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Best DNA Test For Asians
- UPDATED December 2023
Do you believe you may have Asian heritage? Find out which DNA tests are the best fit for discovering more about your ancestry.
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Many or all of the companies featured provide compensation to us. These commissions are how we maintain our free service for consumers. Compensation, along with hours of in-depth research, determines where & how companies appear on our site.
Top DNA Tests for Proving Asian Ancestry
DNA tests have become a global phenomenon. Some of the characters in hit television shows such as, “Grace and Frankie” are showcased taking DNA tests. People are eager to explore their origins, cultural affiliations, and overall ethnic makeup. Among the various ethnic groups, Asian ancestry often sparks curiosity.
Depending on your family history and level of communication, you may already be aware of some degree of Asian ancestry in your lineage. Perhaps, you have relatives who lived in specific regions and may have experienced challenges during World War II, such as internment camps out west. Unfortunately, the racism they faced might have led them to be reticent about sharing their past experiences. Moreover, as older generations age, memories can fade, and certain experiences might be less likely to be discussed. In light of this, we aim to assist you in understanding everything you need to know about the most reliable DNA tests for proving Asian ancestry. This article will delve into various aspects related to these tests, highlighting key considerations and identifying the best option for individuals with Asian heritage.
Did You Know?
With over 4.5 billion people, Asians represent more than 59% of the world’s population?
Advertising Disclosure
Many or all of the companies featured provide compensation to us. These commissions are how we maintain our free service for consumers. Compensation, along with hours of in-depth research, determines where & how companies appear on our site.
Best DNA Testing Kits 2023
95%
4.5/5
Pros
- Offers solid results at a good price
- Most affordable DNA kit options
Cons
- Requires a subscription to continue using the online family tree feature
Bottomline
- The best DNA kit option for ancestry
- Millions of users and vast information is available
92%
4/5
Pros
- Easy-to-read information
- Stores genetic markers and regional results online indefinitely
Cons
- Complete testing of your sample can be relatively expensive
Bottomline
- One of the few home kits that include health screening and genetic marker testing
90%
4/5
Pros
- Ease of use: simply swab your cheek to provide a sample
Cons
- Add-ons cost an additional fee
- The basic level test provides limited information
Bottomline
- Provides information for over 40 regions
- Great usability features
85%
3.5/5
Pros
- User interface is consumer friendly
- Data is easily accessible
Cons
- Does not retain data for an extended period of time
Bottomline
- Beginner-friendly option, suitable for those who prefer doing their research online
80%
3.5/5
Pros
- Users can compare their own results to a historical database to verify information
Cons
- No feature that connects family members
- Results are most accurate only for British ancestry
Bottomline
- Can deliver strong data for markers relating to the UK
What Does Asian Mean?
The term “Asian” is a vast and diverse label, encompassing people from 49 countries across the continent of Asia, home to more than four billion individuals. However, this designation oversimplifies the rich tapestry of cultural groups within this diverse region. Many individuals prefer to identify with their specific cultural heritage, such as Chinese, Korean, or Vietnamese, rather than using the broad term “Asian.” Furthermore, the term can also include neighboring regions and countries like Afghanistan, Sri Lanka, India, and Russia.
In recent years, popular DNA tests have made it possible for individuals to explore their Asian ancestry with greater ease. These tests offer various options, including swabbing the inside of your cheek or providing a saliva sample. After mailing the sample to a testing center, experts compare it against a vast database of user samples. In just eight weeks or less, you can gain insights into your ancestry and discover potential matches with other users.
The term “Asian” encompasses a rich tapestry of cultural diversity, spanning numerous countries and regions. While DNA testing offers a convenient way to explore one’s ancestry, it’s essential to recognize the intricate cultural complexities that lie within this broad designation. Embracing and understanding the unique heritage of each cultural group contributes to a deeper appreciation of our shared global community.
Your Asian ancestry can connect you to people across the continent.
Genotype Testing
DNA tests primarily use genotype testing, also known as SNP testing, to examine your genetic code and identify specific traits. Your genes play a crucial role in determining various physical characteristics you share with your parents, such as eye and hair color, as well as skin appearance. These tests focus on your chromosomes, which come in pairs and not only determine your sex/gender at birth but also carry traits unique to specific cultural groups. These distinctive traits are often referred to as ancestry markers, as they are prevalent only in select ancestral groups.
It’s essential to note that while you inherit half of your genetic markers from each biological parent, the distribution is not always equal. The combination of genes you receive from each parent can differ, making you appear distinct from your siblings. Consequently, your DNA test results may vary from those of your siblings, particularly if your parents come from different racial backgrounds. For instance, your test might indicate a smaller percentage of Asian heritage compared to your siblings if your parents belong to two different races.
