The best DNA test depends on how you want to analyze your lineage. Here are the best DNA tests for every curious mind:

23andMe: The most complete

Characteristics: Autosomal, mtDNA, Y-DNA, health, traits

Wait time: 2-4 weeks

Purchase options: $99 on Amazon

Named 23andMe in reference to each person's unique set of 23 chromosomes, 23andMe was the first kit on this list to offer the big four: autosomal, maternal, and paternal health screenings and tests. Competitors have since caught up on paper, but 23andMe's steady growth in terms of regions and ways of assessing health make it perennially hard to beat.

AncestryDNA: Best for connecting with relatives

Characteristics: Autosomal, traits

Wait time: 6-8 weeks

Purchase options: $99 on Amazon

Ancestry is able to connect so many people because of its huge genealogy pool. Since 1996, it has built a pool of 15 million DNA sets (and counting) from more than 700,000 locations in more than 1,000 ethnic regions. It is the best kit for detailing immigration patterns or tracing biological relatives.

MyHeritage: Economical option

Characteristics: Autosomal

Wait time: 3-4 weeks

Purchase options: $79 on Amazon

If your curiosity goes as far as breaking down the ethnic areas you come from, a purely autosomal test like MyHeritage avoids the extra costs of connecting with a database of distant relatives.

FamilyTreeDNA: Best for serious genealogy

Characteristics: Autosomal, mtDNA, Y-DNA

Wait time: 6-8 weeks

Purchase options: $79 on Amazon

Not satisfied with the results of an entry-level DNA test? FamilyTreeDNA is an obvious choice if you are looking for serious genealogy. It has been said that it is the only kit that can decipher if a relative comes from the maternal or paternal side of your family. Its database for connecting with biological relatives is robust as well.

tellmeGen: Affordable option for health concerns

Characteristics: Autosomal, health, traits

Wait time: 4-6 weeks

Purchase options: $139 on Amazon

Alternative adjudication: The best test for hypochondriacs. Worrying about a mysterious condition can be debilitating, and any warning you can get offers such peace of mind. No DNA health test can diagnose everything or replace actual doctor visits, but tellmeGen's deep dive into inherited risks and traits can provide crucial insight for anyone who wants to be proactive about wellness.

Conclusion

Choosing the best DNA test will depend on your individual needs and goals. If you are looking for a complete overview and health tests, 23andMe may be your best option. If you're interested in connecting with relatives or charting migration patterns, AncestryDNA may be what you're looking for. For those on a tighter budget, MyHeritage offers an affordable option. If you are interested in serious genealogy, FamilyTreeDNA may be your choice. Finally, if you have health concerns and are looking for a cheap option, tellmeGen might be the right choice for you.

Frequent questions

1. Which DNA test is the most accurate?

All of the tests mentioned are accurate, but the accuracy can vary depending on what you're looking for. For example, 23andMe and FamilyTreeDNA can provide more accurate results for health and genealogy tests, respectively.

2. How long does it take to get the results of a DNA test?

Wait time varies by test. In general, you can expect your results between 2-8 weeks after submitting your sample.

3. Are DNA tests confidential?

Yes, DNA testing companies have strict privacy and confidentiality policies. However, it is important to read the privacy policy of each company before buying.

4. What is the best DNA test for genealogy?

FamilyTreeDNA is often praised for its focus on genealogy and the ability to trace both the maternal and paternal lines.

5. Is it worth taking a DNA test?

That completely depends on your personal interests and goals. Some people find great value in learning about their genetic heritage or potential health risks, while others may not be as interested. If you are curious about your ancestry, your health, or would like to connect with unknown relatives, a DNA test can be a worthwhile investment.