Family Tree Builder vs. Legacy Family Tree vs. RootsMagic
As a genealogist, selecting the right software to build, manage, and research your family tree is crucial. MyHeritage Family Tree Builder, Legacy Family Tree, and RootsMagic are popular options, each offering unique features and benefits. In this post, we will compare these three genealogy software options to help you determine which one best suits your needs.
User Interface and Ease of Use
MyHeritage Family Tree Builder: This software boasts a user-friendly interface with intuitive navigation. It features drag-and-drop capabilities, making it easy to add, move, or edit individuals and relationships within your tree.
Legacy Family Tree: Legacy offers a clean and organized interface with customizable views. It has a slight learning curve, but the software provides step-by-step tutorials and helpful hints to guide users.
RootsMagic: RootsMagic has a straightforward interface, with easy access to the main features. However, it may appear somewhat dated compared to the other two options. Its simplicity is a plus for beginners, but advanced users may prefer more visually appealing software.
Data Management and Reporting
MyHeritage Family Tree Builder: This software excels in data management, allowing users to add an extensive range of facts and events for each individual. It also offers a variety of reports and charts, including ancestor, descendant, and fan charts.
Legacy Family Tree: Legacy provides robust data management features, including customizable data entry forms and a comprehensive list of event types. It also offers a wide array of reports, charts, and book publishing options.
RootsMagic: RootsMagic offers powerful data management tools, such as custom fact types and shared events. It also supports numerous report and chart styles, including narrative reports, family group sheets, and pedigree charts. Additionally, RootsMagic provides a unique feature called "Wallcharts," which allows users to create large, decorative family tree posters.
Research Assistance and Online Database Access
MyHeritage Family Tree Builder: One of the key strengths of this software is its seamless integration with the MyHeritage website. Users can access the vast MyHeritage database, receive automatic Smart Matches™, and utilize the Record Matches feature to find potential new information about their ancestors.
Legacy Family Tree: Legacy offers integration with popular online genealogy platforms, including Ancestry, Findmypast, and MyHeritage, through its WebHints feature. Users can also access and search the extensive FamilySearch database directly from the software.
RootsMagic: RootsMagic's WebHints feature connects users to the FamilySearch, MyHeritage, and Findmypast databases. It also supports direct import from FamilySearch, allowing users to easily transfer data between the software and the online platform.
Collaboration and Sharing
MyHeritage Family Tree Builder: Users can share their family trees with others via the MyHeritage website, granting permission to view or collaborate on the tree. Additionally, the software allows for the creation of family tree CDs or DVDs, which can be shared with family members.
Legacy Family Tree: Legacy offers a feature called Legacy Cloud, which enables users to store their family files online and access them from any device. Users can also create shareable CDs or DVDs and export their tree to a website format.
RootsMagic: RootsMagic provides a unique feature called TreeShare, which allows users to sync and share their family tree with Ancestry.com. It also supports GEDCOM import and export for sharing with other genealogy software users, and the software can create shareable CDs or DVDs, as well as export to a website format.
Pricing and Support
MyHeritage Family Tree Builder: The basic version of this software is free to download and use, but to access the premium features and MyHeritage's extensive database, a subscription is required. MyHeritage offers responsive customer support and a dedicated help center with articles and tutorials.
Legacy Family Tree: Legacy offers a free Standard Edition with basic features, while the Deluxe Edition provides advanced features for a one-time purchase. The software also offers a wide range of video tutorials, webinars, and an active user community.
RootsMagic: RootsMagic Essentials, the free version, provides basic functionality, while the paid version offers advanced features for a one-time purchase. RootsMagic offers comprehensive help documentation, video tutorials, and responsive customer support.
Conclusion
MyHeritage Family Tree Builder, Legacy Family Tree, and RootsMagic each have their strengths and weaknesses. Consider the following when making your decision:
MyHeritage Family Tree Builder is ideal for those who value seamless integration with the MyHeritage platform and user-friendly navigation.
Legacy Family Tree is a great option for users looking for extensive reporting options and integration with multiple online genealogy platforms.
RootsMagic is well-suited for those who prefer a simple, straightforward interface and the unique TreeShare feature for collaboration with Ancestry.com.
Ultimately, the best choice depends on your personal preferences, needs, and research goals.
