FamilyTreeDNA review : DNA test to trace your origins, paternal and maternal lineage

A pioneer in at-home DNA ancestry testing since 2000, FamilyTree DNA offers three types of tests (autosomal, paternal, and maternal). The laboratory draws on a database of approximately 6 million DNA profiles and promises reliable test results. But how good are these DNA tests really? We ordered them, tested them, and here is our verdict.

Key points to remember about FamilyTree DNA

Features
🌐Website	➤ Visit
🧬 DNA tests offered	Autosomal DNA (Family Finder) Y-DNA (paternal lineage) Mitochondrial DNA (maternal lineage)
🧪 Sample collection method	Cheek swab
⏳ Average processing time	2 to 8 weeks depending on the test
📈Results reports	Estimated ethnic origins Paternal and maternal haplogroups DNA matches
🔬 Reliability	CLIA/CAP certified laboratory
💵 Price	Autosomal DNA test: $79 Mitochondrial test: $159 Y-DNA test: $119 to $449
📞 Customer support	713-868-1438 Live chat

Strengths and limitations of FTDNA

Our opinion on FamilyTree DNA in video

DNA tests offered by FamilyTree DNA

The Family Finder autosomal DNA test

The Family Finder test estimates your ethnic origins among 90 populations around the world and identifies your genetic cousins over 5 generations. It detects the amount of autosomal DNA inherited from ancient European groups (Neolithic hunter-gatherers, early farmers, etc.). Family Finder also analyzes an intermediate Y-DNA haplogroup to trace the migrations of your paternal lineage.

Paternal ancestry test (Y-DNA)

Three levels of Y-chromosome analysis are available from Family Tree DNA, depending on the degree of accuracy required.

Y-37 DNA test: to confirm a family line

This test analyzes 37 STR (short tandem repeat) markers on the Y chromosome. It allows you to confirm family ties, trace the probable origin of a surname, and structure your family tree.

Using its database, FTDNA identifies genetic cousins who share your paternal lineage and allows you to connect with your distant relatives. The Y-37 also provides an intermediate Y-DNA haplogroup to reveal the ancient migration routes of your male ancestors.

Y-111 DNA Test: for advanced paternal genealogical research

The Y-111 refines genetic matches using 111 markers and identifies unique mutations in the Y chromosome of your direct paternal lineage. This Y-DNA test is ideal for surname studies and lineage-specific research.

Big Y-700 DNA test: for a complete genetic analysis of your paternal lineage

The Big Y-700 DNA test includes the features of the Y-37 and Y-111 tests, but goes even further. It analyzes more than 700 STRs and more than 500,000 SNPs on the Y chromosome to trace your paternal haplogroup. You get more details about your paternal lineage, from the modern era back to the “Y-chromosomal Adam” 200,000 years ago.

With this DNA test, you can pinpoint your branch in the global tree of humanity and access your ancestors’ migration routes. Your results are updated over time as science progresses.

Here is a brief comparison of the different FTDNA Y-DNA tests :

Features	Y-37	Y-111	Big Y-700
Includes	❌	Y-37	Y-37 + Y-111
STRs analyzed	37	111	+ 700
SNP analysis	❌	❌	500,000
Type of matches	Distant relatives	Distant and more recent relatives	All relatives over the genealogical period
Surname discovery	✔	✔	✔
Y-DNA haplogroup	Large	Large	Refined
Period covered	Y-Adam (~200,000 years) → Stone Age (~100,000 years)	Y-Adam (~200,000 years) → Stone Age (~100,000 years)	Y-Adam → Modern era (~1,000 years)
Migration routes	40 (Stone Age)	40 (Stone Age)	50,000+ modern routes
Notable Y-DNA links	Up to 10 distant	Up to 10 distant	Up to 20 (distant, close, rare)
Ancestral Y-DNA links	Up to 10 distant	Up to 10 distant	Up to 30 (distant, close, rare)
Group projects	✔	✔	✔
STR download (CSV)	✔	✔	✔
SNP download (CSV + VCF)	❌	❌	✔

Maternal ancestry test (mtDNA)

This DNA test is available to both men and women. However, only mitochondrial DNA passed down by women is passed on to the next generation. It traces your maternal lineage back several thousand years and identifies when your lineages split and your most recent common ancestor.

FamilyTree DNA also identifies your maternal DNA matches and allows you to contact them. In addition, it is possible to combine the three types of tests to obtain a more complete analysis of your ancestry.

The quality of the results obtained

Accurate data on our ethnic origins

The myOrigins report estimates your genetic distribution among more than 90 reference populations. The results are presented as percentages and can be viewed on an interactive map. We now know that we have European and American origins.

But that wasn’t the only thing that surprised us about FTDNA. The report uses color codes to show where each DNA segment comes from. This allowed us to discover additional locations that had no connection to the information we currently have about our ancestral origins.

Discovery of the haplogroup and ancient origins

Haplogroups correspond to the major branches of the Y chromosome or mitochondrial DNA originating from the first Homo sapiens populations. They enable us to trace major ancient human migrations. Here too, the laboratory shared an interactive map detailing the origins of our haplogroups and the movements that have taken place over the centuries.

