Living DNA Review: See What 2024's Newest Family Test Can Tell You
DNA ancestry testing offers a way for people interested in family history (genealogy) to learn more than they can from relatives or written records.
Most DNA ancestry tests only look at autosomal DNA—DNA from the chromosomes you inherited equally from your parents. However, Living DNA also looks at mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) and Y-chromosome DNA (Y-DNA).
MtDNA is passed on unchanged from a mother to her children, regardless of sex. Y-DNA, on the other hand, is only passed down from fathers to their sons.1,2
With these DNA test types, Living DNA traces and provides information about your maternal and paternal lineages. This Living DNA review will discuss products, features, ancestry and wellness reports, privacy policy, and how Living DNA fares against other DNA tests.
Product Review Summary
Pros
Performs three different DNA tests (autosomal, mtDNA, Y-DNA)
Can trace your father’s and mother’s lineage
Free lifetime updates to ancestry results
Great visualization tools
Nothing is hidden behind a paywall
Cons
Smaller database size
Wellbeing reports don’t provide carrier status or genetic health risks
Users are highly concentrated in the U.K., affecting test accuracy
My Living DNA Results
You can access results directly through Living DNA’s website. The results are divided into three types:
Ancestry
Relatives
Wellbeing
Ancestry
The Ancestry section is divided into three sections. Each section is based on the type of DNA test used:
Recent Ancestry is based on autosomal DNA. You’ll learn about your ethnicity estimates and how your ancestors migrated worldwide.
Maternal Ancestry is based on mtDNA. You’ll get detailed information about your maternal lineage.
Paternal Ancestry is based on Y-DNA. You’ll get detailed information about your paternal lineage.
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Recent Ancestry
The Recent Ancestry page focuses on your family ancestry that’s determined by portions of DNA called “autosomes.”
Autosomes comprise 22 out of 23 pairs of human chromosomes. You received half of your autosomes from your mother and half from your father. They're inherited from generation to generation. This makes autosomal DNA testing sufficient in establishing ancestry patterns.
When one population group lives in one area over time, the collective DNA of the group will become distinct from the DNA of other ethnic groups. This is the basis for estimating ethnicity.
On the recent ancestry page, you can find the places where your ancestors originated. It shows a regional breakdown of your recent ancestors within ten generations or roughly 300 years.
One good thing about Living DNA is that it keeps updating. It continues collecting new data to refine the genetic signature of ancestral regions. Because of this, expect your ethnicity estimates to change whenever there’s an update. The updates are free. You can also refer to your previous results.
In my case, when I first viewed my profile in March 2019, I got this result:
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When I updated in March 2022, my results shifted a bit and became more detailed:
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My results changed again in December 2022:
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While my top ancestral region remains North and West Europe, the percentage changed from 77.8% to the most recent 91.5%.
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Maternal Ancestry
The maternal ancestry page explains details of your maternal haplogroup. It includes a migration map and a coverage map.
The migration map is one of the more exciting features I’ve seen in all the DNA testing kits I’ve taken.
It illustrates how the ancestors from my mother’s haplogroups moved through the world to where I am today. This is also called migration pattern.
My motherline signature belongs to the H13 group. This group likely came from the southern regions of Europe or the Caucasus.
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The coverage map shows where people from my maternal haplogroup live today. For instance, If I visit the Daghestan or Georgia regions, I might bump into someone with whom I share a common female ancestor.
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Paternal Ancestry
Paternal Ancestry is an additional feature for males. It explains the details of their paternal haplogroup.
It tracks the ancestry patterns of the Y-DNA or Y chromosome. Females won’t have this page since they don’t have Y chromosomes.
The paternal ancestry page also includes migration and coverage maps like maternal ancestry.
The migration map shows the journey taken by ancestors from my paternal haplogroup to get to where I am today.
In my case, my fatherline’s signature belongs to the R-M269 group. This group is most common in Europe, especially on the western side.
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The Coverage Map shows where people who share my paternal haplogroup live today. This means that if I visit regions like Wales, I may meet someone with whom I share a common male ancestor.
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Relatives
This page is about family matching. Here, you can find and connect with possible relatives who have uploaded their DNA results to Living DNA’s database.
Living DNA’s database appears to be limited compared to bigger ones like 23andMe or Ancestry DNA, so expect fewer DNA matches.
Despite this, the company has great potential to grow, considering that Living DNA comes with a lifetime of free updates. It has the capacity to help its users find relatives like the bigger players in the consumer DNA testing industry.
Other Reports — Wellbeing
This page is for those who purchased the Wellbeing Kit or the Ancestry & Wellbeing Kit. It covers 14 wellness traits:
Vitamin A
Vitamin B12
Vitamin C
Vitamin D
Omega-3
Carbohydrates and Sugars
Lactose Tolerance
Celiac Disease Risk
Maximum Strength
Recovery Speed
Endurance - Oxygen Flow
Endurance Trainability
Endurance - Blood Vessel Response
Tendon Durability
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The reports offer nutrition advice and specific exercises that may help you meet your wellness goals depending on your traits.
As a demonstration, I dug into the stamina report:
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The Stamina page includes four traits. I clicked on Recovery Speed, and it led me to this page:
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The recovery speed page gives suggestions. Roughly ten to 25% of the report is interesting, while the rest is standard health advice.
Living DNA will also generate a supplement report based on your DNA data. It will recommend a custom supplement mix, which you can order online.
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What Tests Do They Offer?
Living DNA offers three (3) types of test kits.
1. Full Ancestry Kit
The full ancestry test analyzes three (3) DNA types in one kit:
Autosomal — To establish your family ancestry patterns
Y-chromosome DNA (Y-DNA) — To trace paternal lineage, which only applies to biological males
2. Wellbeing Kit
The wellbeing kit includes assessing how your body’s genetics affect your vitamin response and food metabolism.
It analyzes 11 to 14 traits related to nutrition and exercise. It also gives you various nutrition and fitness reports, plus personalized vitamin recommendations.
3. Ancestry & Wellbeing Kit
The test kit combines all the features and reports of the ancestry and wellbeing kits.
