In this discussion, genealogist Sunny Morton shares her insights on comparing the big three genealogy platforms: Ancestry.com, FamilySearch.org, and MyHeritage.com. She highlights their unique strengths, from historical records to DNA tools, helping listeners choose wisely based on their research needs. Morton also touches on the latest AI advancements, specifically Google's Gemini update, which promises to enhance user experiences in genealogy by personalizing research capabilities and improving efficiency. A must-listen for family history enthusiasts!
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insights INSIGHT
Defining Historical Records
Historical records offer insights from the past, ideally created around the time the events occurred.
These records aim to represent historical reality as accurately as possible.
insights INSIGHT
Ancestry's Record Volume
Ancestry.com boasts approximately 60 billion total records, many from US city directories, yearbooks, and user-submitted trees.
AI-powered indexing has significantly boosted these numbers by extracting names from print sources.
volunteer_activism ADVICE
Website Strengths
Prioritize Ancestry and FamilySearch for US research and FamilySearch with MyHeritage for international research.
Consider MyHeritage for diverse languages due to its translation technology.
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AUDIO PODCAST SHOW NOTES: In episode 291 of the Genealogy Gems podcast, host Lisa Louise Cooke interviews genealogy author Sunny Morton about her article "Three's Company" from the March/April 2025 issue of Family Tree Magazine. They dive into a detailed comparison of the top three genealogy websites—Ancestry.com, FamilySearch.org, and MyHeritage.com—focusing on historical records, DNA tools, family tree features, and more. Sunny shares insights on how these platforms differ, their strengths, and practical tips for genealogists to maximize their research. Then, in an artificial intelligence update, Lisa covers the latest Gemini update. Get the full show notes on the Genealogy Gems website. Genealogy Gems Premium Members Exclusive Download: Download the ad-free show notes for this episode from the show notes page for this episode. (Premium Member subscription required.) Not a Premium Member? Become a Genealogy Gems Premium Member.) Become a Genealogy Gems Premium Member Premium Members have exclusive access to: Video classes and downloadable handouts The Genealogy Gems Premium Podcast Downloadable ad-free show notes PDF cheat sheets Become a member here. Learn more about Genealogy Gems Premium Membership. Our Sponsors for this episode: MyCanvas.com Receive a 10% discount on your first MyCanvas order with code GGEMS Archives Archives makes research quick and easy with an intuitive approach to genealogy. Newspapers.com Get 20% off a Publisher Extra subscription. Click here and use coupon code GenealogyGems MyHeritage Order your MyHeritage DNA Kit today. Genealogy Gems Podcast App Don't miss the Bonus audio for this episode. In the app, tap the gift box icon just under the media player. Get the app here. Get the Free Genealogy Gems Newsletter The Genealogy Gems email newsletter is the best way to stay informed about what's available with your Premium eLearning Membership. Sign up today here. Follow Lisa and Genealogy Gems on Social Media: Instagram.com/genealogygemspodcast Facebook.com/genealogygems Pinterest.com/lisalouisecooke YouTube.com/GenealogyGems