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Top 10 Best Building Construction Estimating Software of 2026

Find the top 10 best building construction estimating software tools to streamline projects—start optimizing today.

Alexander Schmidt

Alexander Schmidt

Feb 11, 2026

10 tools comparedExpert reviewed
Independent evaluation · Unbiased commentary · Updated regularly
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Accurate, efficient construction estimating is critical to project success, directly impacting budget management, resource allocation, and timeline adherence. With a range of tools—from cloud-based takeoff platforms to AI-driven BIM integrators—choosing the right software can transform workflows, and the following list highlights the top options designed to meet diverse needs.

Quick Overview

  1. 1#1: STACK - Cloud-based construction takeoff and estimating software that enables fast quantity takeoffs and cost estimates from PDFs and CAD files.
  2. 2#2: PlanSwift - Digital on-screen takeoff and estimating tool designed for rapid measurement and cost calculation in construction projects.
  3. 3#3: ProEst - Cloud-based estimating platform with real-time pricing, assemblies, and seamless integration with accounting systems.
  4. 4#4: Sage Estimating - Enterprise-grade construction estimating software featuring extensive cost databases and customizable item libraries for accurate bids.
  5. 5#5: Bluebeam Revu - PDF-based markup and takeoff software that streamlines quantity takeoffs, measurements, and collaborative estimating.
  6. 6#6: Buildxact - Integrated estimating and job management software tailored for residential builders with instant pricing and quoting.
  7. 7#7: Destini Estimator - AI-driven, model-based estimating software that extracts quantities from BIM models for precise construction cost estimation.
  8. 8#8: Autodesk Takeoff - Cloud-based 2D takeoff tool for generating accurate quantity takeoffs and preliminary estimates from digital plans.
  9. 9#9: CostX - 5D BIM quantity takeoff and estimating software supporting 2D, 3D, and BIM models for global construction projects.
  10. 10#10: Xactimate - Professional estimating software with detailed pricing databases used for construction, restoration, and insurance claims.

We ranked tools based on key factors including feature robustness (like cross-format takeoff, real-time pricing, and BIM compatibility), user-friendliness, performance reliability, and overall value, ensuring a curated list that balances innovation and practicality.

Comparison Table

This comparison table details top building construction estimating software, featuring tools like STACK, PlanSwift, ProEst, Sage Estimating, Bluebeam Revu, and more, to guide professionals in evaluating options. Readers will gain insights into key features, pricing structures, and use cases to identify the best fit for their project needs.

1STACK logo9.6/10

Cloud-based construction takeoff and estimating software that enables fast quantity takeoffs and cost estimates from PDFs and CAD files.

Features
9.4/10
Ease
9.8/10
Value
9.7/10
2PlanSwift logo9.1/10

Digital on-screen takeoff and estimating tool designed for rapid measurement and cost calculation in construction projects.

Features
9.4/10
Ease
8.6/10
Value
8.8/10
3ProEst logo8.7/10

Cloud-based estimating platform with real-time pricing, assemblies, and seamless integration with accounting systems.

Features
9.2/10
Ease
8.0/10
Value
8.4/10

Enterprise-grade construction estimating software featuring extensive cost databases and customizable item libraries for accurate bids.

Features
9.2/10
Ease
7.5/10
Value
8.0/10

PDF-based markup and takeoff software that streamlines quantity takeoffs, measurements, and collaborative estimating.

Features
9.0/10
Ease
7.5/10
Value
8.0/10
6Buildxact logo8.6/10

Integrated estimating and job management software tailored for residential builders with instant pricing and quoting.

Features
8.4/10
Ease
9.1/10
Value
8.2/10

AI-driven, model-based estimating software that extracts quantities from BIM models for precise construction cost estimation.

Features
9.1/10
Ease
7.4/10
Value
7.8/10

Cloud-based 2D takeoff tool for generating accurate quantity takeoffs and preliminary estimates from digital plans.

Features
8.7/10
Ease
7.8/10
Value
7.9/10
9CostX logo8.7/10

5D BIM quantity takeoff and estimating software supporting 2D, 3D, and BIM models for global construction projects.

Features
9.2/10
Ease
7.8/10
Value
8.0/10
10Xactimate logo8.7/10

Professional estimating software with detailed pricing databases used for construction, restoration, and insurance claims.

Features
9.3/10
Ease
7.2/10
Value
8.1/10
1
STACK logo

STACK

specialized

Cloud-based construction takeoff and estimating software that enables fast quantity takeoffs and cost estimates from PDFs and CAD files.

