Julie Andrews once famously opined that the very beginning is “a very good place to start.” But I’m no Julie Andrews. Before diving into our formal lessons, I’m going to jump ahead to Step Six – Follow Your DNA.
If you haven’t done so already, now is the perfect time to consider taking a DNA test. Why the rush? DNA results can take several weeks, even months, to process, so having them ready when we officially tackle Step Six will allow you to participate in real time.
Choosing the Right DNA Testing Company
With so many testing companies available, how do you pick the best one? While some smaller or specialty companies are gaining traction, the genealogical community typically focuses on the Big Five: AncestryDNA, 23andMe, MyHeritage DNA, Family Tree DNA, and Living DNA.
Each has its own strengths and weaknesses, and comparison charts abound online to help you decide which company is right for you. However, I recommend ignoring all of that—for now—and heading straight on over to AncestryDNA.
Why AncestryDNA?
AncestryDNA stands out as the top choice for genealogical research. Here’s why:
Broad Compatibility: AncestryDNA data can be uploaded to other platforms, including MyHeritage DNA, Family Tree DNA, and Living DNA, at little to no cost. This effectively gives you access to multiple databases for the price of one test. However, note that neither AncestryDNA nor 23andMe accepts data uploads from other companies.
Autosomal Testing: AncestryDNA offers autosomal testing, which is perfect for starting your genealogy journey. While other platforms provide additional test types, like Y-DNA and mitochondrial DNA, those are better suited for advanced research down the road.
Resources and Reach: Ancestry boasts the largest user database and extensive genealogical tools, making it an invaluable resource for family history enthusiasts.
An AncestryDNA test currently costs $99 plus shipping, but you can often find steep discounts during major sales events, such as Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, Amazon Prime Day, Columbus Day, and the winter holiday season. Keep an eye out for deals!
Why Not 23andMe?
Once a leader in the industry, 23andMe is currently facing serious financial challenges. As of January 2025, the company’s future—and the security of its 15 million customers' genetic data—is uncertain. A steep decline in stock value, management upheavals, and a costly restructuring effort have raised concerns about its stability.
While I’ve always liked 23andMe’s offerings, it’s best to steer clear until they sort out their financial troubles. If you’re already a customer, consider reviewing their privacy policies and downloading your data for safekeeping.
Learn More
If you’re curious about the different types of DNA tests or want to dive deeper, check out:
Your DNA Guide – The Book by Diahan Southard
The Family Tree Guide to DNA Testing and Genetic Genealogy by Blaine T. Bettinger
YouTube tutorials and online articles for additional insights.
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