Ian CheesemanWhen his cousin took a budget DNA test online, my buddy did the same. Weeks later, his results came back; apparently, he was 40% Japanese, which would’ve been cool except his entire known family is European.
Confused, he took another test from a Toronto-based lab, only to find that his first result was completely wrong. That’s why choosing a reliable DNA testing service matters.
In this guide, we’ll break down the best DNA testing options in Toronto—because you can’t cheap out when it comes to unlocking your ancestry.
How much does DNA testing cost in Toronto?
In Toronto, a basic DNA test such as ancestry typically costs $199, while legal paternity tests for court use usually start at $300. Some high-end genetic screenings can go over $1000.
1. Forensics Canada Inc.
Forensics Canada Inc. (formerly known as Canadian Forensics Inc.) has a mission: to provide accurate and confidential results using an SCC-accredited lab in Canada.
They’re known for their Home Paternity DNA Test, which has a 99.99% accuracy rate and a 7 to 10-working-day turnaround time. Court-admissible legal paternity tests are offered as well, which take 10-14 days since actual PhD experts review them.
If a paternity test is not possible, they also offer a Y Chromosome DNA Test—useful for tracing paternal lineage between male relatives.
Relationship DNA tests are available, too (e.g. for siblings, grandparents, aunts, uncles, maternity, and even twin zygosity). For these, you can visit their location, use a home DNA collection kit, or prepare your own.
The only catch we noticed is that they’re not the cheapest option out there.
Ensures accurate and reliable results
“Forensics Canada Inc. is truly outstanding! Their expertise, professionalism, and attention to detail are second to none. From the moment I contacted them, their team was responsive, knowledgeable, and dedicated to providing top-tier forensic analysis. They go above and beyond to ensure accurate and reliable results, making even the most complex cases feel manageable. Their commitment to integrity and excellence is evident in everything they do. I highly recommend Forensics Canada Inc. to anyone in need of forensic services—you won’t find a more capable or trustworthy team!”
Huzaifa Mahmood, Google Review
Customer service was exceptional
“I had a wonderful experience during my visit. The customer service was exceptional, and the owner was not only knowledgeable but also incredibly courteous. The business is conveniently located within a Government of Canada building, making access easy. There were no issues with parking, which made the visit even more pleasant. Overall, it was a five-star experience!”
amjad mahmood, Google Review
2. Forensic Genetics Laboratory
Forensic Genetics Laboratory has been in the DNA game for over 20 years, and it’s actually one of the biggest privately owned diagnostics labs in North America.
We like that they take privacy seriously—all DNA data is kept on a private database and automatically destroyed in 12 months.
Now, in addition to the usual paternity, maternity, relationship, and legal DNA tests, they offer prenatal paternity tests. This can confirm parenthood as early as 10 weeks into pregnancy.
Another unique offering is their Infidelity DNA Test. If you suspect a partner of cheating, they can analyze DNA from cheek swabs, hair, or even DNA samples from bedsheets, clothes, nail clippings, etc.
Turnaround times are fast too—most results arrive in 5 days (3 days for an expedited fee of $59).
A downside we heard about is their very pricey services.
The lab literally saved my life!
“The Lab literally saved my life! Recommend with confidence to everybody! I had second thoughts about my ex girlfriend’s fidelity. Thus, I asked my friend to recommend a place for infidelity testing. He suggested this place because he has done a paternity test there. The lady on the phone was very nice in explaining all the process. I paid the fee and sent them my girlfriend’s forensic sample. The results came positive, meaning that there was male DNA on her underwear. It could not be my DNA since I was away for a work trip during that period. I was shocked. She admitted that she was cheating on me after showing her the results. Anyway, the lab has the best of the best customer service. I have never seen such a professional and knowledgeable team before. Trust me, you will not regret choosing them.”
無実役に立たない, Google Review
Results came back by email in 5 business days
“Simply Great! I am living in the US and wished to have such laboratory service here. This company is located in Canada. I decided to order a regular paternity kit and was amazed with how easy they make the whole process for their worldwide clients. They include everything you need in the kit- instructions, forms and even envelopes. The whole process is very client oriented and ordering is literally one click away, reliable and affordable. I ordered the kit online, the kit was mailed to me and I performed the test and send the samples back. They received it quick and gave me regular phone updates about the test progress. The results came back by email in 5 business days. Very satisfied with the quality. Definitely a go-to DNA laboratory.”
