It's National DNA Day! Here's why AncestryDNA is the best DNA kit we've tested
— Recommendations are independently chosen by Reviewed’s editors. Purchases you make through the links below may earn us and our publishing partners a commission.
April 25 is National DNA Day, a day when we celebrate the discovery of DNA, which happened in the late 1860s. If you're looking for fun ways to celebrate your genes, we've got a suggestion for you: AncestryDNA.
When we tested DNA kits, AncestryDNA took home the top slot. We love the kit (and overall AncestryDNA service) for its quality results, ease of use and integration with other Ancestry features. Here's what you need to know if you're on the fence about buying AncestryDNA.
It's easy to use.
Submitting your DNA to Ancestry is incredibly easy; after you order a kit, the brand sends you a handy box that features illustrated instructions, a collection kit and a pre-paid mailing label.
Once your DNA is off to the lab, it takes about six weeks for your results to process. The site emails you when you can log back in, then you're treated to a full breakdown of your genealogical history.
It provides detailed breakdowns of your heritage.
Once your results have been processed, you can find a full breakdown of your ethnic background on the DNA Story page. Mine, for example, shows that my DNA was tested against 1,800+ regions, but my ancestors primarily come from England, Scotland and Ireland. For each region you're connected to, the site breaks down an exact percentage of your DNA that hails from each place.
If you've got siblings, completing AncestryDNA together is an incredibly fun way to compare your genes. We had three sets of siblings take DNA tests together to see if their results were different, and we were surprised to see just how different they really were.
It updates over time.
The AncestryDNA database is always growing and evolving, so if you've submitted your DNA to the network, you'll always have access to the most up-to-date reporting on your ethnicity. I submitted my DNA in 2019, and every year or so, my genetic breakdown changes slightly as more people from different regions contribute their genes.
Is AncestryDNA worth it?
If you're curious about your heritage and where your ancestors are really from, AncestryDNA is absolutely worth the purchase. You can get the full kit for just $99 right now.
Make smart choices without hours of googling. Subscribe to The Checklist newsletter for expert product advice and recommendations.
The product experts at Reviewed have all your shopping needs covered. Follow Reviewed on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, TikTok or Flipboard for the latest deals, product reviews and more.
Prices were accurate at the time this article was published but may change over time.