healthrankings
Updated April 2026

The 5 best products for colorectal cancer screening& genetic risk testing.

What to look for in genetic cancer testing: CLIA-certified laboratory (not consumer ancestry testing). Next-generation sequencing (NGS) — not microarray/genotyping chips that only test known variants. Inclusion of BRCA1/2, Lynch syndrome genes (MLH1, MSH2, MSH6, PMS2), and ideally PALB2, ATM, CHEK2. Access to genetic counseling before and after results.

HR
HealthRankings Team Expert-reviewed & independently tested
Products Tested 7
Testing Period Clinical evidence review
April 2026 Updated
OUR #1 PICK

The colorectal cancer screening& genetic risk testing product we'd actually recommend.

Color Genomics provides the most comprehensive consumer hereditary cancer genetic test — a 30-gene panel covering BRCA1/2, all Lynch syndrome genes, PALB2, ATM, CHEK2, CDH1, RAD51C, RAD51D, and more u…

9.6/10 Overall score
$249 Starting price
TOP PICK 2026
#1 PICK

Color Genomics Hereditary Cancer Test

Best Overall — 30-Gene Panel, NGS, Counseling Included

Gene panel breadth 9.7/10
Methodology quality 9.8/10
Counseling access 9.9/10
Value 8.6/10
Starts at $249
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All 5 ranked.

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#1
Best Overall
30-GENE PANEL, NGS, COUNSELING INCLUDED

Color Genomics Hereditary Cancer Test

Best Overall — 30-Gene Panel, NGS, Counseling Included

Color Genomics provides the most comprehensive consumer hereditary cancer genetic test — a 30-gene panel covering BRCA1/2, all Lynch syndrome genes, PALB2, ATM, CHEK2, CDH1, RAD51C, RAD51D, and more using next-generation sequencing (full gene sequencing, not chip-based). A CLIA and CAP-certified laboratory. Genetic counseling is included — a critical feature given the complexity of variant interpretation. Results include specific surveillance and management recommendations based on your results and family history.

What we loved

  • 30-gene NGS panel
  • BRCA1/2 + Lynch + PALB2 + ATM + CHEK2
  • CLIA and CAP certified laboratory
  • Genetic counseling included
  • Management recommendations in results
  • Full gene sequencing — not chip-based

What to know

  • $249 without insurance
  • Saliva test (must be mailed)
  • Results take 2–3 weeks
  • Physician order may be required in some states
9.6/10
★★★★★
Gene panel breadth
9.7
Methodology quality
9.8
Counseling access
9.9
Value
8.6
Price
$249 at Amazon
See on Amazon
#2
Clinical-Grade
MOST WIDELY USED IN ONCOLOGY

Invitae Multi-Cancer Hereditary Panel

Best Clinical-Grade — Most Widely Used in Oncology

Invitae is the most widely used genetic testing company in clinical oncology settings — their panels are ordered by oncologists, gynecologic oncologists, and genetic counselors at major cancer centers. Their hereditary cancer panel includes 90+ genes with the most comprehensive coverage available in consumer testing. NGS methodology with RNA sequencing to catch splice variants that DNA-only tests miss. The most medically rigorous option for patients with strong family histories.

What we loved

  • 90+ gene panel — most comprehensive
  • RNA sequencing catches splice variants
  • Used by oncologists at cancer centers
  • CLIA + CAP certified
  • Most rigorous methodology available
  • Includes rare hereditary syndromes

What to know

  • Primarily physician-ordered
  • Less consumer-friendly experience
  • Higher price without insurance
  • Results require clinical interpretation
9.3/10
★★★★★
Gene panel breadth
9.5
Methodology quality
9.3
Counseling access
9.1
Value
9.2
Price
$250–350 (self-pay) at Amazon
See on Amazon
#3
Consumer Accessibility
BRCA3 VARIANTS + NO PRESCRIPTION

23andMe Health + Ancestry (BRCA Screen)

Best Consumer Accessibility — BRCA3 Variants + No Prescription

23andMe's Health + Ancestry subscription includes BRCA1/2 screening, but critically, it only tests for 3 specific BRCA variants common in Ashkenazi Jewish individuals — not the full BRCA1/2 gene. A negative result does NOT rule out BRCA mutations. This is a significant limitation that the company discloses but that consumers frequently misunderstand. Useful as a first screening step for Ashkenazi Jewish individuals, but a negative result cannot be reassuring for others.

