The 4 Best At Home DNA Test Kits for Understanding Your Heritage and Health Predispositions
SI Showcase
The products featured in this article have been independently reviewed. When you buy something through the retail links on this page, we may earn commission at no cost to you, the reader. Sports Illustrated editorial staff are not involved in the creation of this content. Learn more here.
At-home DNA test kits have skyrocketed in popularity in recent years. It’s estimated that some 26 million people worldwide have done DIY genetic testing to learn more about their ancestry, according to research published in JAMA. So what’s contributing to the popularity? And what exactly can you learn from a DNA sample?
DNA test kits can reveal valuable genetic information, which includes ethnicity estimates, health predispositions, DNA matches for potential relatives and migration patterns for particular ethnic groups. With this information, you can research historical records that help piece together your family’s story. Some DNA testing services also offer health tests that check for genetic predispositions, like Alzheimer’s disease or BRCA gene mutations that could increase your risk for breast cancer.
Still, there are concerns about privacy and the reliability of these tests, so how do you find an at-home DNA test that gives you the information you seek and protects your private information? The best DNA test kits take strides to protect customer privacy, provide reliable DNA results and generate accurate health reports backed by science. Below, we outline our top picks for the best DNA testing kits in 2024.
These tests are not a substitute for professional medical advice, and are not meant to diagnose any conditions. Discuss any test results with your healthcare provider. If you are experiencing negative physical symptoms, see a doctor as soon as possible. Before starting any new fitness routine or trying any new supplements, you should consult with your doctor.
Our Picks for the Best DNA Test Kits in 2024:
AncestryDNA Test Kit
SI Showcase + AncestryDNA
Key features and specs:
- Tests for: Ancestry, ethnicity and genetic traits
- Price: $99 to $119
- Time from testing to results: 8 weeks
- Sample type: Saliva
- Privacy settings: Option for private family tree, real or alias display name and opting out of research consent for information to be used in genetic studies
- Family matching: Yes
- Database size: 22 million people
Why we picked it:
AncestryDNA is arguably the best ancestry DNA test on the market due to its extensive database of 22 million people, vast research capabilities and easy-to-use family tree software. With more than 30 billion records from 80 countries, Ancestry is widely hailed as a goldmine for people interested in genealogy and family research. Another reason this popular at-home DNA test kit comes in as one of our best ancestry services is because of a user-friendly interface that quickly matches entries in your family tree to records already published in its database.
Ancestry.com does as the name says: it tests your ancestry, which includes your ethnicity estimate, migration routes your ancestors may have taken and which DNA features are inherited from which parent. (This is only possible if your parents have also taken AncestryDNA tests.) Samples are collected via saliva, and you spit into a test tube until you fill it up to the line. Results generally take eight weeks, and I found my test kit to be processed in a timely manner.
While Ancestry previously offered a health DNA test, the company discontinued this test kit in 2021. Now, they offer AncestryDNA Traits, which you can purchase as an upcharge from the standard DNA test. (You can use the same saliva sample for both tests.) I found the Traits feature interesting, but not worth the additional $20, as it only tells you genetic predispositions you may have, such as a cilantro aversion, curly hair and freckles.
Ancestry’s privacy features are another reason this test is one of the best ancestry kits. Ancestry won’t share your information with third parties unless you’ve given consent, and the company takes numerous steps to let people 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 larger-scale genetic studies.
What we like:
- Ability to download raw data to upload to other DNA websites
- More extensive DNA matching due to large user base size (more than 30 billion records from 80 countries to research)
- Extensive privacy features
What to consider:
- Requires subscription for full content and research access
- Health DNA test was discontinued in 2021
23andMe DNA Test Kit
SI Showcase + 23andMe
Key features and specs:
- Tests for: Ancestry, ethnicity and disease risk
- Price: $119 to $298
- Time from testing to results: 4-6 weeks
- Sample type: Saliva
- Privacy settings: No third-party data sharing, encryption of sensitive information and information is only released to law enforcement with proper court orders
- Family matching: Yes
- Database size: 10 million people
Why we picked it:
In addition to testing for ethnicity—such as being of Asian, African or European descent—23andMe can tell you unique facts about your heritage, like how much neanderthal DNA you have compared to other users. 23andMe users can further explore their ancestry by messaging DNA matches, creating a family tree or viewing their mtDNA report, which sheds light on maternal ancestry. The test uses a saliva sample and takes four-to-six weeks to process.
