Quick Overview
- 1#1: PataBid - AI-powered digital takeoff and estimating software tailored for electrical, mechanical, and plumbing contractors to generate fast, accurate bids.
- 2#2: Stack - Cloud-based electrical takeoff and estimating platform using AI for automated plan recognition and precise quantity extraction.
- 3#3: Togal.AI - AI-driven construction takeoff software that automates measurement and counting from blueprints for electrical estimating.
- 4#4: Kreo - AI-powered 2D takeoff and estimating tool delivering instant electrical quantities and cost predictions from plans.
- 5#5: Groundplan - AI-based electrical takeoff software for instant quantity extraction and estimating from residential plans.
- 6#6: Trimble Accubid - Enterprise-grade electrical estimating software with extensive databases, automation, and integration for large-scale projects.
- 7#7: ConWize - AI-enhanced construction estimating platform that automates cost predictions and bid generation for electrical work.
- 8#8: iBeam.ai - AI-assisted takeoff and estimating software accelerating electrical quantity takeoffs from PDF plans.
- 9#9: Buildxact - Cloud estimating and job management tool with customizable templates and AI quoting for electrical contractors.
- 10#10: Electric Ease - Intuitive electrical estimating software for quick bid creation with labor and material calculations.
Tools were ranked based on AI-driven accuracy (automation, plan recognition), ease of use for contractors, robust feature sets (labor/material calculations, integrations), and overall value, ensuring alignment with diverse project sizes and needs.
Comparison Table
AI-powered electrical estimating software is transforming project planning, and this comparison table examines top tools like PataBid, Stack, Togal.AI, Kreo, Groundplan, and more. Readers will compare key features, usability, and integration to identify the software that best fits their workflow and needs.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | PataBid AI-powered digital takeoff and estimating software tailored for electrical, mechanical, and plumbing contractors to generate fast, accurate bids. | specialized | 9.8/10 | 9.9/10 | 9.5/10 | 9.6/10 |
| 2 | Stack Cloud-based electrical takeoff and estimating platform using AI for automated plan recognition and precise quantity extraction. | specialized | 9.3/10 | 9.6/10 | 8.8/10 | 9.1/10 |
| 3 | Togal.AI AI-driven construction takeoff software that automates measurement and counting from blueprints for electrical estimating. | general_ai | 8.2/10 | 9.0/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 4 | Kreo AI-powered 2D takeoff and estimating tool delivering instant electrical quantities and cost predictions from plans. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.6/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 5 | Groundplan AI-based electrical takeoff software for instant quantity extraction and estimating from residential plans. | specialized | 7.6/10 | 7.2/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 6 | Trimble Accubid Enterprise-grade electrical estimating software with extensive databases, automation, and integration for large-scale projects. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 9.1/10 | 6.8/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 7 | ConWize AI-enhanced construction estimating platform that automates cost predictions and bid generation for electrical work. | general_ai | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.1/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 8 | iBeam.ai AI-assisted takeoff and estimating software accelerating electrical quantity takeoffs from PDF plans. | general_ai | 7.7/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.5/10 | 7.3/10 |
| 9 | Buildxact Cloud estimating and job management tool with customizable templates and AI quoting for electrical contractors. | enterprise | 6.2/10 | 6.0/10 | 8.2/10 | 6.5/10 |
| 10 | Electric Ease Intuitive electrical estimating software for quick bid creation with labor and material calculations. | specialized | 7.2/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.1/10 | 7.5/10 |
AI-powered digital takeoff and estimating software tailored for electrical, mechanical, and plumbing contractors to generate fast, accurate bids.
Cloud-based electrical takeoff and estimating platform using AI for automated plan recognition and precise quantity extraction.
AI-driven construction takeoff software that automates measurement and counting from blueprints for electrical estimating.
AI-powered 2D takeoff and estimating tool delivering instant electrical quantities and cost predictions from plans.
AI-based electrical takeoff software for instant quantity extraction and estimating from residential plans.
Enterprise-grade electrical estimating software with extensive databases, automation, and integration for large-scale projects.
AI-enhanced construction estimating platform that automates cost predictions and bid generation for electrical work.
AI-assisted takeoff and estimating software accelerating electrical quantity takeoffs from PDF plans.
