I have been travelling to USA for over five years now and have visited JFK and Newark.
Newark has several advantages over JFK.
To get to JFK involves traveling on some of the busiest roads in New York. Although Newark is in a busy section of the region, the roads are generally less full and the access is easier. Newark is generally less busy than JFK, although there are just as many international flights many people prefer to use JFK rather than Newark.
Newark is currently undergoing improvements which make a nightmare to commute to and from. The road infrastructure is completely changing, and the parking lots are being improved. While I am sure this will help in the future, it makes it a nightmare to get in and out of the airport now!
Additionally the interior is changing. Newark is a sprawling unorganized airport that is unfriendly for visitors. It is undergoing a massive overhaul, and while many areas are already seeing a huge improvement, e.g. the food area is much improved and is more like a mall. The improvements will undoubtebly make the airport friendlire, but for know it is a mess.
Saying all that, I find that once you are in the 'gate' the airport is generally good, although the international area does not have as good shops or restaurants as London or JFK. Generally the planes are on time, and checking in is OK. Sometimes there are large lines to wait in, but if you get there early you will be fine!
Overall Newark is not a very pleasing airport, I feel that it will improve as they finish work, but for now I would advise most people to go to JFK.
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Advantages: Pleasant security people, well served from all over USA and UK Disadvantages: Expensive food, Rude staff, Tiny toilets, Badly thought-out smoking area.