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DNA Tests review
FamilyTreeDNA logo

FamilyTreeDNA review

Best for paternal and maternal lines

Specialist in Y-DNA and mtDNA tests for direct paternal and maternal lines. Genealogists and surname researchers who want to trace a single paternal or maternal line in depth. We rank it #4 of 7 in our dna tests comparison, with an editorial score of 8.4 out of 10.

Updated By the ChoosyOwl editorial teamHow we rank
8.4/10
Our editorial score

FamilyTreeDNA scores highest on Ancestry detail & tools for lineage research because it offers dedicated Y-DNA and mtDNA tests in addition to its autosomal test. Value transparency is good, with tests sold as one-time purchases. It trails the leaders on Relative matching & family tree tools for general users, since its interface is aimed at more experienced researchers.

How we score dna tests

Visit site (FamilyTreeDNA, opens in a new tab)

Quick facts

Our rank#4 of 7
Best forBest for paternal and maternal lines
Test typesAutosomal, Y-DNA, mtDNA
Relative matchingYes; settings for match visibility
Facts checkedNovember 14, 2026

Details are general and can change. Check current plans, prices and terms on the FamilyTreeDNA site. See the FamilyTreeDNA company profile in our brand directory.

Overview

FamilyTreeDNA is known for lineage testing. Its Y-DNA tests follow the direct paternal line (father to father's father), and its mtDNA tests follow the direct maternal line (mother to mother's mother). It also sells an autosomal test, Family Finder, for relative matching across all branches.

The site supports group projects, such as surname and regional projects run by volunteer administrators, which can be valuable for genealogists. Only people who inherited a Y chromosome can take a Y-DNA test; anyone can take an mtDNA test.

FamilyTreeDNA has published policies on matching and law enforcement access. Review the current privacy policy and your matching and consent settings before and after you test.

Pros and cons

Pros

  • Dedicated Y-DNA and mtDNA tests few rivals offer
  • Group projects help genealogists collaborate
  • Tests sold as one-time purchases with optional upgrades
  • Detailed tools for experienced researchers

Cons

  • Interface is less beginner-friendly
  • Y-DNA results are only possible for people with a Y chromosome
  • Fewer built-in family tree record tools than Ancestry or MyHeritage
  • No health reports

Key features

  • Y-DNA tests for the direct paternal line
  • mtDNA tests for the direct maternal line
  • Family Finder autosomal test with relative matching
  • Surname and regional group projects

Who FamilyTreeDNA is for

A good fit if

Genealogists and surname researchers who want to trace a single paternal or maternal line in depth.

Look elsewhere if

Beginners who want a simple ethnicity report or health results.

How we scored FamilyTreeDNA

FamilyTreeDNA scores highest on Ancestry detail & tools for lineage research because it offers dedicated Y-DNA and mtDNA tests in addition to its autosomal test. Value transparency is good, with tests sold as one-time purchases. It trails the leaders on Relative matching & family tree tools for general users, since its interface is aimed at more experienced researchers.

Our dna tests score weighs ancestry detail & tools (25%), relative matching & family tree tools (25%), privacy & data control (20%), health reports & clarity (15%), value transparency (15%). See the methodology.

FamilyTreeDNA alternatives

  1. #1
    AncestryDNA logo

    AncestryDNA

    Best overall

    Autosomal ancestry test with relative matching and Ancestry's family tree tools.

    • Autosomal DNA test with ethnicity estimate
    • DNA matches with relatives who also tested
    • Links to Ancestry family trees and historical records
    • Privacy settings for matching visibility and research consent
    9.3/10
    Editorial score
    Visit site (AncestryDNA, opens in a new tab) Read review
  2. #2
    23andMe logo

    23andMe

    Best for health reports

    Ancestry test with optional health and trait reports and opt-in relative matching.

    • Ancestry composition report
    • Maternal and paternal haplogroups
    • Optional health and trait reports (check current tiers)
    • Opt-in DNA Relatives matching
    8.9/10
    Editorial score
    Visit site (23andMe, opens in a new tab) Read review
  3. #3
    MyHeritage DNA logo

    MyHeritage DNA

    Best for family tree builders

    Autosomal DNA test paired with MyHeritage's family tree and record tools.

    • Autosomal DNA test with ethnicity estimate
    • DNA matches linked to family trees
    • Family tree builder and record search (some features need a subscription)
    • Optional health upgrade in some markets (check availability)
    8.6/10
    Editorial score
    Visit site (MyHeritage DNA, opens in a new tab) Read review

Head-to-head

See all 7 DNA tests compared

FamilyTreeDNA FAQ

What is the difference between Y-DNA and mtDNA?

Y-DNA is passed from father to son and traces the direct paternal line. mtDNA is passed from a mother to all her children and traces the direct maternal line. FamilyTreeDNA offers both test types.

Can women take a Y-DNA test?

No. Y-DNA tests need a Y chromosome. A woman can ask a father, brother or paternal uncle or cousin to test to explore that line.

Does FamilyTreeDNA work with law enforcement?

FamilyTreeDNA has published policies on law enforcement matching and user opt-outs. Review the current privacy policy and your settings before testing.

Sources and fact check

We checked the facts on this page against FamilyTreeDNA's own website on .