If you've ever been curious about your family heritage and your genetic background, an at-home DNA test can provide some answers. All you have to do is swab the inside of your cheek or spit into a tube, send off your sample, and then wait for the results. The whole process can feel downright magical. That being said, there are literally hundreds of at-home DNA tests on the market, so it can be tricky to know how to pick the right one. Luckily for you, we've already done the research, and we've narrowed it down to just a few tried-and-true products. The popular DNA tests on this list will help you unlock your ancestry secrets and genetic mysteries. So, what are you waiting for? 23andMe Ancestry Service DNA Test Discover Your Own DNA StoryDiscover a treasure trove of info when you invest in this industry-leading kit.Best OverallFind on Amazon It’s never been easier to find out fascinating genetic information than it is with 23andMe’s kits. This test is known to have highly accurate results, so you can finally know your personal life’s story in a whole new way. Discover distant relatives, see what your DNA has to say about your taste and smell preferences, and get to know your genes on an intimate level so you can truly own your health. Crucially, your data is encrypted, protected, and totally under your control, meaning you can decide what you want to learn and what you want to share. Pros: Has a DNA database of 12 million customers Highly accurate results Learn how your genes can influence your chances of developing certain health conditions Easy-to-navigate site Your data stays under your control Cons: Because there are so many people in the database, it may be tougher to connect with unknown relatives MyHeritage DNA Test Dig Into Your AncestryFind out important connections from the past with this coveted DNA kit.Runner UpFind on Amazon Get full access to your ethnic breakdown and pinpoint your origins from well over 2,000 geographic regions with the MyHeritage DNA test, which pulls from a huge global database that can match relatives from all over the world. (In fact, MyHeritage is billed as the #1 service for European DNA matching). And, the company ensures that you are the sole owner of your data and that all of your private info remains encrypted for your peace of mind. Pros: Results are relatively fast; the test takes two minutes and you get your results in three to four weeks Get a detailed ethnicity breakdown from 42 regions around the world #1 service for European DNA matching Uses high technological standards and privacy measures Cons: Requires an additional payment for in-depth genealogy research (you have to subscribe) AncestryDNA Test Kit Budget Shoppers, Take NoteDig into your family's heritage, even if you're shopping on a budget. Best ValueFind on Amazon Discovering your personal DNA history is easy and affordable with the AncestryDNA Kit. All you have to do is activate your DNA kit online and return your saliva sample in the prepaid package to the company’s lab, and you’ll have your results in a few weeks. Find out your precise ethnicity and connections from around the globe complete with in-depth geographic details and historical insights. You also have the option to build a family tree by combining what you learn with an Ancestry subscription. With this, you get access to (literally) millions of family trees and billions of records. Pros: Highly accurate results Gives results in a clear way, and also gives appropriate historical context Easy-to-follow instructions Only shares anonymized data with customer consent Has a database of over 18 million customers, which increases your chances of getting a successful match with family members Cons: To get the full results, you do have to purchase a subscription DNA Direct Solutions Paternity Test Kit Who's Your Daddy?There'll be no more family secrets when you use this kit.Best for Paternity Find on Amazon For an impressively accurate at-home paternity test, you can’t go wrong with the DNA Direct Solutions Paternity Test Kit, which includes 22 genetic markers, ensuring total accuracy. Not to mention, the results are very quick — you can expect answers in as little as two business days, and the kit even includes free return shipping (in discreet packaging) back to the lab. And, conveniently, the company offers discounts if additional, legally binding paternity testing is required. Pros: All lab fees included for one father and one child Includes 22 genetic markers for 100% accuracy The accredited DNA testing lab is based in the U.S. Free shipping back to the lab, plus discounts for additional testing Cons: You have to make sure that you register the kit on the company’s website before sending off your sample(s) Embark Dog DNA Test Doggie DNA Secrets, Unlocked Who doesn't want to know where Fido came from? Best for DogsFind on Amazon Keep your dog healthy and happy for as long as possible when you use the Cornell University-approved Embark Dog DNA test, which tests for 190 genetic diseases, including glaucoma, degenerative myelopathy, and dilated cardiomyopathy, which are some of the most common adult-onset diseases in dogs. Embark captures 200,000 genetic markers to tell you as much as there is to learn about your dog; plus, you can even find and connect with your dog’s distant and close relatives. Pros: Screens for over 350 dog breeds, varieties, and types Tests for over 190 genetic diseases Find and connect with other dogs that share DNA with yours Embark partners with Cornell University of College of Veterinary Medicine, so you can rest assured that results are very accurate Cons: On the pricey end of the spectrum Frequently Asked Questions How do DNA kits work? Regardless of which kit you choose, they all work in a very similar way: you send off a saliva or blood sample, or a cheek swab, to a DNA testing lab, and then you receive a set of results. What exactly can a DNA kit tell me? DNA tests can provide you with information about your lifestyle and health as it relates to your genetic history. Some tests can help you track your maternal and paternal lineage, providing an estimate of where your distant ancestors are likely to have come from. What should I know before undergoing DNA testing? DNA testing can tell you a lot about yourself and open up a whole new world of information. That being said, it’s important to note that the privacy implications of at-home DNA testing are still being sorted out, and you should know that doing a DNA test now could have future consequences that no one has even considered yet.