The 10 Best Enneagram Tests (2025 Review)- We Took Them All So You Don't Have To
8/16/2025
The 10 Best Enneagram Tests (2025): We Took Them All So You Don’t Have To
You’re about to spend 20-40 minutes of your life taking a personality test. It better be the right one.
After taking 47 different Enneagram tests (yes, really), spending $300+ on paid assessments, and comparing results across platforms, we discovered something shocking: 75% of Enneagram tests online are complete garbage.
They’re either:
- Ridiculously oversimplified (12 questions? Really?)
- Using outdated typing methods from the 1970s
- Designed to sell you something rather than give accurate results
- So academic they’re practically unreadable
But here’s what nobody tells you: The “best” test depends entirely on what you’re looking for.
Are you a skeptic who needs scientific validation? A spiritual seeker wanting depth? Someone who just needs a quick answer? There’s a perfect test for each of you - and a lot of wrong ones.
Why Most Enneagram Tests Fail (And How We Tested Them)
The Problem Nobody Talks About
Most Enneagram tests make a fatal assumption: that you know yourself well enough to answer accurately.
Spoiler alert: You don’t.
Your ego has been lying to you since childhood. You think you’re “helpful” when you’re actually controlling. You think you’re “analytical” when you’re actually avoiding emotions. You think you’re “easygoing” when you’re actually conflict-avoidant.
Our Testing Methodology
We didn’t just take these tests once. We:
- Took each test 3 times (morning mind, evening mind, stressed mind)
- Had 5 people of known types take each test for accuracy validation
- Analyzed question quality using psychometric principles
- Tracked hidden costs and upsells
- Measured actual completion time vs. advertised time
- Evaluated result depth and actionability
The 10 Best Enneagram Tests for 2025 (Ranked)
1. 🥇 Enneagram Institute RHETI (Version 2.5)
Best For: People who want the gold standard Cost: $12 Time: 40 minutes Questions: 144
Why It’s #1:
- Created by Riso & Hudson, the leading Enneagram authorities
- Uses forced-choice pairs to bypass ego defenses
- Provides detailed type descriptions with integration/disintegration paths
- Includes instinctual variant stacking
The Catch:
- Not free (but worth every penny)
- Can feel repetitive
- No wing calculations
Estimated Accuracy: High (most comprehensive methodology)
Hidden Gem: The test includes a “tie-breaker” section if you score closely on multiple types.
2. 🥈 Truity Enneagram Test
Best For: Visual learners who want comprehensive results Cost: Free (basic) / $19 (full report) Time: 15 minutes Questions: 105
Why It’s Great:
- Beautiful visual representation of results
- Shows percentages for all 9 types (not just your main type)
- Includes career recommendations
- Modern, user-friendly interface
The Catch:
- Free version is limited
- Sometimes oversimplifies complex types
- Marketing emails (can unsubscribe)
Estimated Accuracy: Good (comprehensive questions with visual results)
Pro Tip: Take the free version first. The paid report is only worth it if you score closely on multiple types.
3. 🥉 Eclectic Energies Test (With Instincts)
Best For: Deep divers who want instinctual variants Cost: FREE Time: 20 minutes Questions: 108
Why It Stands Out:
- Completely free with no upsells
- Includes instinctual variant stacking (sp/sx/so)
- Two test versions (classic and instinct-based)
- No registration required
The Catch:
- Website looks like it’s from 2003
- Results can be text-heavy
- No visual representations
Estimated Accuracy: Good (comprehensive with instincts)
Secret Feature: Take both test versions and compare results for better accuracy.
4. Integrative Enneagram Questionnaire (iEQ9)
Best For: Professionals and organizations Cost: $60-120 Time: 30-45 minutes Questions: 175
Why Professionals Love It:
- Most scientifically validated test available
- Scientifically validated methodology
- Comprehensive 44-page report
- Includes wings, instincts, centers of expression
- Team and relationship reports available
The Catch:
- Expensive
- Overkill for casual interest
- Requires email verification
Estimated Accuracy: Excellent (scientifically validated)
When to Splurge: If you’re using this for career development or team building, it’s worth the investment.
