Genealogy Software for MS Windows

— a reference guide to current programs

Click any program to visit its website for current pricing, downloads and features

Windows users have the widest choice of genealogy software available. All programs support GEDCOM — the standard format for transferring your data between any genealogy program, on Windows or Mac. · The GCG does not endorse or recommend any particular program.

Windows Applications

Windows

RootsMagic

by RootsMagic Inc.

One of the most popular genealogy programs. Deep integration with Ancestry and FamilySearch databases — search and sync records directly. Strong GEDCOM import, books, wall charts, and a companion mobile app. Also available on Mac.

Windows

Family Tree Maker

by MacKiev / Ancestry.com

Long-established and feature-rich. Direct FamilySync with Ancestry.com, DNA results integration, and a private family website. Transfers files seamlessly to/from the Mac version.

Windows

Legacy Family Tree

by MyHeritage / Millennia Corp.

Version 10 is now completely free. Award-winning program with an enormous feature set — FAN Club reports, Google Maps integration, BillionGraves support, DNA tracking, and advanced colour coding. Owned by MyHeritage since 2017. Windows only.

Windows

Ancestral Quest

by Incline Software

Over 30 years in development. The first genealogy program certified to sync with FamilySearch. Excellent sourcing, charts, and reports. Free Basics version available. Also available on Mac. Portable USB version included.

Windows

Brother's Keeper

by Brother's Keeper

A long-standing, no-frills genealogy program that has been quietly maintained for over 30 years. Straightforward data entry and a wide variety of chart and report options. Works on all modern Windows versions including Windows 11.

Free & Open Source

Free

Gramps

Open source — community maintained

Mature, well-respected open-source program for Windows, Mac, and Linux. Full data ownership and privacy. Ideal for tech-savvy users who want maximum control over their data.

Free

Family Tree Builder

by MyHeritage — Windows only

Free desktop program from MyHeritage. Integrates directly with the MyHeritage online database and DNA kit. Offers a wide variety of languages in the user interface. Requires a MyHeritage subscription for most record searches.

Free

Ancestris

Open source — Java-based, cross-platform

Powerful free option for Windows, Mac, and Linux. Strictly adheres to the GEDCOM standard. Dynamic tree views, detailed event tracking, custom tags, and reporting. Actively maintained by a community of developers.

Web-Based (any browser, any device)

Free / Web

FamilySearch

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

The world's largest free genealogical record repository — billions of entries. Collaborative shared tree. Works in any browser on any device. Also available as a free mobile app. The best free starting point for new researchers.

Subscription / Web

MyHeritage

MyHeritage Ltd.

Popular web platform combining online trees, billions of historical records, and DNA testing. Photo enhancement and colourisation tools. Works in any browser. Free basic plan available with mobile app.

Subscription / Web

Ancestry

Ancestry.com

The world's largest for-profit genealogy database. Billions of records, DNA testing, and smart hints that match your tree to records automatically. Works in any browser with a free mobile app.

GEDCOM compatibility: All programs listed support GEDCOM import and export — your data can be transferred freely between any program on this page, or to Mac genealogy software. · Relatively Yours, Hereditree, and Branches, listed on the original version of this page, are no longer maintained and have been removed. · If you have more recent information please contact the webmanager.