If you’re passionate about genealogy, selecting the right family tree maker software is crucial for organizing, preserving, and sharing your family history. In 2024, various software options cater to diverse needs, offering features that range from simple chart creation to sophisticated DNA integration and cloud storage. Here’s a comparison of the best family tree maker software options for 2024.
1. Family Tree Maker 2019
Best For: Comprehensive Family History Research
Key Features:
- User-friendly interface
- Sync with Ancestry.com and FamilySearch
- Hints for historical records and DNA matches
- Variety of charting and reporting options
- TreeVault cloud services for backups
Pros:
- Seamless integration with major genealogy websites
- Wide range of charts, reports, and organizational tools
- Automated backup for peace of mind
Cons:
- Limited free trial
- Some features require a subscription to Ancestry
Price: $79.99 (one-time fee)
Summary: Family Tree Maker 2019 remains a top choice for genealogy enthusiasts who want a robust, feature-rich software solution. Its integration with Ancestry and FamilySearch enhances research, while TreeVault ensures data safety.
2. MyHeritage Family Tree Builder
Best For: Online Collaboration & Global Research
Key Features:
- Free downloadable version
- Sync with MyHeritage’s online platform
- Supports multiple languages
- Photo colorization and photo repair tools
- DNA test integration
Pros:
- Excellent for international genealogy with a large global database
- Free version with many features
- Advanced photo editing tools
Cons:
- Premium features and larger storage require subscription
- Less intuitive compared to some competitors
Price: Free version available; Premium subscriptions from $129/year
Summary: MyHeritage Family Tree Builder is ideal for users who value online collaboration and a strong international focus. While the free version provides a lot, premium users will benefit from extensive records and DNA tools.
3. Legacy Family Tree 10
Best For: Detailed Documentation & Research Tools
Key Features:
- Comprehensive source documentation tools
- Online research capabilities with Record Match™
- DNA charting and reports
- Publish family history books and charts
- Customizable reports
Pros:
- Highly customizable for advanced users
- Excellent for detailed source citation and documentation
- Wide range of reporting options
Cons:
- The steeper learning curve for beginners
- Limited cloud integration
Price: $34.95 (Standard); $79.95 (Deluxe)
Summary: Legacy Family Tree 10 excels at documentation and research features, making it perfect for genealogy enthusiasts focused on precision. However, beginners might find the learning curve a bit steep.
4. RootsMagic 9
Best For: Budget-Friendly Genealogy Software
Key Features:
- Clean, user-friendly interface
- Integration with Ancestry, FamilySearch, and MyHeritage
- Web hints for automatic record searching
- Built-in publishing tools for books and reports
- RootsMagic To-Go for portability
Pros:
- Affordable and feature-rich
- Cross-platform compatibility
- Simple but effective collaboration tools
Cons:
- Some advanced features are limited in the basic version
- Limited customization for reports
Price: $29.95 (Essentials); $39.95 (Full version)
Summary: RootsMagic 9 is a fantastic option for those on a budget who still want a high-quality genealogy experience. It’s a user-friendly solution with most essential features available cheaply.
5. Ancestry.com
Best For: Access to a Large Record Database
Key Features:
- Access to over 30 billion records globally
- DNA test integration
- Automatic hints for matching records and trees
- Mobile app for research on-the-go
- Family tree collaboration tools
Pros:
- Largest historical record database
- DNA tools to trace ancestry and matches
- Web-based for easy access anywhere
Cons:
- Subscription-based, no one-time purchase option
- Dependent on internet access for most features
Price: From $99/year (Basic) up to $389/year for full access
Summary: Ancestry.com is the top choice for researchers who need access to an extensive collection of historical records and DNA tools. However, the cost of ongoing subscriptions can be a downside for some users.
6. Gramps
Best For: Open-Source Enthusiasts & Linux Users
Key Features:
- Open-source software with community-driven updates
- Detailed source management and note-taking
- Multilingual support
- Visual mapping of ancestors
- Extensible through plugins
Pros:
- Free and highly customizable
- Ideal for Linux users and open-source enthusiasts
- Active community support and plugin library
Cons:
- Not as polished as commercial software
- Lacks direct integration with popular genealogy sites
Price: Free
Summary: Gramps is a unique option for users who value open-source projects and don’t mind a more hands-on approach. While it lacks some polish, it’s completely free and highly customizable, ideal for tech-savvy researchers.
Conclusion: Which Family Tree Maker is Best for You?
Choosing the best family tree maker software depends on your individual needs:
- Family Tree Maker 2019: Ideal for users who want a comprehensive, polished solution with Ancestry integration.
- MyHeritage Family Tree Builder: Best for those focusing on international genealogy and online collaboration.
- Legacy Family Tree 10: Great for advanced users who need detailed documentation and report generation.
- RootsMagic 9: Perfect for users looking for an affordable, well-rounded software solution.
- Ancestry.com: Top pick for researchers who require access to a massive database and DNA tools.
- Gramps: Best for open-source enthusiasts and those looking for a free solution with plenty of flexibility.
Each software offers unique features and caters to different genealogical needs, ensuring that there’s something for everyone, whether you’re a hobbyist or a serious family historian.