# PDF vs DOCX Download Options

### Overview

Skillmelo offers two resume download formats: PDF and DOCX. This guide explains the differences and when to use each.

### Format Availability by Plan

| Format         | Free | Pro Basic | Pro Standard |
| -------------- | ---- | --------- | ------------ |
| PDF            | ✅    | ✅         | ✅            |
| DOCX           | ❌    | ✅         | ✅            |
| In-app editing | ✅    | ✅         | ✅            |

**Note**: PDF export is available to all users. DOCX export is available to Pro Basic and Pro Standard users.

### Format Comparison

| Feature               | PDF                     | DOCX                     |
| --------------------- | ----------------------- | ------------------------ |
| **Best for**          | Submitting applications | Editing after generation |
| **Formatting**        | Preserved exactly       | May vary by software     |
| **Editing**           | Not editable            | Fully editable           |
| **ATS Compatibility** | Excellent               | Excellent                |
| **File size**         | Smaller                 | Larger                   |

### PDF Format

#### Pros

* ✅ Formatting is preserved exactly
* ✅ Looks the same on any device
* ✅ Universally accepted
* ✅ Smaller file size

#### Cons

* ❌ Cannot easily edit after download
* ❌ Requires PDF editor for changes

#### When to Use PDF

* Submitting final applications
* Uploading to job portals
* Sending to recruiters
* When format consistency is critical

### DOCX Format

#### Pros

* ✅ Fully editable in Word/Docs
* ✅ Easy to customize for specific jobs
* ✅ Can add/remove sections
* ✅ Adjust formatting as needed

#### Cons

* ❌ Formatting may shift between software
* ❌ Larger file size

#### When to Use DOCX

* You want to make adjustments
* Tailoring for a specific company
* Adding information not in Skillmelo
* Formatting preferences differ

### How to Download (Pro Basic & Pro Standard)

#### Downloading as PDF

1. Go to **Resume** in the sidebar
2. Click on the resume you want
3. Click **Download** or the download icon
4. Select **PDF**
5. File downloads automatically

#### Downloading as DOCX

1. Go to **Resume** in the sidebar
2. Click on the resume you want
3. Click **Download** or the download icon
4. Select **DOCX**
5. File downloads automatically

> **Note**: If you don't see DOCX download options, you need to upgrade to Pro Basic or Pro Standard.

### Alternative for Free Users

If you're on Free:

1. **Copy content**: Open your resume and copy text sections
2. **Use templates**: Paste into your favorite resume template
3. **Screenshot**: Take screenshots for reference
4. **Upgrade**: Consider Pro Basic or Pro Standard for DOCX export

### Frequently Asked Questions

#### Why is DOCX export Pro Basic+?

PDF and DOCX generation requires additional processing and server resources. Pro Basic and above includes this premium feature along with higher AI limits.

#### Can I convert PDF to DOCX?

You can use online converters, but quality may vary. We recommend generating DOCX directly for best results.

#### Which format do employers prefer?

Both are widely accepted. PDF is generally preferred for final submissions as it preserves exact formatting across all devices.

#### What can Free users do?

Free users can generate AI resumes (3/month), edit them in-app, and export them as **PDFs**. Pro Basic or Pro Standard is required for DOCX (Word) export.

***

### Related Articles

* [Generating Your First AI Resume](/skillmelo-help-center/resume-builder/generating-your-first-ai-resume.md)
* [Free vs Pro Comparison](/skillmelo-help-center/billing-and-subscription/readme.md)


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