Understanding the complexities of DNA testing and the impact of genetic inheritance enhances our appreciation for the diverse and unique characteristics that make us who we are. These tests offer a fascinating glimpse into our genetic heritage and the remarkable diversity that exists within our own families and broader cultural groups.
How Long Does it Take to Process an Asian DNA Test?
DNA test result processing times typically range from 2 to 12 weeks. However, it’s common for many individuals to receive their results in under four weeks.
Paternal vs. Maternal DNA
Before embarking on a DNA test tailored for Asians, it’s essential to grasp how these tests operate. The key factor to consider is that your maternal and paternal DNA differs, as they belong to distinct haplogroups. A haplogroup signifies a specific group of people who share common genetic traits. Experts use haplogroups to trace familial lines across generations, studying how genes evolved based on geographical locations and inherited traits.
Maternal or mitochondrial DNA tests reveal a wealth of information about a person’s mother and her family, including their historical locations across Asia. On the other hand, Y-DNA tests focus on the Y-chromosome, which is passed down from the father.. This examination exclusively delves into the DNA lineage received from the paternal side. However, there might be limitations in revealing certain aspects of Asian ancestry if only one side of your family tree is considered.
What Determines Your Percentage of Asian Ancestry?
- When your ancestors left Asia
- If you ancestors lived in Europe and other areas
- The number of non-Asians in your family
- The ethnicity of your direct family members
- The regions of Asia where your ancestors lived
What You Need to Know About Asian DNA Tests
DNA tests for Asians can help you learn about your heritage. Many people take these tests because they don’t have contact with some of their family members or because they were adopted at a young age. Even if you know who your parents are and talk to your family every day, you may still want to take a test to learn more about your family’s past. Before looking at the best tests that are available, there are some things you need to know.
- Fewer results: A common issue with Asian DNA tests is that they don’t offer as detailed results as you would expect. They can provide specific information to those with European ancestors, including details about when they moved to other countries, the names of villages and towns where their families lived, and the percentage of genes they share with others.
- Limited regions: Most of these tests limit the regions they show to just a handful. If you have family from Hawaii and other Polynesian regions, your results will show a large percentage of Polynesian genes but won’t list any specific regions. The same is true if you primarily have Asian ancestry. Some tests divide the entire region into large areas, such as Central Asia and North Asia.
Most Asians who migrated to North America likely came across on the land bridge.
Why Take a DNA Test for Asians?
Unfortunately, our family members get older and memories get lost over time. With a DNA test designed for Asians, you can find all the information you need in one spot. Other reasons to get an Asian DNA test done include:
- It gives you the option of connecting with people who took the same test and share ancestors.
- You can see what percentage you are of each major region in Asia and other parts of the world.
- The results are easy to read and understand.
- You can share the results with other people in your family and with other ancestry websites.
- Some tests can reveal that you have relatives who lost touch with your family in the past.
- The results make it easier for you to create an accurate family tree.
- You can learn if any of your ancestors lived differently from what you knew about their histories.
- You are adopted and want to learn more about your biological family
- You want to find out where your ancestors resided
- You want specific data about your lineage
- You want to learn more about family relationships
Best DNA Test for Asians: AncestryDNA
One of the most prominent names in the industry, AncestryDNA, stands out as the top choice for Asians seeking a DNA test. This reliable DNA testing service is part of Ancestry.com, a platform with millions of users and extensive resources to help you uncover your family tree. In a comparison between 23andMe and AncestryDNA, we evaluate these two products to determine which offers the most value for your investment. With over 10 million registered users in its database, AncestryDNA significantly increases the chances of discovering lost family members through its test.
AncestryDNA provides an added advantage by encompassing members from various Asian regions, including Caucasus, Central Asia, East Asia, Syria, Lebanon, and The Philippines. If your ancestors hail from any of these regions, you are likely to find numerous matches within the system. By analyzing your DNA sample, AncestryDNA identifies the genes and chromosomes shared with other users, spanning over 700,000 locations worldwide. With the interactive map feature, you can explore the ethnicities represented in your DNA and trace the geographical locations of your family’s past.
A popular reason why many individuals opt for the AncestryDNA test is its user-friendly platform that enables connections with fellow users. You can personalize your profile with a photo and link your family tree for others to explore. By enabling the connect feature, users can reach out to share information or if they find you as a genetic match. However, one drawback is that the platform may not provide as much assistance to those with East Asian ancestry.
