The Top 10 Free Resume Builders of 2023 (That Are Actually Free)

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Is writing your resume giving you a headache? Let a free resume builder ease the pain and help you create a polished, professional resume in no time.

All you need to do is plug in your information. The resume builder takes care of the rest!

To get started, follow these four simple steps:

• Choose a resume builder that suits your needs. Check out our list of the best free resume builder tools to find the perfect one for you.
• Gather your materials. Make sure you have your current resume and the job description of the position you’re applying for on hand.
• Follow the prompts provided by your chosen resume builder. Our ratings will help you gauge the level of effort each prompt requires.
• Optimize your resume for ATS (applicant tracking systems) with Jobscan’s resume scanner.

The following resume builders are really free. We’ve even provided tips on how to use them without entering any credit card information. 

Give these builders a try and start crafting your winning resume today!

Table of Contents

• The Top 10 Free Resume Builders of 2023
• #1 – Jobscan’s Resume Builder
• #2 – CakeResume
• #3 – Resume Genius
• #4 – My Perfect Resume
• #5 – Indeed
• #6 – Zety
• #7 – Resume.com
• #8 – Novoresume
• #9 – Standard Resume
• #10 – Canva

The Top 10 Free Resume Builders of 2023

#1 – Jobscan’s Resume Builder

Usability score: Extremely Easy

Why do we like it?

We have to admit, we’re a bit biased here! But we really like this resume builder. It’s incredibly easy to use and effortlessly guides job seekers through the process. 

Our favorite part is that it’s ATS-friendly. The templates are designed with applicant tracking systems in mind, ensuring that your resume stays optimized and has the best chance of getting past the initial screening process.

Another feature of Jobscan’s resume builder is the split-screen format. 

The first section prompts you to input the information you want to include in your resume. As you fill in your details, you can see the builder formatting that information into the second section, which becomes your final product. 

It’s a seamless and intuitive process that helps you create a polished and professional resume in no time.

Is this resume builder really free? How do you use it?

Yes, it’s free! And it’s incredibly easy to use.

All you have to do is select one of our ATS-friendly resume templates. Then you can personalize the template for each job you’re applying for by filling out our simple forms. 

Once you’re finished, you can download, print, and submit your resume to potential employers with confidence.

Along with the free resume builder, Jobscan offers cover letter templates, resume writing guides, and more, making it easy for you to put together a stellar job application.

#2 – CakeResume

Usability score: Extremely Easy

Why do we like it?

CakeResume really is a piece of cake to use. Simply drag and drop pre-made sections, update your information, and voila! 

You also have the option to showcase your professional brand even further by creating a public profile and uploading your LinkedIn information. 

This gives hiring managers who visit CakeResume the opportunity to view your information and potentially consider you for job openings.

Is this resume builder really free? How do you use it?

CakeResume allows you to create one free basic resume. We suggest using the free download to create a basic resume that you can edit and update for different jobs.

Once you’re ready to download, just click the PDF button in the upper left corner to save a free copy of your resume to your computer.

When you’re done building your resume with CakeResume, use Jobscan’s resume scanner to see how well it matches the job description of the position you’re applying for.

#3 – Resume Genius

Usability score: Extremely Easy

Why do we like it?

Resume Genius is as easy as a resume builder gets. 

First, the builder guides you through a series of multiple-choice questions about your education and experience. This leaves only a few blanks for you to fill in with dates, roles, and other straightforward answers.

We especially like the “Add Pre-Written Bullet Points” feature. This time-saving tool allows you to select from a vast selection of pre-written bullet points that match your specific industry or job role.

This feature is an excellent way to streamline the resume-building process and to ensure that job responsibilities are written with precision and clarity.

Is this resume builder really free? How do you use it?

When you’ve completed your resume, you’ll be directed to a pricing page that may seem to suggest that the most affordable option is a 14-day trial of Resume Genius for just $2.95, followed by a monthly subscription charge of $24.95. 

But there’s an alternate option that requires no credit card information. 

Simply click on this link, then log in again, and you’ll be taken to a page where you can see your saved resume. You can download it for free as a .txt file, which is a basic document that removes formatting. 

This is an excellent option for those seeking a budget-friendly and hassle-free solution to their resume-building needs.

When you’re done building your resume with Resume Genius, use Jobscan’s resume scanner to see how well it matches the job description of the position you’re applying for.

#4 – My Perfect Resume

Usability score: Medium

Why do we like it?

My Perfect Resume understands the importance of highlighting critical skills and relevant keywords. As our extensive research at Jobscan has demonstrated, these factors are crucial to the success of any job search. 

With My Perfect Resume, you have the ability to search for specific skills by job title and add them with just one click. 

The final step of the process allows you to add optional sections, such as awards, certifications, and volunteer work. This can be especially beneficial for those embarking on a career change or entering the job market for the first time. 

Is this resume builder really free? How do you use it?

When you’re finished building your resume, do NOT click “save and next.” Instead, select “download” on the left toolbar (if you reach the plans page, you’ve gone too far). 

