Creating a resume from scratch is hard work. That’s why many job seekers use an online resume builder.
A resume builder comes with pre-made professional resume templates. All you need to do is plug in your information. The resume builder takes care of the rest, saving you valuable time.
Some resume builders cost money, others are free. The problem is that many resume builders that advertise themselves as free are NOT actually free. After you’ve spent time working on your resume, you’ll find that you need to pay to download it. This isn’t free, it’s frustrating!
In this article, we present the 10 best free resume builders. We’ll give you the pros and cons of each builder, show you how to use it, and provide a resume example.
The top 10 best free resume builders
The following list only features resume builders that are free. There are no hidden costs, so you can write your resume and download it without any surprises.
1. Jobscan
Usability score: Extremely Easy
Why do I like this resume builder?
I have to admit, I’m a bit biased. But I really like this newly updated resume builder. It’s easy to use and creates a highly readable, professional resume in no time. And it’s totally free.
To get started, you can either import a resume or create a new resume from scratch. But now there’s another option. You can import your LinkedIn profile and the builder will automatically turn it into a resume.
There are nine free resume templates to choose from. Each template is ATS-friendly, which helps your resume get through the initial screening process.
This resume builder also suggests skills based on your job title, which can help you tailor your resume to match the requirements of your target job. And, unlike many free resume builders, it allows you to build and download an unlimited number of resumes.
When you’re done creating your resume, you can click on the “Jobs” button to see personalized job listings. You’ll then be able to optimize your resume for the jobs you’re interested in by using Jobscan’s resume scanner (up to two free jobs a month).
The resume scanner provides you with a resume score that shows how closely your resume matches the description of the job you’re applying to. It also tells you how to increase your score. The higher your score, the better your chances of landing a job interview.
Is this resume builder really free? How do you use it?
Yes, Jobscan’s resume builder is 100% free. There are no hidden costs.
- Either import an existing resume, create one from scratch, or import your LinkedIn profile.
- Choose one of nine ATS-friendly resume templates.
- Fill in your contact information, work history, education, skills, and certificates.
- Click on the “Jobs” button to see personalized job listings.
- Use Jobscan’s resume scanner to optimize your resume (two free jobs a month).
- Download your resume as a PDF.
Pros and cons of using Jobscan’s resume builder
- The tool is completely free to use, making it accessible to everyone.
- The split-screen format makes it easy to preview your resume as you build it.
- The free templates are ATS-friendly.
- There are no hidden costs.
- You can use Jobscan’s resume scanner to optimize your resume according to best practices.
- AI assistant is only available with the paid version.
Sample resume made with Jobscan
2. CakeResume
Usability score: Extremely Easy
Why do I like this resume builder?
First of all, there’s a nice selection of templates. And the drag-and-drop interface allowed me to easily add and rearrange sections as needed.
In addition to a resume, I was able to create a public profile, which I linked my LinkedIn profile to. It was then easy to generate links to both my profile and my resume that could easily be shared.
The only downside of CakeResume is that you can just build one basic resume using their free version.
Is this resume builder really free? How do you use it?
Yes, CakeResume is free, but you can only create one basic resume.
- Sign up for a free account.
- Pick a template that suits your professional style.
- Use their drag-and-drop interface to organize your professional experiences, education, and skills sections.
- Fill in your details.
- Create a public profile and link your LinkedIn information for added visibility.
- Click the PDF button in the upper left corner to download your resume for free.
Pros and cons of using CakeResume’s builder
- The drag-and-drop sections make customization simple.
- You can create a public profile, enhancing your professional presence.
- You can easily download your resume in PDF format.
- You can create a shareable link to your online resume.
- You can only create one free basic resume.
- The resume can only be downloaded in PDF format.
- The default templates are simple and might not be visually appealing.
Sample resume made with CakeResume
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. GotResumeBuilder
Usability score: Extremely Easy
Why do I like this resume builder?
I found this free resume builder super easy to use. I used the drag-and-drop feature to quickly organize my sections, and was able to customize fonts and size without any problem.
I love that GotResumeBuilder offers an AI-powered writing assistant. This is a bonus in any free resume builder.
Finally, I liked that I could download my resume as a PDF or Word file without any hidden costs.
