Best DNA Testing Kits of 2024 | Fortune Recommends Health (2024)

Written by Ashley Zlatopolsky, Fortune Recommends Longevity Writer

How we test

We tried every DNA test on this list to determine how easy it was to collect a DNA sample, how quickly results were processed, and if the information provided was valuable to our genealogical research and/or health. We also considered cost, brand reputation, and data privacy.

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Trusted experts

This story is medically reviewed by Dr. Aneesha Dhargalkar, an emergency medicine physician, and Dr. Simran Malhotra, a triple-board certified physician and wellness coach. It’s also fact-checked by Heather Morsellino, a seasoned healthcare professional.

At-home DNA test kits have skyrocketed in popularity in recent years. The most recent estimates show that some 26 million people worldwide have undergone genetic testing for ancestry. ( 1 ) “DNA testing has become one of the most common ways to learn about one’s ancestry. From a medical standpoint, it can be used successfully to discover potential genetically predisposed health conditions, improving quality of life and life expectancy.” says Dr. Aneesha Dhargalkar. So, what’s contributing to the hype? And what exactly can you learn from a DNA sample?

DNA test kits can reveal valuable information about your ancestry and/or health (some DNA testing services offer health tests that check for genetic predispositions, like Alzheimer’s disease and BRCA gene mutations that could increase your risk for breast cancer). ( 2 ) Still, privacy concerns and the accuracy of these tests remain up in the air, so how do you find a DNA test that is confidential and precise? We vetted and tried these five best DNA tests to determine their reliability, how well they protect data, and whether their health reports are backed by science. Here are the top DNA testing kits of 2024.

Best DNA test overall

Our best DNA test overall is Ancestry , which has more than 22 million people in its database and 27 billion records to help you discover your family history. Ancestry also processes DNA tests in two months or less and offers the option to purchase an upgrade for Ancestry Traits, which can shed light on traits related to your personality and appearance. With its easy-to-build family tree, simple interface, and vast DNA pool, Ancestry takes the cake for the best DNA test in 2024.

Our picks for the best DNA tests

• Best overall: Ancestry
• Best for finding relatives: 23andMe
• Best for building family trees: MyHeritage
• Best for maternal and paternal heritage: FamilyTree DNA
• Best for exploring DNA and health data: Living DNA

Compare DNA tests

	Ancestry	23andMe	MyHeritage	FamilyTree DNA	Living DNA
Rating	4.5/5	4.7/5	4.2/5	4/5	4.4/5
Price	$99-$199	$119-$999	$89	$79-$449	$124-$225
Wait time	6-8 weeks	4-6 weeks	4 weeks	2-8 weeks	6-8 weeks
Collection method	Saliva sample	Saliva sample	Cheek Swab	Cheek swab	Cheek swab or blood sample
Postage included	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	No

Best DNA test overall: Ancestry

Best DNA test overall

Ancestry

You can test your heritage and traits through Ancestry, one of the world’s largest user databases of 22 million people.

Fortune Score:

4.5 / 5

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Key product features

Price $99-$199

Wait time 6-8 weeks

Sample type Saliva sample

What you should know

Ancestry is one of the world’s largest DNA testing services. Its DNA test database is home to over 27 billion records and 22 million people. Ancestry also offers a Traits test upgrade to learn more about your personality, habits, and looks.

• Multiple subscription tiers are available, with each net access to different types of records.
• Postage is included in the test kit price for shipping and mailing your sample to a lab.
• There is no limit on the number of family trees you can build, even without a subscription.

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Pros

Robust user database

Available in 128 countries

Traits upgrade available

Easy user interface

Cons

Requires a paid subscription for research

Longer wait time for DNA results

Health testing was discontinued

Why we like Ancestry as best overall

The best ancestry test on the market is AncestryDNA, which has an extensive database of 22 million people, 3.5 million subscribers, and over 27 billion records from 80 countries. Therefore, if you love genealogy or research, Ancestry is a great platform for you.