While it’s an excellent ancestry DNA test, 23andMe is also the best DNA test for getting health information. The DNA test kit service offers several levels of health DNA tests that examine your genetic markers for conditions you may be predisposed to, such as certain cancers or neurological conditions. More premium forms of the test can also gauge how well you respond to certain medications.
As the best DNA test for providing health information, 23and Me is an excellent choice for people passionate about wellness or who simply want to learn about their genetic risks (such as before starting a family). And you can feel confident that 23andMe is protecting your data to the best of its ability. Accessing your account requires two-step verification, and the company promises it doesn’t share data with third parties. Plus, 23andMe claims to encrypt all sensitive information.
What we like:
- Sensitive information is encrypted
- Provides details on ethnicity and maternal heritage
- Offers extensive genetic health testing
What to consider:
- Price for full testing is almost $300, which is more expensive than many other at-home DNA test kits
- Doesn’t have any historical record research capabilities
FamilyTreeDNA Test Kit
SI Showcase + FamilyTreeDNA
Key features and specs:
- Tests for: Ancestry and ethnicity
- Price: $79 to $449
- Time from testing to results: 6-8 weeks
- Sample type: Cheek swab
- Privacy settings: Opt in or out of consent to use data in research studies
- Family matching: Yes
- Database size: 2 million
Why we picked it:
FamilyTreeDNA, or FTDNA, is an advanced DNA testing platform for people interested in ancestry and ethnicity. While the company doesn’t offer health testing, they offer ancestry tests that range from your basic DNA test to extremely detailed paternal ancestry. While the latter may cost you several hundred dollars, it may be worth it to the devoted genealogy researcher.
Instead of spitting saliva into a collection tube, FTDNA uses a cheek swab to collect your DNA sample. You can expect results in around two months or less, and you’ll also be paired up with potential DNA matches. While the database is much smaller, I found a lot of DNA matches on FTDNA that I didn’t find on Ancestry or 23andMe.
FTDNA promises not to share your data with third parties without your consent (outside of its lab testing partners and law enforcement under the right legal circumstances). You can also opt for creating a private profile that other DNA matches won’t be able to see. FTDNA allows you to register multiple test kits, as well, so you can manage DNA test results for your entire family.
What we like:
- Ability to register multiple test kits
- Extensive ancestral testing available
- Privacy statement is extremely detailed
What to consider:
- DNA matches can be slow to populate
- Smaller database size means fewer matches
MyHeritage DNA Test Kit
SI Showcase + MyHeritage
Key features and specs:
- Tests for: Ancestry and ethnicity
- Price: $89
- Time from testing to results: 4 weeks
- Sample type: Cheek swab
- Privacy settings: Doesn’t share or sell information with third parties, doesn’t provide data to insurance companies and offers the ability to create a private family tree
- Family matching: Yes
- Database size: 6 million
Why we picked it:
MyHeritage is a DNA test kit service and research platform with more than six million users worldwide. As one of the most popular international DNA websites, MyHeritage is an excellent choice for people interested in their ancestry with known origins in other countries. For example, I’ve connected with DNA matches as far as Argentina and Germany. It also has an extensive database of 18 million historical records in multiple languages and from various countries.
MyHeritage tests are easy to take and require two cheek swabs. (The second is used as a backup in case your first one fails, which happened to me.) I found MyHeritage to be the fastest at processing test kits out of the four services covered in our best DNA test guide, and I typically received results in one month or less for myself and for the different family members I tested. It was also the most affordable, and there’s almost always some kind of promotion offering tests under $50.
Like other reputable DNA test kit services, MyHeritage DNA takes strides to protect user privacy. It claims to never share or sell information with third parties or provide data to insurance companies. If you plan on using MyHeritage for research purposes, you can also create a private family tree and change settings for what content and/or photos are publicly visible. Keep in mind that, like Ancestry, MyHeritage requires a subscription to research historical records.
