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Comparing the Best DNA Tests: CircleDNA, AncestryDNA, 23andMe, and MyHeritage

By Robert WalkerIn Medical NewsPosted
person in white medical scrub suit standing near white and blue hospital bed

Which DNA test is right for you?

As DNA testing kits become more popular, many people are eager to discover their roots, understand their genetic health, and explore unique traits. This article compares four leading DNA testing services: CircleDNA, AncestryDNA, 23andMe, and MyHeritage to help you decide which one best suits your needs.

Key Comparison Categories

We’ll break down the features of each DNA test into these categories:

  • The Process: How It Works
  • Technology and Accuracy
  • Health and Wellness Insights
  • Ancestry and Ethnicity Reports
  • Additional Reports and Features
  • Cost
CategoryCircleDNA 🌟23andMe 🧬AncestryDNA 🌍MyHeritage 🏡
Technology ⚙️NGS (3M+ data points), most comprehensiveGenotyping (700K markers), with optional exome sequencingSNP-genotyping (700K markers), focused on ancestryDNA Microarray (<0.1% of genome), ancestry-focused
Health Reports 🏥500+ reports150+ reportsBasic insightsLimited to no insights
Ancestry & Ethnicity 🌏Broad and generic, East Asia strongDetailed and region-specificDetailed, North America and Europe strongDetailed but mainly Europe strong
Additional Reports 📋Diet, Nutrition, Fitness, Disease Risks, Carrier Status, Personality, Behaviour, Talent, Physical Traits, Wellness, Drug Response, Skin Health among others.Carrier status, Physical Traits, Disease Risks, Wellness reports, Drug Response among others.Breaks down traits from maternal and paternal heritage, Physical TraitsNone
Additional Features 🛠️Free 1 on 1 genetic consultation, tailored recommendations.Family tree, Relative finder.Family tree, Relative finder.Family tree, Relative finder, Deep story, AI time machine
Turnaround Time ⏳18 business days3-4 weeks6-8 weeks3-4 weeks
Price 💰HigherModerateModerateBudget-friendly
Subscription 💳No (One-time purchase)Yes for additional featuresYes for additional featuresYes for additional features
Sample Collection 🧪Cheek swabSaliva sampleSaliva sampleCheek swab
Shipping 🚚Prepaid returnPrepaid returnPrepaid returnUser-paid return
Privacy 🔒Data encrypted using Secure Socket Layer (SSL) technology
No data sharing
Allows data deletion		Data encrypted
Strong privacy controls
No data sharing without consent		No data sharing without consent
Data stored will be anonymised
Allows data deletion		Data may be used for research with consent
Data stored will be anonymised
Allows data deletion
Data Breach History 🛡️NoYesNoYes
Discount Code 💸CIRCLE40 (40% OFF DNA KITS)NoneNoneDUOSDNA (10% OFF DNA KITS)

Technology ⚙️

CircleDNA 🌟: NGS (3M+ data points), most comprehensive

23andMe 🧬: Genotyping (700K markers), with optional exome sequencing

AncestryDNA 🌍: SNP-genotyping (700K markers), focused on ancestry

MyHeritage 🏡: DNA Microarray (<0.1% of genome), ancestry-focused

Health Reports 🏥

CircleDNA 🌟: 500+ reports

23andMe 🧬: 150+ reports

AncestryDNA 🌍: Basic insights

MyHeritage 🏡: Limited to no insights

Ancestry & Ethnicity 🌏

CircleDNA 🌟: Broad and generic, East Asia strong

23andMe 🧬: Detailed and region-specific

AncestryDNA 🌍: Detailed, North America and Europe strong

MyHeritage 🏡: Detailed but mainly Europe strong

Additional Reports 📋

CircleDNA 🌟: Diet, Nutrition, Fitness, Disease Risks, Carrier Status, Personality, Behaviour, Talent, Physical Traits, Wellness, Drug Response, Skin Health among others.

23andMe 🧬: Carrier status, Physical Traits, Disease Risks, Wellness reports, Drug Response among others.

AncestryDNA 🌍: Breaks down traits from maternal and paternal heritage, Physical Traits

MyHeritage 🏡: None

Additional Features 🛠️

CircleDNA 🌟: Free 1 on 1 genetic consultation, tailored recommendations.