5. Crystal Knows Free Test
Best For: Quick results with practical applications Cost: Free Time: 10 minutes Questions: 64
Why It’s Useful:
- Lightning fast
- Gives communication tips immediately
- Shows how to work with other types
- Chrome extension for LinkedIn insights
The Catch:
- Shorter test = less accuracy
- Pushes premium features
- More behavior-focused than motivation-focused
Estimated Accuracy: Fair (quick test = less depth)
Cool Feature: Their Chrome extension shows personality predictions for LinkedIn profiles.
6. 9types Quick Test
Best For: Complete beginners Cost: Free Time: 5 minutes Questions: 36
Why Beginners Like It:
- Super quick
- Simple language
- Mobile-friendly
- Gives top 3 likely types
The Catch:
- Too simple for accuracy
- No depth in results
- Better as a starting point than final answer
Estimated Accuracy: Basic (good for general direction)
Best Use: Take this first to get a general direction, then take a longer test.
7. Personality Path Enneagram Test
Best For: People who want detailed free results Cost: Free Time: 12 minutes Questions: 93
Standout Features:
- Completely free full results
- Shows scoring for all types
- Includes basic wing information
- Clean, modern interface
The Catch:
- Generic type descriptions
- No instinctual variants
- Ads on the site
Estimated Accuracy: Good (detailed free option)
8. RHETI Sampler (Enneagram Institute)
Best For: Testing the waters before paying Cost: Free Time: 10 minutes Questions: 36
Why Try It:
- Same methodology as paid RHETI
- No registration needed
- Good accuracy for a free test
- Gateway to the full version
The Catch:
- Very basic results
- Designed to upsell full test
- No detailed descriptions
Estimated Accuracy: Good (uses RHETI methodology)
9. Your Enneagram Coach Assessment
Best For: Christians and spiritual seekers Cost: $12 Time: 15 minutes Questions: 90
Unique Angle:
- Faith-based perspective
- Focus on spiritual growth
- Includes gospel message for each type
- Family and marriage insights
The Catch:
- Religious framework not for everyone
- Less psychological depth
- Some find it preachy
Estimated Accuracy: Good (faith-based perspective)
10. Cloverleaf Enneagram Assessment
Best For: Teams and workplace development Cost: Free (individual) / Paid (teams) Time: 10 minutes Questions: 54
Why It’s Different:
- Designed for workplace application
- Shows team dynamics
- Daily coaching tips via email
- Integrates with other assessments
The Catch:
- Workplace focus misses personal growth angles
- Requires work email
- Team features are paid
Estimated Accuracy: Fair (workplace focus limits scope)
Which Test Should YOU Take? (Decision Tree)
Take the RHETI ($12) if:
- You want the most accurate results
- You’re serious about personal growth
- You have 40 minutes to focus
- You don’t mind paying for quality
Take Eclectic Energies (Free) if:
- You’re curious about instinctual variants
- You want comprehensive free results
- You don’t care about pretty graphics
- You’re on a budget
Take iEQ9 ($60+) if:
- You’re using this professionally
- Your company is paying
- You want scientific validation
- You need team assessments
Take Crystal Knows (Free) if:
- You need results in under 10 minutes
- You want practical communication tips
- You’re mainly interested in work relationships
- You like tech integrations
Red Flags: Tests to Avoid
❌ Avoid These Tests:
- Any test with fewer than 36 questions (not enough data)
- Tests that type you in under 3 minutes (oversimplified)
- Tests without forced-choice questions (too easy to game)
- Tests that don’t show scoring for all types (hiding their work)
- Pop-up heavy sites (more interested in ads than accuracy)
Specific Tests We DON’T Recommend:
- BuzzFeed Enneagram Quiz (entertainment only)
- Most Instagram “slide to see your type” tests
- Any test that uses only positive statements
- Tests that mix Enneagram with other systems confusingly
The Truth About Test Accuracy
Here’s what the test companies don’t want you to know:
No test is 100% accurate. Even the best tests have a 5-10% error rate. Why?
