for individuals interested in maternal heritage

Family Finder

$79 / One-time payment

Basic family matching and ethnicity estimate

  • Autosomal DNA test

  • Find family connections

Y-DNA

$119 / One-time payment

Traces direct paternal ancestry

  • Paternal line testing

  • Surname projects

mtDNA

$159 / One-time payment

Examines direct maternal ancestry

  • Maternal line testing

  • Ancient ancestry

Indepth Overview

AncestryDNAFamilyTreeDNA
DNA Testing Features
test accuracy ★4.5 - High accuracy for ethnic group identification. ★4.4 - Comparable accuracy for genealogic DNA tests.
database size ★4.8 - One of the largest databases commercially available. ★4.3 - Smaller than AncestryDNA but still substantial.
ethnicity breakdown ★4.7 - Detailed ethnic insights and regional ancestry breakdown. ★4.5 - Comprehensive insights across varied ethnicities.
health reports
match percentage ★4.2 - Clear indication of relatedness with matches. ★4.4 - Detailed match percentages and connections.
user interface ★4.6 - Intuitive design for users to explore their DNA. ★4.1 - Functional but less polished interface.
consent for research ★4.1 - Clear options for participating in research studies. ★4.0 - Provides options for research participation.
pedigree tree integration ★4.2 - Simple integration with family trees. ★4.1 - Supports family tree building directly.
data privacy ★4.3 - Strong privacy controls for user data. ★4.4 - Robust privacy and security measures in place.
raw data download ★4.5 - Easy access to raw DNA data for third-party analysis. ★4.3 - Available for user analysis and third-party services.
genetic traits report ★4.0 - Basic genetic trait features.
customer support ★4.4 - Active support with community forums. ★4.2 - Responsive support with educational resources available.
chromosome mapping ★4.7 - Advanced chromosome mapping features available.
migration patterns ★4.3 - Insight into historical migration of ancestors. ★4.1 - Highlights migration trends based on DNA.
user community ★4.5 - An active community for shared experiences. ★4.0 - Supportive community, though smaller focus.
comparison tools ★4.2 - Tools to compare matches effectively. ★4.1 - Effective tools for match comparison and analysis.
Testing Options
types of tests ★4.6 - Offers autosomal DNA tests primarily. ★4.7 - Offers autosomal, Y-DNA, and mtDNA tests.
Y-DNA testing ★4.8 - One of the pioneers in Y-DNA testing.
mtDNA testing ★4.7 - Comprehensive maternal lineage tracing.
additional tests ★4.0 - Limited additional testing options available. ★4.5 - Extensive range of supplementary tests.
ancestral origins testing ★4.5 - Proven reliable for ancestry determination. ★4.4 - No less effective in ancestral evaluation.
Unique Selling Points
focus on ancestry ★4.7 - Strong marketing emphasis on heritage exploration.
family tree features ★4.5 - Integrated tools for family tree building.
connectivity ★4.4 - Strong connections facilitated among users.
diversified DNA tests ★4.8 - Unique offerings for various test types.
scientific backing ★4.6 - Strong focus on genealogical science.
community projects ★4.5 - Engages users in various ancestry projects.

Comparision Reviews

John Smith

New York, USA

AncestryDNA offers a user-friendly interface and a large database, which enhances the chance of discovering relatives and getting comprehensive ancestral insights. On the other hand, FamilyTreeDNA excels in providing more detailed genetic testing options and allows users to upload raw data from other sites. However, its interface can be a bit daunting for beginners. If you're looking for a more casual exploration, AncestryDNA might be the better choice, whereas FamilyTreeDNA is ideal for those wanting deeper genetic analysis.

AncestryDNA 4.5

FamilyTreeDNA 4.0

Emma Brown

London, UK

FamilyTreeDNA provides more comprehensive DNA tests and offers detailed information about genetic lineage, surpassing AncestryDNA's offerings in this regard. Despite this, AncestryDNA's user interface is superior and easier to navigate, which makes it more appealing for beginners or those uninterested in detailed genetic data. Both platforms have their strengths, but FamilyTreeDNA is the better choice for those seeking in-depth genetic research.

AncestryDNA 4.1

FamilyTreeDNA 4.4

Lucas Wang

Sydney, Australia

When it comes to discovering family heritage, AncestryDNA's extensive database provides more connections and historical records, which can be invaluable for family history enthusiasts. FamilyTreeDNA, however, shines with its comprehensive scientific analysis, suitable for users who seek detailed genetic insights and data transfer options. Choose AncestryDNA for broader familial connections and FamilyTreeDNA for scientific depth.

AncestryDNA 4.3

FamilyTreeDNA 4.2

Sofia Martínez

Madrid, Spain

AncestryDNA's strength lies in its expansive user network and collection of family trees, which makes building a family history more interactive. Meanwhile, FamilyTreeDNA offers specialized tests like Y-DNA and mtDNA, offering more options for genetic exploration enthusiasts. If you're a genealogy hobbyist, AncestryDNA is beneficial. Alternatively, FamilyTreeDNA is preferable for those interested in genetic studies.

AncestryDNA 4.6

FamilyTreeDNA 4.1

Akio Tanaka

Tokyo, Japan

For those interested in connecting with a broader set of relatives, AncestryDNA's larger matching pool is invaluable, thanks to its widespread adoption. FamilyTreeDNA may not have as many users, but its detailed DNA testing and data options cater to enthusiasts wanting comprehensive genetic information. For breadth in family connections, AncestryDNA wins, while FamilyTreeDNA offers a depth of genetic investigation.

AncestryDNA 4.3

FamilyTreeDNA 4.5

Comments

Liam_Jones
Hey folks, I've been thinking about trying one of those DNA test kits. Any thoughts on AncestryDNA vs FamilyTreeDNA?
SamanthaB
Liam, I've tried AncestryDNA. It's pretty cool, but it's like opening a box of surprise family photos. 🤣
Noah87
SamanthaB, didn't you find it creepy when second cousins popped up out of nowhere? 🤔
SamanthaB
Noah87, LOL, it was a bit weird! But it’s amazing how they connect you with relatives you never knew existed. Kind of feel like a detective.
OliviaHart
I heard FamilyTreeDNA has a more extensive database for deeper genetic matching. True, smartie_pants?
smartie_pants
Yup, OliviaHart, FamilyTreeDNA is awesome for serious genealogy research. They also let you download your raw data which AncestryDNA doesn't. 👍
Liam_Jones
Downloading raw data sounds awesome. Can I use it with other services or apps?
smartie_pants
Absolutely, Liam_Jones! You could use your raw data for health reports or to find distant relatives on other platforms. Just be cautious about privacy.
Noah87
Privacy can be a concern. I mean, who wants their DNA floating around cyberspace? Though the discoveries are tempting!

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