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Living DNA Full Ancestry Test Kit
The full ancestry test kit analyzes and compares your DNA variations across over 150 regions to uncover your DNA origins.
Quick Facts on Living DNA Ancestry Test Kit
Price
$99
Collection Type
Mouth/cheek swab
DNA Testing Method
mtDNA atDNA Y-DNA
Is the Living DNA Test Accurate?
Not completely, as no genetic ancestry testing can guarantee 100% accurate information about where our ancestors lived. Fortunately, Living DNA has a sub-regional breakdown besides the larger regional analysis.
Living DNA has a majority of users from the UK. It makes their results accurate for people with European, British, and Irish ancestry.
However, ancestry reports for users with ancestors from France, Germany, Italy, or other European countries may need to be more accurate. Despite this, Living DNA’s increasing updates with their reference populations should resolve this issue over time.
Living DNA also recently expanded into Africa.
With 72 new regions, it now has one of the most extensive reference panels for African ancestry testing.4
What’s Inside The Kit?
Each Living DNA test kit includes a
Cheek swab
Return envelope
You may also add a custom supplement or ancestry book to your purchase.
How Does Living DNA Work
To initiate a DNA test:
Order a test kit from Living DNA’s website.
Once received, activate the kit online.
Swab the inside of your cheek to get a DNA sample.
Put the cheek swab into the tube.
Return your DNA swab sample to Living DNA.
Wait for test results after six to eight weeks. Mine took 25 days.
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Where Can I Buy The Test Kit?
Living DNA ancestry test kit is available on their website.
How Much Does The Test Kit Cost?
Living DNA Full Ancestry test kit costs $119 plus shipping. The prices of the other two kits are:
Both Living DNA and 23andMe combine autosomal, mtDNA, and Y-DNA into their ancestry test kits. However, 23andMe does more in terms of health screening.
Living DNA vs. AncestryDNA
Living DNA’s ancestry kit has autosomal, mtDNA, and Y-DNA tests. Ancestry DNA only tests for autosomal DNA.
Living DNA breaks your ethnicity results down into more regions. However, Ancestry DNA offers a more comprehensive family matching service.
Is Living DNA Ancestry Test Worth It?
Yes. Genetic ancestry testing offers essential insights to anyone longing to discover their origins. Living DNA is a reliable way to trace your ancestry and build your family tree.
Living DNA may have been a recent entry into the ancestry testing field since it was founded in 2016.
However, as an off-shoot of DNA Worldwide, a leader in forensic testing, it is full of potential. Living DNA has grown over the last two years to become a solid player in at-home DNA testing.
You can write Living DNA on your list if you're looking for an affordable but reliable test kit. They’re one of the cheapest kits on the market.
How We Evaluated The Test
Our team came up with a list of criteria based on the following:
Data Privacy Measures
The company has safeguards to ensure confidentiality. For example, it uses ISO:27001, an international data management and information security standard.
Living DNA also promises not to aggregate and sell your genetic DNA analysis data.
However, the company will ask for your consent to use your data for internal research. The company may ask to use your DNA data for their One Family One World Project and other genetic research.
Test Results
Living DNA can unfold essential discoveries on your ancestry with their DNA test kits. Plus, they have exciting reports like the migration pattern or map.
Types of Test
Living DNA can already look at three different types of DNA using one sample. It can give you rich information on your ancestry, including information from your father's and mother’s sides of the family.
Cost
Living DNA test kits are among the market's budget-friendly picks for at-home DNA test kits.
About the Company
Living DNA was the brainchild of the husband-and-wife team David Nicholson and Hannah Morden. It was launched in 2016 by a U.K.-based company called DNA Worldwide.
The company strives to lead the genetic DNA testing scene, aiming to be the first to map a global family tree. In 2017, it launched the One Family World Project.
The initiative is dedicated to uncovering our interrelation through DNA. In 2018, Living DNA partnered with FindMyPast to incorporate the British Isles and Irish family history records into their services.
KnowYourDNA / Joel
Why Trust Us
KnowYourDNA is committed to making healthcare more accessible to the public, which is why we feature products that meet industry standards.
We only choose at-home test kits that undergo reliable testing methods. We also picked test companies with science-backed reports aimed at improving your health.
Our in-house medical experts help ensure the accuracy of the information we give to our readers by reviewing them before publication.
Ancestry DNA Review (2024)
Key Features
Has 25+ million users as of 2024
Trace your ancestry to 3,100+ regions
Access to 60 billion historical records
Download and delete your raw DNA
Get results in six to eight weeks
Ancestry.com isn’t just a DNA testing company. It’s an online platform that offers a range of genealogy services. In this review, we’ll discover why it’s the best place to learn about your ancestors and family history.
Our team will examine the reports, features, and resources included with the kit and Ancestry’s subscriptions. We’ll also investigate its accuracy, privacy measures, pricing, and what others think of it.
Ancestry is a genetic testing service that offers at-home kits and analyzes your DNA to provide insights into your ethnicity, living relatives, and traits.
The company also provides users access to one of the world’s largest and most comprehensive databases of historical and genealogical information.
Founded in 2017 by Paul Brent Allen and Dan Taggart, Ancestry used to publish genealogical reference materials like CDs and magazines.
Pros & Cons of AncestryDNA
Here are Ancestry’s advantages and disadvantages:
AncestryDNA Pros
Matches with potential family and identifies ethnic origins
Reports on 75+ traits – including genes that affect health
Simplifies navigation and interpretation of DNA results
Continuously updates results with new data
Helpful resources and support for contacting matches
AncestryDNA Cons
Historical records require an additional subscription
It doesn’t test for genetic health risks like 23andMe
What Customers Say About AncestryDNA
Ancestry has a rating of 3.5 out of 5⭐ on Trustpilot from over 28,700+ people who have used their service. Below is a summary of their reviews:
Positive Feedback
Many customers appreciate its detailed ethnicity estimates, ability to connect with potential relatives, interactive family tree builder, helpful ancestry hints, and integration with historical records. It also has a user-friendly platform and a wealth of educational resources.
Negative Feedback
Users often complain about its membership plans, which can be expensive and frustrating once your subscription expires. Some are also overwhelmed by the amount of information available, while others aren’t convinced by the accuracy of ethnicity estimates for smaller and less-studied regions.