What we like:
- Extensive international user base
- Historical records available in multiple languages
- Fast test result turnaround time
What to consider:
- Subscription required for full research access
- Free version of family tree is limited to 250 individuals
A Guide to At-Home DNA Testing
How it works
At-home DNA testing is a relatively straightforward process. Once you purchase a DNA test kit, DNA testing companies will mail you a package that contains a cheek swab or vial to collect your saliva in, plus detailed instructions. Depending on the DNA testing service, you may be able to choose from one of several tests that range from ancestry to health testing (or both).
Some services also let you dive deeper into your genetic makeup by offering DNA tests specific to testing paternal lines or mtDNA testing, which traces your maternal lines. Specialty tests like these or DNA tests that also provide health reports tend to be more expensive than basic tests.
Typically, you’ll either swab the inside of your cheek to collect a DNA sample or spit into a vial. You’ll then pack your test kit into a prepaid mailing box provided by your DNA testing service and send it off for processing. You’ll usually get a tracking number that lets you register your kit to check on updates.
From there, your DNA test will be processed in a lab. The process includes extracting raw data, amplifying it (or making up to a thousand copies), sequencing or reading it, and finally creating a file with your genetic data. Results are then run through algorithms that generate matches for DNA relatives and ethnicity estimates, or in the case of health reports, your genetic health risks and/or carrier status for certain health conditions that may be passed down genetically.
Lastly, you’ll receive your health and/or ancestry results, and will typically be notified by email that your DNA testing is complete. From there, you can explore your report and view matches for potential family members, or read about health conditions you may be predisposed to. The process can often take several weeks, so it’s important to be patient with at-home DNA testing.
Sometimes, DNA samples may fail if not collected accurately or for reasons unknown (as happened to me on one or two occasions), so there’s a small chance you may need to test twice. If that happens, a DNA testing service will most likely mail you a new test to take for free.
Types of DNA testing
There are several types of DNA tests available. These are the most common and what they test for.
Y-chromosome (or Y-DNA)
Y-DNA tests generate reports on your paternal lineage by testing DNA found on the Y sex chromosome, which is specific to those assigned male at birth. Y-DNA is passed down from father to son, so you can use these tests to verify your direct paternal lines.
However, those assigned female at birth don’t carry Y chromosomes and instead have two X chromosomes, so only those assigned male at birth can take Y-DNA tests. If you were assigned female at birth and curious about your paternal family history, you can ask a close relative like a brother, father, grandfather, uncle or cousin to take a DNA test to get you more information.
Mitochondrial (or mtDNA)
mtDNA tests create reports on your direct maternal lineage by testing your mitochondria, which are carried by everyone. These tests trace your maternal lineage over time and can shed valuable insight on your maternal origins.
Autosomal
Autosomal tests are your traditional DNA ancestry tests that trace ethnic groups and genetic origins. These tests are typically used for genealogical purposes to help assemble family trees, find DNA matches and search for historical records.
Health testing
While technically a form of autosomal testing, health testing is generally offered as a separate or upgraded purchase over the traditional DNA ancestry test. Many DNA testing companies offer combo tests, like 23andMe’s Health + Ancestry test, which generates reports on both topics.
Terms to know
DNA testing can come with a lot of unfamiliar terms that are important to know. Here are a few to get familiar with to better understand the testing process and interpret your genetic makeup results.
- Haplogroups: Haplogroups are genetic or ancestral groupings within a population. All members of a specific haplogroup can trace their ancestry back to a single individual.
- Autosomal DNA: Autosomal DNA is your inherited DNA that helps determine genetic origins. This DNA data is used to generate health reports and/or ethnic groups that you belong to.
- Mitochondrial DNA: Mitochondrial DNA is DNA passed down through your maternal lines. It can help you trace your maternal origins.
- 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.
- 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.
What they test for
The easiest way to understand what DNA tests test for is to break them down into two groups: ancestry DNA and health DNA. Here’s what you can potentially learn from each.
Ancestry DNA
Autosomal, mtDNA and Y-DNA tests provide reports on your genetic ancestral origins. Autosomal DNA reports will give you a broad overview, while mtDNA and Y-DNA tests will break that information down further into reports on your direct maternal or paternal lines.
Depending on which DNA testing service you use, you’ll typically receive information on your genetic origins (including ethnic groups you belong to and what percent of your DNA comes from that group), DNA matches and a timeline of how your ethnic groups migrated over time.
