I like the $35 Tru-Tone Bible. I don't need all the "bells and whistles" in a Premium Bible, and I think any Bible will last a long time if you take care of it.
Genesis 10 Living Bible 10 These are the families of Shem, Ham, and Japheth, who were the three sons of Noah; for sons were born to them after the flood. 2 T
Thanks for focusing on the paper of the Trutone edition. That is THE factor in determining whether to use it for a rebind. Crossway definitely up' d their game here. Many of their non-premium editions have some of the poorest paper quality I've seen in Bibles. Like you, I have experienced rebinds using an inferior text block with cheap, see through paper. The rebind I have looks beautiful on the outside, but is mediocre inside.
Here's what I'd like to see in this video...measure the text block with some calipers (i.e. compare the paper by thickness of the block), and underline some text with a Pigma Micron pen in each and then turn the page and see how much ghosting/bleed-through there is.
My black trutone heritage just arrived in the mail today, couldn’t be more happier. I do enjoy a premium Bible here and there though, I own a Cambridge Concord in black goatskin that is great as well among others.
TIM I LIKE THE $35 ESV Heritage Edition. I really don't have any Premium Bibles, some old leather ones like the KJV Thompson Chain reference.KJV and ESV are my two Bibles! Love the Video!
Love the video, particularly the discussion of feel and opaqueness of the paper. For me, paper really matters and is especially hard to judge these days when making mail-order purchases. Too many times I make a purchase and cross my fingers hoping for an acceptable result when I have it in my hands.
This is a great video! You should make a video that compares the different variations of bibles (compact, reference, study, thinline, etc.). Can’t wait for your review of the CSB verse-by-verse handcrafted calfskin!!
Adding to my earlier comment, I watched several of Tim’s Bible reviews and felt confident in my purchases - thank you for your time, effort, and clear enthusiasm Tim. I do care about place of printing, paper feel, and even the inky/leather smell of a quality Bible. I am also interested in the translation. As a former Divinity student with a Congregationalist affiliation, NRSV is my choice for its academic tradition. I also read the KJV for its poetic qualities. The Divinity school I attended was home to the RSV translation completed in the early 1950’s which is pretty cool. I had classes in the very room the Biblical “scholars” did their work - I did not fully appreciate this until later.
Two additional things the premium brings: 1) higher quality ink/imprint, i find it to ever so darker than my crossway NT (which seems to be the same caliber printing). This may actually contribute to slightly more fhosting that you are seeing, yet the higher contrast on the page I find easier to read. 2) Gilding that is rolled on not sprayed, which keeps the pages flat and smooth and not sticking together or puffed at the edges. Thanks for making this video!
Glad to hear of less expensive, nice Bibles. That is what I’ll buy. But if I could, I’d get either the Prussian blue-I love the color (even like the green-shock) or, of course, the beautiful pricey cowhide. Could only justify it because it would be a treasure that will stand the test of time to pass on my ‘life in the Word’ to future generations.
Since the Trutone version was so cheap I figured I’d buy it to look at and feel in person before I decided on a rebind and I came to the same conclusion as you, Tim. I really like the paper and everything about it. So I bought another one and sent it to a rebinder for a nicer cover. I’ll keep this first one and maybe give it to my son. Thanks for the video.
That’s a wise idea. I’m thinking of purchasing a black Trutone version and sending that one for a rebind. I like the chestnut color of the $35 one I have right now.
@@kevinvodochodsky I really was expecting the paper to be a disappointment, but it totally wasn't! I was so pleasantly surprised and said "yep, this is the one". This will be my first "premium" rebind I've ever done. I've been waiting to do one until I really felt happy with a particular text block. The one I had in mind this whole time was the heirloom version of the heritage bible which was expensive. I just couldn't justify spending that money only to have a rebinder rip the cover off and start over! I was so glad Crossway released this cheaper version.
1. I have the ESV Heirloom Heritage in Prussian blue. I love it. 😊 2. But I totally agree with Tim that the paper in the Heirloom Heritage actually looks (a) less opaque than the paper in the more affordable TruTone Heritage and (b) it also looks less sharp and white but more creamy than the TruTone Heritage paper. So whatever Crossway did with their more affordable TruTone Heritage, they did a great job, especially considering it's currently only about $35 (vs. $200+ for the Heirloom Heritage). 3. That said, I presume the paper in the Heirloom Heritage will last a lot longer than the paper in the TruTone Heritage, all things equal.
Thanks, Tim! While I do love my premium Bibles, I was really impressed with the ESV Heritage TruTone. I may have to pick one up and look into a re-bind, which I've never done.
This was very helpful. I have a Prussian Blue. It’s my all time favorite Bible, mainly because of how the paper feels as I’m holding it and turning pages. I can tell from the $35 version that I’ve been spoiled and would not enjoy using it. That sounds horrible, I know. Sorry.
