At-home DNA tests have become a popular way to trace people’s ancestry. There are countless options available, but some reputable companies are taking full advantage of advancements in technology. As a result, at-home DNA tests are more in-depth than ever.
One such company—GPS Origins—is making waves in DNA research and technology. The comprehensive tests offered provide deep insights into individuals’ DNA data. In fact, the company can sometimes trace information back 1,000 years or even more.
Rather than narrow the search down to large geographical areas, GPS Origins can often offer information regarding the towns and/or villages included in a family’s migration path. You’ll learn where ancestors lived and moved throughout their lives, all from this one comprehensive test.
The GPS Origins Difference
GPS Origins offers a variety of DNA test products for paternity, health, and even information regarding pet breeds. Using 800,000 genetic markers and more than 860 reference populations, the company is able to narrow a person’s DNA down to a specific region.
One key difference between GPS Origins and other companies is the fact that GPS Origins is able to trace DNA to the exact location it came from. Most companies can only provide a general region, so GPS Origins’ results are much more specific.
First off, I’ll cover how the company’s DNA tests works and who can benefit. Then, I’ll highlight the pros and cons, and what you’ll receive with your kit.
How It Works
Pinpointed geographical results: GPS Origins provides a comprehensive, interactive report with specific details regarding family history, including the exact locations families began and the places family members moved.
A deep dive into your gene pool: The company also provides charts and graphs showcasing the makeup of an individual’s DNA signature. Family cultures are also explored. Thanks to the newest technology, GPS Origins is able to share relevant information from the distant past.
Customized ancestral stories: Along with your custom report, you’ll get an in-depth look into your family’s ancestral journey. Included are any world events and life circumstances that may have played a part in geographical moves.
Once you receive your kit, the process is quite simple:
- Register your kit online
- Collect cheek cell DNA samples with the included swab, and return the swabs in the envelope provided. (Shipping to the lab is free.)
- Once your report is ready, log onto GPS Origins’ website to view your results. (Results can take up to 4 to 6 weeks. This may seem like a long wait, but it’s actually much shorter than most companies.)
Who Can Benefit
Virtually anyone interested in family history and DNA can benefit from GPS Origins’ sample kit. You might want to consider ordering your own if you:
- Are a genealogist who is tracking family history
- Are interested in taking a deeper dive into your personal genetic history
- Have had other DNA tests conducted, but you’re looking for more specific information
GPS Origins Pros
There are many notable pros with GPS Origins’ at-home DNA test:
- The reports are incredibly accurate
- In-depth records go back thousands of years
- You’ll receive a full genetic breakdown
- Customer service is responsive and helpful
GPS Origins Cons
Although the pros certainly outweigh the cons, we’d be remiss not to mention them:
- GPS Origins doesn’t offer genetic matching or family-finding options, so you may opt to have further research conducted through another company
- It’s slightly more costly than competitors, but you get what you pay for in this world!
What You’ll Receive
The kit isn’t complicated to use. In fact, it’s pretty much self-explanatory. You’ll receive four test swabs, along with a brochure and an envelope to mail back your swabs. There is a barcode on the envelope that the lab will use to match your swabs to the information you entered on the company’s website.
Test Type
As mentioned in my guide to the best DNA test kit, there are three types of DNA that are used for DNA testing: Autosomal DNA, mtDNA, and Y-DNA. Autosomal DNA—the type of DNA that GPS Origins uses—is the DNA that you inherit from the members of your family.
Essentially, the lab takes autosomal markers and compares them with markers in other gene pools of reference populations in the company’s database. With that information, the company is able to pinpoint gene pool populations and ancestors who migrated.
Your Customized Report
Once your test is conducted, you’ll have access to the following materials:
- A color-coded map highlighting three top gene pools
- Reports providing detailed information for all DNA migration points
- A chart with all gene pools included
- Ancestral migration paths
- Articles for each migration path
- A downloadable DNA file
Contacting GPS Origins
GPS Origins is a part of Home DNA. You can find more information here.
Test materials are mailed to the following location:
DNA Diagnostics Center
1 DDC Way
Fairfield, OH 45014
You can reach GPS Origins by telephone at 1-800-281-2916.
Customer service can be reached at the following email address: customersupport@homedna.com.
Overall, GPS Origins offers an excellent service that allows genealogists to delve into their ancestry. The process is simple, and the information gleaned from the test is downright extraordinary.
Whether you plan to use this test in conjunction with other DNA tests or on its own, it provides a wealth of knowledge that can be passed to future generations.