Note: This post has been updated for 2025 to include additional translations, as well as reading levels, translators and publishers, and various clarifications and corrections.
If you’re looking for the one and only best Bible translation available in English, I’ve got bad news and good news for you. The bad news is: there isn’t one. The good news is that there are tons of great translations to choose from.
That doesn’t exactly answer your question, though. With so many Bible versions available (over 60 English versions on Bible Gateway alone!), it can be bewildering trying to tell them apart from each other, never mind choose between them.
Don’t worry — we’re here to help. We’ll go into what distinguishes the major Bible versions from each other and give you some tips to help you pick the one that best suits your preferences.
Bible Versions at a Glance
First, here’s a super-quick overview of some of the top Bible versions you might encounter:
- NIV: The most popular modern version of the Bible, known for its excellent balance of accuracy and readability.
- KJV: The enduring and influential classic that set the bar for English Bible translations.
- NKJV: An update to the KJV that preserves its literary majesty while modernizing archaic words and phrases.
- NRSVue: A forward-thinking but academically rigorous translation that emphasizes gender inclusiveness.
- ESV: A scholarly translation that adheres to an “essentially literal” word-for-word approach.
- NASB: A rigorously word-for-word translation that seeks to reproduce the original structure of the Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek.
- NABRE: The official Catholic translation of the Bible, known for its extensive use of footnotes and cross-references.
- CSB: A balanced translation that goes for word-for-word accuracy while simplifying the language for modern readers.
- NLT: A looser translation that emphasizes readability, simplifying complex terms and phrases while preserving their original meaning.
- CEB: A dynamic yet balanced translation that strives for natural language and broad accessibility to speakers of modern English.
- AMP: A unique translation balancing word-for-word equivalence and paraphrase by offering multiple translations and exposition on many words and phrases.
- MSG: A popular paraphrase that tries to capture the tone and style of modern speech to make the Bible read more like a contemporary story than an ancient text.

[Download a PDF of the chart above.]
NIV (New International Version)
Best for: Everyday study and devotional reading.
- Year released: 1978 (Revised 2011)
- Reading level: 7 (Relatively easy)
- Translation team/sponsor: 100+ evangelical Bible scholars for Biblica (licensed to Zondervan in the U.S.)
The NIV is the most popular modern Bible version, known for its perfect mix of accuracy and readability. Over 100 scholars from around the world worked for more than a decade to create a version that’s true to the original texts yet easy to understand, finally releasing it in 1978.
It stands out as one of the most balanced translations, slightly favoring functional equivalence, making it suitable for readers of all ages, reading levels, and denominations.
Any weaknesses? The NIV’s emphasis on accessibility required that it smooth out any challenging or confusing constructions from the original text. Scholarly or academic readers may want to find a closer formal version such as the NRSVue or ESV, while literary or traditional-minded readers would probably be happier with the KJV or NKJV. The Apocrypha is not available in the NIV, making it unsuitable for Catholics and Orthodox.
Sample passage: I declare to you, brothers and sisters, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God, nor does the perishable inherit the imperishable. — 1 Corinthians 15:50 (NIV)
KJV (King James Version)
Best for: Traditional worship settings and historical or literary-minded readers.
- Year released: 1611
- Reading level: 12 (Very challenging)
- Translation team/sponsor: 47 Anglican scholars and clergy for King James I of England
The King James Bible, commissioned (or “authorized”) by King James I of England in 1604 and completed by 47 scholars in 1611, has been one of the world’s most popular books for centuries. It was the definitive English Bible version until the mid-20th century, introducing hundreds of terms and phrases we use in everyday speech, often without recognizing their Biblical origin.
The KJV initially took a formal equivalence approach, while paying special attention to the beauty and elegance of the language — a quality that endures to this day, especially for reading aloud in traditional or dramatic settings.
Any weaknesses? Our language has evolved significantly since 1611, making some old phrasing and sentence structures confusing today. For instance, “thee” and “thou” are no longer used as informal pronouns — which instead makes them sound more formal.
Also, four centuries of Bible scholarship have revealed areas where KJV translators, limited by the resources of their time, had to make some puzzling guesses, such as comparing God to a “unicorn” in Numbers 23:22.
Sample passage: Now this I say, brethren, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God; neither doth corruption inherit incorruption. — 1 Corinthians 15:50 (KJV)
NKJV (New King James Version)
Best for: Those looking for a classic feel without confusing, archaic language.
