AI has changed what's possible with a CV tool. Where building a tailored, professional resume once took hours of manual work, AI-assisted tools can now do it in minutes.
But not all tools are equal — and "free" often comes with asterisks.
Here's an honest breakdown of the best free AI CV builders available in 2026.
What Makes a Good AI CV Builder?
Before the comparison, here's the criteria that actually matters:
- ATS optimisation — Does it help your CV pass automated screening?
- Genuine AI tailoring — Does it actually use the job description, or just suggest generic improvements?
- Template quality — Are the templates ATS-readable and professionally designed?
- Export formats — Can you get a proper PDF and an editable DOCX?
- Actually free — Is the core functionality available without a paid plan?
1. TailorCV (tailorcv.live) — Best for Job-Specific Tailoring
What it does: Upload your existing CV + paste a job description → AI rewrites your CV for that specific role → instant ATS score → download PDF or DOCX.
Standout features:
- Deep AI tailoring that rewrites your summary, bullet points, and skills to match the exact job description
- ATS score (0–100) with keyword match, experience relevance, and skills alignment breakdown
- 5 LaTeX-rendered professional templates (Classic, Modern Deedy, Minimal Modern, Professional Plus, Jake Ryan)
- AI chat editor — ask it to "make my summary more concise" or "add Python to my skills"
- Built-from-scratch CV builder with per-section AI assist
Free tier: Completely free — no account required, no feature limits.
Limitations: No cloud storage (CV saves to your browser's local storage). No LinkedIn import.
Best for: Job seekers who already have a CV and want to quickly tailor it for each application.
2. Resume.io — Best for Visual Templates
What it does: Guided CV builder with AI writing suggestions and a large template library.
Standout features:
- Large selection of visual templates
- Section-by-section writing prompts
- Mobile-friendly editor
Free tier: Limited — you can create a CV but PDF download requires a paid plan.
Limitations: The free tier watermarks your export. AI features are mostly paywalled. No ATS scoring. Templates prioritise visual appeal over ATS compatibility.
Best for: Those who prioritise visual design and are willing to pay for the full experience.
3. Kickresume — Best Template Variety
What it does: Template-based CV builder with AI content suggestions.
Standout features:
- Wide range of templates including designs by Apple and Google employees
- AI phrases and bullet point suggestions
- Cover letter builder included
Free tier: Partial — limited templates, AI features require premium.
Limitations: Most useful features are behind a paywall. ATS optimisation is limited on the free tier.
Best for: People who want visual inspiration and are comfortable with a paid subscription.
4. Enhancv — Best for Career Storytelling
What it does: CV builder focused on helping candidates communicate personal brand and narrative.
Standout features:
- Unique sections (personal strengths, life philosophy)
- AI content improvement suggestions
- Strong template designs
Free tier: Partial — creates CVs but exports are paywalled.
Limitations: Non-standard CV sections may hurt ATS performance. Core features require payment.
Best for: Senior professionals, creatives, and people applying to culture-focused companies.
5. Zety — Most Guided Experience
What it does: Fully guided CV builder with step-by-step prompts and pre-written content suggestions.
Standout features:
- Extensive pre-written bullet point library
- Clear, guided interface
- Real-time content tips
Free tier: Very limited — preview only, no downloads without subscription.
Limitations: Expensive subscription relative to features. Not truly free.
Best for: First-time CV builders who want a lot of hand-holding through the process.
Quick Comparison Table
| Tool | ATS Score | AI Tailoring | Free Export | No Sign-up |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TailorCV | ✅ | ✅ Deep | ✅ | ✅ |
| Resume.io | ❌ | ⚠️ Basic | ❌ | ❌ |
| Kickresume | ⚠️ Limited | ⚠️ Basic | ❌ | ❌ |
| Enhancv | ❌ | ⚠️ Basic | ❌ | ❌ |
| Zety | ❌ | ⚠️ Basic | ❌ | ❌ |
Which Should You Use?
If you already have a CV and are applying to specific roles: TailorCV is the clear choice. Upload your existing CV, paste the job description, and get a tailored version with an ATS score in under 5 minutes — for free.
If you're building a CV from scratch and care about visual design: Resume.io or Kickresume for their templates, keeping in mind their export paywalls.
If you're a senior professional or creative: Enhancv for its storytelling-focused approach.
The Bottom Line
The best AI CV builder for most job seekers in 2026 is one that:
- Actually tailors to the specific job (not just generic improvements)
- Gives you an ATS score so you can iterate
- Lets you download a clean PDF without paying
Only TailorCV does all three for free with no account required.
If you're actively applying for jobs and spending 45 minutes manually tailoring your CV for each role, try TailorCV — most people get a fully tailored, ATS-scored CV ready to download in under 5 minutes.
Written by
TailorCV Team