Y-DNA testing is used to help answer questions about relatedness on the paternal male line and is for genetic males. Y-DNA is passed down from father to son. Y-DNA testing can help you discover and verify your direct paternal ancestry by connecting you with other individuals who are descendants of a shared common patrilineal ancestor.
Please note: A Y-DNA is different from the autosomal DNA tests which most people are familiar with on sites like Ancestry.com, 23 and Me and My Heritage to name a few. It sets itself apart in 2 major ways. First, Y-DNA can show definite connection on the paternal line. Second, it stays nearly unchanged for centuries as it’s passed from father to son, making it an excellent tool for tracing your lineage far back.
Genetic females cannot take a Y-DNA test because they do not have a Y chromosome. However, if you are interested in learning about your paternal line’s ancestry, we recommend finding a genetic male to test—like a brother, uncle, father, or cousin.
Y-DNA tests are ordered through Family Tree DNA (FTDNA). FTDNA typically has sales 4 times a year: National DNA Day (April 25th yearly), Father’s Day, Summer Sale (typically in August) and there is a Black Friday/Holiday sale.
Types of YDNA Tests
STR Testing: Short tandem repeats or markers (STR). Predicted haplogroup (distant)
Y-37: Examines 37 short tandem repeats (STRs) on the Y chromosome. A Y-37 test provides the lowest STR coverage and a basic haplogroup prediction. (reg. $119, sale $79)
Y-111: Examines 111 short tandem repeats (STRs) on the Y chromosome. A Y-111 test provides mid-level STR coverage and a basic haplogroup prediction. (reg. $249, sale $249)
SNP Testing: Single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) testing confirms your haplogroup and defines your placement on the family tree of mankind.
Big Y-700: The most comprehensive Y-DNA test. It helps connect deep ancestry with recent genealogy. Examines 700 short tandem repeats (STRs) and over 500k+ SNPs on the Y chromosome. (reg. $449, sale $399)
The Campbell DNA Project recommends testing to the greatest level you can afford. The Big Y-700 is an expensive test, but sometimes it is the only way to preserve the DNA sample for a genetic line that may be dying out. The Big Y-700 is the Gold Standard for YDNA testing. The Y-37 is a starter test, but the Y-111 is the best balance between cost and specificity.
The Testing Process
Taking a Family Tree DNA Y-DNA test simply involves scraping the inside of your cheek with a plastic scraper. Testing is very easy. It is further described on this site and in this video.
If you have any questions, please contact the Campbell DNA Team at: campbellDNAproject@ccsna.org