When we first wrote this article, it compared 23andMe and Ancestry. Since then, 23andMe has experienced a data breach, a subsequent lawsuit, board members' resignations and layoffs amidst financial struggles. As a result, we removed it from this comparison and now outline why AncestryDNA is the best at-home DNA kit for learning more about your heritage, ancestry and even your medical predispositions.
If you've used 23andMe, here is how you can delete your account and data. You can also read more about the brand's current privacy and security policy here.
Best DNA kit: Ancestry
AncestryDNA AncestryDNA Best DNA kit for family history information Why we like it: I tried the AncestryDNA kit, which has a saliva collection tube and cap, a return bag and a prepaid return label box. To register the kit, I downloaded the Ancestry app and scanned the barcode on the side of the collection tube. You can also register your kit online and manually enter the number. When you make an account, the app asks for your consent on several items, including consent to process your sample, to store the sample if you want future testing and to participate in research. The research includes taking surveys and questionnaires that AncestryDNA says it will use to better understand human history and health. I declined to consent to store my sample or participate in research. Ancestry doesn't use the standard Y-chromosome and/or mitochondrial DNA methodologies most others use -- so we know less about how it actually analyzes DNA. After spitting in the tube, I mailed off the kit and confirmed that it was sent off in the app. The app "tracked" the kit's journey from being received at the lab to processing and on through its process before it told me my results were ready. Who is it best for: Your results will include an AncestryHealth report and an Ethnicity Estimate report. AncestryDNA also tells you which other people your DNA closely matches. It flagged my aunt, who also used the site, as Close Family. The app let me compare our Ethnicity Estimates and allowed me to send her a message. Who should not use it: Ancestry is primarily focused on helping you understand your genealogy. Ancestry might not be your best option if you’re looking for in-depth health information. The AncestryHealth report is broken down into Notable Health Results, Health Results and Wellness Results. The reports include information about cancer risks, carrier status for diseases like cystic fibrosis and your blood health. It can also flag some potential health conditions based on family history, though the health screening doesn’t have FDA approval. Pros: You can decline to have your sample stored or participate in research.
The wellness reports give you information on your vitamin levels, among other things.
It can flag potential health conditions.
The Ethnicity Estimate report shows which regions your ancestors were most likely linked to. Cons: The family tree and DNA aspects required two separate apps. The desktop version keeps everything in one place if you work in a browser.
The health screening doesn't have Food and Drug administration approval. $99 at Ancestry
AncestryDNA cost
The best DNA kits will have different services that come at varying prices. Let's break down AncestryDNA's services and costs. Ancestry frequently offers decent sales for its DNA services.
... continue reading