Quick Overview
- 1#1: Buildxact - Cloud-based estimating, takeoff, and job management software tailored for residential builders and remodelers.
- 2#2: Stack - AI-powered digital takeoff and estimating platform that automates quantity extraction from plans for construction pros.
- 3#3: PlanSwift - On-screen digital takeoff and estimating software that accelerates measurements and assemblies for builders.
- 4#4: Bluebeam Revu - PDF-based markup and takeoff tool with measuring, estimating, and collaboration features for construction documents.
- 5#5: Procore - Enterprise construction management platform with integrated estimating, bidding, and project tracking capabilities.
- 6#6: Buildertrend - All-in-one construction software offering estimating, scheduling, and client communication tools for builders.
- 7#7: CoConstruct - Custom builder platform with estimating, selecting, and messaging features to streamline home building projects.
- 8#8: Togal.AI - AI-automated takeoff software that instantly detects and measures elements from blueprints for faster estimating.
- 9#9: Kreo - AI-driven 2D/3D takeoff and estimating software that integrates with BIM models for accurate construction bids.
- 10#10: Xactimate - Detailed line-item estimating software with pricing databases used for construction, restoration, and insurance claims.
Curated for relevance and performance, these tools were chosen based on feature robustness, user-friendliness, reliability, and value, ensuring the list reflects the most impactful platforms for modern construction professionals.
Comparison Table
Builder estimate software is a key asset for enhancing cost accuracy and project planning, offering a diverse range of tools to fit varied team needs. This comparison table explores popular platforms like Buildxact, Stack, PlanSwift, Bluebeam Revu, Procore, and more, examining their core features, usability, and practical applications. Readers will gain insights to identify the best tool for their project scale, complexity, and budget, ensuring streamlined and effective estimating workflows.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Buildxact Cloud-based estimating, takeoff, and job management software tailored for residential builders and remodelers. | specialized | 9.2/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.8/10 | 9.0/10 |
| 2 | Stack AI-powered digital takeoff and estimating platform that automates quantity extraction from plans for construction pros. | specialized | 9.1/10 | 9.4/10 | 8.7/10 | 9.0/10 |
| 3 | PlanSwift On-screen digital takeoff and estimating software that accelerates measurements and assemblies for builders. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 9.0/10 | 7.1/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 4 | Bluebeam Revu PDF-based markup and takeoff tool with measuring, estimating, and collaboration features for construction documents. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.4/10 |
| 5 | Procore Enterprise construction management platform with integrated estimating, bidding, and project tracking capabilities. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 6 | Buildertrend All-in-one construction software offering estimating, scheduling, and client communication tools for builders. | enterprise | 8.6/10 | 9.0/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 7 | CoConstruct Custom builder platform with estimating, selecting, and messaging features to streamline home building projects. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.8/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 8 | Togal.AI AI-automated takeoff software that instantly detects and measures elements from blueprints for faster estimating. | general_ai | 8.2/10 | 8.8/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 9 | Kreo AI-driven 2D/3D takeoff and estimating software that integrates with BIM models for accurate construction bids. | general_ai | 8.3/10 | 9.0/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 10 | Xactimate Detailed line-item estimating software with pricing databases used for construction, restoration, and insurance claims. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 9.3/10 | 6.4/10 | 7.2/10 |
Cloud-based estimating, takeoff, and job management software tailored for residential builders and remodelers.
AI-powered digital takeoff and estimating platform that automates quantity extraction from plans for construction pros.
On-screen digital takeoff and estimating software that accelerates measurements and assemblies for builders.
PDF-based markup and takeoff tool with measuring, estimating, and collaboration features for construction documents.
Enterprise construction management platform with integrated estimating, bidding, and project tracking capabilities.
All-in-one construction software offering estimating, scheduling, and client communication tools for builders.
Custom builder platform with estimating, selecting, and messaging features to streamline home building projects.
AI-automated takeoff software that instantly detects and measures elements from blueprints for faster estimating.
