People get genetic DNA testing done for a number of reasons: some do it to locate people with whom they might share a relation and others want to find out more about the roots of their ancestry. The information in your DNA also helps medical professionals understand certain health conditions. Doctors are in a better position to advise on the best course of action to prepare and prevent possible health complications.

Vitagene, Orig3n, GPSOrigins, Futura Genetics, 23andMe, Ancestry®, Living DNA, Nutrisystem®, and MyHeritage are among the top DNA testing services. But not all of them provide the same services; particularly, Living DNA and MyHeritage stand out in the crowd. Herein, we will discuss key factors to compare Living DNA vs MyHeritage to understand which is a better service and why.

Kit components and use

Both Living DNA and MyHeritage feature a simple to use home cheek swab test kit. You can order the Living DNA testing kit online from the official website. The kit comes with a cheek swab DNA preserving tube, an instruction booklet, the specimen bag, and a prepaid mailer. Using the cheek swab, you must collect your saliva and deposit the same in the preserving tube. Lastly, mail the specimen to Living DNA with the prepaid mailer. The results are available in 6-8 weeks on their website. Creating an account is mandatory for accessing the information online. MyHeritage employs a similar cheek swab testing method to generate a complete DNA and ancestry analysis report. But test results are available online in 4-6 weeks’ time.

Testing features

You can get a comprehensive report with the Living DNA 3-1 testing kit as the service lists match on both sides of your family; going right up to your maternal and paternal grandparents. One of the key features is a drive family matching method that unlocks vital DNA and ancestry data. Using information from your DNA, gender, and age, the service helps build a comprehensive family tree that goes back to the roots of your ancestry. DNA matches are available for 13 generations. Living DNA also includes the Ancestry Book, which is a summary of all potential matches and family information. MyHeritage, on the other hand, helps you discover your ethnic origins and find out more about the people you might share a relation with. One of the key features of MyHeritage is autosomal testing to provide accurate matches on both sides of your family. Both services don’t differ much in terms of testing features for the price. However, a notable feature that sets apart MyHeritage is the ability to test for Native American ethnicity.

Data authenticity and privacy

Information is a key deciding factor when you compare Living DNA and MyHeritage, especially for testing services. Living DNA accumulates most of its findings through scientific predictions, so information may not be 100% accurate. However, you must consider the fact that there is no proven way of determining 100% data accuracy in DNA testing, irrespective of which service provides the information. When it comes to data confidentiality, Living DNA ensures you have sole control. The service does not share data without your consent. You also have the authority to demand complete data delete to permanently remove information from their servers. These security features ensure complete anonymity to ensure there is no data breach. MyHeritage also fares well when it comes to safeguarding your personal information. The service employs multiple levels of encryption for all data online and allows you to control their information. You will be in complete control of the information you want to display or share from your profile.

Mobile apps

The MyHeritage mobile application lets you access and track all your personal data on the go. You can check out your growing family tree as and when it is updated and explore new matches or origins. You can also order more DNA kits or subscribe for services from the phone. Living DNA does not feature a mobile application, but you can always log into your account online from any other device to keep track of all your information.

Pricing

Price is an important factor to consider in Living DNA vs MyHeritage comparison. The Living DNA kit is available for a price of around $100 and you pay around $10 for shipping. If you need the Ancestry Book as well, pay an extra $69 at checkout. Note that the prices are subject to changes depending on the discretion of the testing service so be sure to check on their official website. MyHeritage DNA™ testing kit is available for a price of around $80, with an additional $12 for shipping per delivery. Additionally, there are multiple plans for the MyHeritage family tree starting at around $79/year and go upwards of around $189/year. The price varies depending on the family tree size. Although DNA services are not free, you can enjoy a basic family tree report that includes 250 people in the analysis. Note that the prices for the first year of family tree analysis will again vary depending on the plan starting at around $60 and going upwards of around $130.

Living DNA vs MyHeritage, which is better?

Our verdict is that both services offer similar DNA testing kits and services for almost the same price. While MyHeritage features additional Family Tree plans, it is merely an add-on over the original kit. Both services are affordable and feature a complete and thorough analysis after decoding the genetic sequence of your DNA. MyHeritage does, however, provide mobile application support. Note that DNA information is something that you might not access regularly so there is no pressing need for a mobile app. In conclusion, between Living DNA and MyHeritage, one can be an alternative for the other, specifically for its testing kits.