DNA
Where can you get a test from?
Y-DNA (Y male chromosone)
The only mainstream company that provides Y-DNA testing is Family Tree DNA. Choose the Y-DNA37 test, then upgrade to 67 or 111 markers later if necessary. Be aware that the Living DNA/Findmypast test only provides haplogroups, not Y-DNA matches.
mtDNA (mitochondial DNA)
The only mainstream company that provides mtDNA testing is Family Tree DNA. Choose the full sequence mtDNA test. Be aware that this test is expensive and is the least useful for family history purposes. (1) Because in most western countries the surname changes in each female generation. (2) Because mtDNA mutates very slowly so the common ancestor with matches is likely to be thousands rather than hundreds of years ago. Be aware that the Living DNA/Findmypast test only provides haplogroups, not mtDNA matches.
atDNA (autosomal DNA)
There are many companies that provide and heavily promote autosomal atDNA testing. The big five in order of the size of their database are AncestryDNA, 23andMe, My Heritage DNA, Family Tree DNA, and Living DNA/Findmypast. The recommendation is to test with AncestryDNA. (1) Because their database of over 12 million is more than the rest put together. (2) Because they provide very good integration with Ancestry family trees. (3) Because they do not accept uploads of raw DNA data from other companies. It is highly recommended that you download your raw DNA data from Ancestry DNA and upload it to GEDmatch, Family Tree DNA, My Heritage DNA, and Living DNA/Findmypast. 23andMe do not accept uploads.