- Year released: 1982
- Reading level: 9 (Medium)
- Translation team/sponsor: 130 scholars, clergy, and lay Christians for Thomas Nelson Publishers
The NKJV is an update and modernization of the KJV by 130 Bible scholars. It was commissioned in 1975 and released in 1982, with the goal of retaining the same formal equivalence and literary majesty of the original KJV while eliminating archaic, obsolete, or inaccurate terms and phrases (so, no more unicorns).
The NKJV serves as the perfect bridge between the traditional feel of the KJV and the accessibility of modern translations like the NIV.
Any weaknesses? Although the language is updated, it still adheres closely to the KJV’s style. Some might still find it too formal or stilted to read compared to other modern translations.
Sample passage: Now this I say, brethren, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God; nor does corruption inherit incorruption. — 1 Corinthians 15:50 (NKJV)
NRSVUE (New Revised Standard Version Updated Edition)
Best for: Scholars and academics, mainline Protestants, Catholics (NRSV-CE), and other inclusive faith communities.
- Year released: 1989 (Rev. 2021)
- Reading level: 10 (Somewhat challenging)
- Translation team/sponsor: 50+ scholars from Protestant, Catholic, Orthodox, and Jewish backgrounds for the National Council of Churches USA
First published in 1989 and updated in 2021, the NRSV was produced by about 30 translators from a wide variety of confessional backgrounds It updates the beloved 1952 RSV, employing a formal equivalence approach and incorporating the latest biblical scholarship and manuscript evidence.
The NRSV was the first major translation to implement gender-inclusive language, using “person” instead of “man” and “brothers and sisters” in place of “brothers” when context permits. This approach aims to more accurately reflect the original texts, especially where mixed-gender groups are being addressed, such as in Acts 18:26-27 and 1 Corinthians 1:11.
Despite garnering controversy from those preferring a more literal translation, this inclusive approach has since become more widely accepted, later being adopted by other versions like the NIV and CSB.
The NRSVue, a major revision by more than 50 scholars to incorporate the latest and most advanced Biblical scholarship, was completed in 2021.
The edited and expanded Catholic Edition (NRSV-CE) is also one of the few complete Bible translations approved by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) for private use and study.
Any weaknesses? Conservative scholars and theologians have objected to the NRSVue’s gender inclusivity, arguing that it goes too far and takes too many liberties with the historical evidence.
Sample passage: What I am saying, brothers and sisters, is this: flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God, nor does the perishable inherit the imperishable. — 1 Corinthians 15:50 (NRSVUE)
ESV (English Standard Version)
Best for: Scholarly evangelicals seeking traditional gendered terminology.
- Year released: 2001 (Revised 2016)
- Reading level: 10 (Somewhat challenging)
- Translation team/sponsor: 100+ evangelical scholars and pastors for Crossway
The ESV translation was conducted in the late 1990s by about 100 evangelical scholars and published in 2001, partly in response to the NRSV. Like the NRSV, the ESV is an update of the RSV and aims as closely as possible for word-for-word accuracy while remaining readable.
The translators sought to pull back what they perceived as some liberties the NRSV took with interpretation, particularly its gender neutrality. Instead the ESV endeavored to hold to an “essentially literal” approach that emphasizes word-for-word accuracy and fidelity as well as building on the RSV’s literary excellence and depth.
Any weaknesses? Some scholars and commentators have found the ESV to deliberately employ outdated language and translation philosophy.
Sample passage: I tell you this, brothers: flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God, nor does the perishable inherit the imperishable. — 1 Corinthians 15:50 (ESV)
NASB (New American Standard Bible)
Best for: Those looking for one of the most literal Bible translations available in English.
- Year released: 1995 (Revised 2020)
- Reading level: 11 (Challenging)
- Translation team/sponsor: Lockman Foundation
First published in 1971 and updated in 1995 and again in 2020, the NASB strives to be as literal and precise as possible without sacrificing readability and modern English usage.
The 1995 version was a significant update to the original release. It echoed the NKJV by removing archaic pronouns (thee, thy, thou) and restructuring awkward phrases. In 2020 the NASB was updated again to account for the latest scholarship (including gender neutrality where appropriate to the context) and modern language usage (such as “let’s go up” instead of “let us go up”).
Throughout these improvements, though, the NASB has held closely to a strict word-for-word equivalence. This makes it a good choice for scholars and anyone looking for a very close adherence to the original structure and wording of the Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek texts.
Any weaknesses? Its strengths as a word-for-word translation can make for a challenging reading experience, even after its updates, so it may not be best for new Bible readers.
Sample passage: Now I say this, brothers and sisters, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God; nor does the perishable inherit the imperishable. — 1 Corinthians 15:50 (NASB)
NABRE (New American Bible Revised Edition)
Best for: Catholics.
