Have you taken an ancestry test with 23andMe, AncestryDNA, or other companies? Then, you're already on the path to unlocking the incredible insights within your raw DNA data. This article delves into the world of DNA raw data analysis, guiding you through the tools to help decode the secrets hidden within your genes. Are you ready to discover the best platform to upload raw DNA data? Join us as we explore the top 10 tools that can help you get the best out of your raw DNA!
What Is A Raw DNA Data?
Your DNA is a complex instruction manual written using only four letters: A, T, G, and C.
Each human has a unique manual of their own.
These manuals are 99.99% similar across humans, but the 0.01% can make a big difference.
For instance, some people could have an A in a spot where a C should be instead.
A raw data file from companies like 23andMe or AncestryDNA digitally tabulates these differences, which are called single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs).
Here’s a small example of what data might look like in a raw DNA file:
| SNP | Chromosome | Position | Genotype |
| rs123456 | 1 | 12345678 | AT |
| rs789101 | 2 | 910112132 | GT |
| rs445566 | 3 | 98765432 | CG |
What Does An SNP Signify?
Raw data contains a list of variant loci on your DNA called SNPs. Scientists and researchers can use this raw data to study and learn more about genetics, human ancestry, and even some health conditions.
They can compare your genetic markers with those of others to find patterns and make connections.
Genetic Diversity
SNPs are little tweaks to your DNA that make you unique. While 99.99% of your DNA is the same as everyone else’s, it’s that 0.01% that makes all the difference.
Ancestry and Heritage
SNPs can also tell you about your ancestral roots. They help trace where your ancestors came from and how they migrated for thousands of years. That’s how companies like 23andMe can tell you you’re 30% Irish or 10% Native American.
Health Insights
Certain SNPs have links to health conditions. For instance, a specific SNP could increase your risk for conditions like heart disease, diabetes, or certain cancers. An awareness of your risk for health conditions can help you take the necessary preventive measures or get screened early.
Fitness and Nutrition
Your SNPs can offer insights into how your body responds to different exercise plans or diets. You can optimize your workout routine and nutrition plan based on what works best for your genetic profile.
It’s important to remember that raw DNA data is a blueprint of your genetic information.
It can reveal sensitive personal details, and you should handle it carefully.
Only share it with trusted sites that maintain your privacy and data security.
We’re here to help you with just that!
How Is Ancestry Information Obtained From DNA?
The DNA data file from genealogical tests has information on around 700,000 SNPs in your DNA.
The portions of DNA close to each other (markers) are often passed down together.
Genetic ancestry tests use these markers to track your lineage and report ancestry and ethnicity.
They compare your DNA data with that of millions of other people and find regions of similarity.
The more the similarity, the more closely you are related to that person.
However, this information is only a drop of water compared to the ocean of information you can get from your DNA raw data file.
There are many third-party tools and DNA upload sites that interpret your DNA raw data for you.
Some of the well-known DNA raw data analysis tools are Xcode Life, Genome, Stratagene, and GEDMatch.
Note: Most of these companies accept only genotyping raw data (like the ones from 23andMe and AncestryDNA).
What Else Can Your DNA Raw Data Tell You?
Analyzing your DNA raw data can tell you much about your health and wellness.
You can get insights into your:
- Optimal diet and fitness
- Disease predisposition
- Sleep health
- Methylation status
- Big 5 personality traits
- Eating behavior and addictions
Learning so much about yourself has never been this simple.
You can check out our DNA raw data download guides here:
DNA Raw Data Analysis: 13 Best Tools (Some Are FREE!)
