The 5 Best At-Home Thyroid Tests of 2024

The products featured in this article have been independently reviewed. When you buy something through the retail links on this page, we may earn commission at no cost to you, the reader. Sports Illustrated editorial staff are not involved in the creation of this content. Learn more here.

Thyroid disorders, such as an underactive thyroid or overactive thyroid, can cause  hormone levels to be off, which can cause a number of symptoms like irregular heart rate, fatigue or unexplained weight loss or weight gain. While a healthcare provider can order a thyroid blood test to check your thyroid levels, at-home thyroid tests can be the first clue into possible thyroid problems.

Usually, at-home thyroid test kits require a blood sample and involve a small finger poke. The blood sample is then processed by a certified lab to provide you with results, which we recommend also sharing with a healthcare provider. If you suspect a potential thyroid issue, these five at-home thyroid tests can be the first step in shedding light on your thyroid function. Here’s a breakdown of each and a guide to how to choose the right one.

These tests are not a substitute for professional medical advice, and are not meant to diagnose any conditions. Discuss any test results with your healthcare provider. If you are experiencing negative physical symptoms, see a doctor as soon as possible. Before starting any new fitness routine or trying any new supplements, you should consult with your doctor.

Our Picks for the Best At-Home Thyroid Tests in 2024:

• LetsGetChecked Thyroid Antibody Test
• Everlywell Thyroid Test
• myLabBox Thyroid Health Screening Test
• Paloma Health Complete Thyroid Test Kit
• Quest Thyroid TSH Function Test

LetsGetChecked Thyroid Antibody Test

Key features and specs:

• Tests for: Thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), free thyroxine (FT4), free triiodothyronine (FT3), thyroglobulin antibodies (TGAB) and thyroid peroxidase antibodies (TPO/TPEX)
• Price: $119
• Time from sample received to results: 2–5 days
• Collection method: Finger prick
• Insurance: Accepts FSA and HSA
• Shipping: Free shipping, ships in around 5 business days

Why we picked it:

An estimated 20 million people in the U.S. have some form of thyroid disorder, and the American Thyroid Association believes that up to 60 percent of those individuals don’t know they have one. Symptoms of thyroid disease or thyroid dysfunction can become noticeable over time, which is when an at-home thyroid test like LetsGetChecked Thyroid Antibody Test can come in handy.

As one of our best at-home thyroid tests, LetsGetChecked has a fast turnaround time of two to five days for results from the time your sample is received. This test involves a finger prick to gather a blood sample and checks numerous thyroid levels, including T4 and TSH (which impact your thyroid function). The brand also claims to use the same labs as physicians and hospitals, meaning you’ll get the same level of processing as professional health clinics.

Check out our in-depth LetsGetChecked Thyroid Test review for more information. 

Our tester, Chloe S., said the setup and registration was very easy. The instruction pamphlet was very thorough, and she knew exactly what to do. The only downside was that she had trouble getting enough blood from her finger prick to fill the sample collection vial. "I had to prick my finger twice because I wasn't able to get enough blood out the first time," she said. "My nurse friend did the second prick, and was able to get enough blood, but it was still difficult." LetsGetChecked recommends staying hydrated and showering in warm water before the finger prick to improve blood flow. 

LetsGetChecked, which offers numerous types of at-home health tests, advises customers to test in the morning. They recommend getting testing if you have symptoms of thyroid disorders, thyroid disease (like hair loss) or an autoimmune condition. You’ll receive results through a secure online account, and also have the option to review your results with the company’s in-house clinical team. Alternatively, you can share results with your own healthcare provider.