Ancestry Reports From AncestryDNA
Ancestry offers reports on your ancestral origins, genetic matches, and “DNA by parent,” depending on what’s included with your kit.
DNA Matches
Ancestry helps you connect to potential relatives by finding people who share your DNA. It can also tell how you might be related to each other.
Here are some of the relatives you might find on Ancestry:
A child or a parent
A sibling or identical twin
An aunt or uncle
A niece or nephew
A grandparent or grandchild
First, second, third, and fourth cousins
Fifth, sixth, and eighth cousins
With this feature, you can discover half and full relatives, including close family with up to 4 degrees of separation, distant relatives with up to 9 degrees of separation, and cousins who are once, twice, or thrice removed.
Ancestral Origins
The company uses your unique genetic makeup to identify places where your ancestors likely came from (origins) and where they settled (journeys).
Ancestral Regions
The report traces the origins of your ancestors from over 1,000 years ago to 167 different regions around the world, including:
Europe (87 regions)
Asia (36 regions)
Africa (23 regions)
America (14 regions)
Oceania (7 regions)
You’ll also get an Ethnicity Estimate for every ancestral region on your report, which shows how much DNA you share with people in these areas.
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Regions with higher percentages suggest that a significant portion of your ancestry can be traced to them. However, those with lower percentages are places where fewer ancestors likely originate from based on your DNA.
Ancestral Journeys
It traces the origins of recent ancestors from the past 300 years to nearly 3,100 locations, including towns and counties from these places:
America (1,741 journeys)
Europe (1,195 journeys)
Asia (126 journeys)
Oceania (32 journeys)
Africa (9 journeys)
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In addition to narrowing down your ancestral origins to specific locations, this report provides a more intimate look into your family history.
It shows you how they might have migrated around the world, the historical events they lived through, and their daily life.
DNA By Parent
If you subscribe to Ancestry’s membership plans, you will also receive reports that provide additional insights into your ancestry, such as:
Which side of the family your DNA relatives are from
Whether an ancestor is from your mother's or father’s side
Your maternal and paternal origins and journeys
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Trait Reports
Ancestry can also give you insights on 76 genetic traits if you upgrade your kit or have an active membership. These reports are classified into:
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Personality – includes 13 traits that influence who you are (e.g., if you’re an introvert or extrovert, risk-taking behavior, or pet preferences)
Nutrients – covers 6 nutrients and how your body utilizes them (e.g., omega-3 fatty acid and vitamins A, B12, C, D, and E)
Fitness – focuses on 30 traits that impact physical performance (e.g., hand-eye coordination, heart rate recovery, and muscle fatigue)
Sensory – includes 11 traits related to your sense perception (e.g., caffeine intake, tolerance to dairy or spicy foods, and sensitivity to tastes)
Appearance – highlights 16 traits that affect your looks (e.g., hair and eye color, skin pigmentation, cleft chin, and finger length)
Genealogical Research on AncestryDNA
Ancestry.com gives access to over 60 billion historical records and genealogical data, making it a great platform for ancestry research. The type of information you’ll have access to depends on your membership.
US Records – discover ancestors from the US, the US Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico. It includes birth, marriage, death, census records, and more.
International Records – access birth, marriage, and death records of ancestors from over 80 countries worldwide.
Newspapers.com™ Publisher Extra – a subscription that lets you search headline news, obituaries, social events, and other stories.
Fold3® Subscription – discover ancestors who served through global military records, such as those from WWII and the US Civil War.
Special Records – includes a curated collection of records on Jewish, Native American, and African American heritage.
Other AncestryDNA Features
Ancestry.com also has other tools and features that will help you build a comprehensive picture of your family history, such as:
Family tree building – includes guided tools and advanced search features so you can create and expand your tree
Family tree sharing – invite family members to view or edit your tree or find out who they’ve added to their own trees
Ancestry hints – receive automated clues to help discover new ancestors and stories, which can help speed up your research
Community and collaboration – connect with other Ancestry members and share family trees for assistance and valuable insights
DNA traits comparison – available with AncestryDNA Traits, it allows you to compare your genetic traits with other members
Photo features – organize and enhance family photos through tagging, colorization, sharpening, and scanning tools
Audio features – upload and store recorded audio to enrich your family history with stories, voice memos, and other personal notes
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How Accurate Is AncestryDNA?
Ancestry has an accuracy rate of 99% when reading your DNA. This means it can accurately identify which genetic markers you have.
The accuracy of each report may vary based on different factors, although the DNA testing company does take the following measures to ensure it:
Uses a geographically diverse reference panel
Predicts ethnicity estimates based on the likely range
Filters false positive matches with algorithms
Constantly updates its science and data
Ancestry’s DNA matches are “highly accurate” for close relationships until 4th cousins but can be less reliable when identifying distant relatives.
Is AncestryDNA Safe?
Yes. You can trust Ancestry with your data since it employs industry-grade security practices to prioritize your safety. These include:
Your data isn’t shared with third parties without consent
A legal process is required for law enforcement access
You can delete your account and your test results
Option to destroy your physical saliva sample by request
Stores your results and samples without identifiable data
Encrypts DNA data and other personal information
Choose whether your DNA data can be used for research
DNA data access is limited to authorized personnel
Features two-factor authentication for account security
Giving you the option to download your DNA data anytime
How Much Does AncestryDNA Cost?
The basic AncestryDNA Kit costs $39 and includes reports on your DNA Matches and Ancestral Origins. But if you want extra reports on your traits, you can purchase the AncestryDNA + Traits Kit for $49.
New customers can save more with the following packages:
AncestryDNA + World Membership – $40
AncestryDNA + All Access Membership – $49
These bundles include Ancestry’s DNA testing kit and a three-month subscription to your chosen membership, which provides access to records and additional reports on your genetic traits and DNA by parents.
Cost of Ancestry Membership
Ancestry.com offers memberships that can provide additional reports (if you bought the kit before) and access to records you can use for research.
