DNA Painter is a collection of genealogy tools for organizing shared-DNA evidence, testing relationship hypotheses, and mapping chromosome segments to known relatives. It does not perform a DNA test or identify an ancestor by itself; the result depends on the match data, family records, and assumptions you bring to the tool.
The site was created by genealogist and developer Jonny Perl. Its current tools include chromosome maps, ancestral trees, the Shared cM Project tool, and What Are the Odds? (WATO) relationship trees.
DNA Painter works with information from existing tests such as 23andMe, FamilyTreeDNA, MyHeritage, GEDmatch, Living DNA, and AncestryDNA. The data requirement depends on the task: the Shared cM tool can use a total shared-cM value, while chromosome mapping requires the chromosome number and segment coordinates that some testing services do not provide. DNA Painter says its maps store match-segment data rather than the raw A, C, G, and T values from a DNA file.
How Does DNA Painter Work?
DNA Painter can make interpreting the results of an autosomal DNA test significantly easier. It helps you:
- Thoroughly assess what they know about their ancestry by importing or building a family tree
- Map DNA segments to ancestors and ascertain how they are related to a DNA match
- Identify unknown ancestors using matches by using tools for chromosome mapping
Essentially, DNA Painter lets you “paint” individual DNA segments, differentiating maternal and paternal copies of a specific chromosome. You highlight part of your data, and then anyone matching that exact spot is likely related to that side of your family.
How to Get Started on DNA Painter
Here are a few simple steps on how to create your DNA Painter account:
- Register by going to their website.
- Fill out the registration box then go to your email to verify your account.
- Log in and go to the DNA Painter Dashboard.
- You can create an Ancestral Tree or do a Chromosome Map, depending on what you want to do.
The DNA Painter interface is very intuitive and easy to understand and navigate. If you’re new to chromosome mapping, there’s a how-to video that can help.
DNA Painter Tools
At the top of the DNA Painter dashboard are three online tools. Each one gives you a different way to visualize your DNA:
1. Family Tree Fan Chart
The Family Tree Fan Chart lets you visualize your family tree. You can manually enter your data or upload a GEDCOM file from another family tree service.
You can customize colors for easy labeling and tracking. Preset colors are also available.
2. Shared cM Project Tool
You enter the DNA length (in centimorgans) you share with your matches from other sites. Using this data, DNA Painter can create a family tree.
With the shared cM tool, you can:
- Refine their family tree
- Identify relationships that aren’t genetically possible
- Find common ancestors shared with matches
Blaine Bettinger is the man behind the shared cM tool. He is an expert in using DNA to trace family history.
3. Chromosome Mapping
Chromosome Mapping lets you view your chromosomes using a color-coded chart. It shows you whether a segment came from the maternal or paternal side.
You can use chromosome mapping to see how your DNA might influence traits like hair color, eye color, and even some aspects of your personality. You can also perform genetic genealogy research on both maternal and paternal lineages.
DNA Painter Costs
DNA Painter offers basic features for free. A free account currently includes one chromosome map, one ancestral tree, one matrix, and one WATO Plus tree, with access to the standalone tools.
The current subscription costs $55 for one year. It expands the account to as many as 50 maps or trees in supported tools and unlocks bulk imports and deeper GEDCOM imports.
Paying for a subscription gives you access to:
- Make up to 50 profiles
- Create a family tree with unlimited generations
- Create and test unlimited family trees
- Do bulk uploads of information
| Feature | Free | Subscription |
|---|---|---|
| Maps or Trees Allowed | 1 per supported tool | Up to 50 per supported tool |
| GEDCOM Import Depth | Through fourth great-grandparents | All generations, subject to very large-tree limits |
| Bulk Upload | No | Yes |
DNA Painter Privacy
DNA Painter takes privacy seriously. Its privacy policy outlines principles for data collection, use, communication, and disclosure. Here are the highlights:
- You need a name to register an account, but you can choose not to use your real name.
- A genuine email address is needed for account verification.
- Profiles are private by default and can only be viewed by others when you make them visible.
- DNA Painter does not store raw DNA data.
- Your IP address is stored.
- DNA Painter does not sell your data to third parties. All server communications are encrypted via HTTPS/SSL.
DNA Painter Pros and Cons
Here are some pros and cons to keep in mind:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| It provides a unique visual tool for understanding DNA data. | It has a steep learning curve if you’re new to chromosome mapping. |
| Allows you to generate and test theories about your ancestry. | The interface and terms can be confusing at first. |
| It can be used with many different kinds of DNA tests. | Works best with DNA test results of several known relatives. |
DNA Painter Review: Is It Worth It?
DNA Painter is an online tool that isn’t meant for everyone. However, genetic genealogists, DNA enthusiasts, and those who wish to dig deeper into their ancestry can benefit from using DNA Painter’s software.
Because of the free features, there is no need to jump into a subscription right away. However, with six-month or 12-month options, subscriptions don’t lock you in for a long time. Overall, DNA Painter is an excellent tool for those wanting to know more about their ancestry.