Many third-party companies allow you to upload your DNA raw data to provide easy-to-understand genetic reports on health and wellness.
| Tool | Price | Categories covered |
| Xcode Life - the highest number of reports - 3000+ markers analyzed - 750 + traits covered | Starting at $30 (Free reports available with pack products) | Nutrition Fitness Allergy Skin Health Sleep Personality BRCA and Breast Cancer MTHFR and Methylation Personalized Medicine Caffeine (free) |
| Promethease | $12 | Basic health and reports |
| Genetic Genie | Free; Option for voluntary donation starting from $5. | Only methylation and detox analysis |
| GEDMatch | 3 free tools, 45+ premium tools. | Ancestry. Mainly for family matches using combined 23andMe, Ancestry DNA, Family Tree DNA databases. |
| Genomelink | Free (~100 traits); $14 monthly subscription for 312 traits | Nutrition, personality, intelligence, physical, and sports traits |
| SelfDecode | 1 free report; $278-$695 and $99 annual memebership fee | Nutrition, fitness, and health |
| MyTrue Ancestry | Basic version is free.; Membership costs up to $596 | Ancestry reports only |
| Genomapp | 3 reports are free; Other reports cost up to $25 | Health conditions and precision medicine |
| Livewello | 1 free trait; Up to $25/month subscription | Nutrition and Precision Medicine |
| Strategene | $95, only one report | Metabolic pathway information |
| Enlis Genomics | 1 free report; Other reports up to $80 | Scientific health reports only |
| Nutrahacker | 1 free report, other reports up to $145 | Genetic traits, nutrition, metabolism, fitness, lactation etc |
| DNAFit/Circle DNA | 5 bundle reports ($379) | Fitness, medicine, skin, mental health, maternal health etc |
Happy choosing!
Xcode Life
Xcode Life is a global genetics and bioinformatics company that analyzes raw DNA data files from companies like 23andMe, AncestryDNA, FTDNA, MyHeritage, and LivingDNA.
Xcode provides a variety of expertly curated reports, starting at just $20.
Xcode Life Reports List
- Nutrition report
- Fitness report
- Health report
- Allergy report
- Skin report
- Breast Cancer and BRCA report
- Methylation and MTHFR report
- Personalized Medicine report
- Gene Sleep Report
- Traits and Personality report
- Caffeine report (free with Pack Products)
The reports contain specific, helpful recommendations for people with the same genetic type.
They are delivered within 24 hours.
Report interpretation assistance is also available upon request.
Xcode provides bundle options, consolidating over 1000 traits into a single analysis report.
Professional practitioners such as physicians, surgeons, nutritionists, sports trainers, chiropractors, and more use Xcode for their raw DNA data analysis needs.
Get your 23andMe raw data analyzed here.
Promethease - Now acquired by MyHeritage - 2024 Updates
Promethease is a software program that was developed by SNPedia to perform raw data analysis.
It uses your 23andMe raw data to generate disease-based reports.
How Much Does Promethease Cost?
They charge $12 per report.
It’s important to note that Promethease reports may be overly technical for most users, who usually don’t have expert knowledge of polymorphisms and biostatistics.
The system is based on literature search and retrieval.
It builds a report based on the SNPedia database against the raw DNA data from sites like AncestryDNA, 23AndMe, or FamilyTreeDNA.
The reports primarily contain information about health and precision medicine.
For instance, the report can mention your genetic risk for diseases like Alzheimer’s.
Though it is a popular service, its scientific integrity is often questioned due to its reliance on SNPedia, an open-source service.
Update: In 2019, MyHeritage acquired Promethease and SNPedia.
Promethease was originally offered free of charge. However, MyHeritage acquired the DNA analysis service in 2019.
They maintain SNPedia as a free resource for academic and non-profit users.
Non-European users’ DNA raw data was shifted into new accounts on MyHeritage.
Users retain ownership of their DNA raw data file and may delete their data from MyHeritage’s server at their discretion.
GeneticGenie Methylation and Detox Analysis
Genetic Genie provides free methylation and detox reports.
This tool uses your DNA raw data from companies like 23andMe and AncestryDNA to perform methylation analysis.
The site also provides a tool for a detox analysis that looks for defects in the cytochrome P450 detox enzymes.
Genetic Genie Methylation
Incorrect methylation leads to a wide range of serious medical conditions.