Features
US Discovery Membership
World Membership
All Access Membership
Monthly Subscription
$19.99/mo
$34.99/mo
$54.99/mo
Six-month Subscription
$16.50/mo
$24.83/mo
$39.83/mo
Special Records Access
Yes
Yes
Yes
US Records Access
Yes
Yes
Yes
International Records Access
No
Yes
Yes
Military Records Access (Fold3®)
No
No
Yes
Newspaper Records (Newspapers.com™)
No
No
Yes
Is AncestryDNA Worth It?
Ancestry.com is the best place to start if you’ve never taken a DNA test and want to discover relatives or focus on exploring your ethnicity. Even without the kit, you can access resources for ancestry research with a subscription.
But this isn’t a good option if you want to know more about genes that affect your health. You’ll be better off with companies that offer wellness reports, such as 23andMe and Genomelink.
Our Verdict: For a reasonable price, 23andMe gave me a lot of useful and interesting information on my ancestry, health, and other genetic traits.
Even without a membership, I received more than 150+ reports and access to its features, like the relative finder and family tree builder.
All it took was a saliva sample and a few weeks of waiting before receiving my reports. The 23andMe app made it so much easier to view my results.
However, what makes 23andMe truly stand out from its competition are its comprehensive health reports.
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While it couldn’t check for every possible health risk, it tested me for some of the most debilitating conditions—like type 2 diabetes and certain types of cancers.
There’s just one thing I don’t like about 23andMe: it doesn’t let you upload raw data from other companies like Ancestry or My Heritage.
So if you’ve taken other tests and downloaded your DNA data from these services, you can’t use them to find relatives or build your family tree on 23andMe.
While this is meant to protect your data and privacy, it’s a missed opportunity considering that 23andMe has the second largest database next to Ancestry.
About 23andMe
23andMe offers DNA testing kits for ancestry, health, and other genetic traits.
23andMe tests are available online. You can take them at home and get your results in three to five weeks–making it a convenient way to learn more about your DNA.
A simple, non-invasive test that requires a saliva sample
You’ll get detailed reports that are accurate but easy to understand
You don’t have to be a 23andMe+ member to access most features
Have full control over your DNA data, samples, and personal details
Secures your information with the best standards in data privacy
Cons
It doesn’t test for all disease-causing genetic variants
You can’t upload your genetic data from other DNA services
23andMe Tests – Which One Should You Take?
23andMe offers the following tests. Pick the service that can provide you with the results you need.
Here’s an overview of 23andMe’s DNA tests and what you’ll get:
1. 23andMe Ancestry Service
This is a DNA testing kit with the most complete ancestry breakdown and 30+ trait reports. The ancestry reports include where your ancestors originated and how they migrated across the globe.
Your DNA often holds the key to finding out where your ancestors came from across 2750+ regions—sometimes down to the county level.
You can also find DNA matches with this test. Your DNA matches can help you discover potential distant relatives from all over the world.
2. 23andMe Health + Ancestry
This test has everything that the 23andMe ancestry test offers. However, you’ll also get a comprehensive health report that includes your:
Genetic predisposition – Your risk of developing certain medical conditions, like breast cancer and colorectal cancer
Carrier status –Genetic conditions that your children might inherit, such as nonsyndromic hearing loss and deafness
The kit also checks for health traits that influence your health and lifestyle, such as your muscle composition and lactose intolerance.
3. 23andMe+ Premium
This genetic testing kit includes the 23andMe Health + Ancestry kit (plus all the reports that come with it) and a one-year membership to the DNA testing service.
Signing up for 23andMe+ gives you access to updated reports and new features you wouldn’t normally get if you simply purchased their kits.
You’ll also get additional reports on 20+ health risks, four wellness traits, and a pharmacogenetics report on genes that affect your metabolism of certain drugs.
23andMe added the Health Tracks feature so you can better understand how genetics and lifestyle can impact your likelihood of developing specific genetic conditions. This DNA test kit also has a Health Action Plan to get tailored recommendations, including those for clinical screenings and lab work, based on genetic and non-genetic data.
4. 23andMe+ Total Health
This is the most advanced health membership from 23andMe. This combines next-generation exome sequencing, blood testing, and direct access to clinical services.
When you sign up for it, you get access to biannual blood testing involving advanced cardiometabolic biomarkers and insights into your thyroid, liver, kidneys, and more.
It is loaded with 190+ personalized genotyping reports with ongoing new reports and features delivered throughout the year.
My 23andMe Results
I personally went with the 23andMe Ancestry Service and received comprehensive reports on my ancestry, health, and other genetic traits.
Here’s what they look like:
My 23andMe Ancestry Reports
23andMe uses your DNA samples to look for insights into your genetic genealogy. This information is compiled into four separate reports, namely:
You’ll get a total of 50+ genetic ancestry reports, which you can find in the Ancestry section.
1. Ancestry Composition
The report gives you a comprehensive ancestry breakdown by telling you where your ancestors may have lived for five to ten generations.
You can access this information on the 23andMe website through Ancestry > Ancestry Composition. Here is my ancestry composition report:
KnowYourDNA / Joel
23andMe says my ancestry is 100% European. My report further breaks down the regions and subregions my ancestors likely originated in Europe.
For example, my results showed 50.1% French and German ancestry.
If I click that region, I can see places with DNA similar to my recent ancestors–like the Netherlands, Germany, etc.
2. Maternal & Paternal Haplogroups
This report shows you the migration routes of your ancestors from up to 50,000 years ago. This includes ancestors from your maternal and/or paternal lines.
23andMe does this by testing your mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) and Y-chromosome DNA (Y-DNA).
Below is a report on my maternal haplogroups. You can access it by going to Ancestry > Ancestry Overview > Maternal Haplogroup > View Your Report.
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Meanwhile, this is what my paternal haplogroups look like. You can see it on Ancestry > Ancestry Overview > Maternal Haplogroup > View Your Report.
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These two reports tell separate stories of my ancestral origins and migration routes of my maternal and paternal lines. They even include fun historical tidbits, like my maternal haplogroup being common in several European royal houses.
It was interesting to learn more about my family history. However, you should remember that haplogroup reports will vary for men and women.