Still, Ancestry isn’t just for family history gurus or those who are internet-savvy. Ancestry.com has a simple and easy-to-use user interface. Building a family tree is a breeze, and you also have the option to auto-fill your family tree from matching entries in other users’ family trees. With its large user database, you’ll also have more potential DNA matches than many other DNA test platforms.

Ancestry does as the name says: it tests your ancestry through your genetic makeup, which includes your ethnicity estimate, migration routes your ancestors may have taken, and what DNA portions are inherited from which parent (a newer feature only possible if your parents have also taken Ancestry tests). This DNA test requires a saliva sample and delivers results in eight weeks or less.

When I took an Ancestry DNA test, I received results in about a month, so it may be sooner.

Sadly, Ancestry discontinued its health test in 2021. Instead, it now offers Ancestry Traits, an optional paid upgrade from its traditional DNA test that tests for traits related to your personality, habits, and looks. I found this feature unworthy of paying an extra $20 since I learned that I have curly hair (yes), freckles (yes), and dislike cilantro (yes). For me, the information wasn’t anything new, but some users may find it fun to learn how certain traits might be influenced by DNA.

Still, there’s little else to dislike about Ancestry, except for its paid subscription, which is required for researching historical records. Your DNA test will come with a free trial period if you’re a new user, but after that, you’ll need to maintain a subscription to access most research features (and this can cost several hundred dollars each year). Yet, there’s a lot you can still take advantage of without a subscription. You’ll retain your DNA matches, and you can build unlimited family trees.

Ancestry also takes great strides to protect user privacy. Ancestry won’t share your information with third parties unless you’ve given consent, and you can also opt-in or opt out of different privacy settings. These include maintaining a private, unsearchable family tree, creating a fake display name, and opting out of research consent to use your information in large-scale genetic studies.

What customers are saying

Ancestry has more than 26,000 reviews from verified customers on Trustpilot. Overall, customers give the DNA testing service 3.8 out of 5 stars. “I have been working on my family tree since 2009,” said verified reviewer Billie S., who wanted to learn more about her father, who was adopted. “AncestryDNA helped me identify [his] ancestors. There are no words to express my gratitude.”

Some customers complain that Ancestry doesn’t offer much European ancestry (for example, ethnicity estimates may point to Eastern Europe or Russia, which are vast swaths of land). “I also paid extra for character traits, and most of them aren’t even true,” said verified reviewer Alice. Other customers feel limited in their research options without a subscription.

What customers are saying

Buyers on Trustpilot report issues resolving concerns with customer service, as well as delayed test turnaround times. “I’m up to three weeks of trying to solve issues,” verified reviewer John R. complained. “It’s a cumbersome service process.”

Yet many customers report learning valuable insight from advanced DNA testing for the test quality itself.

“Their mtDNA [Maternal Ancestry] analysis can give you more than just a haplogroup [ethnicity estimate], but also identify new branches who share your maternal lineage,” confirmed verified reviewer David W.

Verified reviewer Jean T. echoed that customer service response was always “efficient and timely” whenever she needed help.

Still, some customers report inaccurate results, such as being grouped in the wrong ethnicity estimates despite known and documented ancestral origins. “My results came back that I had 72% South German ancestry when my ancestors were from Great Britain,” wrote verified reviewer Sarah M. “Three other DNA tests I took said I was mainly of British descent.”

Our at-home testing methodology

We considered several factors when determining which DNA tests were truly the best. In addition to some of the givens, like price, results turnaround time, and ease of ordering, we also considered more specific features. For example, was the health information provided by health DNA tests valuable? Was there a big user pool of DNA matches? What DNA test is the most accurate? By evaluating these items, we could choose the best DNA testing kits. You can see our full at-home testing methodology here .

Testing criteria

Accuracy and reliability—40%

Accurate test results are the most important element of at-home testing kits, as they form the basis for the user’s health decisions. Whether you’re exploring your genetic background, tracking fertility cycles, or identifying food sensitivities, the integrity of the data provided by these tests is crucial. Reliable results help users confidently make informed decisions for personal health management or discussions with their healthcare provider.