23andMe 🧬: Family tree, Relative finder.

AncestryDNA 🌍: Family tree, Relative finder.

MyHeritage 🏡: Family tree, Relative finder, Deep story, AI time machine

Turnaround Time ⏳

CircleDNA 🌟: 18 business days

23andMe 🧬: 3-4 weeks

AncestryDNA 🌍: 6-8 weeks

MyHeritage 🏡: 3-4 weeks

Price 💰

CircleDNA 🌟: Higher

23andMe 🧬: Moderate

AncestryDNA 🌍: Moderate

MyHeritage 🏡: Budget-friendly

Subscription 💳

CircleDNA 🌟: No (One-time purchase)

23andMe 🧬: Yes for additional features

AncestryDNA 🌍: Yes for additional features

MyHeritage 🏡: Yes for additional features

Sample Collection 🧪

CircleDNA 🌟: Cheek swab

23andMe 🧬: Saliva sample

AncestryDNA 🌍: Saliva sample

MyHeritage 🏡: Cheek swab

Shipping 🚚

CircleDNA 🌟: Prepaid return

23andMe 🧬: Prepaid return

AncestryDNA 🌍: Prepaid return

MyHeritage 🏡: User-paid return

Privacy 🔒

CircleDNA 🌟: Data encrypted using Secure Socket Layer (SSL) technology, No data sharing, Allows data deletion

23andMe 🧬: Data encrypted, Strong privacy controls, No data sharing without consent

AncestryDNA 🌍: No data sharing without consent, Data stored will be anonymised, Allows data deletion

MyHeritage 🏡: Data may be used for research with consent, Data stored will be anonymised, Allows data deletion

Data Breach History 🛡️

CircleDNA 🌟: No

23andMe 🧬: Yes

AncestryDNA 🌍: No

MyHeritage 🏡: Yes

Discount Code 💸

CircleDNA 🌟: CIRCLE40 (40% OFF DNA KITS)

23andMe 🧬: None

AncestryDNA 🌍: None

MyHeritage 🏡: DUOSDNA (10% OFF DNA KITS)

The Process: How It Works

The sample collection process for all are fairly straightforward and quite similar.

Winner: CircleDNA

Given the free 2-way shipping, turnaround time and easier sample collection method, CircleDNA does stand out among the four. However, the difference is only a minor inconvenience.

Technology and Accuracy

When choosing a DNA test, the technology used plays a crucial role in determining the depth and accuracy of the results. Different companies employ varying methods to analyze your genetic data, which can affect the kind of insights you receive. Here’s how the major players stack up:

CircleDNA

uses Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS), analyzing over 3 million data points for highly accurate results. This comprehensive method allows for the detection of unknown genetic variations that other tests might miss, making it a robust option for those seeking detailed insights into their health and genetics.

23andMe

23andMe primarily uses genotyping as well. While this method is less comprehensive than NGS, it is sufficient for providing detailed ancestry and health insights. The company also offers exome sequencing through its premium 23andMe+ Total Health service, which enhances the depth of health-related reports.

AncestryDNA

AncestryDNA uses SNP-genotyping to analyze 700,000 DNA markers, focusing primarily on providing detailed ancestry insights. This method is effective for genealogical research, particularly for those with North American roots, due to the extensive reference panel. However, the test does not offer the same level of depth in health-related reports as CircleDNA or even 23andMe’s premium services.

MyHeritage

MyHeritage utilizes DNA microarray technology for their genetic testing. This method analyzes less than 0.1% of a person’s genome by examining specific markers within the DNA, rather than sequencing the entire genome. DNA microarray technology is particularly well-suited for MyHeritage’s focus on ancestry and ethnicity estimate but it does not capture the full spectrum of genetic variation present in your genome.

Winner: CircleDNA

CircleDNA’s NGS technology offers the highest accuracy and the most detailed genetic information, making it the top choice for those seeking comprehensive insights.

Health and Wellness Insights

Some DNA test reports can offer insights into potential disease risks, how your body might respond to certain medications, dietary recommendations tailored to your genetic profile, and even how your genetics may influence your stress levels and sleep patterns. Let’s break it down further:

CircleDNA

CircleDNA offers over 500 detailed reports covering areas such as disease risks, drug responses, dietary recommendations, stress management, and sleep patterns. This wide coverage makes CircleDNA a strong option for those looking to understand and manage their health based on genetic information.

