Best Genealogy DNA Test Strategy: Where to Test First (or Next)
If you’re looking for the best genealogy DNA test, the real question isn’t just which company—it’s understanding the strategic order that maximizes your DNA matches and research tools while saving you money.
Here’s my proven DNA testing strategy for genealogists. I’ve recapped it in this short video and then in the step-by-step summary below it with easy links to get the tests you want. (Thanks for using our affiliate links–at no extra cost to you, you support Your DNA Guide’s ability to provide more free DNA content like this.)
Your Strategic DNA Testing Plan
Step 1: Test at AncestryDNA First
Start here because AncestryDNA offers the largest database and the most access to genealogy tools without requiring a subscription.
Why this matters for genealogists:
- More testers = more potential cousin matches for your family history research
- Robust family tree tools help you connect DNA matches to documented ancestors
- Best starting point for building your DNA match network
Step 2: Transfer FREE to FamilyTreeDNA and Living DNA
Once you have your AncestryDNA results, download your raw DNA data and transfer it to FamilyTreeDNA and Living DNA, two companies that accept uploads—at no additional cost.
Why this strategy works:
- Access entirely different match pools without paying for new tests
- FamilyTreeDNA’s testing pool includes dedicated genealogists who may not have tested elsewhere
- Living DNA is UK-based with unique British Isles matches, for those who are exploring their heritage in that part of the world
This one step can double or triple your match pool for free.
Step 3: Test at MyHeritage (If You Have a MyHeritage Subscription)
If you already subscribe to MyHeritage for genealogy records, test at MyHeritage. Why?
- The best genetic genealogy tools at MyHeritage require a subscription, so testing makes sense if you’re already paying for access.
- You’ll get powerful features like Theory of Family Relativity and a tool that lets you view shared matches of matches.
- Strategic note: MyHeritage no longer accepts DNA transfers, so you must test directly with them to access their database.
Step 4: Consider Testing at 23andMe
Add 23andMe to your testing strategy if you’re looking for new matches or interested in health reports alongside your genealogy research. Genealogists test here because:
- It’s the second-largest testing pool in the world, with many people who haven’t tested at genealogy-focused companies (different audience = potential matches you won’t find elsewhere)
- Includes health and trait information
Step 5: Add YDNA or Mitochondrial DNA Testing
When you’re ready to trace your direct paternal line (YDNA) or direct maternal line (mitochondrial DNA or mtDNA), take these tests with FamilyTreeDNA. (These are separate from transferring your autosomal DNA test results that we talked about already. See the FAQ below.)
- FamilyTreeDNA is the only major company offering YDNA and mtDNA tests for genealogy
- YDNA and mtDNA may offer powerful genetic insights to help you breaking through brick walls on specific family lines
- Add these tests after you’ve established your autosomal DNA foundation
Why This Testing Order Works
This strategy is designed to:
- Maximize your matches by accessing multiple databases
- Minimize your costs through free transfers
- Prioritize the best tools for serious genealogy research
- Build systematically from broad to specialized testing
Remember this important thing: wherever you test, you’re creating a genetic record of yourself. That record will help your descendants solve their genealogical mysteries. That alone is worth doing.
Ready for Your Next Step?
Now that you know where to test, the real work begins when you get your results. Most genealogists take a DNA test, get overwhelmed by thousands of matches, and give up.
Don’t let that happen to you.
Get my free guide with actionable tips for what to do after you test. I’ll show you exactly how to turn those DNA matches into documented ancestors in your family tree.
Want More Details on Comparing DNA Testing Companies?
For more detailed comparisons of all five DNA testing companies, read: Which DNA Test is Best for Genealogy?
About Diahan Southard. I’m the founder and CEO of Your DNA Guide. I’ve been teaching genealogists how to find family history answers in their DNA for over 20 years. Your DNA Guide has taught thousands of genealogists (just like you!) how to use their DNA to build their family trees and with it, a stronger sense of belonging, identity and resilience. Remember: You can do the DNA—and we can help!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I really need to test at multiple companies?
A: Testing at multiple companies gives you access to different match pools. Many genealogists discover critical connections through matches who only tested at one specific company.
Q: Can I transfer my DNA results to all five companies?
A: No. Currently only FamilyTreeDNA and Living DNA accept DNA transfers. MyHeritage no longer accepts transfers; AncestryDNA and 23andMe have never accepted transfers.
Q: What’s the difference between autosomal, YDNA, and mitochondrial DNA testing?
A: Autosomal DNA testing is the standard consumer test, which is what you get from AncestryDNA, MyHeritage DNA, 23andMe, Living DNA and the Family Finder test at FamilyTreeDNA. It looks at DNA from all your ancestral lines for 4-6 generations back. YDNA traces only your direct paternal line, and mitochondrial DNA traces only your direct maternal line. Most genealogists start with autosomal testing.
Q: How much does this DNA testing strategy cost?
A: The strategy is designed to minimize costs. You’ll pay for tests at Ancestry (and optionally MyHeritage and 23andMe), but transfers to FamilyTreeDNA and Living DNA are free. Autosomal tests all retail below $100 USD (prices vary and may be subject to change). Watch for frequent holiday or other seasonal sales to reduce costs further.
Q: Which DNA test is best for genealogy overall?
A: For most genealogists, starting with AncestryDNA gives you the best combination of database size and genealogy tools. But the smart strategy is testing at multiple companies to maximize your matches.
Ready to get started? Get your free DNA guide with next steps after testing →