Building a family tree has never been easier. In the past, genealogy required trips to libraries, courthouses, and archives. Today, powerful online platforms put billions of records at your fingertips. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced researcher, these tools can help you uncover ancestors, connect with relatives, and organize your discoveries.
1. Ancestry.com
Ancestry is the largest and most well-known genealogy website. With billions of records, including census data, immigration documents, and military files, it’s a go-to resource for serious researchers. Its family tree builder allows you to attach records, photos, and DNA results.
- Pros: Huge database, easy-to-use interface, DNA integration.
- Cons: Subscription required, can be costly for full access.
2. FamilySearch.org
Run by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, FamilySearch offers free access to millions of records. Volunteers around the world constantly add to its collection. It also has a collaborative family tree where users can share information.
- Pros: Completely free, large global records.
- Cons: Some records are incomplete, collaborative trees may contain errors.
3. MyHeritage.com
MyHeritage has a strong international focus, making it useful if your ancestors came from Europe, Asia, or South America. It also offers DNA testing and smart matching technology that connects your tree with others.
- Pros: Great for non-U.S. research, attractive design, DNA option.
- Cons: Subscription needed for advanced features.
4. Findmypast.com
Best known for British and Irish records, Findmypast is an excellent choice for those with UK ancestry. It specializes in parish records, newspapers, and military archives.
- Pros: Rich in UK records, unique collections.
- Cons: Less useful for non-British research.
5. Geni.com
Geni focuses on building one shared world family tree. Instead of creating separate trees, users connect their branches to a massive global structure.
- Pros: Collaborative, connects you with distant relatives.
- Cons: Information can be inaccurate if not well-sourced.
6. WikiTree.com
WikiTree is a free, community-driven project. Each person in history is represented by one profile, contributed to by multiple users. Its goal is to create a single worldwide family tree.
- Pros: Free, collaborative, strong community.
- Cons: Requires patience, information quality depends on contributors.
7. Archives.com
Archives.com provides access to a wide variety of historical records, including census, vital, and immigration data. It’s often more affordable than other subscription sites.
- Pros: Affordable, good variety of records.
- Cons: Smaller database than Ancestry.
Tips for Choosing the Right Platform
- Budget – If cost is a concern, start with FamilySearch or WikiTree.
- Geography – Choose platforms based on where your ancestors lived (e.g., Findmypast for UK, MyHeritage for international).
- DNA Integration – If you plan to test your DNA, consider AncestryDNA or MyHeritageDNA for seamless integration.
- Collaboration – If you want to work with others, Geni and WikiTree are strong options.
Final Thoughts
No single platform has everything. The best strategy is to combine multiple resources—use free sites for initial research and consider paid subscriptions when you need deeper records. With today’s online tools, your family tree can grow faster and more accurately than ever before.
Each discovery is a step closer to understanding your heritage, and these platforms are the doors that open the past.