CircleDNA

CircleDNA offers over 500 detailed reports covering areas such as disease risks, drug responses, dietary recommendations, stress management, and sleep patterns. This wide coverage makes CircleDNA a strong option for those looking to understand and manage their health based on genetic information.

23andMe

23andMe provides a solid health and ancestry package, with over 150 reports including genetic predispositions to conditions like Type 2 Diabetes, Parkinson’s disease, and various cancers. The Health + Ancestry service balances health insights with ancestral information.

23andMe

23andMe provides a solid health and ancestry package, with over 150 reports including genetic predispositions to conditions like Type 2 Diabetes, Parkinson’s disease, and various cancers. The Health + Ancestry service balances health insights with ancestral information.

AncestryDNA

AncestryDNA includes health reports, but they are more basic compared to CircleDNA and 23andMe. The focus is mainly on genetic risks for common conditions such as heart disease and cancer, with fewer reports on wellness and lifestyle factors.

AncestryDNA

AncestryDNA includes health reports, but they are more basic compared to CircleDNA and 23andMe. The focus is mainly on genetic risks for common conditions such as heart disease and cancer, with fewer reports on wellness and lifestyle factors.

MyHeritage

MyHeritage also offers health insights through its Health + Ancestry test, which covers genetic risks for conditions like hereditary cancers and cardiovascular diseases. However, its focus remains more on ancestry, offering less in terms of health and wellness insights.

MyHeritage

MyHeritage also offers health insights through its Health + Ancestry test, which covers genetic risks for conditions like hereditary cancers and cardiovascular diseases. However, its focus remains more on ancestry, offering less in terms of health and wellness insights.

Winner: CircleDNA

CircleDNA wins due to its extensive use of Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) technology, offering over 500 detailed health and wellness reports. This makes it the most comprehensive option for those looking to manage their health based on personalized genetic insights. With coverage across a broad spectrum of health topics, CircleDNA provides the most actionable and tailored information, making it the best choice for users seeking in-depth understanding and control over their health.

Ancestry and Ethnicity Reports

For those primarily interested in exploring their ethnic heritage and ancestry, each of these DNA kits offers robust options, but they excel in different regions:

AncestryDNA
AncestryDNA is highly regarded for its extensive database, particularly strong in North America and Europe. With over 25 million users, it’s the best option for users looking to connect with relatives and build detailed family trees. AncestryDNA also offers a detailed migration path of your ancestors, helping you visualize your family's journey over centuries.
CircleDNA
CircleDNA offers a global perspective, with strong coverage of Asian populations. Though their database for ancestry reports is smaller compared to others as their focus is more on their health insights.
23andMe
23andMe covers over 2,000 regions and provides a polished interface, making it easy to explore your ancestral roots. Unique features like maternal and paternal haplogroups and Neanderthal ancestry add depth to the ancestry reports.
MyHeritage
MyHeritage is particularly strong in European ancestry, offering detailed ethnicity estimates across 2,114 regions. Its database is rich in European data, making it an excellent choice for users with European heritage.
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Winner: AncestryDNA

AncestryDNA With its massive database and robust genealogical tools, AncestryDNA is the best choice for users focused on detailed ancestry exploration and connecting with relatives.

Additional Reports and Features

Beyond ancestry and health, each DNA testing service brings something unique to the table. These additional reports and features can cater to specific interests, whether you’re looking for detailed health insights, fun trait information, or comprehensive genealogical tools.

23andMe

23andMe offers a variety of trait reports beyond basic health and ancestry, including over 30 quirky and fun genetic traits, such as the likelihood of being able to match musical pitch or having a photic sneeze reflex. They also provide wellness insights like caffeine consumption and sleep movement, which can be valuable for lifestyle adjustments.

23andMe

23andMe offers a variety of trait reports beyond basic health and ancestry, including over 30 quirky and fun genetic traits, such as the likelihood of being able to match musical pitch or having a photic sneeze reflex. They also provide wellness insights like caffeine consumption and sleep movement, which can be valuable for lifestyle adjustments.

