This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links, at no cost to you. The products that I advertise are the ones I believe in.
Is there a better site than Ancestry? Genealogy research has become increasingly popular, with many people turning to online platforms to trace their family histories. Ancestry.com is one of the most well-known platforms, offering a vast array of records and tools to help users build their family trees. However, its subscription fees can be a significant barrier for many. Thankfully, there are several free alternatives that offer comprehensive genealogy resources without the cost. Among these, FamilySearch.org stands out as a superior option. In this blog post, we will explore why FamilySearch.org is a better site than Ancestry.com for free genealogy research and highlight other noteworthy alternatives.
FamilySearch.org: A Superior Free Alternative
Overview of FamilySearch.org
FamilySearch.org, operated by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, is one of the largest and most comprehensive free genealogy websites available. Launched in 1999, it provides access to billions of historical records, family tree building tools, and various other resources. FamilySearch.org is dedicated to helping people discover their family history and connect with their ancestors, all without any subscription fees.
Personally, I’ve used FamilySearch for so many of my records searches, even with an Ancestry subscription! When I’m stuck, I’ll inevitably turn to FS, they’re search engine is much cleaner and easier to sort through than Ancestry’s often clunky machine.
Detailed Comparison: FamilySearch.org vs. Ancestry.com
To understand why FamilySearch.org is a better alternative to Ancestry.com, let’s delve into a side-by-side comparison of the two platforms based on several key aspects:
| Feature | FamilySearch.org | Ancestry.com |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Completely free | Subscription-based (various plans ranging from $24.99 to $49.99 per month) |
| Record Access | Billions of free records from around the world | Billions of records, but many require a subscription to access |
| Family Tree Building | Free and unlimited | Included with subscription |
| Collaborative Features | Strong community collaboration tools | Limited collaborative features |
| User Interface | User-friendly, though may require some learning | User-friendly, with a polished interface |
| Mobile App | Available and free | Available but requires a subscription for full features |
| DNA Testing | Not available | Available (additional cost) |
| Historical Collections | Extensive, with a focus on global records | Extensive, with some exclusive collections |
Why FamilySearch.org is Better
- Cost Efficiency: The most obvious advantage of FamilySearch.org is that it is completely free. While Ancestry.com requires a subscription for full access to its records and features, FamilySearch.org offers an extensive array of resources at no cost.
- Global Record Access: FamilySearch.org provides access to a vast collection of global records. This includes birth, marriage, death, census, and military records from numerous countries. The platform continuously updates its database, adding new records regularly. Ancestry.com also has a comprehensive collection, but accessing many of its records requires a subscription.
- Collaborative Environment: FamilySearch.org emphasizes community collaboration. Users can contribute to a shared family tree, making it easier to connect with relatives and collaborate on research. This feature fosters a sense of community and shared purpose. Ancestry.com, while offering some collaborative tools, does not provide the same level of community interaction. Ancestry is collaborative in being able to communicate with your DNA matches through their platform.
- Free Learning Resources: FamilySearch.org offers an extensive range of free learning resources, including tutorials, webinars, and guides. These resources are designed to help users at all levels of expertise, from beginners to advanced researchers. Ancestry.com also offers educational resources, but many are behind a paywall.
- Accessibility: FamilySearch.org’s mobile app is completely free, providing users with the ability to research and access their family tree on the go. Ancestry.com offers a mobile app as well, but full access to its features requires a subscription. I do like having my Ancestry family tree on hand via the app!
Limitations of FamilySearch.org
While FamilySearch.org is a powerful tool for genealogy research, it does have some limitations. One notable feature that Ancestry.com offers, which FamilySearch.org does not, is DNA testing. Ancestry.com’s DNA testing service allows users to uncover their ethnic origins and connect with genetic relatives. FamilySearch.org does not offer this service, which could be a deciding factor for those interested in DNA-based genealogy research. While FS is a better site than Ancestry in some respects, it does not compare to the power that Ancestry has capture in the DNA market.
Learn more about DNA testing companies by reading my blog post below, you’ll be surprised which company is the largest!
Other Free Genealogy Research Options – but not better than Ancestry.com
In addition to FamilySearch.org, there are several other free genealogy websites worth exploring. Here are a few notable ones:
1. FindAGrave.com
FindAGrave.com is a free resource that provides access to millions of cemetery records from around the world. Users can search for burial records, view photos of headstones, and contribute to the database by adding information and images. This site is particularly useful for locating gravesites and obtaining information about deceased relatives.
2. USGenWeb Project
The USGenWeb Project is a volunteer-driven initiative that offers free genealogy resources for every state and county in the United States. The site includes historical records, cemetery listings, maps, and local history information. It is an excellent resource for those researching American ancestors.
3. Cyndi’s List
Cyndi’s List is a comprehensive directory of genealogy websites. It offers categorized links to over 330,000 resources, including databases, research guides, and historical records. The site is an invaluable tool for finding specialized genealogy resources and websites.
4. FamilyTree Magazine’s Free Resources
FamilyTree Magazine provides a collection of free resources, including downloadable forms, research guides, and webinars. While the magazine itself requires a subscription, many of its resources are available for free and can be highly beneficial for genealogy research.
5. Ellis Island Records
The Ellis Island website offers free access to passenger arrival records from 1892 to 1957. This resource is particularly useful for those researching ancestors who immigrated to the United States through Ellis Island.
6. Library and Archives Canada
For those researching Canadian ancestors, the Library and Archives Canada website provides free access to a wealth of historical records, including census data, military records, and immigration documents. The site is a valuable resource for tracing Canadian family history.
7. The National Archives (UK)
The National Archives in the United Kingdom offers free access to many historical records, including census data, military records, and wills. While some records may require a fee, many are available for free online, making it an excellent resource for those with British ancestry.
Here are my top picks when it comes to free genealogy websites, guess where Ancestry ranks on this list?
Conclusion: is there really a better site than Ancestry?
While Ancestry.com is a popular choice for genealogy research, its subscription fees can be prohibitive. Fortunately, there are several free alternatives that offer comprehensive resources and tools for tracing family history. FamilySearch.org stands out as a better site than Ancestry.com, offering a vast collection of records, collaborative features, and educational resources at no cost. Additionally, other free options like FindAGrave.com, the USGenWeb Project, and Cyndi’s List provide valuable resources for genealogists.
By exploring these free alternatives, researchers can uncover their family histories without the financial burden of subscription fees. Whether you are a seasoned genealogist or just beginning your journey, these resources offer a wealth of information to help you connect with your past and build a detailed family tree.
By exploring these alternatives, you can find a better site than Ancestry.com for your genealogy research needs. Each platform offers unique features and advantages, ensuring that you can discover your family history without incurring significant costs. Whether you choose FamilySearch.org or another free resource, you can embark on a rewarding journey to uncover the stories of your ancestors.
Ultimately, though, in my opinion Ancestry.com is still the KING of genealogy sites! While FamilySearch is great for free stuff from time to time, Ancestry has the power of DNA testing, an incredible family tree builder, DNA matches connectivity options, ongoing improvements, and growth that only a for-profit company can deliver, making any subscriptions that I pay well worth it!
Let me know what you think in the comments, what have your experiences been with Ancestry versus Family Search and do you agree that FamilySearch.org is a better site than Ancestry, and if so, in what way? Cheers!
SIGN UP to stay up to date on the latest posts from the Family History Foundation.