AI-driven 2D/3D takeoff and estimating software that integrates with BIM models for accurate construction bids.
Detailed line-item estimating software with pricing databases used for construction, restoration, and insurance claims.
Buildxact
specializedCloud-based estimating, takeoff, and job management software tailored for residential builders and remodelers.
Live material pricing feeds from major suppliers that auto-update estimates in real-time
Buildxact is a cloud-based construction estimating and takeoff software tailored for residential builders and remodelers. It enables users to perform digital takeoffs from PDFs or sketches, generate accurate quotes using pre-built templates and live material pricing, and track job costs from estimate to completion. The platform integrates seamlessly with accounting software like Xero and QuickBooks, offering mobile access for on-site management.
Pros
- Comprehensive digital takeoff tools with automatic quantity calculations
- Live supplier pricing integrations for accurate estimates
- User-friendly interface with mobile app support and strong accounting integrations
Cons
- Higher pricing tiers can be costly for solo operators
- Steeper learning curve for advanced customization
- Limited advanced features for large-scale commercial projects
Best For
Small to medium residential builders and remodelers needing efficient, accurate estimating and takeoff in one platform.
Pricing
Starts at $149 AUD/month for Basic plan (1 user), up to $499 AUD/month for Premium with unlimited users and advanced features; annual discounts available.
Stack
specializedAI-powered digital takeoff and estimating platform that automates quantity extraction from plans for construction pros.
Intelligent Assemblies Library with automated cost updates from supplier integrations
Stack (stackct.com) is a cloud-based construction estimating and takeoff software tailored for residential builders and remodelers. It enables digital plan takeoffs, leverages a vast database of pre-built assemblies with real-time cost data, and generates professional bid proposals. The platform streamlines pre-construction workflows, from quantity takeoff to client presentations, helping teams bid faster and more accurately.
Pros
- Rapid digital takeoff from PDFs and plans
- Comprehensive assemblies library with live pricing
- Customizable proposals and collaborative bidding tools
Cons
- Initial learning curve for advanced takeoff features
- Pricing may be steep for very small operations
- Fewer integrations compared to enterprise-level competitors
Best For
Residential remodelers and small-to-mid-sized builders seeking efficient, accurate estimating for home improvement projects.
Pricing
Tiered subscriptions starting at $149/user/month (billed annually), with enterprise plans available.
PlanSwift
specializedOn-screen digital takeoff and estimating software that accelerates measurements and assemblies for builders.
Dynamic assemblies that instantly apply formulas, costs, and labor to takeoff measurements for rapid, accurate estimates
PlanSwift is a robust on-screen takeoff and estimating software tailored for construction professionals, enabling precise quantity measurements directly from digital blueprints via point-and-click tools. It features customizable assemblies for rapid cost calculations, bid generation, and integration with accounting systems like QuickBooks. Ideal for builders handling detailed estimates, it supports PDF, CAD, and image files while offering reporting and export capabilities for professional proposals.
Pros
- Highly accurate point-and-click takeoffs from digital plans
- Powerful assemblies database for automated estimating
- Strong integrations with QuickBooks and Excel for seamless workflows
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring significant training time
- Windows-only, limiting accessibility for Mac users
- High upfront cost with ongoing maintenance fees
Best For
Experienced contractors and estimators managing complex construction bids with detailed quantity takeoffs.
Pricing
Perpetual license starts at $1,749 per user; annual maintenance ~$559; volume discounts available.
Bluebeam Revu
specializedPDF-based markup and takeoff tool with measuring, estimating, and collaboration features for construction documents.
Quantity Link: Bidirectional syncing of takeoff quantities with Excel for dynamic, error-free estimating updates.
Bluebeam Revu is a specialized PDF editor for the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry, offering robust tools for document markup, precise measurements, and quantity takeoffs crucial for builder estimating. It enables users to extract quantities like lengths, areas, and counts directly from PDF blueprints, generate customizable reports, and integrate data seamlessly with Excel for cost calculations. While excelling in pre-estimate takeoffs, it requires supplementary tools for full bid management and advanced costing.
