Written by Generation Archives. These pages are maker comparisons, not independent reviews.
Family tree software comparisons
Family tree software is not one product category. Some tools sell historical records and DNA matches. Some are free shared world trees. Some are desktop research apps with deep citation features. Generation Archives is a free private archive for people, photos, and stories you already know. The pages below compare those jobs honestly, including when another product is the better fit.
Each comparison is written by the maker of Generation Archives, so it is not a neutral review. We describe the other product using its own help pages where we can, link out so you can check, and say when plans change. If you only need a short answer, start with the no-subscription page or the free-websites roundup. If you already use a named product, open that head-to-head page.
Use these pages to decide who does which job. Many families keep a research subscription for records and keep a private archive for living relatives. Others only need a free tree. Confirm current pricing and limits on the other vendor’s site before you switch.
Comparisons
- Family tree software with no subscription
The family tree is free. Link photos you already store and pay nothing, or host files with us for $1 per GB per year. No subscription.
- Free family tree websites compared (2026): limits, privacy, and trade-offs
An honest 2026 comparison of free family tree websites: Generation Archives, FamilySearch, Family Echo, MyHeritage Basic, and more. Limits, privacy, and trade-offs.
- Generation Archives vs Ancestry
Ancestry is for historical records and DNA. Generation Archives is a free private archive for trees, photos, and stories. Link media you already store, or host files with us.
- Generation Archives vs MyHeritage: research platform or free private tree?
MyHeritage is for records, DNA, and matches. Generation Archives is a free, private family tree app with photos. Here's how they differ and when to use each.
- Generation Archives vs FamilySearch: one shared world tree or your own family tree?
FamilySearch is a free shared world tree with records. Generation Archives is a free tree only you and invited relatives see. When to use each, or both.
- Generation Archives vs Family Tree Maker: desktop research software or a free tree in your browser?
Family Tree Maker is paid desktop software for research. Generation Archives is a free browser tree with photos. Compare features and move a tree with GEDCOM.
- Generation Archives vs Gramps: open-source desktop power or a simple free tree online?
Gramps is free, open-source desktop genealogy software. Generation Archives is a free tree in your browser. How they compare and how to move between them.
How to use this hub
If you are trying to avoid a monthly bill, read family tree software with no subscription first. If you are choosing among free sites, use the 2026 free-websites comparison. If you already have people on Ancestry, MyHeritage, FamilySearch, Family Tree Maker, or Gramps, open that product’s page for what moves with GEDCOM and what usually does not.
How-to guides are under guides. Free charts are under printables. Short product answers are in the FAQ.