Men will receive full reports on their maternal and paternal lineages. Women only get a report on their maternal haplogroup. If you were born female, you can gain insights on your paternal haplogroup if you have a male relative who’s been previously tested by 23andMe.
This is because while men and women inherit their mtDNA from female ancestors, only men get their Y-DNA from male ancestors.
3. Neanderthal Ancestry
In this report, you’ll find out how much Neanderthal DNA you have. 23andMe also shows how your results compare to most people who have taken the test.
For example, I have more Neanderthal DNA than 32% of 23andMe customers. I also have less than 2% Neanderthal DNA in comparison.
You can access this information by going to Ancestry > Ancestry Overview > Neanderthal Ancestry > View Your Report.
KnowYourDNA / Joel
Most people have an average of 2.5% Neanderthal DNA. People with a higher percentage of this gene may have more body hair or shorter stature.
Neanderthals (Homo neanderthalensis) were prehistoric humans who interbred with modern humans (Homo sapiens) before disappearing 40,000 years ago.
Though Neanderthals were like modern humans in many ways, they had bigger brains and muscles.
My 23andMe Health & Traits Reports
23andMe is the only at-home DNA testing kit approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to test for genetic risks that you or a future child may have.
The health and traits section includes reports on your:
Health predisposition
Carrier status
Wellness
Traits
Health action plan
You will receive a total of 55+ health reports and eight wellness reports. This section also covers 30+ genetic traits that make up who you are.
As of 2022, 23andMe has three FDA (510)k clearances and five “de novo” authorizations to provide health reports.
1. Health Predisposition
23andMe tests for genetic variants linked to health conditions. This report tells you which variants you have and whether you’re at increased risk of developing them.
You will receive over 10+ health reports on the following health risks:
Age-related macular degeneration
Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency
Breast and ovarian cancer
Celiac disease
Chronic kidney disease
Familial hypercholesterolemia
G6PD efficiency
Hereditary amyloidosis
Hereditary colorectal cancer syndrome
Hereditary hemochromatosis
Hereditary prostate cancer
Hereditary thrombophilia
Late-onset Alzheimer’s disease
Parkinson’s disease
Type 2 diabetes
Some of these health reports (like prostate cancer) are exclusive to men. There are also reports (like ovarian cancer) limited to female test-takers.
Below is a snapshot of my health predisposition reports. You can find it through Health & Traits > Health Predisposition.
My report says I have genes linked to age-related macular degeneration and hereditary hemochromatosis. However, the report also tells me these genes are not enough to put me at risk.
You can click on each condition to learn how it affects your health and which genetic mutations they’re associated with.
Here’s what I see when I click on one of them:
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Keep in mind that having a genetic health risk doesn’t guarantee you will develop a health problem.
Unhealthy lifestyles–such as poor diet and lack of exercise–may also put you at risk for some diseases, even if you don’t have the genes they’re associated with.
The test simply identifies health conditions that you may be at risk for based on your genetic makeup. It isn’t meant to diagnose actual illnesses.
If you have genetic health risks, you should talk to a doctor and genetic counselor. A doctor can assess your health and give you instructions and guidelines to reduce or prevent health risks.
2. Carrier Status
Not all genetic mutations will directly affect your health. You can carry them in your DNA and pass them on to your future offspring.
A carrier status report tells you whether or not you have genes that may cause health problems in your children.
23andMe can test your carrier status for 45 diseases, including:
Beta thalassemia
Bloom syndrome
Cystic fibrosis
Familial Mediterranean fever
Glycogen storage disease
Limb-Girdle muscular dystrophy
Phenylketonuria
Pyruvate kinase deficiency
Sickle cell anemia
Tay-Sachs disease
You can find all 45 reports through Health & Traits > Carrier Status. Here’s a snapshot of my carrier status page:
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If you’re a carrier for a particular disease, talk to a licensed doctor or a genetic counselor.
3. Wellness Reports
Your wellness reports feature genetic traits related to your health and lifestyle. You’ll get a total of eight wellness reports. Some of these include:
How much coffee you will likely consume
Whether or not you’re a “deep sleeper” who’s difficult to wake
Your likelihood for weight gain and lactose intolerance
Here’s a snapshot of my wellness page. You can view it on Health & Traits > Wellness.
KnowYourDNA / Joel
Your results may not surprise you, but it’s quite interesting to know their genetic cause. If you want to investigate each trait, you can click on the reports.
4. Traits Report
The trait reports provide insights into your unique features and characteristics.
Here, you’ll learn some fun-to-know facts about yourself that you probably didn’t know were genetic, like:
How often mosquitoes will likely bite you
What time of the day you wake up
Your hatred for the sound of chewing
You can get up to 37 trait reports, depending if you’re male or female. Some of these reports (like your risk for early hair loss and bald spots) are for men only.
This is no doubt the most fun report I received from 23andMe. It’s largely a novelty feature, but it’s a great way to explore which strange traits you have.
Here’s a snapshot of my trait reports. You can access your report by going to Health & Traits > Traits.
KnowYourDNA / Joel
Other 23andMe Features
The DNA service offers these features as well, depending on your membership and the kit you purchased:
1. Pharmacogenetics Report
This report is exclusive to 23andMe+ members. It shows you how your body might react to certain medications, including:
Capecitabine
Citalopram
Clopidogrel
Fluorouracil
Omeprazole
Many of these drugs are used to treat depression and cancer. They’re also used to lower your risk for heart disease and stroke.
2. 23andMe Relative Finder
It’s an optional feature you can get with 23andMe kits. If you decide to opt-in, 23andMe will find your DNA matches across its 12 million users.
People who sign up for 23andMe+ can use enhanced ancestry features, which include advanced filtering and access to 5,000 more DNA relatives.
You’ll receive email alerts about possible connections and how they might be related to you. You can view these connections as a list, a family tree, or a map.
You can see your possible relatives or family connections under Ancestry > DNA Relatives. Or you can go directly to the Family & Friends tab.
3. Automatic Family Tree Builder
This feature is available to anyone who buys a 23andMe test. However, you can only access it if you enable DNA matches.
It automatically creates your family tree using your DNA matches and by comparing your DNA with others who have also taken the test.
There’s an option to add relatives manually to your 23andMe family tree.