- Year released: 2011 (Based on the 1970 NAB)
- Reading level: 9 (Medium)
- Translation team/sponsor: Catholic Bible Association of America for the Confraternity of Christian Doctrine
The NABRE is the only English Bible translation permitted for use in Catholic Mass, and one of only three full translations (with NRSV-CE and GNT) permitted for private study by USCCB. It was originally completed in 1970 (as the NAB); the New Testament was revised in 1986 and the Old Testament revised gradually, beginning in 1994 and not completed and approved until 2010. Work is now underway on a revision of the NT — expected to be released in the next few years — to bring it more in line with the OT.
The NABRE takes a balanced, word-for-word translation approach, similar to but less stringent than the NRSVue or ESV. Perhaps its most defining characteristic, though, is its extensive footnotes, which effectively turn the translation itself into its own Study Bible. However, this can also make for a challenging reading experience for new Bible readers who may struggle with its literal translations and information overload.
Any weaknesses? This is a translation specifically undertaken by the Catholic Biblical Association of America for liturgical use and study. If you’re not Catholic, it’s probably not for you.
Sample passage: This I declare, brothers: flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God, nor does corruption inherit incorruption. — 1 Corinthians 15:50 (NABRE)
CSB (Christian Standard Bible)
Best for: Southern Baptists and those seeking a balanced, modern but conservative-leaning translation.
- Year released: 2004 (Rev. 2017)
- Reading level: 7 (Relatively easy)
- Translation team/sponsor: 100 evangelical scholars for Holman Bible Publishers
Bridging the gap in some ways between the ESV and NRSV, the CSB was first published in 2004 by the Southern Baptist Convention and significantly revised in 2017. It was produced with a similar approach to the NIV, while leaning closer to a formal equivalence — aiming for balance between word-for-word accuracy and modern readability, including gender neutrality.
Any weaknesses? Though a similarly balanced translation to the NIV, the CSB has struggled to step outside of the former’s shadow, especially for those outside of the Southern Baptist Convention.
Sample passage: What I am saying, brothers and sisters, is this: Flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God, nor can corruption inherit incorruption. — 1 Corinthians 15:50 (CSB)
NLT (New Living Translation)
Best for: New and young readers, and daily devotional readers seeking a new perspective.
- Year released: 1996 (Revised 2015)
- Reading level: 6 (Easy)
- Translation team/sponsor: Tyndale House Foundation
Developed by some 90 scholars from various denominational backgrounds in the 1980s and released in 1996, the NLT is notable for being the most popular of the firmly functional-equivalence translations. (It has since undergone minor textual revisions several times, most recently in 2015.)
Rather than striving for word-for-word accuracy, the NLT translators sought to convey the original meaning of the text as clearly as possible for modern readers. This includes updating measurements and dating to modern standards (e.g., feet instead of cubits), as well as making sense of archaic idioms (“get yourself ready” instead of “gird your loins”).
Any weaknesses? The looser translation, while clarifying, may be off-putting for those who want a closer adherence to the Bible’s original languages.
Sample passage: What I am saying, dear brothers and sisters, is that our physical bodies cannot inherit the Kingdom of God. These dying bodies cannot inherit what will last forever. — 1 Corinthians 15:50 (NLT)
CEB (Common English Bible)
Best for: New, young, and devotional readers — especially mainline Protestants and progressive evangelicals — looking for a fresh, modern translation.
- Year released: 2011
- Reading level: 7 (Relatively easy)
- Translation team/sponsor: 120 mostly mainline Protestant scholars for Christian Resources Development Corporation (licensed to Abingdon)
The CEB was undertaken between 2008-2011 by a massive body of 120 translators from a wide variety of both Mainline and Evangelical Protestant backgrounds, as well as Catholics and Reform Jews. Its manifest was to create a truly modern-sounding translation at a newspaper reading level, without sacrificing fidelity to the original texts.
One simple yet unique way this philosophy shows up is in the use of contractions (e.g., “don’t” instead of “do not”), which most other Bible translations use sparingly, if at all.
Despite its original approach, the CEB has largely failed to step out from the shadows of more popular functional or balanced translations like the NLT and NIV, but it has gradually caught on in mainline denominations and seminaries such as Fuller.
Any weaknesses? In an effort to create a simpler, more modern read, the CEB makes some unusual choices, such as translating the Hebrew ben-adam as “the Human One” instead of the more traditional (and literal) “Son of Man.” While “Human One” (or even “person”) does reflect how ancient Hebrew readers understood the idiom, the effect can be jarring or confusing for readers seeking more historically standard theological language.
