Best ESV Bibles 2025
The English Standard Version captures the essence of word-for-word translation philosophy. Here are the best ESV editions for study, devotion, and daily reading, ranked by ECPA data and reader reviews.
New to ESV Bibles?
Before choosing a specific edition, learn about ESV's translation philosophy and why it's trusted by seminaries worldwide.
Why Choose ESV?
The English Standard Version (ESV) has become the preferred translation for seminaries, pastors, and serious Bible students. With 18% market share, it is the second most popular modern translation and Crossway's flagship product.
Word-for-Word Accuracy
Essentially literal translation philosophy preserves the precise structure and meaning of the original Greek and Hebrew texts.
Scholarly Excellence
Trusted by seminaries worldwide. The ESV Study Bible was created by 95 scholars from 9 countries and 50 institutions.
18% Market Share
Second most popular modern translation, growing especially among Reformed and evangelical churches.
Our #1 Pick: MacArthur Study Bible ESV
ESV MacArthur Study Bible
The gold standard for verse-by-verse study. Dr. John MacArthur's exhaustive notes, developed over 50+ years of pastoral ministry, provide unparalleled interpretive precision. This 2nd edition features fully redesigned content with over 25,000 study notes.
Why We Chose It: With 4 million+ copies sold across all translations and a 4.9-star rating from over 2,000 reviews, the MacArthur Study Bible represents the pinnacle of ESV study resources. The 2nd edition brings updated scholarship while maintaining Dr. MacArthur's trusted theological perspective.
Best ESV Study Bibles
ESV study Bibles represent some of the most comprehensive resources available. Each offers a distinct approach to Scripture study.
ESV Study Bible
The industry standard for evangelical study Bibles. Winner of the ECPA Christian Book Award, with over 1 million copies sold. Created by 95 scholars from 9 countries and 50 institutions, featuring 20,000+ study notes, 80,000 cross-references, and 240 full-color maps.
ESV Archaeology Study Bible
Winner of the 2019 ECPA Bible of the Year Award. Roots the biblical text in its historical and cultural context with 2,000+ study notes, 400 full-color photographs, and 200 maps. Edited by Dr. John Currid (University of Chicago) and Dr. David Chapman (Cambridge).
ESV Women's Study Bible
Designed to help women pursue a deeper understanding of Scripture. Features 13,000 study notes, 523,000 words of content, and 350+ reflections connecting Scripture to life. Contributors include Jen Wilkin, Lauren Chandler, Ann Voskamp, and Trillia Newbell.
ESV Reformation Study Bible
Thoroughly revised under the editorial leadership of R.C. Sproul with contributions from 75 distinguished theologians worldwide. Features 1.1 million words of verse-by-verse commentary and 20,000+ study notes from a Reformed theology perspective.
ESV Study Bible, Large Print
All the content of the award-winning ESV Study Bible with highly readable large-print type (11-point). Same 20,000+ study notes, 80,000 cross-references, and 200+ charts as the standard edition, designed for accessibility.
Specialty ESV Editions
Beyond study Bibles, Crossway offers ESV editions designed for specific reading experiences.
ESV Single Column Journaling Bible
Features 2-inch ruled margins for notes, prayers, and reflections. Single-column format with high-quality Bible paper and Smyth-sewn binding that lays flat for easy writing.
ESV Super Giant Print Bible
Optimized for low-vision readers with massive 17-point type. Drawing on research with vision industry experts, includes a black card for use behind pages to reduce show-through. 7 x 10 inch page dimensions for maximum readability.
ESV Reader's Bible
Scripture as one extended storyline. No verse numbers, section headings, or footnotes - just the pure text in single-column format. Perfect for devotional reading or extended Bible reading focused on narrative flow.
ESV Edition Comparison
| Edition | Type | Notes | Rating | From |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MacArthur Study Bible | Study | 25,000+ | 4.9 | $28 |
| ESV Study Bible | Study | 20,000+ | 4.7 | $19 |
| Archaeology Study Bible | Study | 2,000+ | 4.8 | $45 |
| Women's Study Bible | Study | 13,000 | 4.8 | $24 |
| Reformation Study Bible | Study | 20,000+ | 4.8 | $39 |
| Large Print Study Bible | Study | 20,000+ | 4.8 | $43 |
| Single Column Journaling | Journaling | - | 4.8 | $24 |
| Super Giant Print | Text | - | 4.7 | $34 |
| Reader's Bible | Reading | - | 4.6 | $19 |
How to Choose Your ESV Bible
What's Your Primary Goal?
Deep Verse-by-Verse Study
Choose the MacArthur Study Bible ESV - 25,000+ notes from 50+ years of ministry.
Comprehensive Academic Study
Choose the ESV Study Bible - 95 scholars, 20,000 notes, ECPA Book of Year.
Historical/Archaeological Context
Choose the ESV Archaeology Study Bible - 400 photos, 200 maps, 2019 Bible of Year.
Reformed Theology Perspective
Choose the ESV Reformation Study Bible - R.C. Sproul and 75 theologians.
Women's Perspectives
Choose the ESV Women's Study Bible - Jen Wilkin, Ann Voskamp, and more.
Note-Taking & Journaling
Choose the ESV Single Column Journaling Bible - 2" ruled margins.
Narrative Reading Experience
Choose the ESV Reader's Bible - No verse numbers, pure text flow.
Low Vision / Accessibility
Choose the ESV Super Giant Print Bible - 17-point type, vision-optimized.
Ready to Find Your ESV Bible?
Browse all ESV editions with detailed specs, reader reviews, and price comparisons.
Browse All ESV BiblesRelated Guides
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