If you’re taking an mtDNA or Y-DNA test, you can receive matches or information specific to your maternal or paternal side.
Health DNA
Health DNA tests look for variants, or mutations, in your DNA that are known to cause or increase your risk of certain diseases. These tests can screen for conditions like heart disease, Alzheimer’s disease and breast cancer, among others, but it’s important to remember that these tests aren’t a diagnosis.
Instead, they can simply tell you if you’re genetically predisposed to potentially developing these conditions down the line, which can help you make informed health choices such as choosing to follow a heart-healthy diet or take brain-supporting supplements.
You can also share your reports with a healthcare provider to determine if you might benefit from certain screening tests, or to do screening tests (like mammograms) more frequently.
Who would benefit from an at-home DNA test
Purchasing an at-home DNA test can be an attractive option for numerous people. Those passionate about genealogy or learning about family history can get a good sense of their origins by taking a DNA test, not to mention connect with potential relatives. If you’re adopted, for example, you may be able to discover your biological family by taking a DNA test.
Health DNA tests can also shed valuable information about health conditions you may be predisposed to, which can help you make positive lifestyle changes such as adjusting your diet for different health considerations, increasing your vitamin D intake or adding walking or running to your weekly routine.
“Through DNA testing, you can unearth your genetic predispositions towards certain conditions such as cardiovascular disease, Alzheimer’s disease and breast cancer, to name a few,” says Kevin Huffman, DO, board-certified physician and founder of Ambari Nutrition. “DNA testing also facilitates the identification of carrier status for specific genetic diseases like cystic fibrosis. For individuals planning to have children, this information proves particularly valuable.”
Benefits of At-Home DNA Testing
At-home DNA tests come with a number of benefits. Here are just a few.
Understanding your origins
At-home DNA tests can help you understand where your ancestors came from. For example, you may learn you have British origins, or perhaps your family came from a specific region in Africa. This valuable insight can help you better understand who you are and your history.
Discovering potential relatives
Many DNA test kit services match you up with potential relatives who have DNA in common with you. This can help you discover distant cousins or even family who live in other countries.
Learning about health predispositions
At-home health DNA tests can shed light on your carrier status for certain genetic diseases or health conditions you may be predisposed to. Still, it’s important to remember that you likely only have an elevated risk, and aren’t guaranteed to develop these conditions in your lifetime. Talk with your doctor or professional healthcare provider about any concerns you may have.
Potential Downsides of At-Home DNA Testing
With the benefits come a few potential downsides of at-home DNA testing. These are the risks.
Privacy concerns
Many DNA testing companies have come under fire recently for data breaches that put sensitive information at risk. Just this year, 23andMe suffered a major breach with reported millions of pieces of data stolen, but they’re not alone. In 2018, MyHeritage also dealt with a massive data leak that compromised the personal information of its customers. Any time you send off your DNA for processing, you face a potential privacy risk, so this is something to keep in mind.
Health scares
It can be scary to find out you have an elevated risk for developing a health condition, and if you’re prone to health anxiety, you may become fixated on something that’s only a possibility. “Individuals often make health decisions based on DNA tests,” says Robert Steiner, MD, chief medical officer at PreventionGenetics. “Some women, for example, may choose to undergo prophylactic mastectomy based on tests showing high risk for breast cancer.”
Huffman urges people taking at-home health DNA tests to remember the results aren't set in stone. “Merely possessing a genetic predisposition doesn’t inevitably guarantee the development of the disease,” he says. “It simply elevates your risk. Numerous factors, such as environment and lifestyle, may also shape the manifestation of genetic diseases.”
Interpreting Your DNA Test Results
Your DNA test results can—and can’t—tell you certain things. Here’s what to expect.
What they can tell you
DNA test results can give you a pretty good idea of your ancestral origins if the company has a large reference population, like Ancestry. “DNA tests can also offer a snapshot of potential genetic health risks,” Huffman says, which can help you make proactive health decisions.
What they can’t tell you
Some populations aren’t as well-studied, meaning you may not get the most extensive results for certain ethnic groups, especially those who with African ancestry (see more on that below). Regarding health outcomes, Huffman also cautions that “DNA tests can’t replicate comprehensive health evaluations or diagnostic tests,” and that they remain “incapable of accounting for recent medical advancements.”