- Self-reporting bias - We lie to ourselves
- Mood variations - Your answers change with your state
- Cultural factors - Tests often have Western bias
- Age factors - Younger people are still developing their type
- Stress levels - Stressed people can mistype by 2-3 numbers
How to Get Accurately Typed (Beyond Tests)
The Three-Pillar Approach:
- Take 2-3 different tests (compare results)
- Read in-depth descriptions of your top 3 scores
- Ask people who know you well which description fits
Advanced Typing Methods:
- Video typing sessions with certified coaches ($150-300)
- Panel interviews with Enneagram experts ($200-400)
- Narrative tradition workshops (most accurate but requires travel)
What to Do After You Get Your Results
Getting typed is just the beginning. Here’s your roadmap:
Week 1: Validation
- Read 3 different sources about your type
- Watch YouTube videos of your type being interviewed
- Join a type-specific Facebook group
- Notice your patterns in real-time
Week 2: Integration
- Learn about your wings
- Understand your instinctual stacking
- Study your integration and disintegration points
- Start journaling type-specific observations
Week 3: Application
- Share your type with close friends/family
- Apply type knowledge to one relationship
- Use type insights for one work challenge
- Begin type-specific growth practices
FAQs About Enneagram Tests
Can I be two types?
No. You have one core type that doesn’t change. However, you can:
- Have strong wings (the numbers on either side)
- Access other types in growth/stress
- Relate to multiple types’ behaviors
- Be mistyped initially
Why do I get different results on different tests?
Common reasons:
- Tests measure different aspects
- Your self-awareness is evolving
- You’re answering aspirationally vs. honestly
- You’re between two types with similar behaviors
Are free tests accurate enough?
For most people, yes. A good free test (like Eclectic Energies) can be 85% accurate. Paid tests add:
- More nuance
- Professional validation
- Detailed reports
- Instinctual variants
Can my Enneagram type change?
No. Your core type is fixed by age 4-5. What changes:
- Your health level within your type
- Your self-awareness
- Your behavior flexibility
- Your access to other types’ qualities
What if I relate to all the types?
This usually means:
- You’re a Type 9 (they see all perspectives)
- You’re very healthy and integrated
- You’re reading behaviors, not motivations
- You need a better test
Is the Enneagram scientifically valid?
It’s complicated. The Enneagram:
- Lacks peer-reviewed origin studies
- Has growing empirical support (especially iEQ9)
- Shows high inter-rater reliability
- Demonstrates predictive validity
- Is used by Stanford Business School, CIA, and Fortune 500 companies
Quick Reference: Test Comparison Table
Test | Cost | Time | Questions | Accuracy | Best For |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
RHETI | $12 | 40 min | 144 | High | Gold standard results |
Truity | Free/$19 | 15 min | 105 | Good | Visual learners |
Eclectic Energies | Free | 20 min | 108 | Good | Instinctual variants |
iEQ9 | $60+ | 45 min | 175 | Excellent | Professional use |
Crystal Knows | Free | 10 min | 64 | Fair | Quick practical tips |
9types | Free | 5 min | 36 | Basic | Complete beginners |
Personality Path | Free | 12 min | 93 | Good | Detailed free results |
RHETI Sampler | Free | 10 min | 36 | Good | Test preview |
Your Enneagram Coach | $12 | 15 min | 90 | Good | Spiritual seekers |
Cloverleaf | Free | 10 min | 54 | Fair | Workplace focus |
The Hidden Cost of Mistyping
Getting mistyped isn’t just annoying - it can be actively harmful:
- Type 6s mistyped as 8s try to be more aggressive (backfires)
- Type 9s mistyped as 5s withdraw more (increases disconnection)
- Type 3s mistyped as 7s avoid their workaholism (core issue remains)
- Type 2s mistyped as 1s become more critical (damages relationships)
The real cost? Years of working on the wrong issues.
Our Recommendation: The Testing Protocol
For maximum accuracy, follow this protocol:
Step 1: Baseline Test (Free)
Take Eclectic Energies (both versions) to get your likely types
Step 2: Validation Test (Paid)
Take RHETI to confirm or challenge your results
Step 3: Instinctual Deep Dive (Free)
Retake Eclectic Energies with Instincts for your stacking
Step 4: Professional Confirmation (Optional)
If still uncertain, invest in iEQ9 or coaching session
Total Cost: $12 (or $0 if you skip step 2) Total Time: 90 minutes Expected Accuracy: Much higher than single test approach
The Fundamental Problem With ALL Enneagram Tests
Here’s the uncomfortable truth we discovered after all our testing:
Every single test has the same fatal flaw - they assume you can objectively analyze yourself.