Related Post: The 5 Best Thyroid Supplements, According to Dietitians

What we like:

• Samples processed by same labs as physicians and hospitals
• Tests extensive list of thyroid hormones and antibodies
• Fast turnaround time for results

What to consider:

• Incorrect blood sample collection can result in an unusable sample or inaccurate test results

Everlywell Thyroid Test

Key features and specs:

• Tests for: TSH, free T3, free T4 and TPO
• Price: $149
• Time from sample received to results: 5–8 days
• Collection method: Finger prick
• Insurance: Accepts FSA and HSA
• Shipping: Free shipping, ships in 4-11 business days

Why we picked it:

The Everlywell Thyroid Test measures levels for your three main thyroid hormones (TSH, free T3 and free T4) and your thyroid antibodies (TPO). Checking your T4 levels, among others, can provide insight on thyroid gland function and clue you in to potential thyroid disease. Regardless of your test results, if you have symptoms of a thyroid problem, you should speak to an endocrinologist or healthcare provider who can officially diagnose and treat a thyroid condition.

Everlywell collects a blood sample via a finger prick and processes your test in a CLIA-certified lab, or a lab that’s met specific state and federal standards. From there, your results are reviewed by an independent board-certified physician within your state and sent to your secure online account. The company is HIPAA-compliant and takes numerous strides to protect privacy.

Another reason why Everlywell makes our list of the best at-home thyroid tests is because of its easy-to-understand results, which put your hormone levels into three colored categories: yellow (low), green (normal) and red (elevated). If you’re a visual learner, this can be extremely helpful. Everlywell can also help you access follow-up visits and get prescriptions if your results qualify. However, we always recommend discussing your test results with your professional healthcare provider before taking any medications.

For more information on this brand and their test kits, check out our Everlywell review.

What we like:

• Samples are processed by CLIA-certified labs
• Results are reviewed by a board-certified physician
• Qualified individuals can access care and prescriptions

What to consider:

• More expensive than other at-home thyroid tests, which usually don’t cost more than $125 and often cost less than $100

myLAB Box Thyroid Health Screening Test

Key features and specs:

• Tests for: TSH, T3, T4 and TPO
• Price: $125
• Time from sample received to results: 1–5 days
• Collection method: Finger prick
• Insurance: Accepts FSA and HSA
• Shipping: Free shipping, ships in 1-3 business days

Why we picked it:

The myLAB Box Thyroid Health Screening Test offers a universal thyroid test for both men and women. If you’re considering taking a thyroid test at home, myLAB Box ranks as one of our favorites because of its clear instructions, informative website (which includes PDFs and videos on how to collect samples and what symptoms to look for) and certified lab testing partners.

This test has one of the fastest turnaround times on our list—you can receive results in as little as 24 hours from the time your sample is received. The company also offers free two-way shipping, and promises to ship kits in just one to three business days. Many customers report the finger prick test is quick to take and test results are easy to interpret.

Understanding your results can help you make informed health choices. While thyroid treatment prescribed by your doctor is the only way to treat thyroid disorders, if you’re experiencing hair thinning due to thyroid dysfunction, you could, for example, add a high-quality hair growth shampoo to your regimen. Those with thyroid-related weight gain can also choose to start a weight loss program or download a fitness app to help track physical activity levels or support a fitness routine.

What we like:

• Results available in as little as 24 hours
• Free two-way shipping
• Processed by certified labs

What to consider:

• Not available to customers in New York

Paloma Health Complete Thyroid Test Kit

Key features and specs:

• Tests for: TSH, free T4, free T3 and TPO
• Price: $99
• Time from sample received to results: 1 week
• Collection method: Finger prick
• Insurance: Accepts FSA and HSA
• Shipping: Free shipping, ships in 3–5 business days

Why we picked it:

Whether you’ve been diagnosed with the autoimmune disorder Hashimoto’s thyroiditis or you have symptoms of hypothyroidism like persistent tiredness or unexplained weight gain, Paloma Health Complete Thyroid Test Kit may shed light on a variety of thyroid conditions. This at-home thyroid test checks four biomarkers (TSH, free T4, free T3 and TPO) and can also check your reverse T3, which can block important thyroid functions, for an additional cost.

As a finger prick blood test, Paloma Health Complete Thyroid Test Kit results take about one week to process and will be delivered to your secure online account. Results will also be analyzed by a U.S. physician, and you’ll receive personal guidance based on your results. In addition, you’ll get recommendations for actions you can take to manage your thyroid health.