Overall Rating9.6/10
Features
9.4/10
Ease of Use
9.8/10
Value
9.7/10
Standout Feature

Unlimited users and projects with no storage limits, enabling seamless team collaboration at no extra cost

STACK is a cloud-based takeoff and estimating software designed specifically for construction professionals, enabling precise digital measurements from PDFs, CAD files, and blueprints. It streamlines the estimating process with customizable assemblies, real-time cost calculations, and professional bid reports. Users benefit from unlimited storage, users, and projects, making it scalable for teams of all sizes in building construction.

Pros

  • Intuitive drag-and-drop interface for rapid takeoffs
  • Unlimited users, storage, and projects even on base plans
  • Robust PDF/CAD handling with automatic scaling and measurements

Cons

  • Advanced reporting requires Pro plan
  • Limited native integrations with accounting software
  • Mobile app lacks full desktop functionality

Best For

Subcontractors and estimators in building construction needing fast, collaborative digital takeoffs without per-user costs.

Pricing

Free plan for basic use; Pro at $2,495/year (unlimited everything); Enterprise custom.

Visit STACKstackct.com
2
PlanSwift logo

PlanSwift

specialized

Digital on-screen takeoff and estimating tool designed for rapid measurement and cost calculation in construction projects.

Overall Rating9.1/10
Features
9.4/10
Ease of Use
8.6/10
Value
8.8/10
Standout Feature

Real-time, mouse-driven takeoff tools that automatically calculate quantities as you trace over plans

PlanSwift, offered by ConstructConnect, is a leading on-screen takeoff and estimating software tailored for building construction professionals. It enables users to perform precise digital measurements—such as lengths, areas, volumes, and counts—directly from PDF plans, scanned images, or CAD files using intuitive point-and-click tools. The software supports customizable assemblies, real-time cost calculations, and seamless Excel integration for generating accurate bids and estimates.

Pros

  • Extremely fast and accurate digital takeoffs with visual point-and-click interface
  • Highly customizable assemblies and databases for tailored estimating
  • Strong Excel integration and reporting for professional bid preparation

Cons

  • Steep learning curve for new users despite intuitive drag-and-drop tools
  • Windows-only compatibility limits accessibility
  • Higher upfront cost compared to cloud-based alternatives

Best For

Experienced construction estimators and contractors who frequently perform takeoffs from digital blueprints and require precise, visual bidding workflows.

Pricing

Perpetual license starting at around $1,749 per user, plus optional annual maintenance fees of about 20%; quote-based for enterprise.

Visit PlanSwiftconstructconnect.com
3
ProEst logo

ProEst

specialized

Cloud-based estimating platform with real-time pricing, assemblies, and seamless integration with accounting systems.

Overall Rating8.7/10
Features
9.2/10
Ease of Use
8.0/10
Value
8.4/10
Standout Feature

Dynamic Assemblies that allow users to build and reuse complex cost assemblies for rapid, accurate bid generation

ProEst is a cloud-based construction estimating software tailored for building contractors, particularly in mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and general trades. It provides digital takeoff tools, customizable databases with over 20,000 pre-built items, and automated bid sheets to accelerate accurate estimating and bidding processes. The platform supports real-time collaboration, mobile access, and seamless integrations with accounting software like QuickBooks and Sage.

Pros

  • Comprehensive digital takeoff and estimating in a unified platform
  • Extensive pre-built assemblies and item database for speed
  • Strong integrations with accounting and project management tools

Cons

  • Steep learning curve for new users
  • Custom pricing can be expensive for small firms
  • Occasional reports of slow customer support response

Best For

Mid-sized MEP and general contractors needing robust, scalable estimating for complex building projects.

Pricing

Custom quote-based pricing, typically starting at $500/user/month with tiers based on features and users; free demo available.

Visit ProEstproest.com
4
Sage Estimating logo

Sage Estimating

enterprise

Enterprise-grade construction estimating software featuring extensive cost databases and customizable item libraries for accurate bids.

Overall Rating8.7/10
Features
9.2/10
Ease of Use
7.5/10
Value
8.0/10
Standout Feature

Industry-leading centralized database of pre-built assemblies and real-time cost data for rapid, reliable bid creation.

Sage Estimating is a powerful, database-driven construction estimating software tailored for building contractors to produce accurate bids and cost estimates. It leverages a vast, industry-standard database of costs, labor, and materials, enabling detailed takeoffs, assemblies, and customizable reports. The tool integrates seamlessly with Sage accounting and project management solutions, streamlining workflows from estimate to job costing.