This makes the methylation profile offered by genetic genie a good report.
The following genes are included in Genetic Genie’s Methylation panel:
- COMT
- MTHFR
- VDR
- MTR
- MTRR
- BHMT
- SHMT
- CBS
14 markers in these genes are reported in the panel.
Genetic Genie Detox
The detox profile looks at single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in genes that affect the detoxification pathway of the body.
The following genes are included in Genetic Genie’s Detox panel:
- CYP1A1
- CYP1A2
- CYP1B1
- CYP2C9
- CYP2E1
- CYP3A4
- GSTP1
- SOD2
- NAT1
- NAT2
22 markers in these genes are reported in the panel.
This is a free service, but a voluntary donation starting from $5 is accepted.
MTHFR Report: Xcode Life vs. Genetic Genie - In-depth Analysis
GEDMatch
GEDmatch offers a platform to delve into your family history by enabling the upload of raw genetic files from various DNA testing companies.
Although the service itself is free, it is important to note that navigating GEDmatch's tools may appear intricate for individuals unaccustomed to exploring genetic data.
GEDmatch provides a range of complimentary tools in addition to a selection of more advanced features that require a paid subscription.
GEDmatch.com Login
GEDMatch
GEDMatch is a platform that helps understand your lineage via raw DNA files from genealogy companies.
The service is free, but the user experience can seem challenging for users who need to be used to exploring genetic data to understand the reports.
GEDmatch provides a range of complimentary tools and a selection of more advanced features that require a paid subscription.
GEDmatch.com Login
You can log in to your GEDmatch account in 4 simple steps:
- Go to www.gedmatch.com and click the ‘Login’ button in the top right corner.
- Enter the email ID that you used to register your account
- Key in your password
- Click on the ‘Login’ button
If you forgot your password, you can reset it with this link
Once you create your account, you can upload your raw DNA data here.
On the upload page, you’ll need to enter the following details:
- Donor information
- Details of raw data
- Privacy information
Once the upload is successful, you should be assigned a kit number.
GEDmatch Genesis Free Tools
GEDmatch provides three free tools:
- One-to-many DNA comparison against GEDmatch users
- One-to-one DNA comparison with a close relative
- Admixture to determine ethnic ancestry
Purchasing a Tier 1 membership at $10 per month unlocks access to:
- Segment search to find your most recent common ancestors
- Enhanced one-to-one comparison to examine the quality of the results
- Clustering of matches to determine recent common ancestors
GEDmatch Review
Various online genealogy groups recommend the GEDmatch tool.
Interestingly, GEDmatch helped law enforcement to arrest the Golden State Killer, responsible for more than 50 rapes and at least 13 murders in the 1970s and 80s.
Ever since then, GEDmatch has gained popularity as a crime-solving tool.
Read an in-depth review of GEDMatch here.
Genomelink: 2024 Update
Genomelink lets users upload raw DNA data from 23andMe, Ancestry, or MyHeritage.
The site can also connect directly to their accounts on these websites to retrieve their DNA data.
Users who upload DNA data will receive a free report on 100 traits immediately.
However, to unlock more traits, you’ll need a subscription to their website for $14/month, which may not be cost-effective.
If you sign up, all your reports will be consolidated and presented in your dashboard, which you can only access online.
It’s important to note that downloadable PDF reports are unavailable from Genomelink.
A feedback option near each trait can help you review how accurate the trait results are.
Overall, they provide over 352 traits across 20 reports.
Most of these reports are genealogical and focused on revealing ancestry.
Their website does not advertise bundled reports anymore.
The actual prices of each report remain concealed until a user creates an account with Genomelink.
Genomelink Login
Follow these steps to log in to your Genomelink account:
- On the website homepage, click the “Sign In” button in the top right corner.
- Enter the email address that you used to register your account.
- Key in your password and click on the “LOG IN” button.
Genomelink Dashboard Of A Free Account
Genomelink Reviews
Genomelink can be a good, cost-free place to start if you are new to genetic tests.