Sample passage: This is what I’m saying, brothers and sisters: Flesh and blood can’t inherit God’s kingdom. Something that rots can’t inherit something that doesn’t decay. — 1 Corinthians 15:50 (CEB)
AMP (Amplified Bible)
Best for: A one-stop-shop for comparing translation possibilities in private study.
- Year released: 1965 (Rev. 2015)
- Reading level: 11 (Challenging)
- Translation team/sponsor: Frances Siewert (Presbyterian) and other scholars for Lockman and Zondervan
The AMP, first published in 1965 and most recently updated in 2015, stands out among Bible translations for its unique approach to scripture interpretation. Beginning with a straightforward, word-for-word approach, the text then offers “amplifications” — multiple alternate renderings of words and phrases — to give readers a deeper understanding of the nuanced meanings of Hebrew and Greek words that cannot be directly translated into modern English.
This feature aims to bridge the gap between ancient texts and contemporary understanding, allowing readers to explore the biblical text more fully and appreciate its rich linguistic and cultural context.
Any weaknesses? Critics have pointed out that it is not always clear or consistent with what it chooses to amplify, interpolating phrases like “personal Savior” that did not exist in the original time and language of the Bible, and that readers could get the same (or better) effect by comparing two or three different translations.
Sample passage: Now I say this, believers, that flesh and blood cannot inherit nor be part of the kingdom of God; nor does the perishable (mortal) inherit the imperishable (immortal). — 1 Corinthians 15:50 (AMP)
MSG (The Message)
Best for: Casual readers looking to experience the Bible in a new and different light.
- Year released: 1993-2002 (Piece by piece)
- Reading level: 6 (Easy)
- Translation team/sponsor: Eugene Peterson (Presbyterian) and consulting scholars for NavPress
The Message is a paraphrase of the Bible by pastor and theologian Eugene Peterson, first begun in 1993 and finally completed in 2002. Peterson sought to capture the tone and informal style of contemporary speech to deliver a version of the Bible that reads like a story, vibrant and accessible. To that end, it renders everything in the Bible in modern, conversational English, complete with contemporary American slang.
It’s a compelling way to hear familiar passages with fresh ears, and works great as an audio Bible or to read to a younger audience (although it must be said that some of the slang is starting to feel outdated, several decades later).
Any weaknesses?Because it is a paraphrase rather than a direct translation, The Message isn’t intended to be anyone’s only Bible. It’s only one (very informed and talented) person’s interpretation of the Bible’s words and “message” for a common modern audience.
Sample passage: I need to emphasize, friends, that our natural, earthy lives don’t in themselves lead us by their very nature into the kingdom of God. Their very “nature” is to die, so how could they “naturally” end up in the Life kingdom? — 1 Corinthians 15:50 (MSG)
How Should I Choose Which Bible Version Is Right for Me?
We won’t blame you if you need a bit more guidance than what’s in this guide to make your choice of which Bible version to read — in fact, we wholeheartedly encourage it! Here are a few other resources you can turn to:
Ask Your Pastor
It’s also always a good idea to consult your pastor on matters of faith, and Bible versions are no exception. What does your church use liturgically? Is there a Bible Study group reading a particular version?
While reading the Bible privately can be a powerful way to build a relationship with God, studying his Word in community can expand your horizons with unexpected insights, challenge you with different perspectives, and hold you accountable for regular engagement with Scripture. After all, we are called to be one body in Christ (Romans 12:5).
Use Bible Gateway to Compare Passages
One of the best ways to choose which Bible version is right for you is by comparing some favorite passages in a few translations side by side (or in parallel).
Sure, we might be biased, but this is one of the primary reasons Bible Gateway was started — by and for people who are passionate about God’s Word and always hungry for more!
If you are new to Bible reading a don’t have a favorite passage, you can always start with Genesis 1, John 1, or Matthew 5-7 (the Sermon on the Mount). Which one speaks to you the most? Remember: there’s no wrong answer!
Browse Hard Copies at Your Local Bookstore
No hard feelings: as convenient as tools like Bible Gateway can be, sometimes we all need the feeling of a hard-copy Bible. Most bookstores have a few different Bible versions in stock, and you can open them up and compare them side by side, just like on Bible Gateway. (Where do you think we got the idea?)
Formal vs. Functional Equivalence
When translating ancient languages, translators have to reckon with words and phrases that don’t have exact equivalents in modern English. Sometimes this is as simple as a measurement we no longer use (e.g., cubits).
