DNA sites you can upload raw DNA data to get additional analysis
If you’ve taken a DNA test, you have access to your raw DNA data. You can use your raw DNA data file to get additional analysis. Here, a self-described “DNA Geek” reviews 20 of the top DNA sites.
Updated August 17, 2022
Hey there, I am a DNA geek. I’ve taken the 23andMe and AncestryDNA tests and even had my entire genome sequenced (tests like 23andMe and AncestryDNA only analyze around 0.3% of your DNA — yes, that’s less than 1 percent!). And here’s what’s cool about these tests: you can download your raw DNA data file.
Once you have this data file (usually in the form of a .txt file), you can use it to get more analysis from other DNA sites. So if you’ve taken a DNA test and want to know what your options are for further analysis, I’m here to help!
Step 1: How to get your raw DNA data file
OK, so you’ve just taken your DNA test. Maybe you’re wondering what you can actually do with all this data. First, you’ll want to actually download your raw DNA data file.
Here are the instructions for three of the most popular DNA tests: AncestryDNA, 23andMe, and MyHeritage. Just click any of those links to get taken directly to the instructions page. If you carefully follow them step-by-step, you will get your raw DNA data file in just a few minutes.
So you’ve downloaded your raw DNA data file. Now what?
Well, if you open up the document, you’ll quickly notice a lot of seemingly random numbers and letters. And you’ll probably have more than a few questions: What is rs7766109? What does TT mean here? What’s with all the long strings of numbers?
That’s why you need a specialized algorithm to go through all these numbers and letters, compare them to other reference data, and spit out a result that you can actually understand. That’s where DNA analysis sites can help.
Step 2: Upload your raw DNA data to DNA sites for more analysis
Once you’ve successfully downloaded your raw DNA data file, it’s time to upload that data to a third-party DNA analysis site. Keep in mind: some of these sites are free (click HERE for more info about free sites), while some charge a fee for different services.
To help you understand more about your options (and maybe decide which DNA analysis site is right for you), I’ve put together this “DNA Sites 101” guide. If you already know which site you’re looking for, you can click on any of the links below to go directly to the site or to read one of my many site reviews.
However, if you’re still exploring your options and are wondering which site is best, keep reading. I’ve reviewed all 20 of the sites below…
Get “More” free analysis
1. Genomelink — FREE
2. Promethease
Ancestry & Family Finder
3. GEDmatch — FREE
4. MyTrueAncestry
5. MyHeritage DNA
6. FamilyTreeDNA
7. LivingDNA
8. African Ancestry
Health
9. Nebula Genomics
10. SelfDecode
11. Xcode Life
Wellness
12. Genopalate
13. Athletigen
14. FitnessGenes
15. Vitagene
16. DNAFit
Research
17. Sano Genetics
18. Luna DNA
DNA App Store
19. Sequencing.com
20. Gene Plaza
“Get More” DNA Analyses
1. Genomelink — FREE
Price: Free (or $14/month for Genomelink’s unlimited plan — you can also purchase popular reports like Global Ancestry and Viking Index)
Type: DNA App Store, DNA upload site, Personal DNA Cloud
Categories: Ancient Ancestry, Wellness, Fun Traits, DNA Science
“Go beyond ancestry and genealogy. Know more about yourself through the lens of genomics science. Free access to over 100 trait reports upon uploading your raw data, with over 300 trait reports available in total.”
Genomelink is a DNA site where you can access more insights, apps, and health research. You can get over 100 trait analyses for free, and the dashboard is constantly updated (now including a personalized avatar, streaks feature, and more). Genomelink also offers a variety of premium reports including: Global Ancestry, personalized Nutrition/Fitness, Ancient Ancestry, Viking Index, and more. Currently, Genomelink only accepts raw data uploads from AncestryDNA, 23andMe, and MyHeritage.
In particular, the popular Ancient Ancestry Report reveals how much DNA data and genetic profile you share with your ancient ancestors over 5,000 years ago. It comes with seven major group analyses, including European hunter-gatherers / First Farmers / Steppe pastoralists / Indigenous Americans / West African / East Asian / South Asian.
Bottom line: If you are looking for fun information about personal traits (like personality, nutrition, and more), or if you want further ancestry analysis of your raw DNA data file, then Genomelink is a great choice.
2. Promethease
Price: $12
Type: Literature Retrieval Service (connects directly to all scientific studies about your variants)
Categories: Health, Disease, Traits
“Promethease is a literature retrieval system that builds a personal DNA report based on connecting a file of DNA genotypes to the scientific findings cited in SNPedia.”
Promethease is like a librarian for your genes. By directly comparing the genetic variants you carry to their enormous scientific literature database, Promethease can pull all the peer-reviewed journal articles on any variant you are interested in. Using their advanced search platform, you can even search through your SNPs by disease, condition, or level of research. The platform searches SNPedia, essentially a wiki site of all known single-nucleotide polymorphisms.
