Best ATS Resume Converters and Optimizers (2026)

Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) like Workday, Taleo, and Greenhouse scan 99% of Fortune 500 resumes, rejecting those with fancy formatting, images, or missing keywords. An ATS resume converter scans your existing resume, fixes formatting issues (e.g., columns, fonts), matches job-specific keywords, and outputs a clean, parsable PDF/Word file.

Here are the top tools based on recent tests (e.g., Reddit, FlexJobs, TealHQ rankings). I prioritized those with upload/convert features, ATS scoring, and proven parsing success.

Top Recommendations

1. Jobscan (jobscan.co) - Best Overall for Conversion & Matching

• Key Features: Free resume converter (upload PDF/Word, get ATS-optimized version); scans vs. job description (match score 80%+ ideal); unlimited free builder downloads; Power Edit for keyword insertion.
• Pros:
  • Mirrors 30+ ATS parsers (e.g., iCIMS, Greenhouse).
  • Chrome extension for LinkedIn/Indeed jobs.
  • High success rate in 2026 tests (passed all parsing).
• Cons:
  • Scans limited to 5/month free; Premium $19.95/mo for unlimited.
• Pricing: Free tier strong; Premium $19.95/3 mo.
• Best For: Targeted job apps.

2. SkillSyncer (skillsyncer.com) - Best Free Scanner & Auto-Optimizer

• Key Features: Free unlimited ATS scans; auto-adds keywords from job desc; resume tracker; AI suggestions.
• Pros:
  • No paywall for core conversion.
  • Simple upload + job paste = optimized resume in seconds.
  • Ranks keywords like top ATS (e.g., Workable).
• Cons:
  • Basic templates; less design focus.
  • Premium ($14.95/mo) for advanced AI.
• Pricing: Free core; Pro $14.95/mo.
• Best For: Budget users, high-volume apps.

3. Kickresume (kickresume.com) - Best AI Builder with ATS Checker

• Key Features: Upload/convert existing resume; AI writer + ATS checker (10/10 in 2026 Reddit tests); 100+ templates.
• Pros:
  • Full career hub (cover letters, portfolio).
  • Passed every 2026 ATS test; AI optimizes content.
  • Free ATS checker.
• Cons:
  • Downloads watermarked free; Premium needed for clean PDF.
• Pricing: Free limited; Premium $19/mo.
• Best For: All-in-one with design.

4. Rezi (rezi.ai) - Best for Real-Time ATS Scoring

• Key Features: Live ATS score (0-100); keyword optimizer; one-click job import.
• Pros:
  • Precise scoring simulates real ATS.
  • Unlimited scores free.
• Cons:
  • Builder requires Lifetime $129 upfront (no monthly).
• Pricing: Free scorer; Lifetime $129.
• Best For: Tech/keyword-heavy roles.

5. ResumeWorded / ResyMatch.io (resumeworded.com / cultivatedculture.com) - Best Free Quick Scanner

• Key Features: Free ATS scan + match to job desc; detailed feedback (fonts, layout).
• Pros:
  • Instant, no signup; 1M+ users.
  • Strong on formatting fixes.
• Cons:
  • No auto-builder; manual edits needed.
• Pricing: Free.
• Best For: Quick checks.

Comparison Table

Quick Tips: Use standard fonts (Arial/Calibri 10-12pt), single-column, no tables/images, .docx/PDF export. Always tailor keywords from the job description (e.g., "Python" not "coding").

Recommendation: Start with SkillSyncer (free/powerful) or Jobscan (if paid OK for precision). Test 2-3 with your resume for best fit.

What industry/job are you targeting? Do you have a specific job description or resume file to optimize? Prefer free tools only, or open to paid? Let me know for tailored advice!

An ATS (Applicant Tracking System) resume converter can refer to two things: a tool that re-formats your resume to be "readable" by robots, or a tool that helps you "beat" the system by matching keywords.

To choose the right solution, you first need to decide if you want to fix the layout (formatting) or fix the content (keywords).

1. Best for Keyword Optimization (The "Scanners")

These tools don't just convert your file; they scan it against a specific job description to tell you exactly what words are missing.

• Jobscan: The industry leader for keyword matching. You upload your resume and paste a job description; it gives you a "match score" and suggests specific skills to add.
  • Pros: Highly accurate; simulates actual ATS logic.
  • Cons: Expensive for the full version; can lead to "keyword stuffing" if not careful.
• Resume Worded: Excellent for objective feedback on your resume’s impact and readability.
  • Pros: Deep AI analysis of bullet points; great LinkedIn profile optimizer.
  • Cons: The free tier is quite limited compared to Jobscan.

2. Best for Re-Formatting (The "Builders")

If your current resume has columns, images, or complex tables, an ATS might "shred" it. These tools convert your info into a clean, bot-readable layout.

• Rezi: Specifically engineered for ATS pass rates. It uses a proprietary "Rezi Score" to ensure your formatting is flawless.
  • Pros: One of the highest ATS pass rates; can import your existing PDF/Word and "re-shell" it into a safe format.
  • Cons: The templates are very professional but can feel "boring" for creative roles.
• Teal: A comprehensive job search platform with a built-in AI resume builder.
  • Pros: Completely free to build and export unlimited resumes; includes a great job tracker.
  • Cons: Less focus on "match scoring" than Jobscan.

3. Best for Free/Simple Conversion

If you just want a clean file without a monthly subscription:

• FlowCV: Extremely user-friendly. You can import your old resume, and it will automatically map the text into an ATS-friendly template. It is largely free and doesn't have hidden paywalls for basic downloads.
• The "Plain Text" Method (DIY): Open your resume in Word/Google Docs and Save As .txt. If the resulting text is scrambled or missing words, your original formatting is "broken" for an ATS. Use a simple single-column template to fix it.

Comparison Summary

How to Choose:

1. Do you have a "fancy" resume with columns or icons? Use Rezi or FlowCV to convert it to a single-column layout.
2. Are you applying but getting no callbacks? Use Jobscan to see if you are missing the right keywords.
3. Are you in a hurry? Use Teal to quickly generate a version of your resume for a specific job.

What is your main goal right now? Are you trying to fix a resume that won't upload correctly, or are you trying to improve your ranking in the recruiter's search results?