The 23andMe family tree builder can show your connection to close family members, such as your parents and siblings–up until your third cousins.
You can request 23andMe to discard your DNA sample
To help protect your privacy, 23andMe also lets you control the information shown to your genetic matches in the DNA Relative Finder.
For example, you can choose to display your full name or initials to other 23andMe members. Alternatively, you can use a pseudonym.3
If you hide your name, your DNA matches will have to send you an exchange request. You can only send to or receive messages from people you add as a connection.
2. Informed Consent
The DNA testing company works with pharmaceutical companies and researchers to develop treatments and study certain health conditions.
You can decide whether or not to share your data, join clinical trials, and take part in surveys. If you decide to participate, 23andMe will de-identify your data.
This prevents researchers from connecting your name and other identifiable information to your data.
23andMe won’t share your data with insurance companies, employers, and law enforcement without your consent and unless required by law.
In fact, 23andMe received 11 requests for the personal information of 15 members as of October 2022–but has not released this data.4
3. Data Security Compliance & Certifications
23andMe has General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) compliance, which is currently the “toughest privacy and security law” in the world.5,6
This means 23andMe meets the data protection standards of European countries and that consumers who take the test are protected by law.
In the U.S., 23andMe does not need to abide by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAAA) since it isn’t a medical test. Still, it follows state regulations on privacy and disclosing personal information.
23andMe also received various certifications for its Information Security Management System (ISMS), such as ISO/IEC 27001:2013, 27018, and 27701.7
This suggests that 23andMe has adequate security measures to protect your data from unauthorized access, like hacking or a data breach.
How Much Does 23andMe Cost?
A DNA test kit from 23andMe costs $99 to $299, depending on which test you buy and whether you sign up for a membership upfront.
23andMe Ancestry Service – $119
23andMe Health + Ancestry – $229
23andMe+ Premium – $298
23andMe+ Total Health – $99/month
23andMe offers discounts every now and the so check their website regularly.
What’s Inside The 23andMe Kit?
You’ll get the same saliva collection kit no matter which test you order. Here’s what you get with your 23andMe test kit:
Saliva collection tube
Stabilizing liquid
Lid for sealing the tube
Easy-to-follow instructions
Collection bag (secures your sample)
Prepaid return shipping box and label
How Does 23andMe Work?
First, you’ll have to order a DNA test. You can buy one from the 23andMe website or through Amazon, although the latter runs out of stock sometimes.
Once you receive your kit, open the package and follow these steps:
Register your kit on the 23andMe website
Provide your saliva samples as instructed in the printout
Send in your samples with the prepaid shipping kit
Wait for your test results
23andMe combines autosomal DNA testing with Y-DNA and mtDNA testing. This allows the company to provide comprehensive ancestry results.
How Long Does 23andMe Take?
Your 23andMe kit should arrive within three to five days of purchasing it online, but you can get it faster if you opt for express delivery.
23andMe DNA results are usually ready in four to six weeks from when a sample arrives at the laboratory.
23and Me vs. Competitors
Features
23andMe
AncestryDNA
Living DNA
MyHeritage DNA
Family Tree DNA
Database Size
12 million
22 million
Unknown
6.6 million
Smaller database
Health Tests
FDA-cleared tests
Limited
Current health focus
Add-on
Health-related variants
Ancestry
Maternal, paternal
General ancestry
Limited to specific regions
Limited to specific descents
Maternal, paternal
Historical records
Limited
Added fee
Not specified
Accessible
Limited
Price
$119-$298
$99-$199
$119-$199
$39
$79-$449
23andMe vs. Ancestry DNA
You can’t go wrong with Ancestry if you want to know more about your ancestors or find people you may be related to.
Compared to 23andMe and its 12 million users, AncestryDNA has a much larger database (22 million) that gives you better chances of finding genetic matches. Ancestry also provides access to billions of historical records for an added fee. It’s a great option if you want to dig deeper into your family health history.
That said, 23andMe is better for tracing maternal and paternal lines. It’s also the only company to offer FDA-cleared genetic health tests.
While Ancestry tests for a few health-related traits–like genes that affect your nutrition and physical fitness–it’s not quite as robust as 23andMe’s health tests.
Both companies have ancestry and health tests. However, LivingDNA lets you buy these tests separately and for a more affordable price.
LivingDNA also has unique DNA reports and actionable steps. For example:
Instead of focusing on health risks, Living DNA mostly tests for variants that affect your current health–like how you absorb certain nutrients
It suggests health advice and personalized vitamins based on your results
People with ancestors from Africa, Europe, Ireland, and the British Isles will receive more detailed ancestry results
Unfortunately, LivingDNA only compares your DNA with 150 regions. If most of your ancestors are from outside these places, you may not get reliable results.
Family Tree DNA offers unique services, including separate tests for maternal and paternal ancestry, as well as a combined kit for family ancestry.
It can also test for variants that affect your health. Depending on your results, it suggests DNA-based meal plans and workouts to improve your wellness.
Sadly, Family Tree has a much smaller database and may not give you accurate results like 23andMe. Read our Family Tree DNA review for more information.
How We Evaluated 23andMe
We evaluate at-home DNA tests like 23andMe based on seven criteria:
Reputation and trustworthiness
Available tests and reports
Additional resources
Accuracy of the DNA test
How it protects your privacy
Convenience of testing
Cost and additional fees
1. Reputation & Trustworthiness
Our 23andMe Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
A reputable DNA testing company is transparent about the services it offers. Some important details that should be publicly available are:
The size of a company’s user database
The type of samples it collects
The type of tests it performs
What kind of results you’re getting
A reliable company also lives up to its claims. For example, if they say that your results will arrive in five weeks, then it shouldn’t take longer than that.
We looked up DNA testing companies and what customers are saying about them so we could get a better feel of whether or not people trusted them.
23andMe is transparent about its testing process, the tests it offers, and the reports you will get with each test.
However, there are consistent complaints of kits and test results arriving late for buyers from outside the U.S. or packages getting lost in transit–among others.
Despite its shortcomings, 23andMe remains one of the most trusted DNA companies.