Bottom line: If you love genomics science, then this is absolutely worth the price. However, if you aren’t as interested in reading through the scientific literature, then you should probably pass on Promethease.
Ancestry & Family Finder
3. GEDmatch
Price: Free ($10/month for Tier1 “Pro” tools)
Type: Ancestry
Characteristics: Biggest cross-company DNA database for genetic genealogy purposes
“Tools for Genetic Genealogy Research”
GEDmatch is a free site that allows you to search for living relatives, compare DNA segments with your DNA matches with a chromosome browser, get an ethnicity estimate, and access several professional-grade genealogical analysis tools to analyze your DNA file. While the user interface does have a steep learning curve, the platform can give you a massive amount of information once you have mastered how to use it — letting you become your own genealogist!
Bottom line: GEDmatch is a good option if you’re searching for living relatives. Its pro tools are difficult to use and master for amateurs, but if you’re serious about genealogy it may be worth the effort for you.
4. MyTrueAncestry
Price: Free for first 10 samples (only for 48 hours). Offers tiered pricing up to $596.
Type: Ancient Ancestry
Characteristics: A site that compiles a database of DNA samples found in archeological dig sites.
“So, you’ve got your DNA results? To discover who you really are, you need to know where you come from. We can take your DNA results one step further through the use of advanced archaeogenetics”
MyTrueAncestry is an enjoyable way to see how much DNA you share with ancient peoples, such as the Vikings, Neanderthals, and other ancient groups. Using DNA found in graves and other ancient sites, MyTrueAncestry is one of the only services that can tell you how related you are to many of the ancient groups they cover.
Bottom line: If you’re interested in ancient ancestral links — and if you like your DNA websites fun and accessible — then MyTrueAncestry may be a good option.
5. MyHeritage DNA — FREE
Price: Free DNA upload and family matching
Type: Ancestry
Characteristics: Great for people with European heritage
“Our simple DNA test can reveal your unique ethnic background, and match you with newfound relatives. Take family history to the next level with the most affordable DNA test on the market.”
MyHeritage is the third-largest ancestry DNA testing service in terms of users. Plus, they have a historical records database that includes more European records than any other company. You can upload your DNA for free to search for distant relatives, or you can get a subscription to start searching through their records and building out your family tree.
Bottom line: A good free option for people with European roots.
6. FamilyTreeDNA
Price: Free DNA upload ($99 Paternal Ancestry, $139 Maternal Ancestry)
Type: Ancestry
Characteristics: Specializing in tracing maternal haplotypes and paternal haplotypes, this is one of few companies that can specifically trace your Y-DNA and mtDNA.
“Where will your DNA take you? Learn about your personal history and follow the path of your ancestors with FamilyTreeDNA’s industry-leading tests.”
FamilyTreeDNA (FTDNA) will allow you to search its DNA database for family members for free with a DNA upload. But, the real power of FTDNA is the ability to take an mtDNA test or a Y-DNA test that can give you results specific to your maternal line or paternal line, respectively. Unlike autosomal DNA, these lines are more stable and allow you to track your ancestry much further back in time and specific sources (such as Native American or East Asian). If you like the FTDNA free matches and interface, you should consider buying their Paternal Ancestry or Maternal Ancestry tests.
Bottom line: A great resource if you’re interested in your ancestry through a maternal or paternal line.
7. LivingDNA
Price: Free DNA upload (varying costs for different analyses)
Type: Ancestry
Characteristics: Another good site to search for free family matches, with specializations in African Ancestry, European Ancestry, British Ancestry, and Irish Ancestry
“Our world-leading ancestry test provides unrivaled worldwide regional breakdowns, with five times the detail of any other DNA test on the market for African ancestry and eight times more detail for the British Isles.”
LivingDNA is one of the smaller DNA testing companies. But where other companies strive for quantity, LivingDNA prides itself on quality. LivingDNA has made enormous investments in acquiring genetic information other companies don’t have, which it uses to build best-in-market reference populations. This commitment to population data is why LivingDNA claims to have one of the most specific databases for African ancestry and British ancestry.
Bottom line: LivingDNA is a fantastic option for people with British ancestry looking for pinpoint accurate detail about their genealogy.
8. African Ancestry
Price: $210 for Upload, $299 — $729 for DNA kit
Type: Ancestry
Characteristics: Focusing specifically on African Ancestry, this company uses Y-DNA and mtDNA and claims to match you to specific tribes in Africa.
“Knowing where you’re from is a critical component of knowing who you are. Find those missing pieces of your identity with this transformative and powerful experience.”