The results are moderately user-friendly and readable.
They seem to have in-depth information on privacy and the use of users’ data.
The free version of Genomelink is worth a try.
However, think twice before purchasing a subscription.
The primary benefit of the subscription is that Genomelink emails you one trait result each week.
The report bundles are overpriced for the number of traits they cover.
Although the sample reports look visually appealing, the web-based reports could tell a different story.
Genomelink Traits and Reports – A Comprehensive Review [2024]
SelfDecode
SelfDecode offers personalized DNA testing and provides health and wellness reports by analyzing your genetic data.
It also offers genome analysis with a personalized genetics blog that helps you understand your DNA results.
Once you create a SelfDecode account, you can upload your raw DNA data.
A free report for a few traits is generated within a couple of hours.
SelfDecode Membership Plans
The annual membership subscription fee for SelfDecode is $99.
Depending on the services you’re interested in and whether or not you already have a raw DNA file, the total upfront payment can range from $298 to $695.
After that, you will be billed a $99 fee annually.
SelfDecode Review: What You Should Know Before Buying
Livewello Raw Data Analysis
Livewello accepts raw data files from 23andMe, AncestryDNA, Family Tree DNA, and Gene By Gene.
It offers 15 genetic reports and 160 health reports. However, the range of these reports is much smaller, with only a few SNPs studied per report.
Some of the reports include:
- Vitamin and mineral needs
- Heart health insights
- Genetics of chronic pain
- Mental health and stress insights
You can create an account for free, but reports require a membership.
Livewello’s payment plans range from $6.95 to $25 monthly or $75 to $215 yearly, with progressively better amenities.
A DNA kit may be purchased for $165 if required.
Livewello offers 20 reports. Some of them include:
- Warfarin sensitivity
- Hepatitis C treatment
- Preference for sweet foods
- Vitamin B12
- Alcohol tolerance
The New StrateGene Analysis: 2024 Update
StrateGene initially offered a $295 DNA kit as the only sample collection model.
Now, they have switched to a virtual DNA data upload model.
You can upload your DNA raw data files from 23andMe to StrateGene.
They offer one report, priced at $95, with information on nine essential processes in your body, including pathways for:
- Folate
- Histamine
- Dopamine
- Sam
- Methylation
Users find the reports too complex to be of actual use.
Strategene may not be the best choice for those who prefer easily understandable results and readily implementable recommendations.
Enlis Genomics 23andMe Raw Data Analysis
This 23andMe raw data analysis service provider is more for educational than direct consumer purposes.
Their service caters to research scientists.
They analyze DNA data to find health risks associated with specific genetic variants.
The initial intention of developing this software is to allow researchers to analyze whole genome files.
They have also added a software program for personal use and a free genome report accessible directly from their site.
While the service is free, understanding and interpreting the report takes a reasonable amount of scientific knowledge.
NutraHacker Raw Data Analysis: 2024 Update
Nutrahacker accepts raw DNA data from 23andMe, AncestryDNA, tellmeGen, or MyHeritage.
Upon registering with your details and uploading your raw DNA data, you can access a ‘Genotype Imputation’ report for free.
NutraHacker offers eight other genetic reports, including:
- Lactation report – $85
- Complete mutation report – $37
- Depression report – $85
- Critical genetics basic report– $145
They advertise two bundle packs, a Detox and PharmaShield panel($300/year) and the WGS Critical Genetics panel ($395 one-time).
DNAFit Raw Data Analysis: 2024 Update
DNAFit now redirects to CircleDNA. They offer five categories of analyses, including:
- Healthy Body
- Skin
- Cancer & Disease Risk
- Family Planning
- Success Traits
Each of these reports costs $379 and includes collection kits.
A children’s DNA kit is available for $299 as well.
The report is available online.
Initially, the information feels overwhelming.
However, the reports do have reasonably relevant background information.
The reports comprehensively include a list of the genes analyzed in the test and information about each gene.
