A study Bible is one of the most useful books a Christian can own. Alongside the full text of Scripture it gives you explanations, background and tools that help you understand what you are reading. For many believers it is the first step from simply reading the Bible to really studying it.
But there are dozens of study Bibles, and they can look almost identical in a photo. This guide explains what to look for so you can choose with confidence.
What makes a study Bible different?
A study Bible contains the complete Bible plus some or all of the following:
- Study notes at the bottom of each page explaining difficult verses, words and customs.
- Book introductions covering who wrote each book, when, to whom and why.
- Cross-references linking a verse to related passages elsewhere in the Bible.
- Maps, charts and timelines showing places, journeys, kings and events.
- Articles on key topics such as prayer, salvation, prophecy or Christian living.
- A concordance to help you find verses by keyword.
All of this makes study Bibles thicker and heavier than plain text Bibles — often 2,000 pages or more.
Step 1: Choose the translation
The notes are always written for one particular translation, so start there. If your church reads the KJV or NKJV, a study Bible in that version will help you follow sermons. If you want close, careful study, the ESV, NKJV and CSB are popular choices. For an easier read, NIV and NLT study Bibles explain the text in friendly language. See our full guide to Bible translations if you’re unsure.
Step 2: Choose the kind of notes
Study Bibles differ most in their notes. The main kinds are:
- General study Bibles – balanced notes covering history, meaning and application. A good first study Bible for most people.
- Application study Bibles – focus on how each passage applies to daily life. Excellent for personal devotions and small groups.
- Archaeological and cultural study Bibles – explain the world of the Bible with photos, history and customs.
- Chronological Bibles – rearrange the text in the order events happened, helpful for understanding the big story.
- Topical study Bibles – built around a theme such as prayer, spiritual growth, leadership or women of the Bible.
- Teaching and preaching Bibles – written by a well-known pastor or teacher, reflecting their own teaching.
Notes also reflect a particular church tradition. If you belong to a specific denomination, it is worth checking who wrote the notes.
Step 3: Choose the print size and format
Because study Bibles are packed with content, the print is often small. If you’ll read for long periods, or if your eyesight isn’t strong, look for “large print” or “comfort print” editions. Also check the binding: a hardcover suits the study desk, while genuine or imitation leather is better if you’ll carry it to church.
Step 4: Set a sensible budget
New study Bibles can be expensive, especially in leather. Two ways to save:
- Buy a hardcover edition for home study — same notes, much lower price.
- Look at pre-owned and used study Bibles. Many are in excellent condition, and previous owners’ notes can even be helpful.
Study Bible, commentary or Bible dictionary?
A study Bible is an all-in-one tool with short notes on every page. When you want to go deeper, add:
- A Bible commentary – detailed explanation of one book or the whole Bible, verse by verse.
- A Bible dictionary – short articles on people, places and words, arranged A to Z.
Many pastors use all three together. If you’re just starting out, a good study Bible will cover most of your needs.
Quick recommendations
- New believer: an NIV or NLT application or general study Bible.
- Serious personal study: an ESV, NKJV or CSB general study Bible.
- Sermon preparation: a study Bible plus a commentary set.
- Gift for a pastor or teacher: a leather study Bible in the version their church uses.
Browse our Bible study, commentaries and Bible dictionaries collections to find the right tools.