African Ancestry claims to be the most specific breakdown of African heritage on the market. Using your mtDNA or Y-DNA to look at your haplogroups, this company can predict exactly which present-day tribes and ethnic groups you are most closely related to in Africa. Test results from this company are about as specific as DNA analysis can get.
Bottom line: Worth trying for anyone with African roots.
Health
* A note about DNA Health Testing: All of these companies offer health information “for informational purposes only.” If you are seriously concerned that you may have a genetic disease, you should consider asking your doctor to order a genetic test specific to your symptoms and family history. Medical-grade tests typically search for more of the known variants within a gene that can cause issues. (But they are also more expensive.)
9. Nebula Genomics
Price: Free DNA Upload + Analysis, $299-$999 for Whole Genome Sequencing
Type: Whole Genome Sequencing
Characteristics: As one of the only providers of a Whole Genome Sequence, this company covers thousands of times more DNA data than a simple SNP test.
“We use Whole Genome Sequencing to decode 100% of your DNA and produce 10,000 times more data than other DNA tests like 23andMe and AncestryDNA. Begin a lifetime of discovery with full access to your genomic data, weekly updates based on the latest scientific discoveries, advanced ancestry analysis, and powerful genome exploration tools.”
Nebula Genomics is currently the only company offering affordable Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS). The difference is huge — regular SNP testing only covers about 0.03% of your entire genome, while Nebula will sequence your entire genome, giving you access to even more genetic information. Keep in mind, however, that Nebula requires a subscription in order for you to maintain access to your results.
Bottom line: If you’re interested in whole genome sequencing then Nebula is currently one of the most affordable options on the market.
10. SelfDecode
Price: Free to upload, then $97/year or $396/Lifetime
Type: Health, Disease, Wellness
Characteristics: Sort of like a full-health dashboard, this site can integrate lab results, your DNA data, and even symptoms you have to help your doctor give you more specific care.
“What Health Issue Do You Want to Solve? Search for a symptom, condition, gene, or SNP and we’ll give you a list of all the reports and tools that can help you improve your issues!”
SelfDecode aims to become the source for individualized health solutions. You can either upload your DNA to get started or get a kit from the company. What’s really cool about this platform is that you can integrate it with your lab results, disease symptoms, and other health information to get more specific health-based recommendations that you can talk about with your doctor.
Bottom line: If you’re looking for detailed health information you can integrate with your lab results, then SelfDecode is a great choice.
11. Xcode Life
Price: $20 — $99 per report
Type: Health, Wellness, Fitness
Characteristics: An a la carte health service that allows you to pick and choose the health reports that you want to see.
“Among the companies offering DNA health insights, Xcode Life has the largest portfolio of genetic trait reports. Xcode Life’s scientific team curates information from authentic research publications and presents this information as actionable wellness insights in your reports.”
Lots of companies offer bundles of information that might not suit your individual needs. With Xcode Life, you can pay less to get exactly the results you want to see. For instance, if you want to learn about your skin and carrier status, you can buy each test individually for only $20 each. However, they also offer massive discounts on their bundles, with certain packages of reports running just $99.
Bottom line: A solid and affordable option for people looking for specific health traits information.
Wellness
12. GenoPalate
Price: Free sample report, then $40 — $179.95
Type: Nutrition
Characteristics: Though this is not the only place you can find nutrition information, it is one of the only sites that will give you delicious recipes catered to your DNA code.
“Why Eat For Your Genes? You are unique! Your food should be too! Your genes determine how your body metabolizes the foods you eat.”
By analyzing over 100 genetic variants related to how your body processes nutrients, GenoPalate aims to be a one-stop-shop for everything nutrition. You can upload your raw DNA data or get a DNA testing kit directly from the company. By analyzing how your body processes things like sugar, protein, fat, and minerals, GenoPalate gives you a personalized nutrition report and specific recipes to optimize your nutrition.
Bottom line: If you’d like your DNA analysis with a side of personalized recipes, then GenoPalate is right for you.
13. Athletigen
Price: Free “Cosmopolitan” Report, then $69 — $220
Type: Fitness
Characteristics: A site dedicated to Fitness DNA testing, with nutrition, optimum movement and recovery, and sports performance reports.
“You Are Made for More. Achieve your goals with DNA products made just for you.”
Athletigen works with coaches and trainers who have trained Olympians and World Champions to give you reports and recommendations to improve your performance. This company offers an in-depth report from ALTIS head coach Dan Pfaff that offers expert advice to get you to your peak fitness.
Bottom line: Athletigen is perfect for fitness junkies and gym rats.