Sometimes it’s an image that ancient readers would instantly recognize but means nothing to us — like “covered his feet” or “gird your loins.” Sometimes it’s a word that can have multiple possible meanings — like Hebrew ru’ah (breath, wind, spirit) or Greek logos (word, thought, reason).
Different translators intentionally approach these problems differently — but all with the same goal of trying to make God’s Word clear and accessible in our own words.

Formal Equivalence (Word-for-Word)
Formal equivalence prioritizes achieving word-for-word accuracy, focusing on a meticulous and precise translation of the original text’s exact words as closely as possible into the target language.
Examples: The KJV and NKJV, ESV, NRSVue, NASB, CSB, and NABRE are all different approaches to formal equivalence translation.
Functional Equivalence (Thought-for-Thought)
Functional equivalence — also called dynamic equivalence or thought-for-thought translation — focuses on conveying the meaning of thoughts or ideas rather than a direct word-for-word translation, aiming to preserve the original writers’ intent and context.
Examples: The NIV is among the most balanced translations available, but tends slightly more toward functional than formal equivalence. The CEB and NLT take a more thoroughly thought-for-thought approach, and paraphrases like The Message fall all the way on the end of the spectrum.
Choosing a Bible: FAQs
Is there a most accurate Bible translation?
The short answer is “no.” The longer answer hinges on your definition of accuracy. Ancient Hebrew and Greek texts don’t easily translate into modern English, requiring translators to balance strict adherence to the original languages with clarifying their meanings in ours. These decisions are always influenced by each translator’s own cultural, doctrinal, and theological biases.
A word-for-word approach like the NRSVue, ESV, or NASB tends to stay closer to the original text. Scholars often prefer the NRSVue for its holistic view of the Bible’s cultural and contextual backgrounds. However, some criticize it for not being literal enough in interpreting Greek and Hebrew words.
Which Bible version is best for beginners?
If you’re just setting out on your Bible reading journey — no matter your age or stage of faith — the best place to start is probably a translation that balances accuracy with readability, so you get a feel for the text without getting bogged down in the details.
The NIV is a great place to start, but depending on what you’re looking for, you might be more comfortable with the more traditional-sounding NKJV or even the more scholarly NRSVue or ESV. Or, if you want something a little more accessible and less traditional, try the NLT or CEB.
What version of the Bible do Catholics use?
Catholics can choose from as many of the different Bible versions as anyone else — though you’ll probably want to ensure it includes the Deuterocanonical books that most Protestant Bibles leave out. (Hint: Look for a “Catholic Edition” or “CE” after the abbreviation.)
That said, the NABREis the official English Catholic Bible version and the only one approved for use in Mass.
For more direct guidance, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) has published a list of approved translations to guide your personal study and reflection.
Should you use a Study Bible?
If you’re just starting out on your walk with the Bible, it might be a good idea to begin with a Study Bible. These Bibles provide insight and commentary that can guide your reading and help you contextualize and make sense of complex passages. All the above versions have Study editions, so just find the one that feels right to you!
Study Bibles are also great for more experienced readers looking to get a deeper understanding of certain aspects of the Word. There are tons of different Study Bibles available, from basic introductory ones; to commentaries from scholars, pastors, and popular personalities; to thematic ones with deeper historical, archaeological, or theological detail.
Bible Gateway Plus has a wealth of these resources for you to explore and deepen your knowledge and your faith.
A Final Word on Choosing Bible Versions
While this guide is focused on helping you choose the best Bible version for your own tastes, the best conclusion you could come to is… indecision. In other words, don’t just choose one — choose two or three!
Reading multiple Bible translations side by side can multiply your engagement with Scripture by showing you the variety of ways a single verse can be rendered in English. Comparing these different translations will reveal nuances, challenge your assumptions, force you to wrestle with the complexity of God’s Word more fully, and ultimately deepen your faith in unexpected ways.
All of these translations any many more are available to browse at Bible Gateway. And if you want to take your reading deeper, Bible Gateway Plus offers Study Bibles, commentaries, encyclopedias, and tons more resources to help you get more from God’s Word — all for less than $5/mo. Start your free 14-day trial today!
Or browse hardcopy Bibles at Faith Gateway and get access to exclusive deals and sales on all kinds of beautiful editions in various Bible versions.
Jacob Edson is Editorial Director of Bible Gateway. He holds a Master of Theological Studies in Early Christian Thought from Harvard Divinity School, and a Bachelor of Arts in Religious History from Memorial University of Newfoundland, though with most of his coursework from the University of Hawai'i at Manoa. His work has previously appeared in Ekstasis and Geez Magazine. He lives with his wife and children in New England.