The growing popularity of DNA ancestry testing has led to an increase in companies offering convenient at-home kits, with prices starting at $29 from Ancestry and $39 from FamilyTreeDNA. Users can learn about their heritage, genetic health markers, and potentially discover unknown relatives by simply sending in a sample.
However, the quality of these tests can differ significantly between providers, raising concerns about accuracy and data protection. Discussions in online communities highlight these variances, as companies often focus on specific areas such as health or ethnicity testing. To assist consumers, CNET experts evaluated the leading DNA testing services, assessing privacy measures, testing methods, and credibility.
As of 2025, a notable exclusion from recommended services is 23andMe, which faced a data breach and bankruptcy. Potential users are advised to review privacy policies carefully to ensure they meet individual needs, especially given the personal nature of DNA testing.