Then, choose “Plain Text (.txt)” from the pop-up window. Your online resume will be downloaded for free as a basic document without formatting. 

When you’re done building your resume with My Perfect Resume, use Jobscan’s resume scanner to see how well it matches the job description of the position you’re applying for.

#5 – Indeed

Usability score: Medium

Why do we like it?

Indeed not only offers a lightning-fast resume builder, but it also allows you to automatically share your resume with potential employers on the site. 

This feature can vastly increase your resume’s visibility and help you stand out in a crowded job market.

Indeed’s resume builder also provides the option of uploading your current resume and automatically reformatting it, making the process even more efficient.

Is this resume builder really free? How do you use it?

Indeed doesn’t hide the free options the way many of the other builders do. 

Simply sign up with your email and password, create your resume using the builder, and then download the finished product. 

What’s more, you’ll never be prompted to upgrade to a paid account at any point in the process.

When you’re done building your resume with Indeed, use Jobscan’s resume scanner to see how well it matches the job description of the position you’re applying for.

#6 – Zety

Usability score: Easy

Why do we like it?

Zety is a resume builder that truly understands the importance of customization. 

With this builder, you’ll enjoy an unparalleled level of control over your resume’s appearance and formatting. Choose your preferred color scheme, font size, line spacing, and even the way your dates are formatted. 

And that’s just the beginning – with Zety, you can also add links to your social channels, such as LinkedIn (a must-have for all industries) and Twitter or Facebook (particularly valuable for social media marketing positions).

Plus, you’ll receive tips and examples to help you write a compelling summary statement that captures your unique value as a candidate. 

Is this resume builder really free? How do you use it?

While Zety does not offer the option to download your resume for free, the platform does provide an easy workaround. 

To create a free link to your resume, simply navigate to the “Online Resume” option in the header once you’ve completed your build. From there, generate a link to your resume and open it in your browser. 

Once you have the link open, simply right-click and select “Save” to download the document to your device. 

With this clever trick, you can enjoy all the benefits of Zety’s powerful resume builder without having to pay a cent.

When you’re done building your resume with Zety, use Jobscan’s resume scanner to see how well it matches the job description of the position you’re applying for.

#7 – Resume.com

Usability score: Medium

Why do we like it?

Unlike other builders that feel like a black box, Resume.com is actually set up like a resume itself, which makes it easy to visualize the final product as you work your way through each section. 

This makes Resume.com a great choice if you want to maintain control over the process and fine-tune every aspect of your resume. 

What’s more, Resume.com offers a unique “Import LinkedIn” option, which allows you to seamlessly transfer information from your LinkedIn profile to the template with just a single click.

Is this resume builder really free? How do you use it?

You can download your resume as a PDF, Word Document, Rtf, and Txt file for free, without any hidden fees or surprises.

When you’re done building your resume with Resume.com, use Jobscan’s resume scanner to see how well it matches the job description of the position you’re applying for.

#8 – Novoresume

Usability score: Easy

Why do we like it?

When it comes to building your resume on Novoresume, simplicity is key. 

The interface is user-friendly and intuitive, making it easy to navigate and create a polished resume in no time. 

After selecting your preferred resume format, simply fill in the necessary information and you’re good to go. 

There’s even the option to include additional sections like awards, certificates, foreign languages, volunteer experience, and more. You can easily remove sections that aren’t relevant to your specific needs.

Is this resume builder really free? How do you use it?

If you’re using the Basic Account on this resume builder, you can download your resume for free, regardless of which template or features you choose to use.

When you’re done building your resume with Novoresume, use Jobscan’s resume scanner to see how well it matches the job description of the position you’re applying for.

#9 – Standard Resume

Usability score: Medium

Why do we like it?

One of the best things about Standard Resume’s builder is that it allows you to easily import your information from LinkedIn, saving you valuable time. 

Another cool feature is the ability to edit your resume on the go from your smartphone. 

Finally, Standard Resume offers real-time suggestions and tips for improving your resume, so you can rest assured that your resume is as polished and effective as possible.

Once you’re finished building your resume, you simply download it as a PDF.

Is this resume builder really free? How do you use it?

While there are paid plans available that offer additional features and functionality, the basic version of Standard Resume is completely free to use. 

Just sign up and start using it.

When you’re done building your resume with Standard Resume, use Jobscan’s resume scanner to see how well it matches the job description of the position you’re applying for.

#10 – Canva

Usability score: Easy

Why do we like it?

Canva offers a wide variety of resume templates in different categories, so you’re sure to find one that fits your style and needs. 

Using Canva to create your resume is a breeze – simply choose a template you like, add your information, and download your resume for free. It’s that simple! 

Is this resume builder really free? How do you use it?

With Canva, you can use as many free resume templates as you want – there’s no limit. 

All you need to do is sign up for a basic account and you’re ready to start creating a winning resume. 

When you’re done building your resume with Canva, use Jobscan’s resume scanner to see how well it matches the job description of the position you’re applying for.

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Remember, if you want to be 100 percent sure that your resume is ATS-friendly, try Jobscan’s resume builder.

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