The report presented us with percentages of the amount of DNA inherited from ancient European groups such as :

• Bronze Age invaders who used metals
• Neolithic hunter-gatherers
• Early farmers

Thanks to this report, we know the migration routes of our ancestors, their occupations (hunters, farmers, etc.), and how they lived and interacted.

DNA matches with living relatives

The “Matches” section lists individuals who share DNA segments with you, along with the percentage of shared DNA. A visualization tool allows you to compare shared segments to assess the likelihood of a relationship.

You have access to information (names, type of relationship, common ancestors, family tree) about each of your matches and can get in touch with them. We were surprised to discover distant cousins living in the United States and Iceland.

Precise identification of the maternal lineage

The mtDNA analysis report presents the history of your maternal ancestors since Eve on an interactive map. You can view your ancestors’ migration routes, identify when lineages separated, and locate the countries where their descendants currently reside.

FTDNA reveals your connections to famous historical and contemporary figures. You also get access to an automatically generated family tree that includes all your ancestors on your mother’s side.

A complete breakdown of your paternal lineage

The results of the Y-chromosome analysis also reveal, on a map, the migratory route of your patrilineal ancestors since they left Africa. It determines your exact position in human history on the world’s largest phylogenetic tree.

You will also see the countries where your direct paternal haplogroup is most commonly found today. In this report, you will find an estimate of the period since you and your match had a common paternal ancestor.

The process of ordering and performing an FTDNA DNA test

1. Go to the official website and choose the DNA kit you want in the “Shop” section, then proceed to online payment. Kits shipped between the United States and Canada are usually delivered within 5 to 7 business days.
2. Rub the swab inside your cheek for 30 to 60 seconds to collect a DNA sample.
3. Place both swabs in the provided vial or bag: either by breaking the stem into the vial containing the preservation liquid, or by letting it dry before placing it back in its bag.
4. Complete and sign the consent form authorizing the analysis of your DNA.
5. Place the samples and the form in the prepaid return envelope and drop it off at your local post office.

Timeframe for receiving results

You will be notified via the email address linked to your account as soon as your DNA sample is received by the laboratory. The processing time depends on the DNA test ordered.

• Family Finder™: 2 to 4 weeks
• mtDNA: 6 to 8 weeks
• Y-DNA: 3 to 6 weeks
• Big-Y 700: 6 to 10 weeks

Features that make FamilyTree DNA stand out

Free download of raw data

FTDNA allows you to download your raw genealogical data in CSV and VCF formats free of charge. You can also import your genealogical data from other platforms such as MyHeritage, Ancestry DNA, or 23andme.

After importing, a paid subscription ($19) unlocks certain analysis tools, including:

• myOrigins (estimation of geographic origins)
• Chromosome Painter (visualization of DNA segments)
• Chromosome Browser (comparison of matches)
• AncientOrigins (ancient genetic heritage)

Opportunity to collaborate with other genealogists

FTDNA allows you to contact and collaborate with other genealogy enthusiasts on research projects. Led by expert volunteer administrators, these projects fall into three categories:

• Projects by surname
• Geographic studies of a specific region
• Projects by haplogroups (Y-DNA or mtDNA) to analyze ancient migrations

These genealogy projects facilitate collaboration between genealogists around the world and allow data to be cross-referenced to reconstruct complex lineages. By joining a group, you contribute to the advancement of science and benefit from advanced comparison tools for your own research.

FamilyTree DNA testing prices

DNA Tests	Price (USD)	Price (Est. EUR)
Family Finder	$79	€75
Y-37	$119	€112
Y-111	$249	€235
Big Y-700	$449	€425
mtDNA Full Sequence	$159	€150

The amounts in euros are approximate conversions and may vary depending on the exchange rate.

FTDNA also offers bundle deals to save between $9 and $18.

• Family Finder™ + Y-37 + Y-111 + Big Y-700: $189 (€163)
• Family Finder™ + mtDNA Full Sequence: $229 (€197)
• Family Finder™ + mtDNA Full Sequence + Y-37 + Y-111 + Big Y-700: $339 (€292)
• mtDNA Full Sequence + Y-37 + Y-111 + Big Y-700: $269 (€231)

You can choose any combination depending on the results you are looking for. The laboratory performs the analyses from a single DNA sample.

Are FamilyTree DNA tests reliable?

FTDNA analyzes your samples in its own laboratory in Houston, certified by the American CLIA and CAP standards. For autosomal testing, the laboratory uses DNA chips that analyze more than 700,000 markers. Y-DNA and mitochondrial DNA tests use next-generation sequencing (NGS) technology, allowing for a more in-depth analysis of genetic variations.

Each sample undergoes internal quality controls to limit the risk of analytical error. If a DNA sample is lost or damaged, the laboratory uses the second sample to perform the analysis.

In addition, FTDNA has over two decades of experience in DNA analysis, making it a reliable player in the industry.

Genetic Data Security and Privacy at FamilyTree DNA

Genetic data is stored on secure servers in the United States and is never sold to third parties for commercial purposes without your explicit consent.