CircleDNA

CircleDNA stands out with its wide range of reports covering diet, nutrition, sports and fitness, skin health, personality traits, and more. For example, CircleDNA provides 35 diet and nutrition reports that can help you understand your body's needs for specific micronutrients like Vitamin D and Omega-3s. The test also includes 18 sports and fitness reports that guide your exercise routine based on your genetic strengths, and 14 skin reports that offer personalized skincare recommendations.

CircleDNA

CircleDNA stands out with its wide range of reports covering diet, nutrition, sports and fitness, skin health, personality traits, and more. For example, CircleDNA provides 35 diet and nutrition reports that can help you understand your body's needs for specific micronutrients like Vitamin D and Omega-3s. The test also includes 18 sports and fitness reports that guide your exercise routine based on your genetic strengths, and 14 skin reports that offer personalized skincare recommendations.

AncestryDNA

AncestryDNA excels in genealogical research with comprehensive family tree tools. It also offers DNA Circles, which group users who share DNA with a common ancestor, enhancing your understanding of your lineage.

AncestryDNA

AncestryDNA excels in genealogical research with comprehensive family tree tools. It also offers DNA Circles, which group users who share DNA with a common ancestor, enhancing your understanding of your lineage.

MyHeritage

MyHeritage is excellent for connecting users with relatives through its DNA matching tool and offers access to a vast database of historical records. While it lacks the broader health and lifestyle reports offered by CircleDNA and 23andMe, it’s a treasure trove for those deep into genealogical research.

MyHeritage

MyHeritage is excellent for connecting users with relatives through its DNA matching tool and offers access to a vast database of historical records. While it lacks the broader health and lifestyle reports offered by CircleDNA and 23andMe, it’s a treasure trove for those deep into genealogical research.

Winner: CircleDNA

CircleDNA offers the broadest range of unique features, covering various aspects of health, wellness, personality and lifestyle. Its extensive reports provide a holistic view of your genetic blueprint, making it the most versatile and informative option.

Cost

Cost is an important factor when choosing a DNA test, especially when considering the range of features offered by each service. The breakdown below only considers the one-off purchase of each DNA testing kit although AncestryDNA, 23andMe and MyHeritage all have an additional subscription program to access their extra features:

CircleDNA is on the higher end of the price spectrum due to its comprehensive testing and use of NGS technology. The Premium DNA Test, which offers over 500 reports, is priced accordingly for those seeking in-depth insights into their health and ancestry.

AncestryDNA is more affordable with its basic test, but additional features like the Family Tree Package or Traits and All Access Package can increase the cost significantly.

23andMe offers tiered pricing, with the Ancestry + Traits service and the Health + Ancestry service. The 23andMe+ Total Health membership is priced higher but offers additional features.

MyHeritage is the most budget-friendly option, especially for those focused on ancestry. The Health+Ancestry test, which includes some health reports, is more expensive than their basic package.

Winner: 23andMe (Cost) & CircleDNA (Value for money)
23andMe offers a balanced package of health and ancestry insights at a moderate price, making it a cost-effective choice for users looking for both types of information. CircleDNA, while more expensive, offers exceptional value with its advanced technology and extensive reports.

Bonus

As an added bonus, we’ve scoured the internet for discount codes to help you save on your next DNA test and here’s what we found.

Aside from seasonal sales that go up to 55% off, CircleDNA continues to offer 40% discount on their Premium tests with the code, CIRCLE40.

Meanwhile, we found a 10% discount for MyHeritage using the code, DUOSDNA. 

Unfortunately, we couldn’t find any lasting discounts for AncestryDNA or 23andMe but the two sites do offer discounts up to 30% off during seasonal sales.

Conclusion

CircleDNA is the best choice for those wanting the most detailed health and genetic insights. Its use of advanced NGS technology and over 500 reports make it unmatched in terms of depth and breadth of information. For those who want to make informed decisions about their health and lifestyle, CircleDNA provides a holistic understanding of their genetic blueprint.

For users focused primarily on ancestry, AncestryDNA is the top choice, particularly for those with North American or European roots. 23andMe offers a good mix of both health and ancestry insights at a moderate price, while MyHeritage is great for European ancestry and genealogical research at a lower cost.

Ultimately, the best DNA test for you depends on your priorities. If you’re looking for the most comprehensive and actionable genetic information, CircleDNA emerges as the leader.

Robert Walker