The official Family Tree DNA website is familytreedna.com. It is a genetic genealogy company that offers Y-DNA, mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA), and autosomal DNA tests specifically designed for family history research.
Background and History
Family Tree DNA (FTDNA) was founded in 2000 and is widely considered the first company to offer direct-to-consumer genetic testing for genealogical purposes. It was established by Bennett Greenspan, who was looking for a way to confirm a family connection through DNA. The company pioneered the use of Y-chromosome and mitochondrial DNA testing for surname and deep ancestry studies. Over time, FTDNA has built one of the largest databases of Y-DNA and mtDNA results in the world, making it a key resource for paternal and maternal lineage research.
How the Tests Work
Family Tree DNA offers three main types of tests, each answering different questions about your ancestry:
- Autosomal DNA (Family Finder) – This test looks at your entire genome and matches you with relatives across all branches of your family, typically within the last 5 to 6 generations. It is the same type of test offered by AncestryDNA and 23andMe.
- Y-DNA – This test is available only to males because it analyzes the Y chromosome, which is passed from father to son. It traces the direct paternal line (your father’s father’s father, etc.) and is used for surname studies and deep ancestry haplogroup assignment.
- Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) – This test is available to both males and females because mitochondrial DNA is passed from mother to all her children. It traces the direct maternal line (your mother’s mother’s mother, etc.).
Each test produces a set of genetic markers or full sequences that are compared against FTDNA’s database to identify matches. The more markers you test (for Y-DNA, you can choose from 37, 111, or the full Big Y-700), the more precise your matches and haplogroup assignment will be.
What You Get with a Test
When you order a test from the official site, you receive a saliva collection kit (for autosomal) or cheek swab kit (for Y-DNA and mtDNA) in the mail. After you return the kit, results are typically available online in 4 to 8 weeks. Your online account includes:
- Ethnicity estimates (for Family Finder)
- List of DNA matches with predicted relationships
- Haplogroup assignment (for Y-DNA and mtDNA)
- Access to tools like chromosome browsers and family tree linking
- Ability to join projects (surname, geographic, or haplogroup)
FTDNA also allows you to upload autosomal DNA data from other companies (Ancestry, 23andMe, MyHeritage) to their database for a small fee, which gives you access to their match list without buying a new test.
Pros and Cons Compared to Other Companies
Family Tree DNA is not the most popular autosomal testing company (Ancestry and 23andMe have larger databases), but it has unique strengths:
- Y-DNA and mtDNA – FTDNA is the only major company that still offers these lineage-specific tests. If you are interested in deep paternal or maternal ancestry, this is the place to go.
- Projects – FTDNA hosts thousands of volunteer-run projects (e.g., a specific surname, a Native American haplogroup, or a Jewish diaspora group). Joining a project can give you additional insights and collaboration.
- Transfer option – You can upload autosomal data from another company and pay a one-time unlock fee to see FTDNA matches. This is cheaper than buying a new test.
- Smaller autosomal database – With fewer autosomal customers than Ancestry or 23andMe, you may get fewer cousin matches. For many genealogists, this is a secondary tool rather than the primary one.
If your main goal is to find close relatives or get a broad ethnicity breakdown, AncestryDNA or 23andMe might be better first choices. If you are a male wanting to trace your surname line or you are interested in ancient migrations, FTDNA’s Y-DNA tests are unmatched.
Costs and Current Pricing
Prices on the official site change occasionally, and there are frequent sales (especially around holidays). As of 2024, typical prices are:
- Family Finder (autosomal) – around $79–$99
- Y-DNA37 – around $119
- Y-DNA111 – around $249
- Big Y-700 – around $449
- mtDNA (full sequence) – around $159
Bundles (e.g., Family Finder + Y-DNA) are often discounted. The site also charges a separate fee (around $19–$49) if you want to upload data from another company. Shipping is free within the US, and international shipping is available.
Privacy and Data Security
Family Tree DNA has a clear privacy policy. By default, your results are only visible to you and to matches you choose to share with. You can opt out of matching entirely, and you can delete your data at any time. However, note that FTDNA cooperates with law enforcement in cases of violent crimes and unidentified human remains – they have a public policy on this. If you are concerned about police access, you may want to use a pseudonym or use a separate email, but be aware that your DNA data can still be used if you match a crime scene sample. Always read the current privacy policy before purchasing.
Common Problems and How to Avoid Them
Users often run into a few issues:
- Low match count – If you test autosomal DNA with FTDNA, you may have fewer matches than expected. This is because their database is smaller. To increase matches, consider uploading your raw data to other sites like GEDmatch or MyHeritage.
- Y-DNA surname surprises – A Y-DNA test can reveal that your paternal line is not what your paper trail suggests (e.g., an adoption or a non-paternity event). Be prepared for unexpected results.
- Confusing results for beginners – FTDNA’s interface is more technical than Ancestry’s. It helps to watch their tutorials or join a project where administrators can guide you.
- Shipping delays – International shipments can take longer, and some countries have restrictions on DNA kits. Check FTDNA’s shipping policy for your country.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Family Tree DNA the same as AncestryDNA?
No. AncestryDNA is a separate company that only offers autosomal DNA tests and has a much larger database (over 20 million people). Family Tree DNA offers autosomal, Y-DNA, and mtDNA tests. Many genealogists use both: Ancestry for finding cousins, FTDNA for deep paternal/maternal lines.
Can I upload my AncestryDNA results to Family Tree DNA?
Yes. You can download your raw DNA data from AncestryDNA and upload it to FTDNA for a small fee (currently around $19–$49). This gives you access to FTDNA’s match list without buying a new test. The upload does not include Y-DNA or mtDNA, so you will only get autosomal matches.
How long does it take to get results?
Most results are ready in 4 to 8 weeks from the time the lab receives your sample. The exact time depends on the test type and the current volume. You will receive an email when your results are ready.
What is a haplogroup?
A haplogroup is a branch on the human genetic tree that represents a group of people who share a common ancestor on the paternal (Y-DNA) or maternal (mtDNA) line. For example, the most common European Y-DNA haplogroup is R1b. FTDNA assigns your haplogroup and can show you its geographic origins.
Is Family Tree DNA reliable for ethnicity estimates?
FTDNA’s autosomal ethnicity estimate (called “MyOrigins”) is considered reliable but not as detailed as some other companies. It gives broad regional percentages. For deep ancestry, Y-DNA and mtDNA are more precise because they are passed down unchanged (mostly) for generations.
Can I take a Y-DNA test if I am female?
No. The Y chromosome is only present in males. A female can have a male relative (father, brother, paternal uncle, or paternal grandfather) take the test on her behalf to trace her father’s paternal line.
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