Overall, although it might not have all the bells and whistles of some paid tools, GotResumeBuilder is a fantastic option for anyone needing a reliable and cost-free resume builder.
Is this resume builder really free? How do you use it?
Yes, GotResumeBuilder is entirely free.
- Sign up for a free account.
- Select a template that fits your style.
- Add your contact info, job title, work experience, education, and skills.
- Use the AI-powered writing assistant to help you.
- Adjust fonts, sizes, and other design elements.
- Check the real-time preview to see how your resume looks.
- Once satisfied, download your resume in your preferred format (PDF, Word, HTML, or plain text).
Pros and cons of using GotResumeBuilder
- You can create and download resumes in multiple formats (PDF, Word, HTML, txt).
- The platform features an AI-powered writing assistant that can suggest bullet points.
- Easy to customize with drag-and-drop organizer, quick font adjuster, and real-time preview.
- May lack some of the advanced functionalities found in premium resume builders, such as more in-depth resume design, customization, and integration with Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS).
Sample resume made with GotResumeBuilder
When you’re done building your resume with GotResumeBuilder, use Jobscan’s resume scanner to see how well it matches the job description of the position you’re applying for.
4. Resume Trick
Usability score: Easy
Why do I like this resume builder?
Resume Trick offers a variety of free, customizable templates that cater to different styles and industries. It also has an AI-powered assistant, which provides writing suggestions and formatting tips. This is a big plus.
This resume builder is also multilingual. Besides English, other languages include German, French, Italian, Spanish, and Portuguese. Another plus.
Finally, you can download the finished resume in PDF format with no hidden costs. Everything a free resume builder should have!
Is this resume builder really free? How do you use it?
Yes, Resume Trick is entirely free.
- Register for a free account using your Google credentials.
- Browse the selection of resume templates, which range from classic to modern designs.
- Enter your information, including your professional qualifications, education, and relevant skills.
- Use the AI tool to get helpful suggestions and formatting tips.
- Adjust the template’s layout, fonts, and colors to personalize your resume.
- Preview your resume.
- Once you’re satisfied, download your resume in PDF format for free.
Pros and cons of using Resume Trick’s builder
- A range of customizable templates that cater to different styles and industries.
- The AI assistant provides helpful writing suggestions and formatting tips.
- You can create resumes in multiple languages, including German, French, Italian, Spanish, and Portuguese.
- You can download the finished resume in PDF format at no cost.
- While the platform offers basic customization and AI assistance, it may lack some of the more advanced features available in premium resume builders.
Sample resume made with Resume Trick
When you’re done building your resume with Resume Trick, use Jobscan’s resume scanner to see how well it matches the job description of the position you’re applying for.
5. Enhancv
Usability score: Moderately easy
Why do I like this resume builder?
Enhancv is another strong resume builder that does the basics well. It’s got templates, easy customization, and even an AI assistant that helps “write and improve resumes”. And, of course, you can download your resume in PDF format.
BUT, you can only use the free version of Enhancv for 7 days. After that you’ll have to pay for a subscription.
During the free trial period, you can create up to two resumes and cover letters. You have access to all available resume and cover letter templates and basic resume sections.
Is this resume builder really free? How do you use it?
Yes, it’s free for 7 days, after which you’ll have to pay for a subscription.
- Sign up for a free account.
- Click on “Build Your Resume” to begin creating your resume.
- You can either start from scratch or upload an existing resume to get started.
- Select a template that suits your style and industry.
- Fill in your information.
- Use the drag-and-drop interface to rearrange sections. You can add up to 15 section items during the free trial.
- Check the real-time preview of your resume.
- During the free 7-day trial, you can download your resume in PDF format.
Pros and cons of using Enhancv’s builder
- Offers a wide range of templates that cater to different industries and styles.
- Features an intuitive drag-and-drop interface that makes it easy to customize layouts, fonts, and colors.
- The AI-powered assistant provides writing suggestions and formatting tips.
- Users can preview their resume as they build it.
- After the 7-day trial, you must pay for a subscription to continue to access the resume builder.
- During the free trial, users are restricted to a maximum of 15 section items.
Sample resume made with Enhancv
When you’re done building your resume with Enhancv, use Jobscan’s resume scanner to see how well it matches the job description of the position you’re applying for.
