Choosing the right version of Family Tree Maker depends on your genealogy research needs and experience level. Family Tree Maker offers three editions: Starter, Deluxe, and Platinum.

Starter Edition: Ideal for beginners, the Starter Edition provides basic features to help you get start with genealogy. You can build your family tree, add photos and documents, and search for ancestors online. This edition is suitable for those new to genealogy who don’t require advanced tools.

Deluxe Edition: The Deluxe edition is geare toward more experience researchers who need advanced features. It includes all the basic features of the Starter edition and adds the ability to create detailed charts and reports, track sources and citations, and integrate with online services like Ancestry.com. This edition is perfect for users who need to organize and present their research more comprehensively.

Platinum Edition: The Platinum edition offers the most comprehensive set of tools. It includes all the features of the Deluxe edition, plus additional resources like a historical map collection, a complete guide to genealogy, and access to the Charting Companion software. This edition is ideal for power users who want the full range of features and tools available for in-depth research and presentation.
Ultimately, the best version for you depends on your level of experience, specific needs, and budget. Beginners might find the Starter edition sufficient, while more advanced users and those seeking the most comprehensive tools.