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Choosing a Bible translation is a deeply personal decision, and with so many excellent options available, it's natural to have questions. Is the modern clarity of the NIV right for you, or do you prefer the traditional precision of the ESV? How does the easy-to-read NLT stack up against the majestic KJV?
To help you find the perfect Bible for your needs, we've created a series of clear, simple comparison guides.
Below, you'll find our complete library of "versus" posts, each one designed to break down the key differences between two popular translations. Explore the comparisons that matter most to you and find the version of God's Word that will speak most clearly to your heart.
Comparing Bible versions involves understanding their core philosophy: "word-for-word" translations like the KJV and ESV prioritize literal accuracy for deep study, while "thought-for-thought" translations like the NIV and NLT focus on readability for everyday use.
The Definitive Comparison Guides
Find your specific comparison below to get a detailed breakdown of language, style, accuracy, and who each translation is best for.
NIV Comparisons
- NIV vs. NLT: A look at two modern, readable translations. Read the NIV vs. NLT Comparison ►
- NIV vs. ESV: The two most popular modern translations go head-to-head. Read the NIV vs. ESV Comparison ►
- NIV vs. KJV: A classic comparison of tradition and modernity. Read the KJV vs. NIV Comparison ►
- NIV vs. NKJV: Compare the balanced NIV with the modernised KJV tradition. Read the NKJV vs. NIV Comparison ►
- NIV vs. Good News: A focus on accessibility for outreach and new readers. Read the NIV vs. Good News Comparison ►
- NIV vs. CSB: Two modern translations that balance accuracy and readability. Read the NIV vs. CSB Comparison ►
NLT Comparisons
- NLT vs. ESV: Explore the difference between readability and literal study. Read the NLT vs. ESV Comparison ►
- NLT vs. KJV: The ultimate contrast of modern clarity and traditional poetry. Read the NLT vs. KJV Comparison ►
- NLT vs. NKJV: Compare the easy-to-read NLT with the updated KJV tradition. Read the NLT vs. NKJV Comparison ►
- NLT vs. Good News: Which easy-to-read version is right for you? Read the NLT vs. Good News Comparison ►
- NLT vs. CSB: A look at two of the most readable modern translations. Read the NLT vs. CSB Comparison ►
ESV Comparisons
- ESV vs. KJV: A guide to the two most popular literal translations. Read the ESV vs. KJV Comparison ►
- ESV vs. NKJV: Compare two modern "word-for-word" translations. Read the ESV vs. NKJV Comparison ►
- ESV vs. Good News: A study in precision versus simplicity. Read the ESV vs. Good News Comparison ►
- ESV vs. CSB: Compare the literal ESV with the balanced CSB. Read the ESV vs. CSB Comparison ►
KJV, NKJV, Good News & CSB Comparisons
- KJV vs. NKJV: Understand the difference between the classic and its modern update. Read the KJV vs. NKJV Comparison ►
- KJV vs. Good News: The ultimate comparison of traditional vs. simple language. Read the KJV vs. Good News Comparison ►
- KJV vs. CSB: See how the classic KJV stacks up against a modern balanced translation. Read the KJV vs. CSB Comparison ►
- NKJV vs. Good News: Compare the modernised traditional with the simple and clear. Read the NKJV vs. Good News Comparison ►
- NKJV vs. CSB: Two different approaches to modernising the Bible text. Read the NKJV vs. CSB Comparison ►
- Good News vs. CSB: A look at two highly readable, modern translations. Read the Good News vs. CSB Comparison ►
Still Need More Guidance?
If you'd like a broader overview of all the most popular versions in one place, be sure to read our foundational Clear Guide to the Most Popular Bible Translations in the UK.
And if you want a truly personal recommendation, our interactive Bible Finder tool can help you find the perfect Bible in under a minute!
Still not sure which Bible is right for you? You can learn more in our complete, free 97-page ebook, 'How to Choose Your Bible'.