I bought the Heirloom Heritage in Black Goatskin about a month ago and I love it! It’s a really nice personal size Bible, easy to carry around my college campus and take to classes with me. I baby that thing so I try not to bring it everywhere because I don’t want to ruin it, but someday it will show wear and tear. I really want to look into the TruTone Heritage though because it may be something I take notes in or allow it to be beat up
I have the EVB Exclusive Olive Green and I like it a lot. It travels with me when I go out. Maybe down the road I may look at getting a custom rebind of the new base version.
Hey Tim... 35 dollar Heritage to rebind sounds intriguing, but generally wouldnt that cost more to do than going ahead and buying the premium? Once you add the extras like ribbons, dye etc? And with less quality paper? I would like Heritage one of these days.. great video! Thanks!
@@timwildsmithThanks, Tim. I’ve always wondered about the cost of a rebind. I’ve watched videos on rebinding and the reminders earn every dollar that they charge.
Tim, thank you for doing this review super helpful ! I finally ordered my 35$ one just cause i have 2 premuim bibles already but definitely see the 35$ one being a potiential rebind as well. Thank you for all you do and keep working hard on these awesome reviews God bless !
I have to agree, bookbinding can truly be a piece of art. My two favs of this video is the italian cowleather and the green one. Regarding the "brightness" of the paper... I think ease on the eyes is a determining factor. To sharp of a contrast might not be appreciated by some people, whereas a slight see through and less bright white might be easier on the eyes for some..
hey Tim, a great non-premium bible you should look into is the NIV Wide Margin Bible in brown leathersoft. i got mine from Barnes & Noble and i wanted to recommend it to you
Thanks for the comparison! I think my fav is the version done by EB. The paper in the standard heritage looks fine, but I noticed in prior videos that it tends to flare a bit when open, but maybe that’s because it’s new. It’s hard to pass up the feel and flexibility of the premium covers and the weight of the paper.
I was wondering why the new ESV Heritage Bible looked so appealing . . . and yet familiar. I actually use a 2013 leather edition in the compact size (9pt font) as my daily tote along Bible . . . and didn’t even realize it until I compared it to the current editions and looked at the copyright page! No wonder I like this newer edition so much! 😂
Why, yes. Yes, premium Bibles are worth the price. Since you asked, my personal fave is Becca's Beauty: the green calfskin. Having said that, my tight retirement budget puts me in the $35 category. I hope they do the Omega in that nicely done affordable version, maybe the Alpha, too. Any plans for that, do you know, Tim? That rebind is nice, too. They're all nice.
I just wish all of these bibles had TN and Zondy’s comfort print font. Just got a NKJV from Thomas Nelson and that comfort print is the best Bible font on the market. I wish everyone could use it.
I was one who preordered the trutone version and had it in hand before they were even listed in stock at Crossway. I was super impressed with the paper that came in it and had planned to send it off for rebinding. However, just recently I picked up an ESV Alpha and now I’m really liking the look and feel of the heirloom paper over the “Chinese printed” editions after using it for a bit. I found a copy of the Siena Heritage on the secondary market to check out since it’s almost exactly what I had planned for a rebind anyways and would be about half the cost. Still up in the air about rebinding a cheaper paper Bible at this point.
My preference is to go with comparative mid-range pricing, in this case the NRSV Cambridge black French Morrocco leather (L.E.G.O.) - depending on vendor, these can range from about $115.00 to $140.00 (which is certainly not "cheap") but as beautiful as the super-premium Bibles are, $200.00+ feels excessive. I also have a Reformation Heritage KJV (Jongbloed) Bible, also in the less than $150.00 range. Bibles are a very personal choice, and I am happy with the ones I selected. They are both elegant and functional. I take care of them and plan to enjoy them for many years so worth the investment.
I agree, Cambridge Bibles fill a niche in the market that offers European quality for value over the more exorbitant premium bibles or the economy stuff being printed in China, heaven forbid. I’m pretty brand loyal to Cambridge, and Oxford also makes reasonably priced, yet beautiful prayer books that are also printed and bound in the Netherlands. I know I’d rather have my Bibles made in Europe over China. Europe are allies and culturally very similar to the Anglosphere. Why support the Chinese Communist government when presented with better options? Maybe our iPhones have to be made in China, but I’d prefer my Bibles not being made by the Chinese communist government.
I'm not a single column gal, but the ESV heritage text block is starting to grow on me. I like the reddish chestnut colour of the trutone, and the slightly better paper opacity. I do wish Crossway would up their ribbon game though. A bible of this size and thickness could do with two thicker ribbons of a decent length, more akin to what Thomas Nelson would produce in bible of similar quality. The premium ESV heritage editions are nice, though it irks me that the only option of a better quality bible in this textblock beyond trutone is a huge step into premium bible territory at US$200+ above the trutone price point. It would be nice to have a midway "genuine leather" option with better ribbons, slightly better construction, spine hubs and maybe slightly nicer paper with a price point halfway between trutone and premium.
I have the Wellington leather Heritage. I think it's worth every penny. I would definitely choose it over the trutone Heritage. My only suggestion would be to break your Wellington Heritage in and then review it. Yours looks brand new out of the box. It changes radically with use for the better.