Pros

  • Extensive, regularly updated cost database with millions of line items
  • Advanced visual assemblies and phase-based estimating for speed and accuracy
  • Strong integration with Sage ERP and accounting software

Cons

  • Steep learning curve requiring significant training
  • Outdated user interface compared to modern cloud-native tools
  • High pricing that may not suit small firms

Best For

Mid-to-large construction firms handling complex commercial projects that need precise, database-backed estimates integrated with enterprise accounting.

Pricing

Custom quotes; typically $4,000-$10,000+ annually per user depending on modules and scale, with perpetual license options available.

5
Bluebeam Revu logo

Bluebeam Revu

specialized

PDF-based markup and takeoff software that streamlines quantity takeoffs, measurements, and collaborative estimating.

Overall Rating8.2/10
Features
9.0/10
Ease of Use
7.5/10
Value
8.0/10
Standout Feature

Dynamic measurement tools with automatic quantity linking to Excel spreadsheets

Bluebeam Revu is a robust PDF editor and markup tool designed for the AEC industry, with strong takeoff and measurement features that support building construction estimating by extracting quantities from digital plans. It excels in precise linear, area, and volume measurements, with dynamic linking to Excel for cost calculations and reporting. While not a dedicated estimating platform with built-in pricing databases, it integrates seamlessly into estimating workflows for professionals handling blueprints and RFIs.

Pros

  • Exceptional accuracy in digital takeoffs and measurements from PDFs
  • Seamless Excel integration for quantity export and cost estimating
  • Powerful collaboration tools via Bluebeam Studio for team reviews

Cons

  • No native cost databases or advanced estimating assemblies
  • Steep learning curve for custom tool sets and advanced functions
  • Higher cost may not suit very small firms without heavy PDF usage

Best For

Construction estimators and project managers who perform quantity takeoffs from PDFs and pair them with spreadsheet-based cost analysis.

Pricing

Perpetual licenses from $349 (Basics) to $1,499 (Complete) per user, plus $150-$350 annual maintenance; subscription options start at ~$240/year.

6
Buildxact logo

Buildxact

specialized

Integrated estimating and job management software tailored for residential builders with instant pricing and quoting.

Overall Rating8.6/10
Features
8.4/10
Ease of Use
9.1/10
Value
8.2/10
Standout Feature

Live, real-time material pricing directly from 300+ supplier integrations for instant, accurate cost estimates

Buildxact is a cloud-based estimating and takeoff software tailored for residential builders, remodelers, and trade contractors. It enables digital takeoffs, accurate material costing with live supplier pricing, professional quote generation, and job tracking from estimate to completion. The platform integrates scheduling, purchasing, and basic project management to streamline workflows for small to medium teams.

Pros

  • Intuitive drag-and-drop takeoff tools with high accuracy
  • Live pricing from 300+ integrated suppliers reducing manual research
  • Mobile app for on-site access and seamless team collaboration

Cons

  • Limited advanced features for large-scale commercial projects
  • Higher pricing tiers may not suit very small solo operators
  • Reporting and customization options could be more robust

Best For

Small to medium residential builders and remodelers seeking user-friendly estimating without complex enterprise needs.

Pricing

Starts at $149/user/month (Solo), $199 (Teams), $299 (Business); annual billing offers 20% discount; enterprise custom.

Visit Buildxactbuildxact.com
7
Destini Estimator logo

Destini Estimator

specialized

AI-driven, model-based estimating software that extracts quantities from BIM models for precise construction cost estimation.

Overall Rating8.2/10
Features
9.1/10
Ease of Use
7.4/10
Value
7.8/10
Standout Feature

Real-time 3D cost modeling that updates estimates instantly as schematic designs change

Destini Estimator by Beck Technology is a cloud-based construction estimating software designed for real estate developers, owners, and general contractors. It enables users to create 3D models of building projects and generate rapid, accurate cost estimates through automated quantity takeoffs and integration with BIM tools like Revit. The platform supports preconstruction feasibility studies, value engineering, and collaborative workflows, streamlining the transition from concept to detailed bids.

Pros

  • Lightning-fast 3D model-based estimating with real-time cost updates
  • Seamless BIM integrations for accurate quantity takeoffs
  • Strong collaboration tools for team-based preconstruction workflows

Cons

  • Steep learning curve for users new to 3D modeling
  • Pricing requires custom quotes, lacking transparency
  • Best suited for larger projects; less ideal for small-scale trade estimating

Best For

Real estate developers and general contractors handling mid-to-large commercial projects who rely on BIM for rapid feasibility and value engineering.

Pricing

Custom enterprise pricing via quote; typically subscription-based starting around $5,000/year per user, with tiers based on project volume.

Visit Destini Estimatorbecktechnology.com
8
Autodesk Takeoff logo

Autodesk Takeoff

enterprise

Cloud-based 2D takeoff tool for generating accurate quantity takeoffs and preliminary estimates from digital plans.