2. Tests & Usefulness of Results
Our 23andMe Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Most DNA companies have a range of genetic tests. The type and depth of information they provide depend on the test and the provider.
Finding a useful test is subjective and entirely up to you. In general, you should buy a kit that gives you the results you’re looking for.
23andMe is a good option if you want to know your mother’s and father’s ancestry. If you take the health test, it can identify diseases that you and your child might be at risk for.
While it gives you valuable insights into these diseases, it doesn’t tell you what to do about them. You’ll have to take these results to a doctor or a genetic counselor who can offer professional advice and guidance on the next steps.
3. Support
Our 23andMe Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Apart from your test results, companies may provide access to features that will help you learn more about your ancestry, expand your family tree, and so on.
We took tests from different DNA testing services to see what features they offered and compared them with others.
23andMe can use your results to build your family tree and find potential relatives in its database. The company also lets you download your raw DNA.
Unfortunately, it doesn’t give you the option to upload your data or provide access to records that might be useful for investigating your family history.
4. DNA Test Accuracy
Our 23andMe Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Several factors affect the accuracy of DNA tests. Some of them include the:
Testing method used
Laboratory where samples are analyzed
Size of a company’s database
Variety of reference panels
Number of regions tested
We found that the most accurate DNA tests have large databases, a greater variety of reference populations, and more regions to compare your results with.
23andMe has the second largest database next to Ancestry DNA. It compares your genetic profile to its 12,000+ members and reference panels from more than 2,000 global regions to uncover your ancestry.
Samples are analyzed in laboratories certified by the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) and accredited by the College of American Pathologists (CAP).8
This ensures the accuracy and reliability of 23andMe’s results.
5. Privacy of Your Data
Our 23andMe Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Most private DNA tests comply with the latest data privacy standards. If there are changes in their privacy policies, they will let you know.
They’ll also give you full control over your data and always ask for your consent on what to do with it.
23andMe has taken extra measures to ensure your privacy. For starters, you’ll have complete control of your data and be able to download and delete it.
The company won’t share your details (not even with law enforcement) without your consent or a court order. Plus, 23andMe has GDPR compliance and various ISO certifications.
6. Convenience of the Testing Process
Our 23andMe Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
At-home tests are meant to be convenient. From the moment you buy a kit up until the moment you send your samples–the process should be easy.
You can order tests on 23andMe’s website using a wide range of payment methods. Your package will include a prepaid shipping box so you can conveniently send back your samples.
Taking the test is just as simple. The instructions are printed out for you, but there’s also a video on how to collect your saliva sample.
7. Cost & Additional Fees
Our 23andMe Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The best DNA tests give you your money’s worth. They should be priced reasonably, depending on the reports they offer.
While features are sometimes hidden behind a paywall, they should still be affordable.
You might also want to consider buying a test covered by your Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spendings Account (FSA).
23andMe has some of the most affordable tests in the market. You can access most of its features just by buying a kit. Membership is affordable, and you can use your HSA or FSA to cover a portion of the costs.9
I’ve been testing DNA kits for the last seven years and have taken every DNA test on the market. I’ve compared results and have been committed to testing and tracking any changes over time.
As an organization, we at KnowYourDNA are committed to helping you get the most accurate information about your ancestry, health risks, and other genetic traits.
We only choose at-home DNA tests that meet the standards of the DNA testing industry and provide reliable testing methods.
Our in-house medical experts help ensure the accuracy of our articles by reviewing them before publication.
GPS Origins Review (2024)
GPS Origin’s reports aren’t as comprehensive as Ancestry or 23andMe, but they do have some unique features. GPS Origins was the only test that told me the exact town/village where my ancestors likely lived.
Other tests typically only make an estimate of your ancestry’s regional origins, but GPS was surprisingly specific. You can also upload raw DNA onto their website and still get results. Overall, it’s a good way to learn more about your ancestry without taking a test.
Although it isn’t the best DNA test on the market, it’s a good starting point. GPS Origins is also a good option if you have Asian and/or African ancestry.
Our Ratings
Reputation & trustworthiness: ⭐⭐⭐
Test & results: ⭐⭐⭐
Support: ⭐⭐⭐
DNA test accuracy: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Privacy: ⭐⭐⭐
Convenience: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Cost & additional fees: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
GPS Origins Pros & Cons
GPS Origins is a unique DNA test with its own pros and cons.
Pros
Cons
It’s a simple, non-invasive test that requires a saliva sample.
Tests for Asian and African ancestry are sold separately.
It can give you the exact location of where your ancestors lived.
GPS Origins doesn’t give you much for the price it’s asking.
It can give detailed reports for those of Asian or African descent.
It only accepts older DNA data for uploading.
How Does GPS Origins Work?
GPS Origins is an autosomal DNA test like Ancestry and 23andMe. This means it looks at 22 out of the 23 pairs of your human chromosomes.
GPS Origins doesn’t provide the usual ethnicity percentages you get from other autosomal DNA tests. Instead, it looks at the origins of your ancestors, pinpoints the exact village or town where your ancestors stayed, and traces their migration routes.
GPS origin results are divided into two parts: Gene Pool Percentages and DNA Migration Routes. It walks you through human evolution since it began 360 million years ago.
Compared to Ancestry or 23andMe, GPS Origins’ reports are easier to navigate. But it’s only because it fits on one page, which leaves much to be desired. Below is a breakdown of what you’ll get:
1. Gene Pool Percentages
GPS origins determine your genetic ancestry through gene pools. These are the sum of a population’s genetic makeup at a given time. This information helps GPS Origins uncover two things about your DNA:
Which communities contributed to your unique DNA signature
Specific places your ancestors lived
The exact location of your ancestors including historic towns or villages.
2. DNA Migration Routes
The migration maps show the top six locations where your DNA underwent the most changes. They also tell a visual story of your ancestors’ migration journeys.
Unfortunately, GPS Origins can’t tell you which migration routes are from your mother’s or father’s side of the family. That’s because it only tests your autosomal DNA, not YDNA or mtDNA. You would have had to take different DNA tests to know your paternal or maternal lineage–like the 23andMe Ancestry Kit.