Benefits of Using AncestryDNA
- Create a family tree
- Find potential relatives and connect with them
- Trace your family history back centuries
- Uncover details about your ethnic makeup and origins
- Wide variety of regional data in Asia
23andMe
One of the top choices for DNA testing among Asians is 23andMe, a company that gained attention for its home DNA test, which initially included medical testing. While some of the older tests are no longer available, 23andMe still offers valuable insights into health and wellness traits based on your genes. For individuals seeking to explore their Asian ancestry, 23andMe provides a comprehensive Asian database that now includes more new regions, such as Japan, Korea, China, Southeast Asia, Mongolia, and South Asia.
If you’re concerned about the process of providing a DNA sample, 23andMe offers the convenience of using a saliva sample. With a simple fill of the provided cup, you can easily return it in the packaging for analysis. The personalized results not only reveal your specific haplogroups found on both your paternal and maternal lines but also introduce a unique feature called DNA Relatives. Through this feature, you can connect with family members who have also taken the test and even send them messages.
Beyond its user-friendly interface and comprehensive database, 23andMe stands out for its Global Genetics Project. This initiative aims to gather more information about groups with non-European origins, making it an excellent option for individuals with two grandparents on each side originating from specific regions. Those with heritage from regions like Uzbekistan, Indonesia, and Thailand can actively participate in this program and contribute to enriching the genetic knowledge of these diverse populations.
- Specific reference panels for populations in Southeast Asia, Chinese Dai, Vietnamese, Filipino, and Indonesian
- Global Genetics Project initiative aimed at collecting more information from groups with non-European origins
- Comprehensive ancestry analysis
- Health and wellness insights
- Easy sample collection
MyHeritage
Although not as widely recognized as AncestryDNA and 23andMe, MyHeritage offers valuable features to trace your family roots and identify your ethnic background among more than 40 ethnicities. For Asians, MyHeritage covers regions such as China, Japan, Vietnam, the Philippines, Indonesia, and others like Mongolia, Inuit, and Malaysia. Notably, MyHeritage stands out as one of the few tests that can identify Eskimo heritage, which holds historical significance for those who settled in the icy North American region centuries ago.
Another advantage of MyHeritage is its compatibility with data from other tests. Once you receive your results, you can download the information as raw data and upload it to the MyHeritage website. This allows you to compare and cross-reference results from different companies, expanding the database and enhancing potential connections with other users.
Like AncestryDNA and 23andMe, MyHeritage offers a connect option that notifies users when their DNA samples indicate a familial relation. This feature allows users to interact online and potentially build meaningful relationships offline. However, it’s essential to note that MyHeritage’s database may not be as extensive as others, and it may not include as many Asian regions.
- 10+ million member database
- Fast results
- Detailed ethnicity analysis of more than 40 ethnicities
- Allows users to download other DNA data and upload it to MyHeritage website
- You are notified if a familial relationship is found
Photo by MyHeritage
TeloYears Advanced Ancestry
Upon first visiting the TeloYears Advanced Ancestry website, you might be taken aback, as the homepage predominantly focuses on a DNA test and service that claims to make you look younger. However, hidden behind this anti-aging offering is a DNA testing service that holds promise for those with Asian ancestry. TeloYears utilizes advanced technologies and boasts a large database capable of precisely identifying your Asian genes. It excels in breaking down your DNA sample into individual groups and subgroups, including Central Asia, East Asia, Middle East, South Asia, and North Asia.
What sets TeloYears apart is its in-depth exploration of your ancestry. While many DNA tests feature the same regions, TeloYears delves further, dividing each region into smaller subgroups. This detailed breakdown allows you to understand the specific cultural groups your ancestors belonged to and gain insights into their migration patterns across different regions. Some of the subgroups that may appear in your sample include Miao, She, Tujia, Daur, and Tu.
Unlike most testing companies that identify around 700,000 markers in your DNA sequence and connect them to specific groups, TeloYears goes above and beyond, identifying more than 250 to 300 million markers in your sample. After analyzing your DNA, it presents the groups and subgroups associated with your markers.
However, one noteworthy concern with TeloYears is its marketing approach. Despite its focus on anti-aging, it offers a free DNA test when you purchase a cell test, and afterwards, it may repeatedly prompt you to sign up for its supplements.
