Tracing Roots

Building a family tree is easier than ever thanks to online genealogy platforms. These services give you access to historical records, smart tools, and even DNA testing to help uncover your roots. But with so many options available, which one is right for you?

Here’s a 2025 comparison of the top five genealogy services — highlighting their strengths, weaknesses, and who they’re best suited for.

Ancestry

Best for: Beginners to advanced users who want the largest database.

• Highlights:
  • Over 30 billion historical records worldwide
  • Easy-to-use family tree builder
  • Powerful DNA matching to connect with relatives
  • Strong UK and US record coverage
• Limitations:
  • Subscription required for most records
  • DNA service may require extra purchase

MyHeritage

Best for: International research and photo tools.

• Highlights:
  • 19+ billion records, strong European coverage
  • Automatic “Smart Matches” that link your relatives to other family trees
  • Excellent AI photo tools (colorising, restoring old pictures)
  • DNA testing service available
• Limitations:
  • Some advanced records behind a paywall
  • Interface can feel busy for beginners

Findmypast

Best for: UK & Ireland research.

• Highlights:
  • Specialist in British and Irish records
  • Exclusive access to many parish registers and military collections
  • Simple search filters tailored to UK family historians
• Limitations:
  • Less coverage outside UK & Ireland
  • Smaller DNA network (compared to Ancestry/MyHeritage)

FamilySearch

Best for: Free access and global reach.

• Highlights:
  • Completely free to use (run by the LDS Church)
  • Millions of digitised records from around the world
  • Collaborative trees allow shared contributions
• Limitations:
  • Interface less polished than paid competitors
  • Some records require viewing at local Family History Centres

23andMe

Best for: DNA insights and health reports.

• Highlights:
  • Advanced DNA testing with ancestry composition and health traits
  • Connects you with DNA relatives worldwide
  • Simple at-home test kit
• Limitations:
  • Smaller historical record database (not a tree-building platform)
  • Focuses on genetics more than archives

Final Thoughts

The best genealogy service depends on your goals:

• Choose Ancestry for the largest records collection and DNA network.
• Try MyHeritage if you want strong European coverage and innovative photo tools.
• Use Findmypast if your family roots are in the UK or Ireland.
• Explore FamilySearch if you’re just starting and want free access.
• Consider 23andMe if you’re more interested in DNA and health insights.