Family Finder moved to a next-generation sequencing panel on March 2, 2026. All samples that began processing on or after that date are tested on the panel. Your existing results remain valid, and matching and ethnicity work just as they always have. Existing testers can upgrade to the panel for $29. No action is needed if you don’t want to upgrade.
What changed?
FamilyTreeDNA’s Family Finder test currently uses a custom Global Screening Array (GSA) microarray chip that reported about 700,000 SNPs across the human genome.
Starting March 2, 2026, the Family Finder test will be performed using next-generation sequencing using a custom targeted enrichment panel. This approach consistently reports a higher percentage of the genetic information most relevant to genealogy, with improved accuracy and consistency.
This change allows us to deliver more precise autosomal results today while creating a strong foundation for future reports and tools.
What does the Family Finder test do now?
Targeted next-generation sequencing aims to read selected portions of the human genome at high coverage rather than the complete human genome. The panel focuses coverage on about 280 million base pairs of the human genome, which includes the approximately 700,000 SNPs previously reported from the GSA microarray chip.
Did the price of the Family Finder test change?
No. The price stayed the same when we moved to the sequencing panel. Current prices are in Test and Upgrade Prices.
If I buy a Family Finder test now, how will it be processed?
Family Finder samples that began processing before March 2, 2026 were run on the microarray. Every Family Finder test that begins processing on or after that date is run on the sequencing panel, so a test you order now uses the panel.
Will I see a difference in my results from the sequencing panel?
Not initially.
Our first priority is to ensure that customers receive the same trusted experience they expect today, including matching and ethnicity results. Once we have built a strong foundation of data from the new panel, we will begin introducing new reports and tools over time.
I already took a Family Finder test. Will my existing test automatically be reprocessed on the new panel?
No.
Existing Family Finder results will remain exactly as they are and will continue to work as expected. There is the option to upgrade your test to the NGS platform, if you wish.
Is there an upgrade option for existing Family Finder customers?
Yes. Existing Family Finder customers can upgrade to the sequencing panel for $29. See Family Finder Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) Upgrades for timing, eligibility, and what happens to your current results.
Will I be able to download my data, and will the format change?
Yes. You can still download your data. The same autosomal data downloads that were available for microarray tests are available immediately for tests processed on the sequencing panel.
While the NGS Family Finder test targets significantly more SNPs than the old microarray test, much of this data must be analyzed for reliability and quality. Some new regions may be unsuited for genealogical purposes or not reliably reported, and it will take some time for our team to analyze this growing data set. For compatibility, autosomal downloads include the SNPs we know are reliable which is substantially the same set as in the microarray version of the test. Additional data may become available in the future.
If I upgrade my Family Finder test will I be able to download both the micro-array and NGS raw data files?
No.
If you have a micro-array tested Family Finder (any test processed before March 2, 2026) and order an NGS upgrade, the NGS data will completely overwrite the old data in our system. If you wish to retain both copies of the data, you must download a personal copy of the old data before the NGS upgrade results are complete.
Does the new Family Finder test require more DNA than the microarray test did?
No.
Family Finder tests run on the new sequencing panel use the same stored DNA sample and do not require more DNA than the previous microarray genotyping test.
Why did FamilyTreeDNA choose a targeted sequencing panel instead of high coverage Whole Genome Sequencing?
Applying high coverage to a carefully selected portion of the genome allows us to deliver greater precision for genetic genealogy at a much more affordable price point than high coverage Whole Genome Sequencing.
This approach focuses on sequencing power where it matters most for family history research.
Why didn’t FamilyTreeDNA use low coverage Whole Genome Sequencing?
The targeted enrichment panel provides more consistent, higher-quality reporting across the regions of the genome that we have determined are most useful for genetic genealogy.
This consistency is especially important for analyses such as Y-DNA and planned mtDNA haplogroup estimations within the Family Finder product.
We are also excited about the potential for new insights from high coverage data and will continue evaluating these possibilities as our database of panel-based autosomal tests grows.
There are different sequencing approaches that replace microarrays. Which one is best?
That depends on what you are trying to learn.
Different sequencing approaches provide different views of your DNA, much like comparing an aerial photo of your home to a view from your front yard. Each approach offers strengths depending on the type of insight you are seeking.
For autosomal genetic genealogy, we believe our new targeted sequencing panel represents our new gold standard. It was designed specifically to deliver consistent, high-coverage data across the regions that matter most for matching, relationship inference, and future genealogical analysis, while remaining accessible and affordable for long-term research.
Over time, we expect multiple sequencing approaches to coexist, giving customers the ability to choose the tools that best support their research goals.
I upgraded and some results appeared, but others are missing
Upgrade results can post in stages, and you’ll get an email as each part finishes. If parts are still missing after the Family Finder processing time in Test Results Processing Times, contact Customer Service.