My GPS Origins Report
I took the GPS Origins DNA Test Kit since I have mostly European ancestry. Here’s what my gene pool percentage looks like:
By default, the report will include your top three gene pools. Clicking on a pool reveals the maps associated with them or the places where your ancestors lived. If you want to see your full report, click on the “All Gene Pools” button.
In my case, I have 13 gene pools:
19.2 percent of my DNA is from communities in Fennoscandia (now modern-day Norway, Sweden, and Finland).
14.3 percent of my DNA is from communities in the Orkney Islands (located north of Scotland).
13.9 percent of my DNA is from communities in Southern France.
Some of these match up with my results from 23andMe and Ancestry. However, there are a few differences.
GPS Origins vs. Other Companies
My AncestryDNA report says that I share most of my DNA with people from Norway, which is close to what GPS Origins found. On the other hand, my 23andMe results say most of my DNA is shared with French and German populations (Norway only comes second).
There’s really no way of telling which DNA test is the most accurate. But it’s interesting to see some similarities in my reports.
You can learn more about your top three gene pools by clicking “Read Full Story.” This will open you up to your ancestral communities’ history, language, and migration patterns.
GPS Origins
23AndMe
AncestryDNA
Chromosomes Analyzed
Autosomal DNA
Autosomal DNA
Autosomal DNA
Additional Chromosome Tests
None
mtDNA, YDNA
mtDNA, YDNA
Ethnicity
Not provided
Provided
Provided
Focus
Origins of ancestors, migration routes
Ancestry based on ethnicity percentages
Ancestry with additional insights from mtDNA and YDNA
Other GPS Origins Features
Like most DNA kits, GPS Origins allows you to download your raw DNA data. You can upload it to other DNA testing companies to learn more about your genes.
GPS Origins also lets you upload genetic data from three competitors, namely: Ancestry, 23andMe, and Family Tree DNA. However, it doesn’t accept 23andMe Version 5 Data or Family Tree DNA data downloaded after November 2018.
Is GPS Origins Test Accurate?
GPS Origins is very specific when it comes to providing the exact location of your DNA’s origins. If your parents came from the same place and share similar gene pools, GPS Origins can trace their DNA signatures to the country of their origin 81 percent of the time.
GPS Origins claims to predict the correct country of origin of at least one parent 96 percent of the time. However, some genetics experts have valid concerns about GPS Origins’ accuracy.
GPS Origins Tests
GPS Origins has three DNA testing services. Here is an overview of each test:
1. GPS Origins® Ancestry Test
The DNA kit helps determine your ancestry. You’ll get reports on:
Your maternal and paternal ancestors’ migration route
Places where your ancestors lived and mixed with locals
Find out which populations contributed to your genetic profile
This kit is ideal if you don’t know your family history or if you have mixed ancestry. It’s because the test can trace your ancestral origins to different places.
2. GPS Origins® African Edition
The test confirms your African ancestry. It can provide a detailed report on the migration path of your African ancestors.
It can also provide a full ethnicity estimate that shows how much DNA you share with other people. We recommend this test for people with known ancestors from Africa or who have good reason to believe they have African heritage.
3. GPS Origins® Asian Edition
The kit determines your Asian ancestry and gives you detailed results on your Asian ancestral composition. It can also provide a complete ethnicity profile that identifies people with common ancestors. It works best for people with Asian ancestors or if you think you are of Asian descent.
How GPS Origins Protects Your Privacy
Out of all the at-home DNA tests I’ve taken, GPS Origins was the least secure because it requires that you place your name on the test kit when you return it.
Other companies assign kit numbers to your tests, removing any personally identifiable information that will reveal your identity. Despite these privacy issues, GPS takes other measures to secure your privacy.
For example, the company:
Destroys all test samples after testing is complete (except for legal paternity tests).
Only analyzes and stores data for the specific test ordered by the customer. This means the lab won’t perform other types of analysis on existing data.
Does not maintain publicly accessible databases of ancestry-related or other data.
Is committed to protecting the security of customers’ information. The company uses industry-standard security technologies and procedures to help protect customer information from unauthorized access, use, or disclosure.
Does not share or sell customer data with companies or entities not connected to DNA Diagnostics Center. Because of this policy, “opt-out” is not considered necessary.
How Much Does GPS Origins Cost?
GPS Origins’ tests cost $199 on HomeDNA’s website. However, this DNA test kit is resold by other retailers, so you’ll encounter prices ranging from $99 to $199. If you want to upload your raw DNA data, it will cost you $39.
For its price, this DNA test kit is pretty basic. You’ll get the same testing kit regardless of which test you buy, and it contains the following:
Four cheek swabs for collecting the DNA sample
An envelope for storing your DNA sample
A return envelope (postage-paid for U.S. customers)
Instructions
How Does GPS Origins Kit Work?
You can buy the test at HomeDNA’s website or other online retailers. When it arrives, the first thing you need to do is register the kit.
Afterward, you can collect test samples and send them back for analysis. To collect your DNA sample:
Swab your check four different times
Wait for your samples to dry
Put the swabs in the envelope and send them back
You’ll get an email once they have received your DNA samples.
Your personalized DNA test results should arrive within six weeks. I got mine in 17 days—one of the fastest I’ve received.
Is the GPS Origins Test Worth It?
Although GPS Origins makes the extraordinary claim of finding specific regions where your ancestors lived, it sounds dubious and doesn’t seem to be with it. While the results are unique, GPS Origins is pretty limited when put up against the likes of 23andMe or AncestryDNA.
For example, GPS Origins gives you one page of information. The competition provides health traits, possible relatives, and more in-depth ancestry information.
Moreover, the test kit can be quite expensive, and the information it provides doesn’t justify the price tag. That being said, the test goes deep when it comes to things like migration patterns.
Why Trust Us
I’ve been testing DNA kits for the last seven years and have taken every DNA test on the market. I’ve compared results and have been committed to testing and tracking any changes over time.
As an organization, we at KnowYourDNA are committed to helping you get the most accurate information about your ancestry, health risks, and other genetic traits.
We only choose at-home DNA tests that meet the standards of the DNA testing industry and provide reliable testing methods. Our in-house medical experts help ensure the accuracy of our articles by reviewing them before publication.