You retain complete control over the visibility of your profile and can choose whether or not to appear in public matches. You can also permanently delete your DNA data and account at any time.

Family Tree DNA customer service: is it effective?

Customer support is available on weekdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (2 p.m. to 10 p.m. UTC) by phone at +1-713-868-1438 or via their contact form. However, they only respond in English, with no automatic translation or alternative.

The user community on Reddit, the FTDNA forums, and dedicated Facebook groups is very active and often more responsive than official support. Every day, posts are published that can help you with your research or find answers to your various questions.

In our opinion, this is Family Tree DNA’s main weakness. We hope that their customer service will adapt to better support the others community.

Customer reviews of FamilyTree DNA

FTDNA has a rating of 3.3/5 on Trustpilot based on 236 reviews. But what exactly are users saying? Let’s take a closer look at their feedback.

Positive reviews of FamilyTree DNA

Users appreciate the kit’s ease of use and the depth and accuracy of the results, particularly for Y-DNA and mtDNA testing.

Many also appreciate the portability of raw data and compatibility with other platforms.

Negative reviews of FamilyTree DNA

Criticism mainly focuses on processing times (sometimes several months) and slow support. Several testimonials mention waiting several weeks to receive results, often accompanied by communication problems and unexplained delays. The cost of advanced Y-DNA tests is also regularly mentioned as a deterrent.

Others point out that the reports remain too vague and group together very diverse populations without clear distinctions. Added to this are difficulties in accessing old results for some users, as well as cases of incomplete kits being sent, which fuels a sense of frustration.

Our genealogists’ final opinion on Family Tree DNA

The benchmark for going beyond simple estimates of origins

After analysis, Family Tree DNA proved to us that it is a reliable laboratory offering DNA results that go beyond simple percentages. Our teams were pleasantly surprised when they discovered their ethnic origins.

Many were convinced that they were of Western European origin only, but the results proved otherwise. Of the five members who took the tests, the reports revealed ethnicities from all corners of the globe that no one could have imagined.

One of the testers, for example, was found to be nearly 7% Russian, while another discovered that he was 5% Native American. Family Tree DNA is the only laboratory that has provided us with such accurate results in terms of ethnicity percentages. You can trust them to discover your origins in Europe, Africa, America, and even the Arctic.

Unique expertise in tracing your paternal and maternal lineages

We are impressed by the breadth and depth of the Y-DNA and mtDNA analysis offered by FTDNA. Honestly, no other lab on the market traces paternal and maternal lines back more than 200,000 years and discovers the meaning and origins of the surnames of both lines.

The ability to track the migratory path of paternal and maternal ancestors since their departure from Africa and access millions of family trees dedicated to paternal and maternal lineages is also a plus that cannot be found elsewhere. So, if your goal is to accurately discover your paternal and maternal lineages, we recommend that you turn to FTDNA without hesitation.

A genealogy lab entirely dedicated to the study of origins and ancestry

The lab does not offer any health analysis, reports on hereditary disease risks, or wellness indicators. This is a conscious decision that allows it to focus on its core business. But it also means that FTDNA is not the right solution if your goal is to learn about your genetic predispositions or obtain health data. For that, TellmeGen, 23andMe, and specialized medical tests are better suited.

FamilyTreeDNA vs MyHeritage

Unlike FTDNA, MyHeritage does not offer Y-DNA and mtDNA tests to trace paternal and maternal lines. Its autosomal test is comparable to Family Finder, but MyHeritage stands out for its genealogy tools, its 39 billion historical records, and its interactive family tree builder.

In fact, FTDNA relies on MyHeritage to build its customers’ family trees. So you can choose FTDNA to discover your paternal and maternal haplogroups and MyHeritage to build your family tree and conduct in-depth genealogical research.

FamilyTreeDNA vs. AncestryDNA

With a database of over 20 million DNA profiles, Ancestry DNA is more accurate in finding DNA matches and genealogical records. However, it does not offer Y-DNA or mtDNA testing. FTDNA offers a much more comprehensive analysis of direct lineages. The two laboratories are complementary. AncestryDNA for the quantity of matches, FTDNA for the depth of genealogical analysis.

FamilyTreeDNA vs 23andMe

23andMe combines genealogy and genetic health, which FTDNA does not do. For family matches, 23andMe has a larger database. But FTDNA offers Y-DNA and mtDNA tests that 23andMe does not, and its Chromosome Painter far exceeds what the California-based lab offers in terms of visualization.

If you are looking for a test that combines health and genealogy, 23andMe is the right choice. If your priority is in-depth genealogical research, FTDNA is more comprehensive.

Quick DNA vs FamilyTreeDNA

Quick DNA offers DNA tests for ethnicity, paternal lineage, and even prenatal testing. Its main advantage is the speed of its results, which are available in just 72 hours. It is the ideal option for those who want to take a DNA test and get results quickly.

FamilyTreeDNA (FTDNA), although it does not offer prenatal or animal paternity testing, is more comprehensive for genealogical research. It allows for a more in-depth exploration of ethnic origins as well as paternal and maternal lineages.