MXene has been widely used in energy storage, photocatalysis and lubrication area due to its good mechanical, electrical, and chemical properties. However, its friction and adhesion properties have not yet been fully grasped. In this study, for the first time, atomic force microscopy (AFM) Nanoman technology was used to compare the nano friction and adhesion of Ti3C2 and Nb2C MXene. The results indicated that the friction and adhesion of Nb2C were less than Ti3C2 under the same conditions, which is related to the difference in surface dipole moment density. In addition, adhesion and friction of both two MXenes decrease with the temperature increase. This study provides a broader application prospect for these new materials. Display omitted •The friction and adhesion of Nb2C were less than Ti3C2 under the same conditions.•Adhesion and friction force of Ti3C2 and Nb2C MXenes decrease with the temperature increase.•The differences in friction and adhesion between Ti3C2 and Nb2C MXene are related to its surface dipole moment density.