Cloud estimating and job management tool with customizable templates and AI quoting for electrical contractors.
Intuitive electrical estimating software for quick bid creation with labor and material calculations.
PataBid
specializedAI-powered digital takeoff and estimating software tailored for electrical, mechanical, and plumbing contractors to generate fast, accurate bids.
AI Digital Takeoff that automatically detects, measures, and counts electrical components from PDFs and CAD files with exceptional precision.
PataBid is an AI-powered electrical estimating software tailored for electrical contractors, automating digital plan takeoffs, material and labor calculations, and bid generation. It leverages advanced AI to analyze blueprints with high accuracy, pulling real-time pricing from supplier databases for precise estimates. The cloud-based platform integrates seamlessly with accounting tools like QuickBooks, enabling efficient workflow management and professional proposal creation from any device.
Pros
- Ultra-fast AI-driven takeoffs with 99% accuracy on electrical plans
- Real-time material pricing and labor rate integration for spot-on bids
- Seamless cloud access and integrations with QuickBooks and Procore
Cons
- Subscription pricing can be steep for solo estimators
- Focused primarily on electrical trade, less versatile for multi-trade users
- Slight learning curve for advanced customization features
Best For
Mid-to-large electrical contractors seeking top-tier AI automation to drastically reduce estimating time and boost bid win rates.
Pricing
Starts at $149/user/month for Pro plan, with pay-per-project options and enterprise custom pricing.
Stack
specializedCloud-based electrical takeoff and estimating platform using AI for automated plan recognition and precise quantity extraction.
Patented AI symbol detection that instantly identifies and quantifies electrical fixtures, conduits, and wiring from PDF plans with minimal user input
Stack (stackct.com) is an AI-powered takeoff and estimating software tailored for electrical contractors, automating the extraction of quantities from digital plans using advanced symbol recognition. It generates detailed material takeoffs, labor estimates, and customizable assemblies in minutes, significantly reducing manual effort. The cloud-based platform supports collaboration, integrations with accounting tools like QuickBooks, and real-time project bidding.
Pros
- Ultra-fast AI-driven takeoffs with high accuracy for electrical symbols and components
- Customizable estimating templates and assemblies for precise bids
- Seamless cloud collaboration and integrations with accounting software
Cons
- Steeper learning curve for advanced customization
- Pricing may strain very small operations
- Occasional manual adjustments needed for complex plans
Best For
Mid-sized electrical subcontractors who prioritize speed and AI automation in high-volume takeoff and estimating workflows.
Pricing
Subscription starts at $99/user/month for basic plans, scaling to $199+/user/month for pro/enterprise with pay-per-project options available.
Togal.AI
general_aiAI-driven construction takeoff software that automates measurement and counting from blueprints for electrical estimating.
Patented Lightning AI that instantly analyzes entire blueprints and auto-generates precise electrical quantity takeoffs with editable assemblies
Togal.AI is an AI-powered construction takeoff and estimating platform that automates measurements and quantity takeoffs from digital blueprints using computer vision. While versatile for general construction, it supports electrical estimating by detecting and quantifying elements like outlets, lights, switches, panels, and conduits in plans. It streamlines the process from plan upload to exportable reports, integrating with popular estimating tools for faster bidding.
Pros
- Rapid AI-driven takeoffs reduce manual measuring by up to 90%
- High accuracy in detecting electrical symbols and components
- Cloud-based collaboration and seamless integrations with Procore and PlanSwift
Cons
- Limited customization for highly specialized electrical assemblies without training custom models
- Subscription pricing can be steep for solo electrical estimators
- Primarily optimized for 2D plans; less robust for complex 3D BIM electrical models
Best For
Mid-sized electrical contractors and estimators who handle high volumes of blueprints and need AI automation to speed up quantity takeoffs for competitive bidding.
Pricing
Starts at $99/user/month for Starter plan (basic takeoffs), $299/user/month for Pro (advanced AI features), with Enterprise custom pricing; annual discounts available.
Kreo
specializedAI-powered 2D takeoff and estimating tool delivering instant electrical quantities and cost predictions from plans.