6. ResumeGiants
Usability score: Moderately easy
Why do I like this resume builder?
I found ResumeGiants to be an excellent tool for creating a professional resume and cover letter.
First of all, the platform is free to use. You can create and download your resume without any hidden charges. And it has an AI assistant, which provides writing suggestions and formatting tips.
The platform is available in nearly a dozen languages, including German, Spanish, French, Italian, Dutch, Polish, Portuguese, Hebrew, Chinese, and Japanese.
Overall, ResumeGiants is a fantastic, user-friendly option for job seekers looking to create standout resumes at no cost.
Is this resume builder really free? How do you use it?
Yes, ResumeGiants is completely free.
- Create a free account.
- Browse the variety of templates available and select the best fit.
- Fill in your personal details (address, email, phone number), work experience, education, and skills.
- Adjust the layout, fonts, and colors to suit your preferences.
- Use the AI-powered suggestions for writing and formatting tips.
- Check the real-time preview to ensure everything looks good.
- Download your resume in your preferred format (PDF, Word, etc.) for free.
Pros and cons of using ResumeGiant’s builder
- You can create and download resumes and cover letters without any hidden charges.
- Available in nearly a dozen languages.
- Provides AI-generated writing suggestions and formatting tips.
- The interface is intuitive and easy to navigate.
- Resumes created may not always be optimized for Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS).
- While the free features are robust, some advanced features may be limited compared to paid services.
Sample resume made with ResumeGiants
When you’re done building your resume with ResumeGiants, use Jobscan’s resume scanner to see how well it matches the job description of the position you’re applying for.
7. Indeed
Usability score: Moderate
Why do I like this resume builder?
The best thing about Indeed’s resume builder is that you can automatically share your resume with potential employers on the Indeed website.
Now for the negatives. Overall, I didn’t feel that this resume builder was flexible enough. For example, next to each resume skill you must add your experience level. I didn’t want that option but there’s no way to turn it off.
The education section was also limited (no option to choose MBA?). Plus, the ability to manually edit entries is limited as well.
But perhaps the biggest issue I had with this resume builder was that it doesn’t save your work! Although they do warn you with this message, “Your information will not be saved when this browser tab is closed.”
Is this resume builder really free? How do you use it?
Yes, Indeed’s resume builder is free.
- Sign in to your Indeed account (or create one first).
- Click “Build your free resume”.
- Enter your contact info, work history, years of experience, and education.
- Include additional sections like skills, certifications, awards, and projects.
- Download your resume in PDF format.
Pros and cons of using Indeed’s resume builder
- You can automatically share your resume with potential employers on Indeed.
- Indeed’s resume builder is completely free with no hidden costs.
- You can upload your existing resume to have it automatically reformatted.
- The builder isn’t flexible enough; there’s no way to turn off options you don’t want.
- The ability to manually edit entries is limited.
- The builder does not save your work automatically, and your information will be lost if the browser tab is closed.
Sample resume made with Indeed
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.
8. Kickresume
Usability score: Moderate
Why do I like this resume builder?
I liked the user-friendly interface and the AI-powered writing assistant, which can help you generate and rewrite content.
Unfortunately, you can only list two skills with the free version, which is quite limiting. I also didn’t like that I couldn’t add a resume headline or resume summary. And the preview was too small to read properly.
On the positive side, the unlimited downloads are a nice feature for a free tool, and it offers the option to create a matching cover letter.
Is this resume builder really free? How do you use it?
Yes it’s free, but there are limitations (like only being able to list two skills).
- Sign up for a free Kickresume account.
- Select one of the four basic resume templates available.
- Enter your contact details, work history, and education.
- Include additional sections like skills (limited to 2 skills in the free version).
- Preview your resume.
- Download your resume in PDF format, with unlimited downloads available.
Pros and cons of using Kickresume’s builder
- Allows you to use AI to generate and rewrite content.
- You can download your resume as many times as needed without additional costs.
- Provides the option to create a matching cover letter.
- You can only list two skills with the free version.
- The preview is too small to read comfortably.
- There is no option to include a resume headline or summary.
- The free version lacks flexibility in key areas, making it less practical for comprehensive resume building.