Even if I get the cheapest one, the prices of rebinds these days is just so expensive that it’s not even worth it anymore and it’s actually very discouraging. I get that rebinders need to earn a living, but for it to cost more than the premiums is just not inviting to me.
I wonder if the new Heritage has a slightly less bold ink, which is what contributes to its better opacity? 🤔 And Amen on the premium Personal Reference! 🙋♂️ I think overall I’d go with the Schuyler Sienna due to price, color, and ribbons. 🤓
I really like cross way and love what they are doing regarding their premium Bible but there Bibles that aren't premium are still amazing. I as well as my son both have Trutone ESV study Bible and my wife has a Trutone women's study Bible and we have a couple of compact ESVs and they are all very beautiful and very sturdy so i personally love how serious crossway takes getting a quality copy of Scripture to the Body of Christ. The Bible is the word of God and should be treated with respect and be affordable and Crossway does this very good but they also make such beautiful premium Bibles and perhaps one day I'll be able to get one. I do appreciate that they took such an awesome text block and put it at a price most can afford.
It is a truth that we are forced to admit (in this case, at least) that "Made in China" is not always a derogatory term AND it is often great value for money.
I've ordered several of the truetone versions for rebinds and I also have someone who sent one in to get rebound. Overall, great textblock. But there is one detail I noticed about the paper, that it feels different in different parts of the Bible. The Old Testament, especially towards the beginning (like around Genesis) has that coarse feel, but the paper in the New Testament feels much smoother. I've seen this on 5 textblocks that I've handled. Wondering if that's the same thing in the one you received.
It isn’t available anymore, but the Horween Heritage is an amazing Bible. The Wellington is very nice, but not the same. Of the ones you did, the Evangelical Bible is my favorite.
I recently purchased a Trutone journalling edition for under $NZ100. There seems to be more ghosting than I've noticed on other Bibles, but the Bible is still readable. I figure that with care, it should last me a decent amount of time.
I'm far from wealthy, but I believe there are two materialistic items worth going premium on. A Bible, and a Rifle. Both are solid investments that will carry you through some rough times. As to which one I like best, I really like that evangelical exclusive in green. I have a Cambridge cameo in green, and while I really enjoy reading that bible, I don't really like the green that Cambridge went with.
I like the black Crossway Heirloom because of the black goatskin leather cover and the coppery looking gilding. However, if I were to buy one, it would be the $35 Tru-Tone. The other bibles are not worth 7 to 14 times as much as the Tru-Tone Bible.
Every tru tone Crossway bible I have is falling apart. The cover starts to flake after about a years worth of use. I understand that it is cheap but I feel it should last longer than a year. I have tried 4 times with their synthetic version and all have done what I described. Now I have a Holman leathertouch that I have used for over a year and it looks as good as the day I bought it.
Good to know. Thanks for sharing your experience (no much info about their real durability). Wish those Truetone Bibles lasted more. I really like how they look.
This will be my first Trutone, but you are 100% right about the Holman leather touch. I have a NASB and KJV with that cover and they have aged nicely with years of use
Though I own a number of Bibles--between 7 translations (and growing... 😁)--my three KJV's run the gamut in price. My first KJV is my "mid-priced" one: the Midsize Turquoise Reference Bible - Platinum Series from Church Bible Publishers. It has a water buffalo leather cover (Cranberry in color)--lovely in feel and appearance. (It now costs $199, though. 😬 It was $125 when I bought it in mid-2022.) My second KJV is the Schuyler Canterbury KJV from Evangelical Bible ($205 in mid-2022 and no longer available, I think). I handle this one with loving care and read from it daily, alongside my (now-out-of-print) HCSB Study Bible. I love the look and feel of the black goatskin cover. My third KJV is my least expensive one: a Personal Size Giant Print Reference Bible from Henderickson. I like having a rather inexpensive ($25) Bible to take on the go. I also just like having a teal-and-gray-colored Bible, 'cause funsies. 😁
I have a multitude of Bibles (I have been a passionate student of Christ and the Scriptures for over 40 years) that have been marked and well-used. These will be handed down when I am gone to specific loved ones - the rest of my Bibles to our church library. Still, I admit that I have recently written a letter to Zondervan's marketing team (Tim, respond and I will CC you as I think you would be interested in what I wrote, if you like...) about designing the "Ultimate Bible". If they decide to move forward with it, that is the type of Bible that I will use PRIMARILY and DAILY and it needs to be structurally and aesthetically magnificent. Premium Bibles have their place: they are the ones that we want to use everyday, take to church and when we travel, and be handed down to our most Biblically alive dependant.
If I were someone who used one Bible all my life I’d buy premium but since I hate reading over notes, once Om done with it I get another. For that reason premium isn’t on my radar. I’m more interested in the different types like spiral, study, etc.
It appears the Heirloom has a darker text than the Heritage (cheaper one) even though the paper in the cheaper does look nicer as far a ghosting. Is it actually a darker print job or is it just camera/computer display?
I would get the $35 version. If I am going to pay $200+ for a premium Bible (and I am considering it) I want more features than simply the text block. Need to have references at the very least. Just my $0.02...