Overall Rating8.2/10
Features
8.7/10
Ease of Use
7.8/10
Value
7.9/10
Standout Feature

Deep integration with Autodesk Construction Cloud for seamless data flow between takeoff, BIM coordination, and project management

Autodesk Takeoff is a cloud-based digital quantity takeoff tool within the Autodesk Construction Cloud, designed for construction professionals to extract accurate measurements from 2D plans like PDFs, CAD files, and images. It supports creating assemblies, applying conditions, and generating customizable reports to streamline pre-construction estimating workflows. The software excels in team collaboration, allowing multiple users to work on takeoffs simultaneously and integrate data with other Autodesk tools for bidding and project management.

Pros

  • Seamless integration with Autodesk Construction Cloud and BIM 360
  • Robust 2D takeoff capabilities with assemblies, conditions, and custom formulas
  • Cloud collaboration for real-time sharing and markup

Cons

  • Subscription model can be costly for small firms
  • Learning curve for users new to Autodesk interface
  • Primarily 2D-focused, with limited native 3D model support

Best For

Construction estimators and teams embedded in the Autodesk ecosystem needing collaborative 2D takeoff for accurate quantity extraction.

Pricing

Included in Autodesk Construction Cloud Premium/Ultimate plans; starts at ~$105/user/month (annual commitment).

9
CostX logo

CostX

specialized

5D BIM quantity takeoff and estimating software supporting 2D, 3D, and BIM models for global construction projects.

Overall Rating8.7/10
Features
9.2/10
Ease of Use
7.8/10
Value
8.0/10
Standout Feature

Live-linking technology that instantly propagates changes from drawings to BoQs and estimates

CostX by Exactal is a powerful takeoff and estimating software tailored for building construction professionals, enabling precise quantity takeoffs from 2D CAD/PDF drawings and 3D BIM models. It features live-linking technology that dynamically updates bills of quantities (BoQs) and estimates whenever changes are made to drawings or models. The software includes built-in rate libraries, custom reporting, and integration with tendering processes, making it ideal for accurate cost management in complex projects.

Pros

  • Advanced 2D/3D takeoff with BIM integration
  • Live-linking for automatic updates across sheets
  • Robust estimating database and reporting tools

Cons

  • Steep learning curve for new users
  • High pricing limits accessibility for small firms
  • Primarily Windows-based with limited cloud features

Best For

Mid-to-large construction firms and quantity surveyors handling BIM-heavy projects requiring precise, dynamic estimating.

Pricing

Quote-based licensing starting at approximately $6,000-$10,000 per user annually, depending on modules and perpetual vs. subscription options.

Visit CostXexactal.com
10
Xactimate logo

Xactimate

specialized

Professional estimating software with detailed pricing databases used for construction, restoration, and insurance claims.

Overall Rating8.7/10
Features
9.3/10
Ease of Use
7.2/10
Value
8.1/10
Standout Feature

The integrated Sketch module for precise, insurer-accepted 2D/3D property diagrams and automated square footage calculations.

Xactimate, developed by Xactware, is the industry-standard software for construction estimating, particularly in insurance restoration and property claims. It offers a comprehensive database of localized pricing, materials, and labor costs to generate precise, line-item estimates for repairs and rebuilds. Users can create detailed sketches, produce professional reports, and integrate with mobile apps for on-site data capture, making it a go-to tool for contractors and adjusters.

Pros

  • Extensive, regularly updated pricing database tailored to regions and trades
  • Advanced Sketch tool for accurate 2D/3D diagramming and takeoffs
  • Seamless integration with insurance workflows and mobile accessibility

Cons

  • Steep learning curve requiring significant training
  • High subscription costs that may burden smaller firms
  • Interface feels dated and cluttered for new users

Best For

Insurance restoration contractors and claims adjusters handling complex property damage estimates.

Pricing

Subscription-based tiers (Essentials, Premier, Elite) starting at ~$250/user/month, with annual discounts and training add-ons.

Visit Xactimatexactware.com

Conclusion

The review of top construction estimating software reveals STACK as the standout choice, excelling in cloud-based takeoffs from PDFs and CAD files. PlanSwift and ProEst follow strongly, with PlanSwift leading in rapid on-screen measurement and ProEst impressing with real-time pricing and accounting integration, catering to varied project needs. Ultimately, the best tool aligns with specific workflows, but STACK remains the top pick for streamlined accuracy.

STACK logo
Our Top Pick
STACK

Explore STACK to unlock its fast, flexible takeoff and cost estimate capabilities—an essential tool to enhance efficiency in construction projects.