I Took 5 DNA Tests and Compared Them | Which One Is Best?

Matt Baker introduces the topic of DNA testing, focusing on its utility for genealogy enthusiasts looking to construct their family trees. He mentions having taken five different DNA tests and plans to compare them, showing the results for each. Baker discloses receiving some kits for free but assures viewers he will maintain an unbiased perspective. The five DNA test kits reviewed are CircleDNA, FamilyTreeDNA, Ancestry.com, 23andMe, and MyHeritage, which are discussed in order of their price, starting with the most expensive. CircleDNA, the costliest at $189 for basic and $629 for premium services, is highlighted for its focus on health-related information and being marketed as the 'World’s Most Comprehensive DNA Test.' Baker also notes that discounts are often available around holidays and provides a special deal for viewers. The video outlines the two primary methods of DNA sample collection and emphasizes the importance of not eating, drinking, or brushing teeth before testing. The process for registering the sample and mailing it back to the company is described, followed by the waiting period for results, which can take several weeks.

The summary of CircleDNA's results is presented, emphasizing the premium version's extensive health risk assessment for hereditary cancers and other conditions. Baker reveals being at a higher risk for Type-2 diabetes, which aligns with his family history. The report also identifies him as a carrier for certain hereditary conditions, particularly highlighting risks for heavy smokers. Additionally, the report covers personal drug responses to 103 FDA-approved drugs. For genealogy, CircleDNA provides an ancestry report, which Baker finds basic and not entirely accurate. The video also touches on the 'fun' aspects of the test, listing various personal traits and predispositions, from taste sensitivity to intelligence. Despite the comprehensive health information, Baker concludes that genetics is not destiny and stresses the importance of lifestyle choices.

FamilyTreeDNA is introduced as a more affordable option at $80 for basic testing, with additional costs for more detailed reports. The video explains the concepts of autosomal DNA, mitochondrial DNA, and Y-chromosome DNA. Autosomal DNA provides a broad view of one's ancestry, while mitochondrial DNA and Y-DNA offer insights into matrilineal and patrilineal lines, respectively. FamilyTreeDNA's ancestry report is more detailed than CircleDNA's, although Baker still finds some discrepancies in the results. The value of relative matches for those with limited family history knowledge is discussed, as well as the process of reaching out to potential relatives. The video also covers the concept of haplogroups and how they can trace one's lineage back tens of thousands of years. FamilyTreeDNA is praised for its in-depth information on mutations, making it a preferred choice for those seriously interested in genetic genealogy.

23andMe is presented as a unique option offering both genealogy and health reports. The genealogy report includes an ethnicity estimate and a list of relative matches, with haplogroup results provided at no extra charge. Baker mentions having previously discussed 23andMe in a 2019 video and provides a link for more information. The health results from 23andMe are less comprehensive than CircleDNA but still cover a range of genetic diseases and additional interesting traits. The company is noted for continuously updating its research, offering new reports over time.

Ancestry.com and MyHeritage are compared, both offering ancestry-focused tests without health information. Ancestry.com stands out for its detailed ethnicity reports and large user database, particularly beneficial for North Americans. The video discusses the discovery of a previously unknown first cousin through Ancestry's relative matching feature. MyHeritage is noted as the least expensive option and is highlighted for its appeal to those from Europe or with Jewish ancestry. Both platforms provide tools for building family trees and offer access to extensive online records with a paid membership. Baker concludes by stating that the best test depends on individual interests and circumstances, recommending CircleDNA for health information, FamilyTreeDNA for expert genealogists, MyHeritage or Ancestry for general genealogy within specific regions, and 23andMe for a balance of health and genealogy information.