I got tired of predatory resume paywalls, so I built a 100% free, Vanilla JS alternative.
Hey hackers,
We’ve all been there: a friend or colleague asks for a quick tool to update their resume. They try an online builder, spend an hour filling out details, and get hit by a hidden $20 subscription prompt right at the export button.
It feels like a trap.
As a Team Leader, I see candidates struggle with this constantly. So I decided to build a true alternative in public: ForgCV.
### The Product Stats:
* 6 ATS-optimized templates (tested on Workday & Greenhouse layout traps).
* 8 languages supported (including localized country guides).
* 0 accounts required.
* 0 tracking pixels or serverside data collection (100% LocalStorage).
### The Stack Decision: Why Vanilla JS?
Instead of reaching for Next.js or React for a simple utility tool, I forced myself to use pure Vanilla JS and Tailwind CSS. The result is a lightning-fast UX that loads instantly on mobile or desktop, with zero npm dependencies waiting to break at 3 AM. Client-side PDF rendering was a pain to optimize, but keeping it serverless means my hosting costs are practically zero, allowing me to keep this tool free forever.
Check out the live tool here:
I’m currently focusing on distribution and bootstrapping a small community around it. If you have any feedback on the UX, the templates, or indie marketing strategies for free tools, I'm all ears! 👇