If you are a hardcore athlete, consider CircleDNA.
Before you buy, check out our comparative blog on the top 5 DNA fitness report providers.
According to DNA Testing Choice, a popular genetic testing company review website, their privacy policy contains clauses regarding how DNAFit could pass on user data to third parties for research with or without client consent.
Lifenome Raw Data Analysis
Lifenome accepts DNA raw data files from 23andMe, AncestryDNA, and FamilyTreeDNA.
They offer reports on the following traits:
- Nutrition
- Fitness
- Beauty
- Life and Health Insurance
- Medicine
- Women and Maternal Health
The reports are comprehensive and easy to understand, with clear implications and recommendations.
The site does not clearly indicate pricing or how to purchase these reports, which could deter some users from using Lifenome’s services.
Our Top 3 Picks For Raw DNA Data Analysis In 2024
1. Xcode Life
With the most reports and over 750 traits analyzed rapidly, Xcode Life is undoubtedly the best raw DNA data analysis tool in 2024.
Additionally, its website is user-friendly and compatible with 10+ DNA testing companies, including 23andMe, AncestryDNA, and FTDNA.
Xcode provides comprehensive, jargon-free, and interactive reports starting at just $20 with clear recommendations and information on each trait marker analyzed.
2. GenomeLink
GenomeLink has a user-friendly website with different products that users can apply to all walks of life.
They provide a free report with over 100 traits upon account creation.
While the reports appear lucrative, it’s important to note that the rest of their reports and traits are accessible only through a $14/month subscription. Additionally, the value of their report bundles does not match their cost.
Despite this, their reports can help users understand their ancestry, curate their diets, and improve their workouts for a healthier lifestyle.
3. SelfDecode
SelfDecode offers whole genome analysis, generating readable reports within a few hours.
It also offers free trait reports for a handful of markers upon account creation.
The comprehensive nature of these reports can significantly improve consumers’ knowledge of their disease risk and behavioral patterns.
Users thus remain informed and prepared on their genetic makeup.
FAQs On Raw DNA Data Analysis
How To Analyze Raw DNA Data?
Several genetic testing companies offer services to analyze raw DNA data and provide helpful insights about health and wellness.
Xcode Life stands out due to its affordable, comprehensive, and user-friendly genetic reports that are delivered within 24 hours.
How To Interpret Raw Data?
Your raw data likely contains the following columns: RSID, chromosome, position, and genotype.
Each row analyzes the genotype of an SNP (single nucleotide polymorphism), or a mutation in your DNA, at a certain position on a specific chromosome.
Genetic testing companies like Xcode Life can decode your raw data to give you valuable information about your health and wellness for as little as $30.
Is There A Free Raw DNA Analysis For Health?
While some companies may offer a couple of health-related reports for free, getting a comprehensive health report from your raw DNA can give you a clear picture of your overall wellness and possible risks.
Xcode Life offers a comprehensive Gene Health report that studies your risk for over 45 chronic conditions for just $50.
How Much Does A DNA Analysis Cost?
While most genetic testing companies charge over $100 for their DNA analysis services, Xcode Life offers individual reports priced between $30 and $50, with comprehensive report bundles priced between $160 and $199.
Hi Great article full of practicle advice sadly missing in todays world.
I'm in the UK
I can get 23 and me via Amazon UK
My question is..
Do I need the full test or does the cheaper version contain all the DNA snps data that these companies can decode?
Very informative and comprehensive. It is also highly relevant given the number of Ancestry genetic kits sold every month.
Can I use my whole genome sequencing raw data from Dante Labs?
Looks like Promethease keeps pumping their price. From $5 straight up to $12.
This was a good article to start with. I have bookmarked this so that I can try each tool whenever I get a chance.
I really appreciated how you broke down the services offered by each company. Would you have a suggestion as to what to use for the most comprehensive information? It seems like XCode LIfe is easier to understand and the most comprehensive. However, are there a couple others that provide additional useful info, that I could use in addition to XCode Life. It is difficult to tell what XCode Life is missing. I see numbers by each as well. I am assuming the number indicate the rating (which one is better in your analysis?) Thank you in advance for your time in responding!
