Tracing your roots has never been easier. Thanks to modern genealogy software, you can explore your family history, preserve old memories, and share your heritage with loved ones. If you’re looking for a family tree maker free option, you’ll be glad to know that several tools let you build detailed family charts without spending a penny. In this guide, we’ll explore the top 7 free family tree makers, their features, and how they can help you start your journey into genealogy.
Why Use a Family Tree Maker?
Building a family tree is more than just adding names to a chart. It helps you:
- Discover long-lost relatives.
- Preserve family stories for future generations.
- Organize documents, photos, and important dates.
- Visualize your lineage in an easy-to-understand format.
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned researcher, the right free tool can make genealogy enjoyable and organized.
1. Ancestry.com (Free Trial Version)
Best for beginners exploring genealogy records
Ancestry.com is one of the most popular genealogy platforms. While the full version is paid, you can use its free trial to create a detailed family tree. The platform allows you to connect family members, upload photos, and even search millions of historical records. It’s ideal if you’re just starting and want to test how digital family trees work.
2. FamilySearch
Best completely free tool backed by the LDS Church
FamilySearch offers one of the largest genealogical databases in the world—completely free. You can create a family tree, collaborate with relatives, and access billions of records, including census and immigration data. It’s cloud-based, meaning your tree is always backed up and accessible anywhere.
3. MyHeritage (Basic Free Plan)
Great for photo and DNA integration
MyHeritage provides a free plan where you can build a family tree with up to 250 members. What makes it stand out are its AI-driven photo enhancement features, which bring old family photos to life. It also supports DNA testing (paid), but the free version still gives you a good start with basic genealogy tools.
4. Findmypast (Free Starter Tree)
Ideal for UK and Irish family research
If your ancestors are from the UK or Ireland, Findmypast is an excellent choice. Its free family tree builder allows you to organize relatives, add notes, and visualize relationships. While historical record access may require a subscription, the starter family tree feature is free and very user-friendly.
5. Gramps
Open-source software for advanced users
Gramps is a free, open-source genealogy program that you install on your computer. Unlike online tools, it gives you full control over your data. It’s highly customizable, offering advanced reports, charts, and even plugins. If you want a powerful family tree maker free option without subscription limits, Gramps is a solid pick.
6. WikiTree
Community-driven collaborative tree
WikiTree is a free online platform where genealogists work together to build a single, global family tree. By connecting your relatives, you can discover how you’re linked to people across the world. It’s great if you enjoy collaboration and want to contribute to a larger genealogy project.
7. RootsMagic Essentials
Free desktop version of a popular paid tool
RootsMagic Essentials is a simplified version of the popular RootsMagic software. It allows you to build and print family trees, generate reports, and store unlimited relatives. While some features are locked behind the paid version, the free edition is powerful enough for most beginners.
Tips for Choosing the Right Free Family Tree Maker
- Start simple: If you’re new, try FamilySearch or MyHeritage.
- Go advanced: For customization, choose Gramps or RootsMagic Essentials.
- Think global: Use WikiTree if you want to collaborate internationally.
- Test first: Platforms like Ancestry.com offer free trials before you commit.
Conclusion
Building your family history doesn’t have to be expensive. With these family tree maker free tools, you can start mapping your lineage, preserving stories, and even uncovering hidden connections across generations. Whether you choose a beginner-friendly platform like FamilySearch or a customizable program like Gramps, each tool offers unique benefits to make your genealogy journey meaningful and accessible.