My problem is that those trutone bibles just deteriorate after a year or so of daily use. Especially around the creases, the outher layer of synthetic just starts to fall off. Has that improved on the trutone at all?
Tim, didn’t you say once that the paper coming from China tends to be better than others? It sticks w/ me because it sounded so bizarre. (But maybe I remember wrong.)😂
😷😷🇺🇦😷 I think I would get the least expensive one because it seems to have least ghosting, and use it as a journaling bible with notes…. I’d be interested if there was bleed thru and/or smudging with note taking.
No, I don't have any premium Bibles. If you take care of them like we should, you don't need the expensive leather. Crossway just trying to make a bunch of money.
I feel the same way. Any Bible should last a long time if you take care of it. I've had my KJV Center Column Reference Bible from Thomas Nelson in Brown Leathersoft for almost a year (This May will be one year) and it's in great shape. I got it at a Christian bookstore with my name engraved on it for around $95 for a birthday present. At least Crossway does make non-Premium Bibles, unlike R.L.Allan, Schuyler and Humble Lamb.
A Bible lasting “almost a year” is not what most people buying premium Bibles are after. I’d like mine to last 40 years, and still be usable by my kids or grandkids. I don’t want to have to re-copy 5 or 10 or 15 years of notes into a new Bible, because the old one is falling apart. I don’t want to have to get familiar with a new look, layout, font, or typesetting, because the Bible I’ve come to know and love is no longer in print in 5 or 10 years when I need a replacement. There are more reasons to want the highest quality paper, binding, and cover than for bragging rights on UA-cam.
@j.woodbury412 I didn’t mean to imply that you were bragging. People often complain that there’s no practical need for anything other than a $10 paperback Bible. The story goes that people are idolatrous over the externals of the Bible or showing off with premium options. My point was just that there are practical reasons someone might choose to spend $150 on a Bible instead of $50. Sorry if it came off as an attack on you.
I like the KJV and other versions printed by Cambridge University Press. They are often priced over $200. What you notice are the details in premium materials such as calfskin leather, paper quality and gilded page edges. There are even old etching plates inside the Bible, such as the Family Bible. Premium Bibles are designed to last and are perfect for gift.
My favorite? None of them. Why? I'm a fan of the translation, but aside from that, these Bibles check none of the boxes I look for when shopping for a new one.
I feel like if you can spend thousands on a vacation and hundreds on a pair of sneakers, a few hundred for a great Bible should be no problem. It's when you're buying a new premium bible every month or so often, to me that may be a little idolatrous. Unless you're giving them away?
I like the $35 Tru-Tone Bible. I don't need all the "bells and whistles" in a Premium Bible, and I think any Bible will last a long time if you take care of it.
True
Genesis 10
Living Bible
10 These are the families of Shem, Ham, and Japheth, who were the three sons of Noah; for sons were born to them after the flood.
2 T
Thanks for focusing on the paper of the Trutone edition. That is THE factor in determining whether to use it for a rebind. Crossway definitely up' d their game here. Many of their non-premium editions have some of the poorest paper quality I've seen in Bibles. Like you, I have experienced rebinds using an inferior text block with cheap, see through paper. The rebind I have looks beautiful on the outside, but is mediocre inside.
Yes, exactly!
Here's what I'd like to see in this video...measure the text block with some calipers (i.e. compare the paper by thickness of the block), and underline some text with a Pigma Micron pen in each and then turn the page and see how much ghosting/bleed-through there is.
Would love to see one in the $75 range with a buffalo cover and raised ribs.
Yes!
Top grain
My black trutone heritage just arrived in the mail today, couldn’t be more happier. I do enjoy a premium Bible here and there though, I own a Cambridge Concord in black goatskin that is great as well among others.
TIM I LIKE THE $35 ESV Heritage Edition. I really don't have any Premium Bibles, some old leather ones like the KJV Thompson Chain reference.KJV and ESV are my two Bibles! Love the Video!
Love the video, particularly the discussion of feel and opaqueness of the paper. For me, paper really matters and is especially hard to judge these days when making mail-order purchases. Too many times I make a purchase and cross my fingers hoping for an acceptable result when I have it in my hands.
I love the rebind. Not just because it’s a rebind, but the leather is gorgeous!!
This is a great video! You should make a video that compares the different variations of bibles (compact, reference, study, thinline, etc.). Can’t wait for your review of the CSB verse-by-verse handcrafted calfskin!!
Adding to my earlier comment, I watched several of Tim’s Bible reviews and felt confident in my purchases - thank you for your time, effort, and clear enthusiasm Tim. I do care about place of printing, paper feel, and even the inky/leather smell of a quality Bible. I am also interested in the translation. As a former Divinity student with a Congregationalist affiliation, NRSV is my choice for its academic tradition. I also read the KJV for its poetic qualities. The Divinity school I attended was home to the RSV translation completed in the early 1950’s which is pretty cool. I had classes in the very room the Biblical “scholars” did their work - I did not fully appreciate this until later.