AI-powered symbol and object detection that automatically identifies and measures electrical elements like outlets, lights, and ducts from uploaded drawings
Kreo (kreo.software) is an AI-powered takeoff and estimating platform designed for construction professionals, including electrical contractors, automating measurements from 2D PDFs, CAD files, and 3D BIM models. It excels in detecting and quantifying electrical components like conduits, panels, fixtures, and wiring runs with machine learning algorithms, significantly reducing manual takeoff time. The software also supports collaborative estimating, report generation, and integration with tools like Procore for streamlined bidding workflows.
Pros
- AI-driven object recognition for fast, accurate electrical takeoffs from drawings
- Cloud-based collaboration for team estimating and real-time updates
- Robust reporting and export options compatible with bidding software
Cons
- Learning curve for optimizing AI settings and custom templates
- Limited native support for highly specialized electrical assemblies without manual adjustments
- Higher pricing may deter solo estimators or very small firms
Best For
Medium-sized electrical contractors and estimators seeking AI automation for quantity takeoffs on complex projects.
Pricing
Subscription plans start at $99/user/month for Basic (limited projects), $199/user/month for Pro (unlimited), with custom Enterprise pricing.
Groundplan
specializedAI-based electrical takeoff software for instant quantity extraction and estimating from residential plans.
AI-powered sketch-to-professional-floor-plan conversion that instantly includes electrical cost breakdowns
Groundplan.ai is an AI-driven platform that transforms hand-drawn sketches into professional floor plans and generates instant cost estimates for home remodeling projects, including electrical work. It automates takeoffs and pricing for electrical components like wiring, outlets, and lighting as part of comprehensive construction bids. While versatile for general trades, its electrical estimating relies on AI analysis of plans rather than deep, specialized databases.
Pros
- Lightning-fast AI sketch-to-floor-plan conversion with automatic electrical takeoffs
- Intuitive interface ideal for quick residential estimates
- Affordable entry point with scalable project-based pricing
Cons
- Lacks depth in electrical-specific assemblies and custom labor rates compared to dedicated tools
- Primarily suited for residential remodeling, less robust for commercial electrical projects
- AI estimates may require manual adjustments for accuracy in complex systems
Best For
Small electrical contractors or remodelers seeking rapid AI-assisted estimates for residential projects without needing advanced customization.
Pricing
Free tier for basic use; Pro plan at $49/month or $9 per project for unlimited AI generations and detailed estimates.
Trimble Accubid
enterpriseEnterprise-grade electrical estimating software with extensive databases, automation, and integration for large-scale projects.
Proprietary Digital Labor Units (DLU) system for condition-based productivity factoring
Trimble Accubid is a robust electrical estimating software tailored for contractors, featuring a massive database of over 120,000 items, assemblies, and labor factors for precise bid creation. It supports digital takeoff, cost databases, and integration with Trimble's job management tools like Viewpoint. While it employs advanced algorithmic automation for labor optimization, it lacks prominent generative AI features compared to newer tools, focusing instead on rule-based accuracy for electrical projects.
Pros
- Extensive electrical-specific database with 120,000+ items and assemblies
- Sophisticated labor factoring for accurate productivity adjustments
- Seamless integration with Trimble ecosystem for project management
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to complex interface
- High pricing limits accessibility for small firms
- Limited true AI capabilities like predictive analytics or natural language processing
Best For
Mid-to-large electrical contractors seeking database-driven precision over cutting-edge AI automation.
Pricing
Subscription-based starting at ~$250/user/month for core modules; enterprise pricing requires custom quote with add-ons.
ConWize
general_aiAI-enhanced construction estimating platform that automates cost predictions and bid generation for electrical work.
AI-powered symbol recognition and automatic quantity takeoff that processes entire electrical plans in minutes
ConWize is an AI-driven estimating software tailored for electrical contractors, automating quantity takeoffs from PDF plans and blueprints using machine learning to detect symbols, conduits, and fixtures with high accuracy. It generates comprehensive bid packages, including material lists, labor calculations, and real-time pricing integration from supplier databases. The cloud-based platform supports collaboration and quick turnaround on estimates, reducing manual data entry significantly.