On top of a thyroid panel, you can also purchase a vitamin D add-on to check your vitamin D levels with the same finger prick. Ongoing research links vitamin D deficiencies to an increased risk in developing many thyroid disorders, so if you have lower-than-average vitamin D levels, this test can help you make an informed decision about adding a vitamin D supplement to your regimen.

What we like:

• More affordable price point
• Add-ons like vitamin D tests available at checkout
• Reverse T3 can be checked for an additional cost

What to consider:

• Not available in several states, including New York, New Jersey and Rhode Island

Quest Thyroid TSH Function Test

Key features and specs:

• Tests for: TSH
• Price: $49
• Time from sample received to results: 2–5 business days
• Collection method: In-person blood test
• Insurance: Accepts FSA and HSA
• Shipping: None, you’ll order online and take a test onsite

Why we picked it:

The Quest Thyroid TSH Function Test is a little bit different from other at-home thyroid tests on our list because you’ll purchase this TSH function test online, but complete a blood test in person. If you suspect a potential thyroid disorder, or you have related symptoms, one of the benefits of using this service is you don’t need a prescription for a test. Instead, you’ll simply place an order and schedule a blood draw at one of more than 2,000 Quest locations.

Alternatively, you may be able to schedule a Quest professional to come to your house to take a blood draw. It’s important to keep in mind that this service only includes a TSH test, but if your results show abnormal TSH levels, Quest will evaluate T4 blood levels at no additional cost to help determine a possible thyroid disorder like hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism.

Once your results are in, you’ll be able to discuss them with an independent physician at no extra cost, or submit them to your own healthcare provider for further evaluation. If you have a family history of thyroid disease (which can increase your risk for developing conditions) or have trouble regulating your metabolism, it may be worthwhile to have your TSH function checked.

What we like:

• Budget-friendly price point
• An at-home test option for those who want help with sample collection
• Doesn’t require any special preparation for sample collection

What to consider:

• Requires onsite or home appointment

What Is the Thyroid?

Your thyroid is a small gland in your neck that plays a vital role in your health and wellness. As part of your endocrine system, your thyroid controls numerous bodily functions by producing and releasing hormones. Your thyroid’s main job is to regulate your metabolism, which creates and releases energy and directly influences weight loss or weight gain.

A Guide to At-Home Thyroid Testing

How it works

One of the benefits of at-home thyroid testing is you don’t need a prescription to take one. While these home tests generally aren’t covered by insurance, you can often use an FSA or HSA account to pay for one, depending on the service. Once you place an order online, you’ll typically receive your test by mail in one to two weeks (shipping times can vary).

From there, you’ll likely do a finger prick to collect a blood sample. Your test kit will include a lancet to prick your finger with (this is generally not painful, but may sting a little), and you’ll collect blood drops on a designated card or in a vial. You’ll pack your sample into a sterile processing kit provided by the service (such as a biohazard bag) and mail it off to a lab.

Once your sample arrives at the lab, results can take up to a week to process. Some test kits may even provide results in as little as 24 hours after receiving them. Often, you’ll be notified by email that your results are ready, and will be able to view them in a secure online portal. Many at-home thyroid test kit companies also let you connect with a physician to review your results.

What they test for

The best at-home thyroid tests will typically check one or some of these functions. Here’s what you might find on your at-home thyroid test results:

• Thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH): This is used to measure how well your thyroid is working. TSH levels that are too high or too low may signal a thyroid disorder.
• Free thyroxine (free T4 or FT4): Low or high levels of FT4 can signal hyperthyroidism (an overactive thyroid) or hypothyroidism (an underactive thyroid).
• Free triiodothyronine (free T3 or FT3): T3 is one of two major hormones made by your thyroid. A T3 test is usually used to diagnose hyperthyroidism.
• Thyroglobulin antibodies (TGAB): The presence of TGAB can signal an autoimmune thyroid disease. These include Hashimoto’s disease, among others.
• Thyroid peroxidase antibodies (TPO/TPEX): TPO or TPEX can also signal an autoimmune thyroid disease. Some studies believe these antibodies are more precise.