Two additional things the premium brings: 1) higher quality ink/imprint, i find it to ever so darker than my crossway NT (which seems to be the same caliber printing). This may actually contribute to slightly more fhosting that you are seeing, yet the higher contrast on the page I find easier to read. 2) Gilding that is rolled on not sprayed, which keeps the pages flat and smooth and not sticking together or puffed at the edges. Thanks for making this video!
Glad to hear of less expensive, nice Bibles. That is what I’ll buy.
But if I could, I’d get either the Prussian blue-I love the color (even like the green-shock) or, of course, the beautiful pricey cowhide.
Could only justify it because it would be a treasure that will stand the test of time to pass on my ‘life in the Word’ to future generations.
Since the Trutone version was so cheap I figured I’d buy it to look at and feel in person before I decided on a rebind and I came to the same conclusion as you, Tim. I really like the paper and everything about it. So I bought another one and sent it to a rebinder for a nicer cover. I’ll keep this first one and maybe give it to my son. Thanks for the video.
That’s a wise idea. I’m thinking of purchasing a black Trutone version and sending that one for a rebind. I like the chestnut color of the $35 one I have right now.
@@kevinvodochodsky I really was expecting the paper to be a disappointment, but it totally wasn't! I was so pleasantly surprised and said "yep, this is the one". This will be my first "premium" rebind I've ever done. I've been waiting to do one until I really felt happy with a particular text block. The one I had in mind this whole time was the heirloom version of the heritage bible which was expensive. I just couldn't justify spending that money only to have a rebinder rip the cover off and start over! I was so glad Crossway released this cheaper version.
1. I have the ESV Heirloom Heritage in Prussian blue. I love it. 😊
2. But I totally agree with Tim that the paper in the Heirloom Heritage actually looks (a) less opaque than the paper in the more affordable TruTone Heritage and (b) it also looks less sharp and white but more creamy than the TruTone Heritage paper. So whatever Crossway did with their more affordable TruTone Heritage, they did a great job, especially considering it's currently only about $35 (vs. $200+ for the Heirloom Heritage).
3. That said, I presume the paper in the Heirloom Heritage will last a lot longer than the paper in the TruTone Heritage, all things equal.
Thanks, Tim! While I do love my premium Bibles, I was really impressed with the ESV Heritage TruTone. I may have to pick one up and look into a re-bind, which I've never done.
I love the $35 ESV Heritage based on your presentation but it would be hard to give up my 12 point text in my Crossway ESV Large Print Mantel. 😊
This was very helpful. I have a Prussian Blue. It’s my all time favorite Bible, mainly because of how the paper feels as I’m holding it and turning pages. I can tell from the $35 version that I’ve been spoiled and would not enjoy using it. That sounds horrible, I know. Sorry.
Glad to see a comparison like this!
I bought the Heirloom Heritage in Black Goatskin about a month ago and I love it! It’s a really nice personal size Bible, easy to carry around my college campus and take to classes with me. I baby that thing so I try not to bring it everywhere because I don’t want to ruin it, but someday it will show wear and tear. I really want to look into the TruTone Heritage though because it may be something I take notes in or allow it to be beat up
I have the EVB Exclusive Olive Green and I like it a lot. It travels with me when I go out. Maybe down the road I may look at getting a custom rebind of the new base version.
Hey Tim... 35 dollar Heritage to rebind sounds intriguing, but generally wouldnt that cost more to do than going ahead and buying the premium? Once you add the extras like ribbons, dye etc? And with less quality paper? I would like Heritage one of these days.. great video! Thanks!
Yeah... most rebinds are gonna be in the $200-400 range.
@@timwildsmithThanks, Tim. I’ve always wondered about the cost of a rebind. I’ve watched videos on rebinding and the reminders earn every dollar that they charge.
I really wish they would do another run of those Heritages with the marbled olive cover. How special!
Tim, thank you for doing this review super helpful ! I finally ordered my 35$ one just cause i have 2 premuim bibles already but definitely see the 35$ one being a potiential rebind as well. Thank you for all you do and keep working hard on these awesome reviews God bless !
Man its hard to beat that Badalassi from Rugged Cross, but I love the Olive Green from Evangelical so much imma have to give it the win for me!
I have to agree, bookbinding can truly be a piece of art. My two favs of this video is the italian cowleather and the green one.
Regarding the "brightness" of the paper... I think ease on the eyes is a determining factor. To sharp of a contrast might not be appreciated by some people, whereas a slight see through and less bright white might be easier on the eyes for some..
Owning a Cambridge bible in goatskin with center column references is a joy that every lover of the bible should experience.
I have the Siena Heritage from EVB and it’s simply beautiful. The creamy and smooth paper really makes for an enjoyable reading experience.
hey Tim, a great non-premium bible you should look into is the NIV Wide Margin Bible in brown leathersoft. i got mine from Barnes & Noble and i wanted to recommend it to you
Thanks for the comparison! I think my fav is the version done by EB. The paper in the standard heritage looks fine, but I noticed in prior videos that it tends to flare a bit when open, but maybe that’s because it’s new. It’s hard to pass up the feel and flexibility of the premium covers and the weight of the paper.
