Phasing services differ in accuracy and data requirements:
Single (Statistical) Phasing:
What it uses:
- Only your DNA file
- Statistical algorithms
- Large reference populations
- Population linkage patterns
How it works:
- Analyzes patterns in your DNA
- Compares to known haplotype blocks
- Predicts most likely parental assignments
- Uses probability models
Accuracy: 85-95%
Best for:
- When parent DNA is unavailable
- General ancestry analysis
- Basic genealogy work
- Budget-friendly option
Duo Phasing:
What it uses:
- Your DNA file
- ONE parent's DNA file
- Direct comparison
How it works:
- Directly compares your DNA to parent's DNA
- Identifies which variants came from that parent
- Infers remaining variants came from other parent
- Minimal statistical guessing
Accuracy: 97-99%
Best for:
- One parent available for testing
- Deceased or unavailable parent
- High-accuracy needs
Trio Phasing:
What it uses:
- Your DNA file
- Mother's DNA file
- Father's DNA file
- Complete direct comparison
How it works:
- Direct comparison to both parents
- Identifies exact inheritance from each
- Nearly eliminates statistical uncertainty
- Gold standard for phasing
Accuracy: 99%+
Best for:
- Both parents available
- Maximum accuracy needed
- Research or medical purposes
- Genealogy preservation
Comparison Table:
| Feature | Single | Duo | Trio |
|---|---|---|---|
| Files Needed | 1 (yours) | 2 (you + 1 parent) | 3 (you + both parents) |
| Accuracy | 85-95% | 97-99% | 99%+ |
| Cost | Lowest | Medium | Highest |
| Parent DNA Required | No | One parent | Both parents |
Which Should You Choose?
- Single: Parents unavailable, general use
- Duo: One parent available, good balance
- Trio: Both parents available, best results