Who Would Benefit From an At-Home Thyroid Test

Taking an at-home thyroid test isn’t for everyone. The most suitable candidates for at-home thyroid tests are people exhibiting symptoms of potential thyroid disorders or diseases, according to Kevin Huffman, DO, a board-certified bariatric physician and founder of Ambari Nutrition.

Other potential candidates are “those who are already cognizant of their risk factors,” he says. “These individuals typically encompass those with a familial history of thyroid disease, seniors over 60 and women.” (It’s estimated that one in eight women will develop thyroid problems during their lifetime, according to the Office on Women’s Health.)

Related Post: LetsGetChecked Home Cholesterol Test Review

In addition, Huffman says it’s also smart to have a baseline understanding of hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism, which he says are the two most common thyroid conditions. This can better help you interpret your results, but many at-home thyroid test kit companies often offer thorough explanations on their websites about different thyroid conditions you may encounter.

Benefits of At-Home Thyroid Testing

At-home thyroid tests offer a number of benefits. Here are the top three.

Convenience

Scheduling and attending doctor appointments can often be a hassle, and you may encounter long waits to get in to see a healthcare provider. At home thyroid test kits offer the convenience of being able to take a test at home in a matter of minutes at a time that works for you.

Early detection

“These kits offer an effective method for monitoring your thyroid health,” Huffman says. “They can detect initial signs of potential problems and serve as an early alert system for potential thyroid issues.”

Ongoing management

If you’ve been diagnosed with a thyroid disorder or disease, at-home thyroid testing can help you manage your thyroid health. While you’ll likely work with a healthcare provider on your care and treatment, at-home thyroid tests can help you keep an eye on your hormone levels.

Potential Downsides of At-Home Thyroid Testing

At-home thyroid tests can come with a few drawbacks. Here’s what to be aware of.

Not for those with severe symptoms

Internal medicine specialist Kelvin Fernandez, MD, says at-home thyroid tests can be a great starting point for mild symptoms, but aren’t designed for those with severe symptoms. “They are not meant for individuals with severe symptoms such as sudden weight changes, palpitations or extreme fatigue,” he explains. For this, he recommends directly going to a professional healthcare provider for further testing instead of taking an at-home thyroid test.

Doesn’t provide a complete picture

While an at-home thyroid test can give you clues about potential thyroid conditions, Huffman cautions that they won’t tell you everything.

“They can detect initial signs of potential problems,” he says. “However, they can’t differentiate between various causes of abnormal hormone levels.”

Nonthyroidal illnesses, for example, can also trigger high TSH levels. For a more complete picture, he recommends making an appointment with a healthcare professional, as they can do more thorough testing and analyses that includes additional bloodwork.

Won’t replicate a healthcare assessment

“Interpreting results without professional medical advice can lead to misunderstandings,” Fernandez says. Not only can receiving health results without speaking to a healthcare provider cause health anxiety, it can lead to a potentially incomplete picture as Huffman noted above, especially if your thyroid levels are being impacted by something other than a thyroid disorder.

Interpreting Your Thyroid Test Results

Your thyroid test results will typically show you if thyroid hormones or antibodies are low, normal or high. Here’s what those results might signify.

Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism is an underactive thyroid. Symptoms can include fatigue, weight gain, joint and muscle pain, and a slowed heart rate, among others. High TSH levels, which indicate your thyroid gland isn’t making enough thyroid hormone, can point to hypothyroidism.

Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism is an overactive thyroid. Symptoms can include muscle weakness, trouble sleeping, tremor, rapid or irregular heartbeat and weight loss, among others. A low TSH level can signal that your thyroid gland is producing too much thyroid hormone.

Laboratory vs. At-Home Thyroid Testing

While many home thyroid tests from reputable companies like the ones included in our best at-home thyroid test guide process samples in the same labs used by hospitals and physicians, Huffman still cautions that their reliability doesn’t match the comprehensiveness of testing and getting a diagnosis with a healthcare provider. Not only is at-home testing prone to user error (such as testing incorrectly), it can also lack “professional clinical interpretation,” he says.