Dmitrii Sidorin, Google Review
3. DNALabs Canada Inc
DNALabs Canada focuses on genetic DNA health screening tests that help people make better decisions about their diet, fitness, and overall well-being.
We love that their hi-tech lab is backed by multiple accreditations (e.g. CLIA, CAP, NYSDOH, AABB, etc.), meaning the science behind their tests is legit.
A popular offering is their LoveMyHealth DNA Test, which analyzes your genes to figure out the best way to be healthy. This includes personalized recommendations on nutrition, exercise, and lifestyle.
For those focused only on health and nutrition, go for their FeedMyGenes DNA Diet Playbook. Basically, they’ll tailor a meal plan based on your genetic profile.
Beyond diet and fitness, they also offer DNA tests for cannabis tolerance, fertility, and drug compatibility.
One thing to keep in mind—this place is not for ancestry testing.
Helped me dive deep into my health journey
“DNALabs really helped me dive deep into my health journey. Having done the Love my Health test I was able to truly understand what my body needs more of, less of and how to nourish myself the “right” way. I also learned a lot about what I need to do NOW to begin improving my health as preventative measures for my future self. I absolutely recommend this test to anyone wanting to learn about their ‘true’ self. Also, might I add that it is SO easy to take this test and send it in for analysis, all from the comfort of your home. When you receive the report, it is very easy to understand! Go for it!”
Jennifer Ouaknine, Google Review
Process was so easy and the results are invaluable
“I can’t recommend DNALabs enough for anyone regardless of where you are in your health journey. The process was so easy and the results are invaluable – I still use them to this day. They helped me unlock my DNA foundation to better understand my body’s specific health needs. Don’t hesitate to get your results!”
Rafi Yablonsky, Google Review
4. EasyDNA Canada
For over 15 years, EasyDNA Canada has been offering DNA testing to clients all over the country. They’re also part of a global network of 30 offices, with locations in the Philippines, South Africa, and Australia.
A wide range of paternity tests is offered here, including Immigration DNA Tests that meet SCC requirements. In fact, their tests are based on 16 genetic markers, making them 100 times more accurate than what courts actually require as proof.
Health-related genetic tests are offered too, such as genetic health screenings, lifestyle, and intolerance or sensitivity tests.
And for pet owners or breeders, they provide animal DNA testing for cats, dogs, horses, and even birds.
Note that their turnaround times can be a bit long—we heard that some have waited weeks for the results. This is not ideal if time is a huge factor.
Best DNA testing in the GTA area
“Very easy test and they provide all the information and very accurate test. This is the best DNA testing in the GTA area I highly recommended.”
Georges Awad, Google Review
Best company to go with
“I ordered the DNA testing kit from easy DNA to test my didi twins after researching the best company to go with from a Facebook group for parents of multiples in Toronto. I am 100% happy with my choice. Fast and easy.”
Caleb, Google Review
5. DNAForce
With 15 years (and over 50,000 DNA tests!) under its belt, DNAForce is another solid choice for accurate and private genetic testing.
While their paternity and maternity tests are their bread and butter, they also offer Extended Family DNA Tests. This analyzes up to 100,000 SNP markers, meaning they’re very precise in determining distant cousins or extended relatives.
Another big plus is their Prenatal Paternity DNA Test. This non-invasive DNA test can be done as early as the 7th week of pregnancy, while other companies require at least 10 weeks.
For those needing official documentation, you can request their DNA tests to be court-admissible. As a bonus, results can be delivered in 8 to 10 business days.
Sadly, we heard about interactions between customers and rude reps, which could be a dealbreaker for some.
Grateful for the wonderful, fast, and reliable service
“I had a very sensitive issue to deal with and I am really grateful for the wonderful, fast and reliable service this company provided. Fast results were a matter of life and death for me. I received everything on time and I am very grateful for it! All the process: from taking the necessary samples to delivering the results went smoothly, friendly and efficiently!!”
Olga A, Google Review
Excellent accurate service!!
“Excellent accurate service!! Aside from being thrilled by the results, your testing was very fast, easy and reliable! We never felt unsure during the entire process! THANK YOU SO MUCH!”
Corrine Santangelo, Google Review
