NASB vs. NKJV: A Guide to Literal Bible Translations

For readers dedicated to a "word-for-word" translation, the choice often comes down to two excellent modern options: the highly precise New American Standard Bible (NASB) and the traditionally-styled New King James Version (NKJV). Both are committed to literal accuracy, but they approach this goal from different starting points, resulting in unique reading experiences.

Are you looking for the most grammatically literal translation available, based on the latest scholarly manuscripts? Or do you prefer a Bible that updates the classic KJV language while remaining faithful to its historic textual tradition?

This guide will offer a clear comparison of the NASB and the NKJV, helping you choose the best literal translation for your in-depth study.

The main difference between the NASB and the NKJV lies in their source texts and style: both are literal translations, but the NASB uses modern scholarly manuscripts for maximum grammatical accuracy, while the NKJV updates the KJV's traditional language while using the same Textus Receptus manuscript tradition.

At a Glance: Key Differences

Quickly compare the NASB (New American Standard Bible) and the NKJV (New King James Version)

The NASB: The Pinnacle of Modern Precision

The New American Standard Bible (NASB) is renowned for its unwavering commitment to being as literal as possible. The translators prioritised grammatical accuracy, seeking to render the original Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek texts into modern English with a level of precision that is second to none. This makes it an unparalleled tool for technical study. If you want to see how a Greek sentence was structured or perform a detailed word study, the NASB is an invaluable resource.

You should choose an NASB Bible if:

• Your highest priority is grammatical, word-for-word accuracy based on modern scholarship.
• You are a student or scholar doing deep exegetical work.
• You want to see the structure of the original languages reflected in the English text.

Our Top Recommendation for an NASB Bible:

NASB Giant Print Reference Bible

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The NKJV: Traditional and Faithful

The New King James Version (NKJV) was created with a deep respect for the original KJV. The goal was not to create a new translation from scratch, but to update the vocabulary and grammar of the beloved 1611 version for modern readers. It removes the archaic "thee"s and "thou"s but carefully preserves the classic sentence structure and literary cadence of the original. Crucially, it uses the same underlying Greek texts (Textus Receptus) as the KJV, which is a key reason many readers who trust that manuscript tradition choose the NKJV.

You should choose an NKJV Bible if:

• You love the style and textual tradition of the King James Version but find the old English difficult.
• You want a literal translation that feels familiar and traditional.
• You are looking for a bridge between the historic KJV and modern language.

Our Top Recommendation for an NKJV Bible:

NKJV Spirit-Filled Life Bible

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Making Your Choice: A Matter of Text and Tradition

Choosing between the NASB and NKJV often comes down to your preference for the underlying source texts.

• For the most grammatically precise translation based on modern scholarly manuscripts, choose the NASB.
• For a modernised version of the classic KJV that is faithful to the Textus Receptus tradition, choose the NKJV.

Both are excellent, trustworthy translations that are perfect for serious study and will serve you well as you seek to understand Scripture more deeply.

Still not sure? Our Bible Finder tool can help you find the perfect Bible.