Here’s what we look for:

• Measurement precision
• Consistency
• Environmental influence
• Sample integrity
• Lab standards

Ease of use and accessibility—30%

The ease of use and accessibility of at-home testing kits determine how effectively individuals can utilize these products. A testing kit may offer the most advanced technology and accurate results, but its benefits are significantly diminished if it is not user-friendly. Ensuring that these kits are accessible and easy to use empowers a broad range of users, including those who may not have prior experience with medical testing or technology. This enhances the likelihood of correct usage, accurate sample collection, and reliable results, ultimately improving the overall experience and satisfaction. We evaluate:

• Instruction clarity
• Sample collection process
• Online platform usability
• Support resources
• Accessibility features

Value—20%

Evaluating the value of at-home testing kits is critical, encompassing the initial purchase price, long-term financial implications, and overall cost-effectiveness. A high-value kit delivers reliable results without imposing excessive costs over time, so users can receive meaningful health benefits for their investment.

We evaluate:

• Cost of the kit
• Insurance coverage
• Long-term cost analysis
• Warranty

Customer experience—10%

A positive customer experience helps users feel supported, informed, and satisfied at every stage of their interaction with the kit. This category considers multiple touchpoints, including customer service, delivery and packaging, user feedback, and return policies. By prioritizing customer experience, we aim to recommend products that not only meet technical and performance standards but also provide a seamless and supportive user experience.

Our factors in this rating include:

• Customer service
• Delivery and packaging
• User feedback and reviews
• Return policy

How do DNA tests work?

At-home DNA testing is a fairly straightforward process. Once you purchase a DNA test, you’ll receive a mail test kit containing your sample collection items (such as a vial for a saliva sample or swabs for a cheek sample) and a set of instructions. Your kit will also contain a self-sealing envelope or box that you can use to package and mail your DNA sample for processing.

For standard DNA tests, you’ll choose between an ancestry test (which tests your autosomal DNA; more info on what autosomal testing means below) and/or a health test that looks at your genetic information for health predispositions. Some services also let you dive deeper into your genetic markers with more advanced DNA tests that test paternal lines or use mtDNA testing, which traces your maternal lines. Specialty tests like these tend to be more expensive than basic DNA tests.

Most DNA kits come with a QR code or tracking number that you can plug into your online account with that service to track the status of your DNA results. Your DNA test will be processed in a lab and go through many steps before the results hit your inbox. ( 3 ) This extensive process includes extracting raw data, amplifying it (or making up to a thousand copies), sequencing or reading it, and creating a file with your unique genetic data. Results are then run through algorithms that generate matches for DNA relatives, ethnicity estimates, genetic health risks, or trait reports. ( 4 )

You’ll be notified by text or email when your results are ready. It’s important to be patient because DNA data takes several weeks to process. Sometimes, DNA samples may fail if they’re not collected correctly or for reasons unknown (as happened to me), so there’s a small chance you may need to test twice. ( 5 ) If that happens, DNA testing companies will likely mail you a new test to take for free.

Your DNA test results may vary depending on what type of test you’ve purchased. You might receive ancestry reports with your haplogroups, which are ancestral groupings (such as Ashkenazi Jewish or Irish). If you take a health test, your report may include health conditions you’re predisposed to. It might also help predict how well you’ll respond to your medications. However, it’s important to remember that a health risk determined by your genetic makeup doesn’t mean you will develop it.

How to use a DNA testing kit

How to use a DNA testing kit will vary based on the type of DNA test you purchase and the testing service. Most DNA tests require a saliva sample or cheek swab. For a saliva sample, you’ll spit into a tube until you reach a designated line with the correct amount. You’ll then cap the tube, put it into a self-sealing envelope or box (whichever your test kit comes with), and mail it off for processing.

Cheek swabs require a bit more work. These DNA tests will often come with two cheek swabs, which helps ensure a backup swab is processed if the first one doesn’t work. The exact time may vary, but you’ll likely swab the inside of each cheek for 15-30 seconds to collect DNA data. Like a saliva sample, you’ll seal your cheek swabs in an envelope and send them to a lab for extraction.

