Whole Genome Testing Labs: What to Compare Before You Order

Build a comparison around the delivered data

The best whole genome testing lab for one person may not be right for another. Regional availability, sample collection, stated turnaround, raw-data download, and whether an offering is consumer, research, or physician-mediated all change the decision. A provider's marketing language is not a substitute for checking its current order terms.

Verify each finalist before payment

Create a shortlist, then compare the same fields for every option: WGS versus exome or SNP array, sample type, VCF availability, raw-data policy, estimated turnaround, stated laboratory credentials, and whether it serves your country. Keep price as one column, not the whole spreadsheet.

Before paying, confirm how long downloads remain available and whether the company provides a current genome build. For a future app workflow, preserve the original VCF and avoid services that only return a closed PDF report.

Price needs a definition

A headline price may cover sequencing alone, a report bundle, a subscription, or a promotional kit. Record shipping, return postage, data-download fees, interpretation charges, and recurring membership costs in separate columns. The total first-year cost gives a cleaner comparison.

Turnaround also needs a starting point. Some providers count from purchase, others from sample receipt or a quality-control pass. Ask what happens after a failed sample and whether the company publishes current delivery estimates for your region.

Use a two-stage shortlist

First remove providers that cannot serve your country, supply the required file, or meet your privacy constraints. Then compare the remaining options on price, stated quality, support, and interpretation. This sequence prevents a low advertised price from dominating the choice.

For a medically important question, begin with a clinician or genetic counselor who can recommend an appropriate clinical test. Consumer sequencing can provide broad personal data, while clinical testing follows a specific question, validation standard, and care pathway.

• Must-have: ships to your country
• Must-have: downloadable VCF or other required raw file
• Must-have: acceptable privacy, sample, and deletion terms
• Compare next: coverage, support, price, and realistic turnaround

Provider comparison columns worth keeping

• Test type and stated coverage
• Laboratory and headquarters location
• Countries served and sample-return logistics
• VCF, BAM or CRAM, and FASTQ availability
• Reference assembly and quality documentation
• Total price, turnaround definition, refund policy, and support route

Search providers with consistent fields

The WellNizz API exposes a provider catalog with provider type, regional availability, price range, turnaround, formats, raw-data access, and notes. The Labs Map turns that catalog into a visual starting point, while authenticated applications can query the same source through REST or the MCP provider-discovery tool.

Treat the directory as a research starting point

Catalog information changes. Availability, pricing, certification, and the provider's own test scope must be confirmed directly with the lab before purchase. A listed provider is not a medical endorsement.