If you are exploring your family history and want to preserve your lineage for future generations, Family Tree Maker software (FTM) is one of the most trusted genealogy tools available today. But before you buy it, you may be wondering—Is Family Tree Maker worth it? In this detailed Family Tree Maker software review, we will explore its features, pricing, advantages, limitations, and whether it’s the right choice for you.
What is Family Tree Maker Software?
Family Tree Maker (FTM) is a genealogy software that helps users create, organize, and share their family trees. It allows you to:
- Build detailed family charts
- Store personal history and photos
- Sync your tree online
- Research ancestors
- Generate genealogy reports
It is widely used by family historians, genealogy hobbyists, and researchers around the world.
Key Features of Family Tree Maker
Family Tree Maker offers a rich set of tools. Below are its most important features:
1. TreeSync and FamilySync
FTM allows you to sync your family tree with Ancestry and FamilySearch accounts. This means your data stays updated across devices.
2. Smart Stories
With Smart Stories, you can turn genealogical facts into narrative-style family history stories that are easy to read and share.
3. Photo and Media Management
You can attach photos, videos, and historical documents to each family member profile for a complete family archive.
4. Charts and Reports
Generate:
- Pedigree charts
- Relationship charts
- Family group sheets
- Migration maps
- Timelines
5. Color Coding
This feature helps organize large family trees easily by assigning colors to different branches.
6. Map Integration
Track your ancestors’ life events using interactive maps powered by Bing Maps.
Family Tree Maker Pricing
Family Tree Maker is a paid software. There is no free version. Below is the current pricing (approximate):
| Version | Pricing (One-Time Purchase) | License Type |
|---|---|---|
| FTM 2019 – Standard | $79.95 | Single License |
| FTM 2019 – Upgrade | $59.95 | For previous users |
| FTM 2019 – Platinum Bundle | $99.95 | Includes add-ons |
Note: Family Tree Maker is not a subscription but requires separate purchase for future major upgrades.
System Requirements
Windows:
- Windows 8.1, 10, or 11
- 2GB RAM or higher
- 900MB disk space
Mac:
- macOS 10.13 to 14 (Sonoma)
- 4GB RAM
- 1GB disk space
Pros and Cons of Family Tree Maker
✅ Pros
- Easy-to-use interface
- Powerful syncing with Ancestry and FamilySearch
- Great report and chart options
- Good media organization
- One-time payment (no monthly fee)
❌ Cons
- No free trial
- Limited cloud storage
- Slow performance with very large trees
- Future upgrades not included
Is Family Tree Maker Worth It?
Yes—if you are serious about genealogy, Family Tree Maker is worth the investment. It offers professional-quality tools to organize your family history. It also works smoothly with Ancestry.com, which makes research easier and faster.
However, if you are just starting or prefer a free option, you may consider alternatives like Gramps or MyHeritage Family Tree Builder.
Best Alternatives to Family Tree Maker
| Software | Type | Pricing |
|---|---|---|
| MyHeritage Family Tree Builder | Desktop | Free |
| Gramps | Open Source | Free |
| Legacy Family Tree | Desktop | Free/Paid |
| RootsMagic | Desktop | Paid |
Final Verdict
Family Tree Maker 2019 is a powerful and reliable software for building a detailed family tree. It offers great genealogy tools, research integration, and reporting features. Despite a few limitations, FTM remains one of the best family tree software programs today.
If you want a long-term solution to store, research, and share your family history, FTM is definitely worth buying.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is Family Tree Maker still available?
Yes, Family Tree Maker 2019 is the latest version and is still being sold online by MacKiev.
2. Can I sync FTM with Ancestry?
Yes, FTM provides FamilySync to connect and sync your family tree with Ancestry.
3. Does Family Tree Maker work on Mac?
Yes, it works on both Windows and Mac systems.
4. Do I need the internet to use FTM?
No, you can use it offline, but you need the internet to sync trees and search records.
5. Is Family Tree Maker free?
No, Family Tree Maker is a paid software with a one-time purchase.