Family Tree DNA review : The ancestor tracing kit

Present on the market since 2000, Family Tree DNA is one of the oldest laboratories dedicated to the analysis of DNA tests in the world. With more than 2 million people having trusted Family Tree DNA, the laboratory is a reference in the 4 corners of the world.

In order to offer you a detailed and realistic review, our genealogists have carried out all the tests proposed by Family Tree DNA.

Find all our tests and reviews on DNA tests !

Key facts about FamilyTree DNA

Information
🌐 Website	➤ Visit
🗓️ Year created	2000
🧬Type of test	Autosomal DNA test DNA test-Y mtDNA test
🌏Geographic coverage	2,000 regions +
🧪Type of sampling	Saliva
📈 Reports of results	Ethnic origins in percent Haplogroups DNA matches Reports and tips on well-being
💾 Database	5 million +
🔍Research tools	✅
🔬 Reliability and accuracy	99, 99%
⏳Treatment time	2 to 8 weeks
📞Customer support	713-868-1438 Live chat
💵Price	Autosomal test: $79 Mitochondrial test: $159 Y-DNA test: from $119 to $399
🗂 Data compatibility	GEDCOM file
💪Highlights	Participation in group projects based on geographical origins or surnames Mobile application to view results Construct a complete family tree

Family Tree DNA : Presentation

Family Tree DNA is known as the pioneer of genetic genealogy and the first to offer DNA testing in the home.

The laboratory offers the widest choice for genetic analysis of your DNA. Indeed, it offers 4 DNA tests, 3 of which are dedicated to your genealogy by studying different parts of the genome.

DNA tests and sampling

FTDNA is the laboratory that offers 3 different types of DNA genealogical tests:

• Y-DNA test;
• Mitochondrial test;
• Autosomal test.

Performing a DNA genealogy test allows you to know the geographical distribution of your ethnic origins. By comparing your DNA to a database, analysing and cross-referencing the data using the latest technology. Also, it is possible to know the ethnic distribution and geographic locations of your ancestors with a DNA genealogy test.

Find below the details of the DNA tests offered by FTDNA.

TEST FAMILY FINDER (FAMILY ANCESTRY)

The autosomal test allows you to discover your ethnic origins, your percentage of ethnicity and their geographies. By giving you access to the world’s most comprehensive database, the Family Finder test allows you to establish family relationships and find close relatives who are still unknown.

The Family Finder test includes :

• A map detailing your percentage of ethnicity and the ethnic origins of your ancestors;
• A detailed chart of your percentage of origins;
• A map illustrating the migrations performed by your haplogroup;
• A report telling you how you are related to people around the world;
• A tool that allows you to directly compare your DNA with that of others around the world.

DNA-Y TEST : PATERNAL ANCESTRY

The Y test is only for men, as it is specifically concerned with the Y chromosome.

With one of the world’s largest databases for parental testing at its disposal, FamilyTree DNA allows you to trace your paternal lineage completely and reliably.

Depending on the kit you choose, the FTDNA Y-DNA test focuses on 37 to 700 microsatellite sequences of your genes to establish the origin of your paternal ancestors and retrace the path they have taken to date.

Grand Y DNA Test (Big Y-700)

FamilyTreeDNA’s Grand Y DNA test is a complement to the Y-DNA test and offers a unique exploration of your paternal lineage. With the analysis of 23 million SNPs, you get a Y-DNA haplogroup with unmatched accuracy. You also discover when your paternal branches split and identify the most recent common ancestor with your matches.

This test goes beyond traditional records and connects you to ancient male lineages. You also get access to exclusive reports and the Big Y Block Tree (a Big Y block tree matching tool).

This DNA test connects your recent genealogy to ancestors who lived before your surname was adopted. You will discover links to other people with similar and different surnames. In addition, it estimates the time to the most recent common ancestor (TMRCA) between you and your matches.

With this service, you register your name on the global Y-DNA tree and contribute to genealogical research.

MTDNA TEST : MATERNAL ANCESTRY

The mtDNA test, also called mitochondrial test, is a test related to DNA passed from mother to child. However, only women are capable of transmitting this DNA. A male child can perform the mitochondrial test, but will not pass on this short piece of DNA to his offspring.

For recent maternal lineage (less than 500 years old), the results are not very helpful. This test mainly allows us to find out exactly what her ancestral origins are. With the mitochondrial test kit, you can therefore follow the lineage of your maternal ancestors.