Who should use a DNA test

You might want to take a DNA test for many reasons. Perhaps you’re curious about your ancestry results, or you’re interested in finding family members through DNA matches. You might also be a seasoned genealogist or researcher seeking historical records on your family.

Health DNA tests can also provide valuable information on health conditions you may be predisposed to; this can help you make positive lifestyle changes such as losing weight, eating a vegetable-rich diet, or exercising more. If you plan to start a family, a health and wellness DNA test can also identify your carrier status for diseases that could be passed down to offspring.

Nowadays, even dog DNA tests can check for genetic health conditions your dog may be predisposed to. Still, keep an open mind when taking a DNA test. You may discover hidden family secrets, or if you’re going down the health test route, information about your health may cause stress or anxiety. Be sure to keep this in mind before taking a DNA test of any kind.

“It’s important to note that at-home DNA tests have limitations, especially if you have a strong family history of cancer or are known to be at high risk,” warns. Dr. Malhotra. “Many of these tests only look for a very small number of mutations in a handful of genes, so it’s important to understand your risk. If your at-home test is negative, it doesn’t necessarily mean you are in the clear. If you have a strong family history of cancer and your at-home test was negative, it would be a good idea to speak with your healthcare team and/or a genetic counselor to discuss further testing to assess your risk better.”

DNA test terminology

DNA testing can involve many important words. Here are a few quick terms to familiarize yourself with to help you better understand the testing process and your genetic makeup.

• Haplogroups: Haplogroups are genetic or ancestral groupings within a population. All members of a specific haplogroup can trace their ancestry to a single individual on both the maternal and paternal sides. ( 6 )
• Autosomal DNA : Autosomal DNA is your inherited DNA that determines genetic origins. This DNA data is used to generate health reports and/or ethnic groups you belong to. ( 7 )
• Mitochondrial DNA: Mitochondrial DNA is DNA passed down through your maternal lines. It can help you trace your maternal origins. ( 8 )
• Y-DNA: Y-DNA is DNA passed down through your paternal lines. It can help you trace your paternal origins. Only genetic males can take Y-DNA tests. ( 8 ) Genetic females can determine their paternal haplogroup if Y-DNA is tested in male relatives from their father’s side.
• Reference population: Your unique DNA is tested against reference populations, or reference groups in a DNA database, to determine which ethnic groups you belong to. ( 9 )

How to choose the best DNA test for you

With numerous DNA tests, you may wonder, “What is the best DNA test for me?” Consider these factors before deciding on a DNA test kit and service.

Reason for testing

There are many reasons for DNA testing. Perhaps you’re curious about your ancestral origins, or you’re planning to start a family and want to know if you carry any genetic diseases. The best DNA testing kit will depend on your interest in testing your DNA.

Most family history needs can be met with your basic autosomal DNA test (like Ancestry), but if you’re a genealogy buff and you want to dive deeper, you may want to opt for a more detailed test for your maternal or paternal lineage. Some DNA test kit services also offer test combinations that test your ancestry and health with just one swab or saliva sample.

Turnaround time

At the bare minimum, you can expect to wait at least two weeks for your DNA test results, but most DNA test kits require a turnaround time of closer to one month or more. You may be anxious to learn more about your ancestry or well-being, so if time is of the essence, you may choose a DNA test from our list with a quicker turnaround time, like FamilyTree DNA or MyHeritage.

Data privacy

Reputable DNA test kit services, including those on our list, take numerous strides to protect your privacy. Carefully read their privacy reports to determine which best suits your needs.

Cost

A basic DNA test for ethnicity estimates and DNA matches will cost around $100, give or take. You can expect to pay slightly more for health testing or combination tests, while the most expensive DNA tests on the market are specialty tests for paternal or maternal lineages. Be sure to consider your budget and what you feel is worth learning about your ancestry or health.

Keep in mind that some test kit sites, like Ancestry.com and MyHeritage, require a subscription for research and/or larger family trees. These are additional costs to consider if you plan to do either.