Pros
- Highly accurate digital takeoff and measurement tools with visual overlays
- Quantity Link for real-time syncing of data to Excel spreadsheets
- Strong collaboration via Studio Projects and Sessions for team reviews
Cons
- No built-in cost databases, assemblies, or full estimating engine
- Subscription pricing adds up for small teams
- Advanced custom toolsets require significant learning time
Best For
Estimators and builders focused on PDF-based quantity takeoffs who integrate with Excel or other cost tools.
Pricing
Subscription from $240/user/year (Basics) to $500/user/year (Complete); perpetual licenses start at ~$350 one-time plus annual maintenance.
Procore
enterpriseEnterprise construction management platform with integrated estimating, bidding, and project tracking capabilities.
Bid Board for centralized subcontractor bid invitation, comparison, and award management directly tied to estimates
Procore is a comprehensive cloud-based construction management platform with integrated estimating tools designed for builders, enabling digital takeoffs, cost estimation, and bid management. It streamlines preconstruction processes by allowing users to import plans, perform on-screen measurements, assemble detailed estimates, and manage subcontractor bids all within one system. While powerful for larger operations, its estimating features shine brightest when connected to Procore's broader project management suite for seamless transitions from bid to buildout.
Pros
- Seamless integration of estimating with full construction lifecycle management
- Robust digital takeoff tools and customizable cost databases
- Strong bid management and subcontractor collaboration features
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users
- High pricing makes it less accessible for small builders
- Overly complex for standalone estimating needs without full platform adoption
Best For
Mid-to-large construction firms seeking integrated estimating within a complete project management ecosystem.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; typically starts at $500+ per month per project or $375-$625 per user, with enterprise tiers scaling higher.
Buildertrend
enterpriseAll-in-one construction software offering estimating, scheduling, and client communication tools for builders.
Seamless estimating-to-scheduling integration with automated cost tracking and client-facing change order approvals
Buildertrend is an all-in-one construction management platform tailored for home builders and remodelers, with robust estimating tools for creating detailed bids, performing digital takeoffs, and managing cost databases. It integrates estimating seamlessly with scheduling, budgeting, time tracking, and invoicing to streamline the entire project lifecycle. The software also features client portals for real-time updates and mobile apps for on-site access, making it a comprehensive solution beyond just estimation.
Pros
- Comprehensive all-in-one platform integrating estimating with full project management
- Powerful mobile app and client portal for real-time collaboration
- Extensive cost databases and takeoff tools tailored for residential construction
Cons
- High pricing that scales quickly with users and projects
- Steep learning curve for non-tech-savvy teams
- Limited flexibility for highly customized estimating workflows
Best For
Small to medium-sized residential builders and remodelers seeking an integrated platform for estimating and full project oversight.
Pricing
Starts at $99/month (Pro plan for 1 user/3 projects), up to $399+/month for higher tiers; scales with active projects and users, with custom enterprise options.
CoConstruct
specializedCustom builder platform with estimating, selecting, and messaging features to streamline home building projects.
The client Selections portal, allowing homeowners to make real-time choices tied directly to estimates and budgets
CoConstruct is an all-in-one construction management software tailored for custom builders and remodelers, with robust estimating tools that include takeoffs, cost databases, and customizable templates. It integrates estimating seamlessly with scheduling, budgeting, and client communication via a dedicated portal. The platform supports the full project lifecycle, from initial bids to job closeout, emphasizing transparency and collaboration.
Pros
- Comprehensive integration of estimating with scheduling and client portals
- Customizable estimate templates and real-time cost tracking
- Strong mobile app for on-site updates and communication
Cons
- Higher pricing may deter smaller operations
- Steeper learning curve for advanced estimating features
- Limited third-party integrations compared to competitors
Best For
Custom home builders and remodelers who need an integrated platform for estimating, project management, and client engagement.
Pricing
Starts at $199/month (Schedule plan), $299/month (Select), $499/month (Pro); annual billing required.
