23andMe vs Helix

Sample Process (Winner: Tie) 

23andMe and Helix use a spit kit to collect your DNA sample. The DNA testing kit can then be sent back in the prepaid mailing envelope. This spit saliva sample test is usually more difficult to perform compared to the cheek swab method. 

Both DNA testing companies use the same collection method. 

Ancestry Testing (Winner: 23andMe) 

23andMe offers one of the best ancestry tests on the market. The company has more than 12 million customers, and the genetic database continues to improve in accuracy with each new DNA sample. 23andMe is one of the only companies to analyze sex chromosomes and autosomal DNA. This gives customers a more detailed report on their maternal and paternal lineage with a free family tree generator. The 23andMe ancestry test looks at more than 1,500 different regions to determine your ancestry composition. 23andMe also offers an ancestry test focused on individuals of African descent

The Helix ancestry test is available to those who have purchased a sequencing kit through Helix. The ancestry test looks at 26 regions in your ancestry breakdown. You will also receive some unique genetic information on specific traits that could have been passed down from your ancestors. This includes altitude adaptation, cold adaptation, high-fat diet adaptation, lactose intolerance, and malaria adaptation that helps people avoid the disease. 

Because of the large customer base and in-depth report, 23andMe is the better choice for ancestry testing. 

Relative Finder (Winner: 23andMe)

Some individuals purchase a DNA test in hopes of discovering biological family members. When you take a 23andMe ancestry test, you gain access to the 23andMe relative finder feature. This tool allows users to connect with relatives who have taken a 23andMe test and opted-in to the relative finder feature. Once you start connecting with relatives, you can work on building your family tree. 

Helix does not offer a relative finder feature. You will need to use a third-party site to connect with relatives or choose a different DNA testing company. 

If you want to use the relative finder feature, you should choose the 23andMe ancestry test. 

Health and Wellness Testing (Winner: Tie) 

23andMe offers one of the best options for health DNA testing. The health test delivers a carrier status report on more than 40 genetic disorders. The health test also includes a trait report with data on more than 30 genes, a health predisposition report, and a wellness report. Customers can also decide to exclude certain health risks from their report if they would rather not know. 

Helix’s main focus is on genetic health testing. The company partners with multiple organizations to study population genomics. Current studies include the Healthy Nevada Project with Renown IHI, Tapestry with Mayo Clinic, Wholeme with AdventHealth, and Genobank Project with University of Arizona Health Sciences Biorepository. Individuals who join one of these studies receive free genetic information. Other health tests offered by Helix focus on carrier status, healthy eating, weight, and overall wellness. Some may be more detailed than the 23andMe health test depending on what you choose. 

Both DNA genetic testing companies provide quality health test options. The final decision on which to choose will depend on what information you are seeking. 

Data Interpretation (Winner: Helix) 

23andMe does its data interpretation with its own labs and resources. Helix does some of its own sequencings and also contracts out some of its genetic analysis to partners. Helix expands its analysis capabilities by partnering with genome sequencing companies and offering additional tests. 

Helix is also the only genomics company to have FDA authorization for a Whole Exome Sequencing Platform that produces highly detailed reports. 23andMe is limited in how much information it can offer and its sequencing technology.  

Helix has more resources to analyze your genetic information and provide a robust report. 

Customer Privacy (Winner: Tie) 

You should always study the privacy policy before choosing a DNA testing company. 23andMe informs customers that their DNA data could be shared for research purposes if they choose to opt-in. 

Helix has a similar customer privacy policy that allows customers to opt-in. Helix shares consumer DNA information with its partners to interpret the data. Each Helix partner must follow a strict security protocol. Helix never sells customer data and allows the customer to delete their DNA information at any time. 

In the case of 23andme vs. Helix, both companies seem to offer sufficient privacy protection for your sensitive information. 

Raw DNA Download Cost (Winner: 23andMe) 

23andMe allows all users to view and download their raw DNA data for no extra cost. You can download this information to upload on third-party sites. 

Helix gives you access to your raw DNA data if you pay an additional cost. You will need to pay $499 for access to your DNA data. This is one of the most expensive companies for downloading raw DNA. Neither company allows you to upload a raw DNA file to receive a report of their sites. 

23andMe is the better choice for those wishing to download their raw DNA file. 

Processing/Wait Time for Results (Winner: 23andMe) 

23andMe offers a quick testing process for its customers. 23andMe customers can expect to wait for about three to five weeks to receive their results. VIP health customers’ orders get priority if you decide to upgrade to the VIP package. Helix follows a typical industry standard of returning test results within four to eight weeks.

If you are looking for quick test results, 23andMe is the test to choose.

DNA Test Prices (Winner: 23andMe) 

Helix offers DNA test options called the Diet GENius for $144.99. This is the cheapest genetic test you can buy through Helix. However, once you purchase a Helix DNA kit, you gain free access to Helix’s reports including an ancestry, wellness, and women’s wellness report. You can search the Helix marketplace to find all the available testing options and find the cost per additional report. 

The best way to save on Helix genetic testing is to get involved in one of its research projects. You can apply online to see if you qualify for any of the studies. Participation in a Helix study gives you free access to your ancestry and health reports.

23andMe offers two major types of tests: ancestry and health. The ancestry test is $99 and the health test is $199. Individuals can also upgrade to the VIP Health + Ancestry test that includes two full kits, priority processing, and one year of access to premium customer support. 23andMe also offers additional discounts for students and educators.  

23andMe offers a lower-priced DNA testing option compared to Helix. 

The Bottom Line 

Although 23andMe and Helix are both DTC genetic testing companies, the two companies have separate goals and offer different DNA tests. 23andMe focuses more on DTC testing with its trusted ancestry and health tests. Helix still offers DNA testing, but the company has a broader goal of improving medical outcomes by conducting genetic research. 

For people looking to learn more about their health and ancestry, 23andMe is the clear option. 23andMe has a large database for accurate ancestry results and one of the only FDA-approved health tests. Helix is best for those who are searching for a specific health test only Helix offers. Helix might also be a good option for people living in Nevada or Florida who can join one of its research projects to receive free genetic results.