14. FitnessGenes
Price: Free to explore the platform, $49 DNA upload, $199 DNA test
Type: Fitness, Weight loss
Characteristics: Focusing more on weight loss than other fitness companies, FitnessGenes can help you create and track a diet plan and exercise routine
“You will gain access to your personalized truefeed® which contains your traits, insights, and actions. truefeed® uses our patent-pending truetrait® algorithm to combine your genetic and lifestyle information to help you understand why you respond, or are predisposed to, different ways of eating, exercising, supplementing, or behaving.”
FitnessGenes is a cool way to build and track a new health routine. They know that weight loss is about both diet and exercise — and they’ve designed their product to help you manage both. With a platform you can access right through the company’s app, you should be able to get started on a new routine in no time. Plus, it’s much easier to follow through with recommendations when they are trackable through your smartphone.
Bottom line: A good option for people looking to craft a personalized wellness routine based on their genetics.
15. Vitagene
Price: $89 — $249
Type: Nutrition, Fitness, Skin
Characteristics: A complete look at many health and wellness traits that affect your daily life.
“Vitagene’s DNA testing kits combine your genes, lifestyle, and goals to create customized nutritional plans. Each DNA test kit results in a personalized report based on science, not trends. Our DNA testing kits take the guesswork out of achieving your goals.”
Vitagene takes the guesswork out of ways to optimize your vitamin regimen, diet, exercise, and skin-care program. Vitagene also offers an FDA emergency approved at-home COVID-19 saliva test kit.
Bottom line: Vitagene offers affordable tests like vitamin D and HbA1c blood sugar perfect for health-conscious users.
16. DNAFit
Price: $79–149
Type: Wellness
Categories: Food and Nutrition, Fitness
“Let’s talk about you — Our groundbreaking DNA test will change the way you think about fitness and nutrition forever.”
DNAFit that aims to use your unique DNA data to help whip you into tip-top shape. Looking at traits like your ability to detoxify your body, how you deal with endurance sports, and how you recover from exercise, this company can offer personalized tips for maximizing your wellness routine and sports performance.
Bottom line: Another good option for dedicated fitness junkies.
DNA Sites for Research
17. Sano Genetics
Price: Free for users with specific conditions
Type: Research
Characteristics: This company works directly with researchers to find the specific populations they need to study.
“Make a difference with your DNA. At Sano, we believe in a future where medicine is personalized to you, and we need your help to build it. Play a role in future discoveries in mental health, the immune system, rare disorders, and more, while discovering how your DNA affects you.”
Sano Genetics is an awesome way to contribute to the scientific research of genetic traits while at the same time getting access to cutting-edge research. If you have the right conditions, you may even be eligible for a free DNA test to get started. Instead of charging you, Sano Genetics makes money by giving researchers access to their anonymized user data and helps them research the database.
Bottom line: If you have specific medical conditions and would like to participate in genetics research, then you may qualify for free testing with Sano.
18. Luna DNA
Price: Free
Type: Research
Characteristics: By submitting your DNA to researchers, you can actually gain a stake in the Luna DNA company.
“Transform Your Community. Individuals are not the “subjects” of research. We see people as partners in discovery, and we do it the only way it should be done — with people, for people, by people.”
Luna DNA actually rewards you for your contribution to science by making you a shareholder of the company. You read that right — simply by contributing your DNA, you can be part-owner of a company that aims to change the future of DNA research. It’s a way for you — and the company — to profit from your DNA.
Bottom line: Good for people interested in monetizing their DNA. Not recommended for people with privacy concerns.
App Stores for DNA Discovery:
19. Sequencing.com
Price: Free — $199+
Type: App Marketplace
Characteristics: Claiming to be the largest DNA App marketplace, this site will store your DNA and allow you to use it with many different apps that can offer different insights into your genes.
“Outsmart your Genes — Access more DNA discoveries than has ever before been possible.”
Like an app store for DNA data, Sequencing.com provides free, confidential storage of your genetic data and access to a large selection of apps (for a fee) that transform your data into useful information. Currently, it partners with companies like LIFE NOME. Recently, Sequencing also rolled out whole genome sequencing (WGS) testing for $399 — one of the lowest prices on the market.
Bottom line: Sequencing is a good option for storing your DNA data — and may be a good option if you’re interested in whole genome sequencing.
20. Gene Plaza
Price: $4 — $50+
Type: DNA App Marketplace
Characteristics: Similar to the above, this DNA App Marketplace allows you to select individual reports and apps a la carte — with a focus on privacy.
“A marketplace for Genetic Reports. Your DNA, Your Choice. Privacy over Profit. No Data for Sale.”
Gene Plaza stores your DNA securely and integrates with an ever-growing list of apps that can give you reports on everything from wellness to ancestry traits. Apps range from as little as $4 for simple reports to nearly $50 for larger, more complex reports. But you can pick and choose exactly which apps you want to try, and your DNA will be securely stored.
Bottom line: A good DNA app marketplace for people with privacy concerns.