- Detailed ancestry analysis particularly for individuals with Asian ancestry
- Identifies over 250 million DNA markers
- Large database, allowing users to connect with relatives who share common genetic markers
- Compatibility with Cell Health Test
GPS Origins - Asian Edition
GPS Origins Asian Edition is an Asian DNA test that competes with major companies in the field. As part of the HomeDNA brand of products, it offers a unique opportunity to trace the precise routes and paths that your ancestors followed across Asia. Unlike tests that predominantly focus on European ancestry, this test specifically targets Asian genetic markers in your sample. The regions it provides information about include India, Siberia, Silk Road, Mongolia, China, Japan, and Arabia.
Furthermore, GPS Origins Asian Edition delves deeper into these regions, breaking them down into smaller groups situated in the south, central, and other parts of certain countries. By collecting a simple cheek swab, you can expect to receive your results in six weeks or less. These results offer valuable insights into your ancestors’ migration paths, allowing you to read stories from individuals who followed similar routes. Moreover, the test reveals significant historical moments or periods when your family’s DNA underwent changes.
One of the most remarkable aspects of GPS Origins Asian Edition is its unparalleled ability to provide such detailed information for Asians, setting it apart from other DNA tests. Additionally, the test generates a PDF illustrating the migration routes and dates when your family followed these paths, which you can share with others to enrich your family’s understanding of its heritage.
- Specifically designed to focus on Asian genetic markers
- Specific regions coverage
- Personalized migration paths
- The test highlights significant moments of periods in history
- Shareable PDF
Honorable Mention: WeGene
An honorable mention goes to WeGene, a distinctive platform that complements traditional DNA tests. While not a conventional DNA test itself, it serves as an invaluable site for comparing your results with a broader population. Based in China, WeGene automatically detects your location upon visiting the site and adjusts its language settings accordingly. By uploading the raw data from your DNA test, you can analyze it within the system.
Initially limited to individuals residing in Asia, WeGene has now expanded its terms to include people with Asian ancestry from other countries. With a vast database comprising millions of registered Asian individuals worldwide, WeGene offers a unique opportunity to compare your genetic information with others from diverse Asian backgrounds. The database includes various groups and subgroups, such as Northern and Southern Han Chinese, She, Lahu, Mongolian, and Tibetan.
Upon receiving your raw data, you can easily upload the results to WeGene. The platform is compatible with the results offered by 23andMe and Ancestry. Notably, WeGene can trace both maternal and paternal haplogroups and identify matches with other registered users.
Benefits of WeGene
- Unique platform for comparing your DNA test results with a broad population of Asian individuals worldwide
- Regional and subgroup specifications
- While not a traditional DNA test, WeGene complements the results and can be exported to other testing sites
- Maternal and paternal haplogroups
How Do Asian DNA Tests Work
Obtaining an Asian DNA test has become a simple process. You can easily purchase these tests online and have the kit delivered to any preferred address, be it your home, workplace, or elsewhere. Each testing site provides a user-friendly website where you can sign up for an account and share personal details, including your hometown and current city. Within a few days, the test kit will arrive at your doorstep, ready for the next steps:
- Familiarize yourself with the provided instructions to understand how the test works.
- Follow the detailed instructions to provide a DNA sample.
- Seal your sample securely in the provided return packaging.
- Drop the sealed sample in the mail for processing.
Once the lab receives your sample, they will send you an email confirmation. The lab’s experts will then analyze your DNA sequence and genes, comparing your sample to others in the database. This analysis can reveal potential distant cousins and indicate the degree of relatedness to other users. If any issues arise with your sample, the lab will promptly notify you via email, prompting you to provide a new one.
- Loss of saliva during shipping (not tightening lid)
- Contamination (bacteria, toothpaste, tobacco products, food)
- Moisture, heat or sunlight
- Lab errors
What Asian Ancestry DNA Test Should You Use?
AncestryDNA reigns as the undisputed favorite among all DNA tests available in the market. With a vast database comprising over 10 million users, it offers extensive information about various regions in Asia. However, regardless of the test you opt for, it’s crucial to ensure that it includes Asian users and haplogroups from Asian regions. This way, you can avoid receiving basic results that merely state your Asian ancestry without any specific details.
For some users, 23andMe emerges as the top choice. As someone with Asian heritage, you can easily explore if your family has roots in countries outside of Europe and trace their migration to North America and other continents. Apart from its ancestry analysis, 23andMe is also popular for providing insights into wellness traits.
Whichever DNA test you choose, the top Asian DNA tests can significantly enrich your understanding of your ancestral history and family growth. These tests offer valuable insights into the generations that came before you, revealing the diverse roots of your Asian ancestry.
Find out what at-home DNA test kits can do for you and why you need one. Get a DNA test done to find out everything you ever wanted to know about your heritage.
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