Find Your Roots: Best Genealogy Software

Home » How-To

7 min. read

Published on October 20, 2025

Fix Windows errors with Fortect:
Fortect can repair common computer errors by scanning your entire system for damaged or missing OS files and replacing them with the original, working versions. Optimize your PC in 3 simple steps:

Download and Install Fortect on your PC
Use the PC Scan feature to look up any Windows issues (including drivers)
Right-click on Repair, and fix it within a few minutes.

Besides that, it helps you clean up junk files, fix stability problems, and get rid of annoying programs and malware traces.

Uncovering your family history can be a deeply rewarding experience, connecting you to your past and providing a richer understanding of who you are. Genealogy software is designed to help you navigate this journey, offering tools to build your family tree, research ancestors, and preserve your findings for future generations. With the right software, tracing your lineage becomes an engaging and organized process.

Choosing the right genealogy software can feel overwhelming given the numerous options available. This article explores some of the best ancestry software available to help you explore your genealogy family tree, highlighting their features, benefits, and pricing to assist you in making an informed decision. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced researcher, there’s a program to suit your needs.

Which Genealogy Software is Right for You?

AncestryDNA

AncestryDNA is a popular choice, integrating DNA testing with a vast online database. This combination allows you to connect with living relatives and trace your origins through genetic markers. The platform offers a user-friendly interface and extensive resources, making it a great option for both beginners and experienced genealogists.

AncestryDNA helps users build their family tree by providing access to billions of records, including census data, birth certificates, marriage licenses, and more. The DNA testing component can reveal ethnic origins and connect you with potential relatives who have also taken the test. This integration streamlines the research process and can unlock new avenues for discovery.

Vast online database with billions of records.
DNA testing integration for ethnic origins and relative matching.
User-friendly interface suitable for all skill levels.
Automatic record hints to guide your research.

Pricing: Subscription-based, various tiers available depending on record access, starting around $24.99/month. DNA test kit: $99.

MyHeritage

MyHeritage is another leading genealogy platform known for its advanced features and global reach. It offers a comprehensive suite of tools for building family trees, researching ancestors, and connecting with relatives. MyHeritage also incorporates DNA testing, providing insights into your ethnic background and potential relatives.

MyHeritage stands out with its innovative features like photo enhancement and animation, which can bring old family photos to life. The platform also boasts a large international database, making it a valuable resource for tracing ancestry across different countries and cultures. Its robust search capabilities and collaborative features make it a powerful tool for genealogical research.

Extensive international database with global records.
DNA testing for ethnic origins and relative matching.
Photo enhancement and animation features.
Smart Matches technology to connect with relatives.

Pricing: Subscription-based, various tiers available depending on record access, starting around $12.99/month. DNA test kit: $79.

Family Tree Maker

Family Tree Maker is desktop software that offers a robust set of features for building and managing your family tree. It provides a user-friendly interface and supports extensive customization, allowing you to create detailed reports, charts, and timelines. Family Tree Maker also integrates with Ancestry.com and FamilySearch, providing access to vast online resources.

Family Tree Maker allows users to create comprehensive family trees with detailed profiles for each individual. The software offers advanced charting and reporting options, enabling you to visualize your family history in various formats. Its integration with online databases streamlines the research process and provides access to a wealth of genealogical information.

Desktop software with robust features for managing family trees.
Extensive charting and reporting options.
Integration with Ancestry.com and FamilySearch.
User-friendly interface with customizable options.

Pricing: One-time purchase, various versions available, starting around $79.95.

RootsMagic

RootsMagic is a versatile genealogy software that caters to both beginners and advanced users. It offers a wide range of features for building, researching, and sharing your family history. RootsMagic supports various file formats and integrates with online databases, making it a flexible and powerful tool for genealogical research.

RootsMagic is known for its advanced features, such as source citation management and DNA analysis tools. The software allows you to create detailed reports, charts, and websites to share your findings with family and friends. Its flexible interface and extensive customization options make it a popular choice among serious genealogists.

Versatile software for beginners and advanced users.
Advanced source citation management.
DNA analysis tools.
Flexible interface with extensive customization options.

Pricing: One-time purchase, various versions available, starting around $39.95.

Legacy Family Tree

Legacy Family Tree is a comprehensive genealogy program that offers a wide range of features for documenting and organizing your family history. It provides tools for creating detailed reports, charts, and timelines, as well as advanced features like source citation management and DNA analysis. Legacy Family Tree also offers a free version with limited features.

Legacy Family Tree allows you to create detailed family trees with extensive information about each individual. The software offers advanced charting and reporting options, enabling you to visualize your family history in various formats. Its integration with online databases streamlines the research process and provides access to a wealth of genealogical information.

Comprehensive program for documenting family history.
Advanced source citation management.
DNA analysis tools.
Free version available with limited features.

Pricing: Deluxe version: One-time purchase, around $34.95. Free version available.

Feature Comparison

Feature	AncestryDNA	MyHeritage	Family Tree Maker	RootsMagic	Legacy Family Tree
DNA Testing	Yes	Yes	No	Yes	Yes
Online Database	Vast	Extensive	Integration	Integration	Integration
Photo Tools	Basic	Advanced	Basic	Basic	Basic
Charting	Basic	Basic	Advanced	Advanced	Advanced
Pricing	Subscription	Subscription	One-time	One-time	One-time/Free

Tips

Start with a free trial: Many genealogy software programs offer free trials. Take advantage of these to test out different platforms and see which one best suits your needs.
Consider DNA testing: DNA testing can provide valuable insights into your ethnic background and connect you with potential relatives.
Utilize online databases: Online databases offer a wealth of genealogical information, including census data, birth certificates, and marriage licenses.
Back up your data: Regularly back up your family tree data to prevent loss.

Discover Your Past

Choosing the right genealogy software empowers you to delve into your family history with confidence. By considering your needs, budget, and preferred features, you can select a program that helps you build a comprehensive and meaningful family tree.

FAQ

What is the best genealogy software for beginners?

AncestryDNA and MyHeritage are often recommended for beginners due to their user-friendly interfaces and extensive online resources.

Can I use genealogy software on my mobile device?

Yes, many genealogy software programs offer mobile apps that allow you to access and update your family tree on the go.

Is it safe to upload my family tree to online genealogy platforms?

Most reputable genealogy platforms have security measures in place to protect your data. However, it’s always a good idea to review their privacy policies and consider your own comfort level.

What types of records can I find in online genealogy databases?

You can find a wide range of records, including census data, birth certificates, marriage licenses, death records, military records, and immigration records.

Do I need a DNA test to use genealogy software?

No, you can use genealogy software to build your family tree without taking a DNA test. However, DNA testing can provide valuable insights and connect you with potential relatives.