I was wondering why the new ESV Heritage Bible looked so appealing . . . and yet familiar. I actually use a 2013 leather edition in the compact size (9pt font) as my daily tote along Bible . . . and didn’t even realize it until I compared it to the current editions and looked at the copyright page! No wonder I like this newer edition so much! 😂
Thank you. It definitely is an option to buy the cheap version and then customise the cover to your liking 😊
ive been a big fan of the paper in the cheaper editions of crossway than the premiums, its a bit thicker and less see through, I love that
Why, yes. Yes, premium Bibles are worth the price. Since you asked, my personal fave is Becca's Beauty: the green calfskin. Having said that, my tight retirement budget puts me in the $35 category. I hope they do the Omega in that nicely done affordable version, maybe the Alpha, too. Any plans for that, do you know, Tim? That rebind is nice, too. They're all nice.
Rugged Cross is the best! It’s my favorite rebind you have reviewed!
I just wish all of these bibles had TN and Zondy’s comfort print font. Just got a NKJV from Thomas Nelson and that comfort print is the best Bible font on the market. I wish everyone could use it.
I love the NKJV Comfort Print.
I was one who preordered the trutone version and had it in hand before they were even listed in stock at Crossway. I was super impressed with the paper that came in it and had planned to send it off for rebinding. However, just recently I picked up an ESV Alpha and now I’m really liking the look and feel of the heirloom paper over the “Chinese printed” editions after using it for a bit. I found a copy of the Siena Heritage on the secondary market to check out since it’s almost exactly what I had planned for a rebind anyways and would be about half the cost. Still up in the air about rebinding a cheaper paper Bible at this point.
My preference is to go with comparative mid-range pricing, in this case the NRSV Cambridge black French Morrocco leather (L.E.G.O.) - depending on vendor, these can range from about $115.00 to $140.00 (which is certainly not "cheap") but as beautiful as the super-premium Bibles are, $200.00+ feels excessive. I also have a Reformation Heritage KJV (Jongbloed) Bible, also in the less than $150.00 range. Bibles are a very personal choice, and I am happy with the ones I selected. They are both elegant and functional. I take care of them and plan to enjoy them for many years so worth the investment.
Well said. I absolutely agree.
I agree, Cambridge Bibles fill a niche in the market that offers European quality for value over the more exorbitant premium bibles or the economy stuff being printed in China, heaven forbid. I’m pretty brand loyal to Cambridge, and Oxford also makes reasonably priced, yet beautiful prayer books that are also printed and bound in the Netherlands. I know I’d rather have my Bibles made in Europe over China. Europe are allies and culturally very similar to the Anglosphere. Why support the Chinese Communist government when presented with better options? Maybe our iPhones have to be made in China, but I’d prefer my Bibles not being made by the Chinese communist government.
@@hurricane_partyYou echo my own thoughts exactly.
I'm not a single column gal, but the ESV heritage text block is starting to grow on me. I like the reddish chestnut colour of the trutone, and the slightly better paper opacity. I do wish Crossway would up their ribbon game though. A bible of this size and thickness could do with two thicker ribbons of a decent length, more akin to what Thomas Nelson would produce in bible of similar quality.
The premium ESV heritage editions are nice, though it irks me that the only option of a better quality bible in this textblock beyond trutone is a huge step into premium bible territory at US$200+ above the trutone price point. It would be nice to have a midway "genuine leather" option with better ribbons, slightly better construction, spine hubs and maybe slightly nicer paper with a price point halfway between trutone and premium.
I have the Wellington leather Heritage. I think it's worth every penny. I would definitely choose it over the trutone Heritage. My only suggestion would be to break your Wellington Heritage in and then review it. Yours looks brand new out of the box. It changes radically with use for the better.
Even if I get the cheapest one, the prices of rebinds these days is just so expensive that it’s not even worth it anymore and it’s actually very discouraging. I get that rebinders need to earn a living, but for it to cost more than the premiums is just not inviting to me.
I love the green AND the rebind (it reminds me of saddle leather)
Are they going to make more of the olive green. Love that color.
I think so… but not sure.
There was a rumor that EVB might release the ESV Study Bible in that Olive Green color, similarly designed like the Desert Camel but in Olive Green.
I wonder if the new Heritage has a slightly less bold ink, which is what contributes to its better opacity? 🤔 And Amen on the premium Personal Reference! 🙋♂️ I think overall I’d go with the Schuyler Sienna due to price, color, and ribbons. 🤓
GREAT VIDEO TIM! 🦬 🌲
Thanks!!
This is a great layout for the ESV. I think the only premium bibles that are worth buying is Thomas Nelson, the other companies are over priced
I'll go with the $35 option. Bleed through is my biggest pet peeve with Bibles.