I uploaded my raw data to Promethease and Genetic genie. DNAFit is too expensive given that they check for very less number of markers.
This is a superb article. I have already started using Promethease, Xcode and Genetic Genie. Will post my experience with them as soon as I am through with their reports.
This is an amazingly detailed list. Going to get started on some of these tools right away. Thank you.
This is great! Finally a data analysis article that actually helps.
Thank you for the wonderfully detailed article!
I have been looking for a service to analyze my raw DNA. I will try one of these. Thank you for this!
Thank you for this DNA raw data analysis article. i wish I had read this before I got my sequencing done.
I did my 23andme raw data analysis from Promethease and then opted to get it simplified from Xcode. It cost me an additional $20 but it would not have been the case had I taken Xcode first.
The DNA raw data analysis from Xcode Life is by far the best of what I have tried. Thank you for the reports.
I tried Livewello and Genetic Genie and I was not happy with the support I got from both sites. Genetic Genie seems outdated and Livewello is unresponsive. Which of these report covers intolerances Allergy or Nutrition? Thanks on advance for your answer.
Selfdecode is a great site that I use .
Lots of information ,
Very comprehensive and informative. Thank you for this.
I have done my DNA and I have my genealogy back to 1583 we came from England but I'm trying to find out what my eight-time grandfather's name is and where he came from I'm thinking he came from France because the original spelling was supposed to be c o u v e and I'm traveling to England next year to do research his name was c o v e y his sons was James William and George they came to the United States and 1625 I believe
I need to have my DNA tested yet, and I need to know about what it indicates for Celiac and for Fragile X syndrome. What company would you recommend I use to test DNA, and what internet site would be best for testing for those two?
Hi John. Thank you for reading the article. If you are looking specifically to test Fragile X syndrome and Celiac disease, I would recommend that you do so through a clinical genetic testing lab. Any hospital close to your home with an active genetic testing facility can do this for you.
I used my DNA raw data to upload to Promethease. I got back about 20,000 rows of information. I tried changing parameters like magnitude and repute. But I am not sure if I am doing it right because it keeps throwing back results that I can either not understand or is too scary to read. And why am I getting results for prostrate cancer when I am biologically female?
I don't know what to do next. I went back to their website and saw that the price has been hiked to $12. I got my report in December 2017, when they had given it a free run. This makes me wonder if the quality of my reports are owing to the fact that I jumped the gun and got it for free. Will paying $12 now give me better reports? How can I get my reports interpreted and in a better format? Please help!
Hi Kathy. Thank you for stopping by. First off I'd like to tell you that third party raw data analysis does not give diagnostic information. It can be used as heads-up or a warning if the evidence is in sync with your clinical tests. But do not take it as a sentence.
Secondly, since you have your Promethease report from 2017, I suggest you try our Simplified Promethease report that, as the name suggests, gives you a simplified version of your Promethease report. You can get it from here: https://www.xcode.life/product/ftdna-ancestrydna-23andme-raw-data-interpretation-analysis-tools
Hey, your table is outdated. Looks like Xcode Life has introduced 3 new reports. I cannot find that on your table.
Hi Kenneth. Thank you for raising that. I will include the new reports in the next version of this blog.
Thank you for such a comprehensive list! I already tried few of the third party tools on the list. Have you thought about adding GEDMatch and DNA Land? I know that they don't cover health, but they are quite popular and i thought it might fit in well. Thanks again!
You are most welcome Lindsey. GEDMatch is definitely a popular and a useful tool. Thank you for suggesting it. I'll try adding it on my next update to the blog. DNA Land is also a widely used tool, but I have not suggested it since I am not comfortable with their privacy policy. They are an active research group so the policy seems to indicate that the genome files are directly taken for research. Let me see if they have made any updates to it and see about adding them.