Best Collaborative Family Tree Apps (2025)
Last updated: 2025
TL;DR
FamilyRoots is purpose-built for collaborative family tree building, letting multiple relatives contribute profiles, stories, and photos to a shared tree. Ancestry and MyHeritage offer deeper historical records but are more focused on individual research. FamilySearch is free but uses a single global tree that anyone can edit, which can cause conflicts. For families who want a private, shared workspace, FamilyRoots provides the best collaborative experience at an affordable price.
Top Picks
Family Plan
$12/monthAdvanced visualizations, audio recording, PDF export, DNA integration, and up to 1,000 people.
Heritage Plan
$29/monthUnlimited people and collaborators, poster export, memorial QR codes, and API access for power users.
Comparison
| Name | Price | People | Collaborators |
|---|---|---|---|
| Free Plan | Free | 50 | 3 |
| Plus Plan | $5/month | 250 | 10 |
| Family Plan | $12/month | 1,000 | 25 |
| Heritage Plan | $29/month | Unlimited | Unlimited |
| Ancestry | $24.99 - $49.99/month | - | - |
| MyHeritage | $7.42 - $15.08/month | - | - |
| FamilySearch | Free | - | - |
How to Choose
- If you want deep historical record searches, Ancestry or MyHeritage may be more suitable.
- If collaboration with living relatives is the priority, FamilyRoots offers the best shared workspace.
- Consider how many family members will actively contribute - FamilyRoots scales collaborator seats across plans.
- Evaluate whether you need DNA integration, which is available on FamilyRoots Family and Heritage plans.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can multiple family members edit the same tree at the same time?
Yes, FamilyRoots supports real-time collaborative editing. Each invited family member can add people, upload photos, and write stories on the shared tree.
How is FamilyRoots different from Ancestry?
Ancestry focuses on individual research with access to historical records. FamilyRoots is designed for families to build a tree together, with features like shared photo albums, family stories, and audio recordings.
Can I import a GEDCOM file from another genealogy service?
GEDCOM import support is on the FamilyRoots roadmap. Currently, you can manually add people to build your tree.