Sample resume made with Kickresume
When you’re done building your resume with Kickresume, use Jobscan’s resume scanner to see how well it matches the job description of the position you’re applying for.
9. Canva
Usability score: Moderate
Why do I like this resume builder?
Canva is one of the most popular resume builders. It provides a variety of well-designed and visually attractive templates, allowing job seekers to quickly and easily create the perfect resume. It’s also easy to customize colors, fonts, and layouts to truly make your resume your own.
However, many professional resume writers do NOT recommend using Canva.
“While Canva resume templates look impressive at first glance, I do not recommend them for electronic submissions,” says resume expert Jazlyn Unbedacht. “Canva templates typically feature size 8 point to 10 point font, which is difficult to see, graphics that can filter the resume out when put through an Applicant Tracking System, and the formatting can be confusing to a human resources specialist or hiring manager.”
Is this resume builder really free? How do you use it?
Yes, Canva users can create, edit, and download their resumes for free.
- Visit Canva’s website and sign up for a free account.
- Select a free template that fits your style.
- Open the template and use Canva’s drag-and-drop interface to personalize it.
- Change colors, fonts, and layouts to your liking.
- Enter your personal details, work experience, education, and skills.
- Add text boxes for additional sections like certifications or awards.
- Click the “Download” button, choose PDF format, and download your resume.
- Save your project in Canva for future updates and generate a shareable link if needed.
Pros and cons of using Canva’s resume builder
- The drag-and-drop functionality makes it easy to customize templates, even for beginners.
- Hundreds of free, professionally designed templates are available.
- Users can personalize colors, fonts, and layouts
- Resumes can be downloaded in multiple formats (PDF, JPG, PNG) as many times as needed without any cost.
- Many of Canva’s templates might not be appropriate for Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS).
- You can’t download your resume in Word format.
- There are no expert tips for writing or suggestions for relevant keywords, making it harder to tailor resumes for ATS.
Sample resume made with Canva
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.
10. Resume.com
Usability score: Moderate
Why do I like this resume builder?
Resume.com is owned by Indeed, so you’ll need an Indeed account to use this builder. It is possible to build a resume in guest mode without signing in, but it will be deleted after 48 hours.
Overall, this builder is easy to use. You can drag sections to reorder them, and you’ll be able to preview your resume in real-time as you build it, which is always a positive.
You can also add custom sections, which adds some flexibility. For example, if you want a headline section, you can manually create one.
I especially liked the tips that pop up as you add your information to each section. And it’s simple to download your resume as a PDF (there’s no Word option though).
Unfortunately, I thought the final resume looked a bit bland and uninspiring.
Is this resume builder really free? How do you use it?
While this builder is free, you must create an Indeed account and use it to sign into Resume.com. If you don’t, your resume will be deleted in 48 hours (you’ll even see a clock counting down).
- Create an Indeed account and use it to log in.
- Pick a template that suits your professional style.
- Add your information to existing sections like work experience, education, and skills.
- Create custom sections (like for the headline) and reorder them by dragging.
- Click the PDF button to download your resume.
Pros and cons of using Resume.com’s builder
- The builder allows you to easily visualize your resume as you build it.
- You can add custom sections, such as a headline, for greater flexibility.
- Easily reorder sections by dragging and dropping them.
- The tips feature provides useful guidance as you add information to each section.
- Simple to download your resume as a PDF file.
- You need an Indeed account to use the builder since Resume.com is owned by Indeed.
- The final resume can look a bit bland and uninspiring.
- Resumes can only be downloaded as PDFs, not Word documents.
- Your resume will only be saved for 48 hours unless you create an Indeed account.
Sample resume made with Resume.com
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.
FAQs
A resume builder is the easy way to build your resume. It simplifies the process of creating a professional resume by offering templates and step-by-step guidance, ensuring your resume is well-structured and highlights your strengths.
Yes, many resume builders offer completely free templates that jobseekers can use to create and download their resumes without any cost.
Some resume builders are completely free, while others may charge for additional features like downloading or premium templates. Always check for any hidden costs.
The best resume builder depends on your needs, but popular options include Jobscan, Resume Genius, Novoresume, and Resume.com, known for their ease of use and comprehensive features.
Yes, many resume builders offer tips, examples, and suggestions to help you write effective resume content tailored to your job application.
