Ancestry DNA tests have become all the rage recently. It makes sense. The search for identity has become one of the defining traits of the past two or three generations. We all want to know who we are and why. We want to know everything about ourselves in the present and how we got here.
Countless people have found significant information about their ancestors that has changed the way they look at the world. Many have even found info that has identified health risks and helped them diagnose diseases early on.
But not all ancestry tests were created equal, and there are those that are better for some populations than others. See this AncestryDNA vs 23andMe comparison, for example.
Here is what you need to look out for when choosing the ancestry DNA test that’s right for you.
Database demographics
Ancestry DNA tests work on the basis of comparison. They take your DNA and compare it to the DNA of their millions of samples. They get an idea of where you are from based on which sets of DNA yours most resembles.
This may make it seem like the bigger the database, the better. Ancestry.com has 9 million users in their database, making them one of the biggest. Are they not the natural choice?
Well, not necessarily. The problem is that many ancestry companies have very particular demographics. Ancestry.com, for example, has a lot of European DNA but not many African samples. If you are African American, their results will not be as accurate or helpful as the results of an Irish American. African Ancestry DNA Test, on the other hand, has a much more targeted set of demographics.
What do you want to know?
Another aspect that is going to be significant in your search for the right ancestry testing is what you actually want to get out of the results. If you just want whatever information comes up, then you won’t be as picky. However, if you’re looking for specific information, your choice becomes more significant.
Some companies are better set to get you in touch with relatives you didn’t know you had. Other companies can tell you how much Neanderthal DNA you have got. Want to know about potential genetic illnesses? Pick a company that is going to put a focus on that information and how it can help you.
Think carefully about what you want to find out about your ancestors before looking at comparisons. Then you can begin to find out what makes one test more suited to you than another.
Practicalities
Finally, one DNA testing company might just be more practical for you than another. Ancestry.com is limited to 35 countries. Check if they cover your country before getting invested in what they have to offer. Also, if the price is going to be a particular concern, choosing the cheapest option might be best. The differences may not be significant enough to justify spending more on one test than another.
Ultamiety, the choice is going to be very personal. Take your time to think about it, before diving into the world of DNA testing.
