23 And Me Vs. Ancestrydna

What’s The Difference? It Depends On What You’re After.

- Dieter Holger

AncestryDNA and 23andMe are the world’s most popular DNA tests. Combined, the companies have tested the DNA of more than 15 million people, according to the International Society of Genetic Genealogy (go. pcworld.com/isgg).

They also both cost $99, unless you elect for 23andMe’s $199 Ancestry + Health service to get info on potential health risks and genetic traits in addition to ancestry. So what’s the difference? We took both tests to find out. You can read our full reviews of AncestryDNA (go.pcworld. com/adna) and 23andMe (go.pcworld. com/23me), but below we break down the primary differences between the two kits.

THEY TEST DIFFERENT PARTS OF YOUR DNA

For one, AncestryDNA only tests your autosomal DNA, while 23andMe tests your autosomal DNA, your mtDNA, and your yDNA (if you’re male). Autosomal tests are the most common DNA tests. They look at DNA inherited from both sides of your family and compare it to other samples to determine your ethnicity.

Autosomal DNA tests also reveal family relations up to seven generations—or 210 years—with up to 95 percent accuracy.

On the other hand, mtDNA comes from your mother and yDNA from your father— however, only men can have their yDNA tested. These types of DNA reveal the lineage, known as a haplogroup, that you descend from on your mother’s or father’s side. 23andMe uses this information to tell you about your ancestors tens of thousands of years ago and their migration patterns.

THEY GIVE DIFFERENT RESULTS