I really like cross way and love what they are doing regarding their premium Bible but there Bibles that aren't premium are still amazing. I as well as my son both have Trutone ESV study Bible and my wife has a Trutone women's study Bible and we have a couple of compact ESVs and they are all very beautiful and very sturdy so i personally love how serious crossway takes getting a quality copy of Scripture to the Body of Christ. The Bible is the word of God and should be treated with respect and be affordable and Crossway does this very good but they also make such beautiful premium Bibles and perhaps one day I'll be able to get one. I do appreciate that they took such an awesome text block and put it at a price most can afford.
It is a truth that we are forced to admit (in this case, at least) that "Made in China" is not always a derogatory term AND it is often great value for money.
I agree.
They persecute people for believing, so I won’t buy any Bible printed there that gives them any sort of profit.
@timwildsmith way to delete my comment
@@SpaceJunkie12 wouldn't have been done without a valid reason
@@AndreFavron you mean pointing out the persecution of Chinese Christians and why I won’t buy a Bible that the CCP makes a profit on?
Mike has recently bowed out of the rebind game. He did great work have 2 or 3 rebinds by him.
Hi Tim thank you for sharing.
Personally I like the cheap red ESV on the right and then have that beautiful tan leather rebind.
I've ordered several of the truetone versions for rebinds and I also have someone who sent one in to get rebound. Overall, great textblock. But there is one detail I noticed about the paper, that it feels different in different parts of the Bible. The Old Testament, especially towards the beginning (like around Genesis) has that coarse feel, but the paper in the New Testament feels much smoother. I've seen this on 5 textblocks that I've handled. Wondering if that's the same thing in the one you received.
It isn’t available anymore, but the Horween Heritage is an amazing Bible. The Wellington is very nice, but not the same. Of the ones you did, the Evangelical Bible is my favorite.
I recently purchased a Trutone journalling edition for under $NZ100. There seems to be more ghosting than I've noticed on other Bibles, but the Bible is still readable. I figure that with care, it should last me a decent amount of time.
I'm far from wealthy, but I believe there are two materialistic items worth going premium on.
A Bible, and a Rifle. Both are solid investments that will carry you through some rough times.
As to which one I like best, I really like that evangelical exclusive in green. I have a Cambridge cameo in green, and while I really enjoy reading that bible, I don't really like the green that Cambridge went with.
I like the black Crossway Heirloom because of the black goatskin leather cover and the coppery looking gilding. However, if I were to buy one, it would be the $35 Tru-Tone. The other bibles are not worth 7 to 14 times as much as the Tru-Tone Bible.
You know me brother I love that Green 💚💚💚
There's no question. With my current budget... the cheapest one! 😂
Every tru tone Crossway bible I have is falling apart. The cover starts to flake after about a years worth of use. I understand that it is cheap but I feel it should last longer than a year. I have tried 4 times with their synthetic version and all have done what I described.
Now I have a Holman leathertouch that I have used for over a year and it looks as good as the day I bought it.
Good to know. Thanks for sharing your experience (no much info about their real durability). Wish those Truetone Bibles lasted more. I really like how they look.
This will be my first Trutone, but you are 100% right about the Holman leather touch. I have a NASB and KJV with that cover and they have aged nicely with years of use
Rebind because that leather is exceptional!!
Though I own a number of Bibles--between 7 translations (and growing... 😁)--my three KJV's run the gamut in price.
My first KJV is my "mid-priced" one: the Midsize Turquoise Reference Bible - Platinum Series from Church Bible Publishers. It has a water buffalo leather cover (Cranberry in color)--lovely in feel and appearance. (It now costs $199, though. 😬 It was $125 when I bought it in mid-2022.)
My second KJV is the Schuyler Canterbury KJV from Evangelical Bible ($205 in mid-2022 and no longer available, I think). I handle this one with loving care and read from it daily, alongside my (now-out-of-print) HCSB Study Bible. I love the look and feel of the black goatskin cover.
My third KJV is my least expensive one: a Personal Size Giant Print Reference Bible from Henderickson. I like having a rather inexpensive ($25) Bible to take on the go. I also just like having a teal-and-gray-colored Bible, 'cause funsies. 😁
I have an ESV men’s study Bible.The Bible’s paper is the thinnest in my collection.
I have a multitude of Bibles (I have been a passionate student of Christ and the Scriptures for over 40 years) that have been marked and well-used. These will be handed down when I am gone to specific loved ones - the rest of my Bibles to our church library. Still, I admit that I have recently written a letter to Zondervan's marketing team (Tim, respond and I will CC you as I think you would be interested in what I wrote, if you like...) about designing the "Ultimate Bible". If they decide to move forward with it, that is the type of Bible that I will use PRIMARILY and DAILY and it needs to be structurally and aesthetically magnificent. Premium Bibles have their place: they are the ones that we want to use everyday, take to church and when we travel, and be handed down to our most Biblically alive dependant.
Good morning, friends!
If I were someone who used one Bible all my life I’d buy premium but since I hate reading over notes, once Om done with it I get another. For that reason premium isn’t on my radar. I’m more interested in the different types like spiral, study, etc.