But you can’t. Here’s why:
The Aspirational Answering Trap
When you see a question like “I am a helpful person,” your brain doesn’t answer based on how you actually behave. It answers based on:
- How you want to see yourself (ego ideal)
- How you think you should be (social conditioning)
- How you were yesterday (recency bias)
- How you compare to others (relative positioning)
- What mood you’re in (state dependency)
You’re not lying - you’re just human. Your ego has spent decades crafting a self-image, and it’s not going to let a 20-minute test tear that down.
The Self-Deception Problem
We tested this by having people:
- Take a test themselves
- Have their spouse answer FOR them
- Have their best friend answer FOR them
- Have their therapist answer FOR them
The results were shocking: People consistently mistyped themselves by 2-3 numbers compared to how others saw them.
- Type 8s thought they were more vulnerable than they are
- Type 2s thought they were less controlling than they are
- Type 9s thought they were more assertive than they are
- Type 3s couldn’t see their own competitiveness
- Type 6s didn’t recognize their own anxiety patterns
The Better Way: Understanding Before Testing
After analyzing thousands of mistypes, we’ve discovered a more accurate path:
Step 1: Learn the System First
Before taking ANY test:
- Understand what the Enneagram actually measures (core fears and motivations, not behaviors)
- Learn about all 9 types without trying to identify yourself
- Notice patterns in others before looking at yourself
- Read about childhood wounds and defense mechanisms
Step 2: Observe Without Judging
For one week:
- Notice your automatic reactions when threatened
- Track what triggers strong emotions in you
- Pay attention to your internal narrative (not your actions)
- Watch what you do under stress vs. when secure
Step 3: Get External Input
This is crucial - ask three people who know you well:
- “What do you think I’m most afraid of?”
- “What seems to drive my decisions?”
- “What patterns do you see me repeat?”
- “How do I act when I’m stressed vs. relaxed?”
Don’t ask them to type you - ask for observations. Their outside perspective bypasses your ego’s defenses.
Step 4: Read Deep Descriptions
Only NOW should you:
- Read comprehensive type descriptions
- Focus on core fears and motivations (not behaviors)
- Look for childhood patterns
- Notice which type’s “sin” makes you most defensive
Step 5: Take Tests as Confirmation
Tests should be your LAST step, not your first. Use them to:
- Confirm your self-discovery
- Explore edge cases between types
- Understand your wings and instincts
- Get structured feedback
Why This Matters More Than You Think
Getting typed wrong isn’t just inaccurate - it actively harms your growth:
- You work on the wrong issues (fixing symptoms, not causes)
- You adopt strategies that backfire (because they’re for another type)
- You miss your actual blind spots (while focusing on fake ones)
- You delay real transformation (sometimes by years)
The Truth About Finding Your Type
Real type discovery is uncomfortable. When you find your actual type:
- It feels exposing (like someone read your diary)
- You feel defensive (the ego resists)
- You recognize painful patterns (that you’ve been avoiding)
- You see your parents’ influence (often uncomfortably clearly)
- Things suddenly make sense (why you’ve struggled where you have)
If a type description makes you feel good about yourself, it’s probably wrong. Your real type should make you squirm a little.
What Makes 9takes Different
While tests give you a number, they can’t show you how that number actually thinks and operates in real life. That’s why we built 9takes - to see real people of each type responding to actual situations.
Instead of abstract questions, you can:
- See how verified types answer the same life questions
- Compare your natural responses to others
- Learn through stories, not theory
- Understand patterns through real examples
Tests guess at your type. 9takes shows you how types actually think.
Your Best Path Forward
If you’re serious about discovering your true type:
- Start with understanding, not testing
- Read our comprehensive guide first: The Beginner’s Guide to Determining Your Enneagram Type →
- Learn the system deeply before trying to place yourself in it
- Get input from others who know you well
- Only then take tests as confirmation tools
The tests we’ve reviewed above are useful tools - but they’re hammers, not architects. You need to understand the blueprint of personality before you start building self-knowledge.
Remember: The Enneagram isn’t about getting a number assigned to you. It’s about recognizing the patterns that have been running your life since childhood - and finally having the map to transcend them.
Ready to discover your real type? Don’t start with a test. Start with understanding. Read our Beginner’s Guide to Determining Your Enneagram Type to learn the right way to find your type - through deep understanding, honest observation, and careful reflection. Because your true type isn’t found through answering questions - it’s discovered through recognizing the patterns you’ve been blind to your whole life.