Pros
Provides both health and ancestry information
More secure signup process compared to AncestryDNA
Faster result turnaround time
Detailed health reports approved by the FDA
Includes an internal messaging system for relative contact
Option to participate in medical research surveys
Easy-to-use kit and straightforward process
Offers relative identification outside the USA
Fun and interesting to discover genetic traits and ancestry
Tracks progress through an app and provides frequent updates
Cons
Internal messaging system is rudimentary
Higher cost for medical info compared to basic ancestry only kit
Not as effective as AncestryDNA for building family trees
Main Product Advantages
10 Medical Information
23andMe offers FDA-approved health reports on various medical conditions, while AncestryDNA's health reporting is either nonexistent or in early stages.
9 Web Site Security
23andMe offers better site security, requiring a full logon and email confirmation for sensitive actions, unlike AncestryDNA, which often remembers login credentials.
8 Test Taking and Signup
23andMe's signup process is more secure than AncestryDNA's, requiring a typical logon and password. The actual test taking is similar for both services.
8 DNA Relative Identification
23andMe identifies a wider range of DNA relatives, including international connections which are valuable for ancestry searches.
7 Waiting on Results
23andMe's results process ETA is faster, taking about 3-4 weeks, whereas AncestryDNA can take around 5 days longer.
7 Ethnic Origin Analysis
23andMe provides more accurate ethnic origin analysis according to user reviews, with ongoing updates for both services.
7 User Experience
23andMe offers a generally positive user experience with straightforward steps and useful progress updates; support tools are more comprehensive on the computer version of their site.
7 Cost and Value
The service offers valuable health and ancestry insights and is considered cost-effective by many users, especially when purchased during promotions.
6 DNA Relative Contact and Analysis
23andMe provides internal messaging for DNA contacts but the interface is basic. AncestryDNA provides emails and shared ancestors with their subscription service.
5 Connection to 3rd Party Services
Connecting to third-party services like Promethease is straightforward but has raised privacy concerns due to recent policy changes.
23andMe Health + Ancestry Service: A Comprehensive Review
Considering genetic testing is a significant decision, and it is essential to review important information about Carrier Status* and Genetic Health Risk* reports before making a purchase. More details can be found at 23andme.com/test-info.
What You Get
The 23andMe Health + Ancestry Service offers an at-home DNA test kit that grants you access to both health and ancestry insights. This service aims to provide a more complete picture of your health by leveraging your genetic data. The package includes FDA-authorized reports and full access to the Ancestry Service. Additionally, a portion of your purchase may be eligible for FSA/HSA reimbursement***.
Health Features
This product offers personalized health reports grounded in science-backed data, highlighting how your DNA can impact your likelihood of developing particular health conditions.* Wellness reports correlate your DNA with your lifestyle. Furthermore, Carrier Status* reports can indicate if you carry genetic variants associated with certain inherited health conditions. These insights can empower you to make more informed decisions to fuel your health journey.
Simple & Easy
Genetic testing with 23andMe involves three straightforward steps. There is no need for blood or needles. You simply need to spit into the provided tube, register your kit using the barcode, and return the saliva sample to the lab in the pre-paid package. Results are typically returned in 4-5 weeks. The purchased kit includes access to the basic 23andMe Ancestry Service, which can be upgraded to the 23andMe+ Premium Membership for additional features.
Private and Protected
23andMe places a strong emphasis on your privacy and data protection. All data is encrypted and protected, and you have control over what you want to learn and share. More details can be found under 23andMe’s Terms of Service at 23andme.com/tos and the Privacy Statement at 23andme.com/about/privacy.
Conclusion
The 23andMe Health + Ancestry Service offers a robust and comprehensive solution for those interested in understanding their genetic health predispositions and ancestry. With user-friendly procedures and a strong emphasis on privacy, it stands out as a reliable choice for at-home genetic testing. Before making a purchase, ensure to thoroughly review all relevant information to make an informed decision.