It appears the Heirloom has a darker text than the Heritage (cheaper one) even though the paper in the cheaper does look nicer as far a ghosting. Is it actually a darker print job or is it just camera/computer display?
I love how he just says casually I haven't used this $200 Bible I bought yet. Then why buy it?
Question. Which would take Fountain Pen or gel pen better or is ballpoint pen better on both?
the only premium Bible i have is a Thomas Nelson Open Bible from the 80s that i found at goodwill in excellent condition for 2.99 😂
I have a couple of those, one I’m going to rebind myself this summer. Fantastic Bible.
I would get the $35 version. If I am going to pay $200+ for a premium Bible (and I am considering it) I want more features than simply the text block. Need to have references at the very least. Just my $0.02...
Do the premium editions have a darker print than the cheaper one?
What’s the cost to have an inexpensive Bible like that rebound with all the bells and whistles?
Depends on the rebinder… anywhere from $250-750
I wish you’d included the font/print size.
I'm thinking about a 9pt.
Are there stores that you can go to in order to physically feel the premium nature of the more expensive bibles?
Nope… that’s why I make these videos!
My problem is that those trutone bibles just deteriorate after a year or so of daily use. Especially around the creases, the outher layer of synthetic just starts to fall off. Has that improved on the trutone at all?
Tim, didn’t you say once that the paper coming from China tends to be better than others? It sticks w/ me because it sounded so bizarre. (But maybe I remember wrong.)😂
I don't remember saying that... but that doesn't mean I didn't!
😷😷🇺🇦😷
I think I would get the least expensive one because it seems to have least ghosting, and use it as a journaling bible with notes…. I’d be interested if there was bleed thru and/or smudging with note taking.
I can't see getting such a nice Bible with high quality leather just to throw the cover in the trash and do a rebind.
@timwildsmith I love your channel! Thank you so much! does anyone make a premium verse by verse dual column esv Bible?
Yes... the Cambridge ESV Topaz is awesome!
Awesome! Thanks so much!!!
Olive, cause I own it 😁
it looks a great colour
What does custom rebind mean? Is it like if i was to buy a bible off amazon but hate the cover they will change it?
Yes! Here's my playlist of videos dedicated to Bible rebinds: ua-cam.com/play/PLxYZnUdk-hd2z06EWdN60XVWRAPqHVn49.html
@@timwildsmith thank you 🥰
No, I don't have any premium Bibles. If you take care of them like we should, you don't need the expensive leather. Crossway just trying to make a bunch of money.
I feel the same way. Any Bible should last a long time if you take care of it. I've had my KJV Center Column Reference Bible from Thomas Nelson in Brown Leathersoft for almost a year (This May will be one year) and it's in great shape. I got it at a Christian bookstore with my name engraved on it for around $95 for a birthday present. At least Crossway does make non-Premium Bibles, unlike R.L.Allan, Schuyler and Humble Lamb.
A Bible lasting “almost a year” is not what most people buying premium Bibles are after. I’d like mine to last 40 years, and still be usable by my kids or grandkids. I don’t want to have to re-copy 5 or 10 or 15 years of notes into a new Bible, because the old one is falling apart. I don’t want to have to get familiar with a new look, layout, font, or typesetting, because the Bible I’ve come to know and love is no longer in print in 5 or 10 years when I need a replacement.
There are more reasons to want the highest quality paper, binding, and cover than for bragging rights on UA-cam.
@@Bobc51 I wasn't trying to brag. Unlike you, some of us are not fortunate enough to be able to afford a Premium Bible.
@j.woodbury412 I didn’t mean to imply that you were bragging. People often complain that there’s no practical need for anything other than a $10 paperback Bible. The story goes that people are idolatrous over the externals of the Bible or showing off with premium options. My point was just that there are practical reasons someone might choose to spend $150 on a Bible instead of $50. Sorry if it came off as an attack on you.
@@Bobc51 Oh okay, Sorry I misunderstood what you were saying.
I like the KJV and other versions printed by Cambridge University Press. They are often priced over $200. What you notice are the details in premium materials such as calfskin leather, paper quality and gilded page edges. There are even old etching plates inside the Bible, such as the Family Bible. Premium Bibles are designed to last and are perfect for gift.
Taking a chance on the $35 bible will be here in a week or so. Will let you know then.
My favorite? None of them. Why? I'm a fan of the translation, but aside from that, these Bibles check none of the boxes I look for when shopping for a new one.
Shoot! None with silver gilding and silver on the spine.
Verse by verse or bust!
I just need crossway to understand that paper doesn't hold up. Stop using paper instead of vinyl on the liner.
Wasn't the green one 200 even
Yes, it was. I grabbed one before they ran out.
Ghosting looks the same.
You should give many of those bibles away and be charitable. You do not read them all. I buy many bibles for people because Jesus would want that.
I feel like if you can spend thousands on a vacation and hundreds on a pair of sneakers, a few hundred for a great Bible should be no problem. It's when you're buying a new premium bible every month or so often, to me that may be a little idolatrous. Unless you're giving them away?
I would be willing to pay anything to not have my Bibles made in China.