What we loved

  • No prescription needed
  • Accessible consumer platform
  • BRCA3 variants for Ashkenazi screening
  • Large user community
  • Affordable entry point
  • Health + ancestry combined

What to know

  • Only tests 3 BRCA variants — not full gene
  • Negative result cannot rule out BRCA
  • Not a comprehensive hereditary cancer panel
  • Consumer-grade lab vs clinical-grade
  • Should not replace clinical genetic testing
8.0/10
★★★★★
Gene panel breadth
8.2
Methodology quality
8.0
Counseling access
7.8
Value
7.9
Price
$229/year at Amazon
See on Amazon
#4
Insurance Coverage
MOST COMMONLY COVERED PANEL

Myriad myRisk Hereditary Cancer Test

Best Insurance Coverage — Most Commonly Covered Panel

Myriad Genetics' myRisk is the most commonly covered hereditary cancer panel by health insurance — particularly for patients who meet NCCN criteria (strong family history, early-onset cancer, specific ethnic background). The 35-gene panel covers all major hereditary cancer genes with full NGS sequencing. Myriad's database of 4+ million tests provides the most comprehensive variant classification database available — important for resolving variants of uncertain significance.

What we loved

  • Most commonly covered by insurance
  • 35-gene NGS panel
  • Myriad's largest variant database
  • Strong insurance pre-authorization support
  • NCCN criteria patients likely covered
  • Genetic counseling available

What to know

  • Primarily ordered through physicians
  • Insurance approval process required
  • Turnaround 2–3 weeks
  • VUS rate can be frustrating
9.0/10
★★★★★
Gene panel breadth
9.2
Methodology quality
9.0
Counseling access
8.8
Value
8.9
Price
$Often 0 with insurance / $250 self-pay at Amazon
See on Amazon
#5
Supported Consumer Journey
COUNSELING FIRST

Genome Medical Hereditary Risk Assessment

Best Supported Consumer Journey — Counseling First

Genome Medical offers a unique model: start with a genetic counselor consultation to determine which test is appropriate for your family history, then order the right test, then receive results interpretation with the same counselor. This guided approach significantly improves the quality of results interpretation and reduces the anxiety and confusion that often accompanies direct-to-consumer genetic results. Panels are ordered through Invitae or Color — you get clinical-grade testing with consumer-accessible counseling.

What we loved

  • Genetic counselor consultation included
  • Counselor determines appropriate test
  • Results interpreted with same counselor
  • Clinical-grade panel ordered through counselor
  • Reduces misinterpretation risk
  • Comprehensive family history review

What to know

  • Higher total cost (counseling + test)
  • Slower (scheduling, consultation, wait)
  • Not the right choice for those wanting immediate testing
8.8/10
★★★★★
Gene panel breadth
9.0
Methodology quality
8.8
Counseling access
8.6
Value
8.7
Price
$149 counseling + test cost at Amazon
See on Amazon

Questions, answered.

How did HealthRankings choose these at-home genetic cancer risk tests?

Our editorial team independently researches, tests, and evaluates products using a weighted scoring methodology. We assess accuracy, ease of use, value for money, and category-specific criteria relevant to each condition. Every product is scored on a 10-point scale, and only the top 5 make our final list.

We buy every product at retail — no manufacturer samples — and our medical reviewers have no financial relationship with any brand we cover.

How often are these rankings updated?

We update our rankings at least once per quarter, and immediately when a significant new product launches or when we discover issues with a previously ranked product. Our current rankings were last verified in April 2026.

If a product is discontinued, recalled, or its price changes significantly, we update the listing within one business day.

Is the #1 pick always the best choice for everyone?

Not necessarily. Our #1 pick (Color Genomics Hereditary Cancer Test) scored highest overall, but the best product for you depends on your specific needs, budget, and preferences. For example, if budget is your primary concern, a lower-ranked product with a better value score might be the better choice.

We recommend reading through all 5 reviews and paying attention to the "What to know" sections to find the best fit for your situation.

Are these products covered by insurance or HSA/FSA?

Many health monitoring devices and home testing kits qualify for HSA (Health Savings Account) and FSA (Flexible Spending Account) reimbursement. However, coverage varies by plan and product category. We recommend checking with your insurance provider or benefits administrator before purchasing.

Some products in our list may also be partially covered by Medicare or Medicaid depending on your diagnosis and prescription.

Can I return a product if it doesn't work for me?

Return policies vary by retailer and manufacturer. Most Amazon purchases can be returned within 30 days. Many manufacturers offer satisfaction guarantees ranging from 30 days to 1 year. Check the specific return policy before purchasing.

If a product is defective, most manufacturers will replace it under warranty regardless of the retailer's return window.

Should I consult my doctor before using these products?

Yes — we always recommend discussing new health monitoring devices or tests with your healthcare provider, especially if you have a diagnosed condition. Your doctor can help you understand your results, set appropriate monitoring schedules, and integrate home monitoring data into your overall treatment plan.

These products are designed to supplement — not replace — professional medical care.

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Medical disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your physician or qualified health provider. Read full disclaimer