DNA testing for those with non-European ancestry
DNA testing may be more challenging for people with non-European ancestry because DNA test results tend to be more detailed for people with European ancestry and less detailed for people with African ancestry. For testers with non-European ancestry, it can be frustrating and even discouraging to receive limited information on your ethnic groups after spending time (and money) taking a test.
Information is limited because these reference populations tend to be smaller, which creates less precise results, but DNA testing companies like 23andMe are taking strides to gather data from more diverse populations. Eventually, the goal is to close the gaps in DNA testing for people with non-European ancestry so individuals of all backgrounds can receive detailed results.
How to Choose the Best At-Home DNA Test for You
With numerous at-home DNA tests to choose from, it can be tough to figure out which test kit service is right for you. Here’s what you should consider before making a decision.
- Intent: Some DNA test kit services give you the ability to learn about your ethnicity while researching corresponding historical records, while others will only allow you to view your ethnicity estimates and DNA matches. Other tests are health-focused, so be sure to consider what information you want to find out and which test will give you those results.
- Results: Depending on the DNA test kit service you choose, your results can vary from basic to more extensive. Consider your reason for buying—do you want to know the bare minimum about your DNA, or everything there is to know about your genetic heritage?
- Data privacy: All reputable DNA test kit services take numerous strides to protect your privacy. Be sure to carefully read their privacy reports to determine which best suits your needs.
- Cost: For the majority of DNA tests, you can expect to pay around $100 or more for more extensive testing. As you budget for your DNA test, be sure to factor in not only the cost of the test, but any subscriptions you might need to continue exploring your results.
How We Chose the Best At-Home DNA Tests
We considered several factors when choosing the best at-home DNA tests. Here’s what we prioritized and why.
- Results: DNA tests will typically shed insight on your ancestry and/or health, but some DNA testing services are more comprehensive than others. We looked at how detailed results were, including the extent of DNA matches and information on ethnic groups.
- Cost: DNA tests can greatly vary in cost, so we sought out at-home test kits that were affordable for the average consumer. Many DNA testing services also run promotions, which is another factor we considered in determining overall cost.
- Privacy: The best DNA test kit services protect consumer privacy from hackers and third-party companies. We looked for at-home DNA tests that made this a priority.
- Result time: DNA test results are never instant, but we still sought out DNA testing companies that provided test results in a timely manner (such as two months or less).
- Reference population: DNA test result accuracy is greatly influenced by the size and variety of the reference population, which is why we took this into account. As four of the most popular at-home DNA test services on the market, our top kits have some of the largest and most diverse reference populations in the DNA testing space.
At-Home DNA Test FAQs
Which DNA test has the most extensive results?
Nebula Genomics is widely considered to offer the most extensive DNA testing and results, but any of our top four at-home DNA test kits will offer valuable ancestral and/or health insight for the basic consumer.
How reliable are DNA tests?
Reputable DNA tests can give you a good snapshot of your ethnicity, but the accuracy will ultimately depend on the size of the reference population. As for health reports, Huffman says DNA tests can gauge if you’re at increased risk of developing certain conditions, but they “don’t serve as replacements for regular healthcare or disease screenings.”
How long does it take to get DNA testing results?
It can take anywhere from four-to-eight weeks or more to get DNA testing results, depending on which DNA testing service you use. If there’s an error or issue with your test kit, you may need to take another test, which can extend your timeframe by a few more weeks.
Is my DNA information safe?
The best DNA test companies take strides to protect your privacy, including keeping your name, address and contact information private from DNA processing labs. Still, the only way to completely protect your privacy is to avoid taking a DNA test altogether.
Takeaway: Are At-Home DNA Tests Worth It?
As one of the best resources for people interested in genealogy or family history, a DNA test is worthwhile for those interested in their origins and being connected with potential relatives. At-home health DNA tests can also show if you’re at increased risk of developing certain genetic diseases, which can help you make informed choices about your health and diet. Both are worthwhile for those who want to uncover valuable information about their heritage and health, and trust the privacy policies of their chosen testing company.
Prices are accurate and items in stock as of publish time.
