Unexplained Differences in DNA Ancestry Results Across Platforms

No matter which DNA testing service you choose, the results can sometimes come as a surprise. This is especially true when you upload your raw DNA file to multiple services, such as AncestryDNA and MyHeritage. Why do you receive different results from these platforms? This article explores the factors that contribute to these discrepancies and provides insights into the accuracy and reliability of DNA ancestry testing.

Understanding the Reasons Behind Different Ancestry Results

When you upload your raw DNA file, several factors can lead to entirely different ancestry results:

Different Reference Populations

Each DNA testing service uses its own reference populations for ancestry determination. AncestryDNA and MyHeritage may have distinct databases and reference groups. This can cause variations in ethnicity estimates as each company analyzes your genetic markers based on different data sets.

Algorithm Differences

The algorithms used to analyze DNA data can differ between companies. MyHeritage may interpret genetic markers differently than AncestryDNA, resulting in distinct conclusions about your ancestry. These differences in algorithmic interpretation can lead to variations in the results.

Updates and Improvements

Both AncestryDNA and MyHeritage periodically update their algorithms and databases. The timing of these updates can affect how your DNA is interpreted, leading to differences in the results provided by each service.

Ethnicity Breakdown

Each company may categorize ethnicities differently or have varying thresholds for what constitutes a match to a specific ethnicity. This can result in discrepancies in reported percentages, even though the raw DNA data is the same.

Data Interpretation

The way each company handles and reports genetic data can lead to differences in the presentation of results. This includes the inclusion or exclusion of certain ancestral groups in the ancestry report.

User Base

The diversity and size of the user base can influence the accuracy and specificity of ethnicity estimates. A more diverse and larger database can provide more refined results for certain populations.

The Truth About DNA Ancestry Results

Many people are critical of the way DNA ancestry services categorize and attribute DNA to specific countries or ethnic groups. They argue that modern countries and nationalities did not exist two centuries ago, and that ethnic identities are more complex and fluid than can be accurately reflected in these tests.

For the most accurate DNA ancestry results, users should look at the genetic match data, which is more reliable for family matching. This is because the genetic matches are based on the presence of DNA segments that indicate shared heritage, rather than probabilistic ethnic estimations.

However, the ethnicity estimates provided by these services are indeed guesses and can vary significantly from one company to another. AncestryDNA has even seen changes in its estimates over time as they refine their estimating algorithm and add new reference accounts. These company-specific guesses may not be as accurate as they claim.

It's important to note that while these ethnicity estimates may not be entirely accurate, they can still provide valuable insights into potential ancestral connections and highlight areas for further DNA testing or research.

Finding the Most Accurate Results

While the results can vary, the actual DNA you possess remains the same. The differences are primarily due to how each company interprets and analyses the data. To get the most accurate results, consider using a service that has a large, diverse reference population and up-to-date algorithms. However, for the most reliable DNA matches, focus on family matching services.

Ultimately, the discrepancies in results do not significantly impact the underlying genetic information. It’s the probabilistic nature of these ethnicity estimates that can lead to differences in the conclusions drawn by different services.

Conclusion

The differences in ancestry results from platforms like AncestryDNA and MyHeritage are multifaceted and can be attributed to variations in reference populations, algorithms, updates, and data interpretation. While these discrepancies can be frustrating, they are a testament to the complexity of genetic ancestry. Understanding these factors can help you make more informed decisions when using DNA ancestry services and appreciate the limitations of current genetic testing technology.