Pros
- Ultra-fast AI automated takeoffs from digital plans
- Real-time labor and material cost databases
- Seamless integration with accounting software like QuickBooks
Cons
- Limited customization for highly complex projects
- Subscription pricing can add up for small teams
- Occasional accuracy issues with non-standard drawings
Best For
Mid-sized electrical contractors looking to accelerate bidding and reduce takeoff time without a steep learning curve.
Pricing
Starts at $149/user/month for basic plans, scaling to $299+/month for unlimited projects and advanced AI features; custom enterprise pricing available.
iBeam.ai
general_aiAI-assisted takeoff and estimating software accelerating electrical quantity takeoffs from PDF plans.
MagiBeam AI engine that instantly analyzes plans and extracts quantities as accurately as a senior estimator
iBeam.ai is an AI-powered estimating platform tailored for electrical contractors, automating quantity takeoffs from digital plans like PDFs and blueprints. It uses machine learning to identify conduits, wiring, fixtures, and other components, generating detailed material and labor estimates quickly. The software also supports bid management, cost tracking, and integrations with tools like QuickBooks and Procore, aiming to cut estimation time from hours to minutes.
Pros
- Rapid AI-driven takeoffs with high accuracy for electrical plans
- Seamless integrations with accounting and project management software
- Customizable assemblies and real-time cost updates
Cons
- Limited to electrical trade only, no multi-trade support
- Steep learning curve for advanced customizations
- Pricing can be high for solo contractors
Best For
Mid-sized electrical contractors seeking AI automation to speed up bidding without sacrificing precision.
Pricing
Subscription starts at $149/user/month (billed annually), with tiered plans up to enterprise custom pricing.
Buildxact
enterpriseCloud estimating and job management tool with customizable templates and AI quoting for electrical contractors.
Seamless 2D plan takeoff integrated directly into estimating workflows for rapid quote generation.
Buildxact is a cloud-based construction estimating and takeoff software primarily designed for residential builders, remodelers, and trade professionals, enabling quick creation of quotes, material takeoffs, and job management. While it supports electrical estimating through customizable templates and digital takeoffs, it lacks deep specialization or advanced AI features tailored for electrical work, focusing instead on general construction automation. Users can import plans, apply pricing databases, and generate professional quotes, but AI integration is minimal compared to dedicated electrical tools.
Pros
- Intuitive interface for fast takeoffs and quoting
- Cloud-based with mobile access and QuickBooks integration
- Extensive template library adaptable for electrical items
Cons
- Limited AI capabilities, especially for electrical-specific automation
- Not optimized for complex electrical estimating or large commercial projects
- Higher pricing may not justify for electrical-only users
Best For
Residential builders and general contractors handling mixed trades including basic electrical estimating.
Pricing
Starts at $149/month (Solo), $299/month (Teams), up to $499/month (Enterprise); annual discounts available.
Electric Ease
specializedIntuitive electrical estimating software for quick bid creation with labor and material calculations.
Integrated electrical labor factoring system that automatically adjusts for local union rates and project complexities
Electric Ease is a cloud-based electrical estimating software tailored for electrical contractors, offering digital takeoff, material and labor cost databases, and bid management tools. It incorporates basic AI for automated counting and preliminary estimates from plans, streamlining the pre-construction process. While reliable for standard projects, its AI features are not as advanced as top competitors, making it suitable for mid-tier workflows.
Pros
- Comprehensive electrical-specific databases for materials and labor
- Cloud-based access for team collaboration
- Quick digital takeoff with basic AI assistance
Cons
- AI capabilities are limited to basic automation, lacking predictive analytics
- Steep initial learning curve for advanced estimating functions
- Customer support can be slow during peak seasons
Best For
Small to medium-sized electrical contractors seeking affordable, straightforward estimating without needing cutting-edge AI.
Pricing
Starts at $149/user/month for basic plan; Pro plan at $249/user/month with advanced features; custom enterprise pricing available.
Conclusion
Among the top AI electrical estimating tools, PataBid leads as the most effective, combining speed and accuracy to deliver reliable bids for diverse projects. Stack and Togal.AI follow closely, excelling in automation and blueprint recognition respectively, offering strong alternatives to suit specific needs. All tools simplify the estimating process, but PataBid stands out for its well-rounded performance.
Begin using PataBid to streamline your bid creation—leverage its AI-powered capabilities to save time and improve the precision of your electrical contracting estimates.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison