About
RootsMagic is award-winning genealogy software designed for Windows and Mac that empowers individuals and families to research, document, and share their family history. Unlike subscription-based services, RootsMagic is a one-time purchase that stores your family tree locally on your computer, giving you full privacy and control over your data. The software guides users through four key stages: planting a tree by starting from scratch or importing existing data from FamilySearch or Ancestry; growing the tree by discovering hints and records from leading platforms like FamilySearch, Ancestry, MyHeritage, and Findmypast; protecting the tree by working offline and keeping sensitive information private; and sharing the tree through over 100 built-in reports, charts, book publishing, and website export tools. RootsMagic also supports DNA match tracking, photo and media management, health detail records, notes, and citation sourcing. Smart clean-up tools help users identify and merge duplicate records, ensuring data quality. Users can publish directly to FamilySearch and Ancestry, create portable copies on USB drives, or generate printable family maps with companion product Family Atlas. Ideal for hobbyist genealogists, family historians, and serious researchers alike, RootsMagic 11 is the latest version and includes free technical support. A free trial is available before purchase.
Key Features
- Multi-Platform Record Discovery: Automatically discover hints and records from FamilySearch, Ancestry, MyHeritage, and Findmypast to expand your family tree with verified historical data.
- Local & Private Data Storage: Your family tree lives on your own computer, keeping sensitive information private and accessible offline — with no risk of third-party changes.
- 100+ Reports, Charts & Publishing: Generate over 100 types of charts and reports, publish family history books, create websites, and export portable copies to USB drives.
- Smart Clean-Up Tools: Identify and merge duplicate records, fix data inconsistencies, and maintain a high-quality, organized family tree with built-in data management tools.
- DNA Match & Media Management: Store DNA match results, photos, documents, and health details alongside your genealogy records in one unified workspace.
Use Cases
- Building a detailed multi-generational family tree by importing records from FamilySearch and Ancestry.
- Discovering and attaching historical records, census data, and vital records from major genealogy databases.
- Publishing a printed or digital family history book complete with photos, sources, and narrative stories.
- Storing and organizing DNA match data alongside traditional genealogy research in one unified place.
- Sharing a family tree with relatives by exporting to websites, USB drives, or publishing directly to FamilySearch and Ancestry.
Pros
- One-Time Purchase, No Subscription: Unlike many genealogy platforms, RootsMagic charges a single fee with no recurring costs, making it budget-friendly over the long term.
- Broad Online Service Integration: Connects seamlessly to FamilySearch, Ancestry, MyHeritage, and Findmypast for record hints while keeping data locally controlled.
- Comprehensive Sharing & Publishing Tools: With 100+ reports, book publishing, website export, and USB portability, sharing your research with family is flexible and thorough.
- Free Trial Available: Users can download and try RootsMagic before committing to a purchase, lowering the barrier to entry.
Cons
- Desktop-Only Core Application: The primary software runs on Windows and Mac desktops, which may not suit users who prefer fully cloud-based or mobile-first solutions.
- Paid Upgrade for New Versions: Major version upgrades (e.g., to RootsMagic 11) require an additional upgrade purchase, which some users may find inconvenient.
- Learning Curve for Beginners: The breadth of features and genealogy-specific terminology can feel overwhelming for first-time family history researchers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does RootsMagic require a subscription?
No. RootsMagic is a one-time purchase with no ongoing subscription fees. You pay once and own the software, though major version upgrades are available at a discounted upgrade price.
Which platforms does RootsMagic support?
RootsMagic 11 is available for both Windows and Mac. Mobile companion apps are also available, and it integrates with online services like FamilySearch, Ancestry, MyHeritage, and Findmypast.
Can I import my existing family tree into RootsMagic?
Yes. You can import an existing tree via GEDCOM file or bring people in directly from FamilySearch or Ancestry to get started quickly.
Is my data private and secure?
Yes. Your family tree is stored locally on your computer, not in the cloud. You control what is shared and with whom, and others cannot edit your tree without your permission.
Is there a free trial available?
Yes. RootsMagic offers a free trial download so you can explore the software's features before deciding to purchase.