Togal.AI
general_aiAI-automated takeoff software that instantly detects and measures elements from blueprints for faster estimating.
Patented AI engine that instantly detects and measures project elements from uploaded plans with minimal user input
Togal.AI is an AI-powered construction takeoff and estimating software that automates quantity extraction from blueprints and PDFs, delivering instant measurements for areas, lengths, counts, and more. It streamlines the pre-construction bidding process by reducing manual takeoff time from hours to minutes while maintaining high accuracy through machine learning. The platform supports collaboration, custom templates, and exports to popular estimating tools like Procore and Excel.
Pros
- Ultra-fast AI-driven takeoffs that handle complex plans accurately
- Seamless integrations with estimating software like Procore and PlanSwift
- Cloud-based collaboration for teams to review and edit takeoffs in real-time
Cons
- Premium pricing may be prohibitive for small builders or solo estimators
- Requires initial setup and training for optimal AI performance on custom drawings
- Limited advanced 3D modeling or full cost estimating capabilities compared to comprehensive suites
Best For
Mid-sized construction firms and estimators focused on high-volume bidding who prioritize speed and accuracy in 2D takeoffs.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing starting at around $500-$1,000 per user/month, with project-based options available.
Kreo
general_aiAI-driven 2D/3D takeoff and estimating software that integrates with BIM models for accurate construction bids.
AI-powered instant quantity takeoffs directly from uploaded drawings and BIM files
Kreo is an AI-powered construction takeoff and estimating software tailored for builders, automating quantity takeoffs from 2D PDFs, CAD files, and 3D BIM models. It streamlines the estimating process by generating accurate bills of quantities, cost plans, and reports with minimal manual input. The cloud-based platform supports team collaboration, real-time updates, and integrations with accounting tools like QuickBooks and Xero.
Pros
- AI-driven automated takeoffs drastically reduce manual measurement time
- Seamless support for BIM models and various file formats
- Strong collaboration tools for team-based estimating
Cons
- Pricing can be steep for small or infrequent projects
- Steeper learning curve for users new to AI/BIM tools
- Fewer native integrations than some established competitors
Best For
Mid-sized construction firms and estimators seeking AI automation to speed up takeoffs from complex drawings and models.
Pricing
Pay-per-project from $0.10/m² or subscriptions starting at $99/user/month, with enterprise custom pricing.
Xactimate
specializedDetailed line-item estimating software with pricing databases used for construction, restoration, and insurance claims.
Proprietary, real-time updated national price list database tailored to local markets and restoration-specific line items
Xactimate, developed by Xactware, is a comprehensive estimating software tailored for the property restoration and construction industries, enabling users to create detailed, line-item estimates for repairs following damage from events like fires, floods, and storms. It features an extensive pricing database, advanced sketching tools for accurate measurements, and seamless integration with insurance carriers for claim submissions. Primarily used by contractors, adjusters, and builders, it standardizes estimates to ensure defensibility and compliance with industry standards.
Pros
- Industry-leading, regionally accurate price lists updated frequently
- Powerful integrated sketching and takeoff tools for precise measurements
- Wide acceptance by insurance companies for streamlined claims processing
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring extensive training
- High subscription costs that may not suit small builders
- Interface feels dated and less intuitive compared to modern alternatives
Best For
Restoration contractors and builders heavily involved in insurance claims who prioritize accuracy and insurer compatibility over simplicity.
Pricing
Subscription tiers start at ~$250/month per user for online access, with desktop/mobile bundles up to $400+/month; annual discounts available.
Conclusion
Among the top builder estimate software solutions, Buildxact leads with its cloud-based integration of estimating, takeoff, and job management, perfectly tailored for residential builders and remodelers. Close behind, Stack impresses with AI-powered automation for quantity extraction, and PlanSwift excels in accelerating measurements and assemblies, each offering distinct strengths to suit different project needs.
Don’t miss the opportunity to streamline your estimating process—explore Buildxact today and discover how its comprehensive tools can elevate your workflow and drive better results for your projects.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison
