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Introduction
In today’s digital world, tracing your family history is no longer just about old photo albums and handwritten notes. With tools like MyHeritage, you can combine DNA testing with genealogy research to build detailed family trees, uncover ancestry origins, and even connect with living relatives across the globe.
But how accurate is MyHeritage DNA? Is the subscription worth paying for beyond the initial kit? And how does it compare to rivals like AncestryDNA and 23andMe?
In this MyHeritage review, I’ll break down its strengths, weaknesses, and whether it’s the right choice for hobbyists, serious genealogists, and curious beginners in 2025.
What Is MyHeritage?
MyHeritage is a genealogy platform and DNA testing service founded in 2003. It has grown into one of the largest platforms for discovering family roots, with:
- Over 19 billion historical records
- More than 90 million family trees created by users
- A DNA database with over 7.7 million profiles
The service combines genetic testing (via cheek swab kits) with powerful family tree–building tools and historical record searches, making it popular among both casual users and professional genealogists.
Key Features of MyHeritage
1. MyHeritage DNA Testing
- Provides ethnicity estimates across 2,100+ geographic regions.
- Connects you with potential DNA relatives worldwide.
- Uses autosomal DNA testing, suitable for both men and women.
- Simple cheek swab kit — no lab visit needed.
2. Family Tree Builder
- Intuitive drag-and-drop family tree creator.
- Smart Matches™ automatically compare your tree with millions of others.
- Supports multimedia uploads like photos and documents.
3. Historical Records Search
- Access to birth, marriage, death, and census records from 66 countries.
- Over 19 billion searchable documents.
- Record Matches feature suggests relevant historical documents for your tree.
4. AI-Powered Tools
- Deep Nostalgia™ animates old family photos.
- Photo Enhancer sharpens blurred or faded images.
- Colorization brings black-and-white photos to life.
MyHeritage Pricing
| Service | Price | Details |
|---|---|---|
| DNA Kit | $79 (often discounted) | Includes ethnicity estimate + DNA matches |
| DNA Health Upgrade | +$120 | Adds health-related genetic reports |
| Premium Plan | $129/year | Larger trees (up to 2,500 people), advanced Smart Matches |
| PremiumPlus Plan | $209/year | Unlimited family tree size, priority support |
| Complete Plan | $299/year | All records, DNA tools, unlimited trees, advanced support |
💡 Tip: MyHeritage often runs discounts (up to 50%) during holidays.
Pros and Cons of MyHeritage
✅ Pros
- Affordable DNA kit compared to 23andMe and AncestryDNA
- Huge international database (especially strong in European records)
- Easy-to-use family tree builder with Smart Matches™
- Unique AI photo tools for enhancing and animating old photos
Strong privacy controls (users own their data)
❌ Cons
- Subscription needed for full access to records and features
- Health reports cost extra (unlike 23andMe, which includes them in higher tiers)
- Ethnicity breakdown less detailed for African and Asian regions compared to competitors
MyHeritage vs AncestryDNA vs 23andMe
| Feature | MyHeritage | AncestryDNA | 23andMe |
|---|---|---|---|
| DNA Kit Price | $79 | $99 | $109 |
| Ethnicity Regions | 2,100+ | 1,500+ | 2,000+ |
| DNA Relatives | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Health Reports | Optional upgrade | No | Yes (included in Health+ plan) |
| Historical Records | 19B+ | 40B+ | Minimal |
| Family Tree Builder | Yes | Yes | Limited |
| AI Photo Tools | Yes | No | No |
Verdict: MyHeritage is best for genealogy and family trees, AncestryDNA is best for record depth in the U.S., and 23andMe is best for health insights.
Who Should Use MyHeritage?
- Genealogy Enthusiasts: Perfect for those wanting to build detailed family trees.
- Europe-Focused Researchers: Strong international database, especially outside the U.S.
- Families Preserving Memories: AI photo tools are a game-changer for personal archives.
- Curious Beginners: Easy setup, affordable entry point.
FAQs: MyHeritage
1. How accurate is MyHeritage DNA?
Accuracy is high for major regions (Europe, North America). For smaller regions, results may be less precise.
2. Is MyHeritage better than AncestryDNA?
It depends. AncestryDNA has more U.S. records, but MyHeritage is stronger internationally and offers unique photo tools.
3. Can I build a family tree without a DNA test?
Yes. Family tree building and historical records are available separately with a subscription.
4. Do I need a subscription after buying the DNA kit?
No, but a subscription unlocks full access to historical records and advanced family tree features.
5. Is my DNA data safe with MyHeritage?
Yes. MyHeritage states that users retain full ownership of their data, and DNA samples can be destroyed upon request.
Final Verdict: Is MyHeritage Worth It in 2025?
If your primary interest is genealogy and family history, MyHeritage is one of the best platforms available today. Its affordable DNA kit, powerful family tree builder, and unique AI photo features make it stand out. While subscriptions can get pricey, the depth of resources justifies the cost for serious researchers.
For casual users, the basic DNA kit provides fascinating insights into ancestry origins and potential DNA matches. For hobbyists and professionals, the subscription plans unlock an unmatched genealogy experience.
👉 Ready to discover your family’s past?
Check out MyHeritage DNA and Family Tree Plans and start your journey today.