When you report your results, FamilyTree DNA shares a customized video with you that traces your origins from the haplogroup.

DNA SAMPLING

To get the most reliable results possible, FTDNA uses the buccal swab DNA collection method. A method that we particularly appreciate for its simplicity.

Time to receive results

Kits shipped between the USA and Canada are generally delivered within 5 to 7 working days. For international orders, delivery time may vary between 3 and 5 working weeks.

As soon as your DNA sample is received at the laboratory, you will be notified via the e-mail address linked to your account. Your sample is immediately sent to the laboratory for processing. Processing times depend on the test(s) you have ordered.

• Family Finder™: Results are generally available in 2 to 4 weeks ;
• mtDNA: Results are generally available in 6 to 8 weeks ;
• Y-DNA: Results are generally available in 3 to 6 weeks.
• Big-Y 700: Results are usually available in 6 to 10 weeks.

The quality of the results

When we conducted the tests, FamilyTree DNA provided us with a full report on :

• Our percentage of ethnicity by geographic area ;
• Our haplogroup ;
• Living relatives ;
• Maternal and paternal lineages.

ETHNICITY result

FamilyTree DNA, like most genealogy labs, tells you about your ethnicity. The company provides you with a set of information about your ethnicity, including your percentage of ethnicity and where your ancestors came from.

One of the advantages that pleasantly surprised us with FTDNA : the ethnicity map illustrating our origins with a colour code defined according to your link with the geographical areas.

Our genealogists appreciated the discovery of their results. They would never have thought that they had origins from places unrelated to their current family roots.

HAPLOGROUP RESULT

In simplified terms, the haplogroup corresponds to branches of the Homo sapiens family tree. Haplogroups help to understand and identify the geographic movements made by our ancestors thousands of years ago.

The haplogroup results provided by FTDNA allow you to learn more about your ancestral lineage and the path they took to get where you are today.

Again, the lab shared an interactive map with us detailing the origins of our haplogroups and their movements over the centuries. This visual point is a real plus to better understand their cultural origins. Yes, the Family Tree DNA test is one of the few ones to propose the percentage of autosomal DNA quantity according to the old European groups and their professions (Hunters, Farmers, etc.).

RESULT ON LIVING PARENTS

Like MyHeritage or 23andMe, FamilyTree DNA allows you to establish relationships with individuals in their databases who may have similarities to your DNA.

Surprisingly, some team members realized they had distant cousins in the United States or Iceland.

MATERNAL AND PATERNAL LINEAGE RESULT

The results shared by Family Tree are similar to those offered with the autosomal test. However, these tests are refined on your paternal lineage (Y-DNA Test) or on your maternal lineage (mtDNA Test).

Are DNA tests from Family Tree DNA reliable?

Family Tree DNA (FTDNA) has a high level of technical reliability with an error rate well below 1%. To ensure the accuracy of the results, each sample undergoes two independent analyses, which helps maintain this level of precision.

The analyses are performed in CLIA and CAP certified laboratories located in Houston, Texas. In addition, their data has been scientifically recognized since 2000, attesting to the robustness and credibility of their tests for genealogical research.

Family Tree DNA’s commitments

To ensure users have a perfect experience every step of the way, FamilyTree DNA is committed to providing a quality service that is ready to support you every step of the way.

If you have any questions, you can speak directly with an advisor.

FamilyTree DNA has asked us to send them two buccal samples for a good reason: in the event of loss or damage, the laboratory has the second DNA sample that you have taken. This is a true mark of professionalism on their part.

After speaking with a member of the Family Tree DNA service, we learned that this second sample was stored using a barcode. This barcode prevents our cellular data from being used by a third party without our permission, a very good point about the security of our data.

How much does it cost?

• Autosomal test: $79
• Mitochondrial test: $159
• Y-DNA test: $119 to $399

The Y-DNA test comes in 3 packs. Each pack studies a different number of DNA markers.

• Y-37 test: $109
• Y-111 test: $219
• Test Y-700: $399

Family Tree DNA customer service: is it effective?

Family Tree DNA has customer service available Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Central Time (2 p.m. to 10 p.m. UTC). You can reach them by phone at +1-713-868-1438 or via their contact form.

However, FTDNA’s customer service only responds in English, with no automatic translation or alternative for French speakers. In our opinion, this is Family Tree DNA’s main weakness, and we hope that their customer service will eventually adapt to better support their French-speaking community.

Customer reviews of FamilyTree DNA

With a rating of 3.9/5 based on 218 reviews on Trustpilot, FTDNA seems to be fairly well regarded. But what exactly are users saying? Let’s take a closer look at their feedback.

Positive reviews of FamilyTree DNA

Users appreciate the fast delivery and ease of use of the kit. They are also impressed by the accuracy and richness of the results, which are not limited to a simple geographical distribution.

They welcome the discovery of unexpected connections and information, which enable them to forge new links and further their genealogical research.

Negative reviews about FamilyTree DNA

Some customers criticize the slowness of customer service and processing times, which are considered interminable. Several testimonials mention waiting several months to receive results, often accompanied by communication problems and unexplained delays.

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

Editor’s review of Family Tree DNA

We have tested all the tests and our opinion is entirely positive.

Family Tree DNA has proven to be a trusted laboratory offering simple to use kits with reliable results.

Our teams were pleasantly surprised when we discovered its ethnic origins. Many were convinced that they only had Western European origins. The autosomal, Y-DNA and mitochondrial tests proved us wrong.

FamilyTree DNA is the only laboratory to have provided us with such accurate results in terms of ethnicity percentages. Of the 5 members who performed the tests, the reports revealed ethnicities from the four corners of the globe that no one could have imagined. One of the testers in particular obtained nearly 7% of Russian origin, while another discovered that he had 5% of Amerindian ethnicity!

With responsive service and reliable and complete results, FamilyTree DNA is a laboratory you can trust to discover your origins and learn more about your ancestors.

THE MOST COMPLETE AUTOSOMAL DATABASE

FamilyTree DNA has the world’s most comprehensive database, reflecting nearly 20 years of expertise. With more than 1 billion records (1,403,270 recorded on July 15, 2023), the U.S. laboratory is the only one with such a large amount of data.

The company has succeeded in creating one of the largest communities around genealogy and DNA testing. On its forum, every day posts are published that can help you in your research or in the questions you have.

THE POSSIBILITY TO DO ALL 3 DNA TESTS FOR COMPLETE RESULTS

To complete your results, FamilyTree DNA is the only one on the market to offer you all 3 tests at the same time.

Since the autosomal test, like the other two tests, requires a simple cheek swab, it is possible to combine the tests to obtain extremely complete results.

IMPORT YOUR GEDCOM DATA

FamilyTree DNA offers users the ability to create their family tree by importing their GEDCOM data. These data allow to exploit the databases of different laboratories (MyHeritage, 23andMe…) and thus to find new matches and new ancestors!

FamilyTreeDNA vs MyHeritage

FamilyTreeDNA offers a highly scientific approach with its Y-DNA and mtDNA tests, allowing you to trace your direct lineage back many generations. However, MyHeritage does not offer DNA tests to determine paternal and maternal lineage. It appeals to users with its user-friendly interface, collaborative family trees, and extensive international database.

Where FTDNA excels in genetic accuracy, MyHeritage impresses with its genealogy tools and the number of potential matches. For science and haplogroup enthusiasts, FamilyTreeDNA offers unparalleled depth.

For those who want to quickly link their DNA to family records and build an online tree, MyHeritage remains an attractive option.

FamilyTreeDNA vs AncestryDNA

AncestryDNA relies on the power of its gigantic database and millions of connected users. Enthusiasts find remarkable scientific accuracy at FTDNA, but the interface is sometimes less intuitive. AncestryDNA shines with its integrated historical archives and ease of finding distant cousins.

FTDNA is suitable for demanding researchers who want to explore specific lineages, while Ancestry will appeal to those who value community and access to documented archives.

FamilyTreeDNA vs 23andMe

23andMe combines ancestry research with health analysis, providing a broader view of your genetic heritage. FTDNA appeals to genealogy enthusiasts looking to trace a specific haplogroup or refine matches. 23andMe is more appealing to those who want to understand their medical predispositions in addition to their origins.

Quick DNA vs FamilyTreeDNA

Quick DNA focuses on speed, simplicity, and affordable prices, appealing to users who want DNA results without waiting. However, FamilyTreeDNA emphasizes scientific depth and specialized tests such as Y-DNA or mtDNA.

Quick DNA offers easy-to-read but often general reports. FTDNA, on the other hand, offers a detailed analysis, with the possibility of tracing direct lineages back several millennia. For immediate results, Quick DNA is more than enough.

For serious genealogical research and a place in the global Y-DNA tree, FamilyTreeDNA is the best choice.

FAQ: Answers to your questions about FamilyTree DNA