Cost can also be a pro or con depending on how you look at it. At-home thyroid tests will likely cost you $100 give or take, but they usually aren’t covered by insurance. Professional lab thyroid panels, on the other hand, can easily cost several hundred dollars. However, if you have health insurance and have met your deductible, you may only have to pay a small fraction of that.

When to Talk to a Doctor

It’s always recommended to talk to a doctor if you exhibit any signs or symptoms of thyroid disorders, and Fernandez urges people to seek prompt care for severe symptoms. “If you notice symptoms like unexplained fatigue, sensitivity to cold or heat, or unanticipated weight changes, I strongly recommend consulting a physician about your thyroid health,” he says.

How to Choose the Best At-Home Thyroid Test for You

At-home thyroid tests generally serve the same purpose, but are all slightly different. Here’s how to choose the best at-home thyroid test for your needs:

• Type: Some home thyroid tests only measure one hormone, while others test several hormones and antibodies (like TPO antibodies). You may want to choose one test over the other depending on your symptoms and how extensive you’d like your results to be.
• Results: You may or may not have a strong understanding of thyroid functions. If you don’t, it’s important to seek out a test kit service that provides detailed information on how to interpret results and/or connects you with a physician to go over your results.
• Privacy: Those concerned about privacy should seek out a test kit service that takes strides to protect customer privacy, including not sharing data with third parties.
• Price: At-home thyroid tests will likely cost anywhere from just under $50 to $150 or more. Be sure to consider your budget before buying a test, and keep in mind that abnormal results may prompt you to visit a healthcare professional, which could result in additional fees depending on your healthcare coverage.
• Sample collection: The majority of home thyroid tests involve finger pricks, but some services, like Quest, offer appointments for onsite or home blood draws. Depending on your preferences and schedule, you may want to choose one service over the other.
• Customer reviews: Referencing customer reviews can help you find common experiences. Be sure to seek out verified reviews to help guarantee their accuracy.

How We Chose the Best At-Home Thyroid Tests

We chose the best at-home thyroid tests based on a number of factors. Here’s our criteria.

• Expert recommendations: We sought out tests recommended by experts who could back up the potential benefits and reliability of these at-home thyroid test kit services.
• Cost: Affordable test kits were a critical factor in making our final decisions.
• Data privacy: We included at-home thyroid tests that took numerous strides to protect customer privacy and identity, such as not selling or sharing data with third parties.
• Result interpretation: Easy-to-understand results and the ability to discuss results with a healthcare professional were important to us as we chase our top services.
• Certifications: We selected at-home thyroid tests that process samples in CLIA-certified labs and/or are accredited by the College of American Pathologists (CAP).
• Customer reviews: We carefully considered verified customer reviews to gauge whether brands and the tests they offered were reliable, accurate and comprehensive.

At-Home Thyroid Test FAQs

Are at-home thyroid tests accurate?

Fernandez notes at-home thyroid tests can be accurate as a screening tool, but aren’t a substitute for a professional medical diagnosis. Therefore, it’s always a good idea to schedule a follow-up with a healthcare provider if you receive abnormal thyroid test results or if you’re experiencing symptoms of a thyroid disorder.

Is it better to test your thyroid in the morning or at night?

Both at-home thyroid test kit companies and published research recommends testing your thyroid first thing in the morning. This is because food consumption may impact your thyroid levels.

How do you prepare for an at-home thyroid test?

Typically, you don’t have to do anything to prepare for an at-home thyroid test. The only thing you should do is to take your test first thing in the morning, prior to eating, and carefully follow the test kit directions.

Takeaway: Are At-Home Thyroid Tests Worth It?

If you’re experiencing symptoms of thyroid disorder, have a family history of thyroid disease or are at greater risk of developing thyroid issues, at-home thyroid tests can help detect various conditions. Still, as our physicians noted above, it’s always best to go directly to a healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment for serious symptoms or for confirmation of your test results.

Prices are accurate and items in stock as of publish time.