Quick Overview
- 1#1: PlanSwift - Digital takeoff and estimating software that automates measurements and cost calculations directly from PDF blueprints for rapid construction bidding.
- 2#2: Bluebeam Revu - Powerful PDF-based toolset for precise digital takeoffs, quantity estimation, and collaborative markup on construction documents.
- 3#3: Sage Estimating - Comprehensive database-driven estimating software with assemblies, labor rates, and seamless integration to accounting for large-scale projects.
- 4#4: ProEst - Cloud-based construction estimating platform offering real-time material pricing, digital takeoffs, and mobile bidding capabilities.
- 5#5: CostX - Advanced 2D and 3D takeoff and estimating solution with BIM model integration for accurate quantity takeoff and cost modeling.
- 6#6: Buildxact - User-friendly estimating and job management software designed for residential builders with instant quoting and supplier integration.
- 7#7: Stack - AI-powered construction takeoff software that automatically extracts quantities from plans and generates detailed cost estimates.
- 8#8: Methvin - Online estimating platform with customizable cost databases, templates, and resource planning for efficient project costing.
- 9#9: Autodesk Takeoff - Cloud quantity takeoff tool supporting 2D sheets and 3D models with collaboration features in the Autodesk Construction Cloud ecosystem.
- 10#10: ConEst IntelliBid - Automated estimating software with pre-built databases for materials, labor, and overheads tailored to trade contractors.
These tools were rigorously evaluated based on feature innovation, user-friendliness, robustness of cost data, and alignment with industry needs, ensuring they deliver optimal value across residential, commercial, and large-scale projects.
Comparison Table
Selecting the right building estimation and costing software is key to efficient project planning, with a diverse range of tools to suit different needs. This comparison table breaks down top options like PlanSwift, Bluebeam Revu, Sage Estimating, ProEst, CostX, and more, helping readers identify features, strengths, and ideal use cases for their projects.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | PlanSwift Digital takeoff and estimating software that automates measurements and cost calculations directly from PDF blueprints for rapid construction bidding. | enterprise | 9.4/10 | 9.7/10 | 8.9/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 2 | Bluebeam Revu Powerful PDF-based toolset for precise digital takeoffs, quantity estimation, and collaborative markup on construction documents. | enterprise | 8.6/10 | 8.8/10 | 7.9/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 3 | Sage Estimating Comprehensive database-driven estimating software with assemblies, labor rates, and seamless integration to accounting for large-scale projects. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 4 | ProEst Cloud-based construction estimating platform offering real-time material pricing, digital takeoffs, and mobile bidding capabilities. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.3/10 |
| 5 | CostX Advanced 2D and 3D takeoff and estimating solution with BIM model integration for accurate quantity takeoff and cost modeling. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.4/10 | 7.6/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 6 | Buildxact User-friendly estimating and job management software designed for residential builders with instant quoting and supplier integration. | specialized | 8.6/10 | 8.8/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 7 | Stack AI-powered construction takeoff software that automatically extracts quantities from plans and generates detailed cost estimates. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 8 | Methvin Online estimating platform with customizable cost databases, templates, and resource planning for efficient project costing. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.7/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 9 | Autodesk Takeoff Cloud quantity takeoff tool supporting 2D sheets and 3D models with collaboration features in the Autodesk Construction Cloud ecosystem. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.6/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 10 | ConEst IntelliBid Automated estimating software with pre-built databases for materials, labor, and overheads tailored to trade contractors. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 9.0/10 | 7.5/10 | 7.8/10 |
Digital takeoff and estimating software that automates measurements and cost calculations directly from PDF blueprints for rapid construction bidding.
Powerful PDF-based toolset for precise digital takeoffs, quantity estimation, and collaborative markup on construction documents.
Comprehensive database-driven estimating software with assemblies, labor rates, and seamless integration to accounting for large-scale projects.
Cloud-based construction estimating platform offering real-time material pricing, digital takeoffs, and mobile bidding capabilities.
Advanced 2D and 3D takeoff and estimating solution with BIM model integration for accurate quantity takeoff and cost modeling.
User-friendly estimating and job management software designed for residential builders with instant quoting and supplier integration.
AI-powered construction takeoff software that automatically extracts quantities from plans and generates detailed cost estimates.
Online estimating platform with customizable cost databases, templates, and resource planning for efficient project costing.
Cloud quantity takeoff tool supporting 2D sheets and 3D models with collaboration features in the Autodesk Construction Cloud ecosystem.
Automated estimating software with pre-built databases for materials, labor, and overheads tailored to trade contractors.
PlanSwift
enterpriseDigital takeoff and estimating software that automates measurements and cost calculations directly from PDF blueprints for rapid construction bidding.
Drag-and-drop assemblies that allow instant application of pre-built estimating templates across entire plans
PlanSwift is a premier digital takeoff and estimating software tailored for construction professionals, enabling rapid quantity takeoffs from PDFs, CAD files, scanned images, and blueprints using intuitive point-and-click tools. It features customizable assemblies, item databases, and formula-driven calculations to generate precise cost estimates and bid sheets. The software integrates with popular accounting and project management systems, streamlining the entire pre-construction process from measurement to final quote.
Pros
- Extremely fast and accurate digital takeoffs with point-and-click measuring
- Highly customizable assemblies and databases for tailored estimating
- Strong integrations with QuickBooks, Excel, and other construction tools
Cons
- Steep learning curve for beginners despite intuitive interface
- Primarily desktop-based with limited cloud/mobile access
- High upfront or subscription costs may deter very small operations
Best For
Professional construction estimators and contractors managing medium to large-scale building projects requiring precise quantity takeoffs and detailed cost breakdowns.
Pricing
Perpetual license starts at around $1,745 per user, with annual maintenance at 20-25% of license cost; subscription options available from $150/month.
Bluebeam Revu
enterprisePowerful PDF-based toolset for precise digital takeoffs, quantity estimation, and collaborative markup on construction documents.
Dynamic measurement tools with visual scripting for automated, scalable quantity takeoffs and cost assignments directly on PDFs
Bluebeam Revu is a versatile PDF review and markup software tailored for the AEC industry, providing robust takeoff and measurement tools for building estimation. It enables users to extract quantities like lengths, areas, and counts from digital plans, assign unit costs, and generate summaries exportable to Excel for comprehensive costing. While not a dedicated estimating platform, its seamless integration of document management and collaboration makes it a strong choice for PDF-centric workflows in construction estimation.
Pros
- Highly accurate digital takeoff tools with customizable measurements and automatic calculations
- Seamless integration with Excel via Quantity Link for cost estimation and reporting
- Excellent collaboration features through Studio for real-time team reviews and markups
Cons
- Lacks built-in cost databases or assemblies compared to dedicated estimating software
- Steep learning curve for advanced takeoff and scripting features
- Subscription pricing can add up for small teams without perpetual license options
Best For
Estimators and construction professionals who handle PDF blueprints and need integrated takeoff, markup, and collaboration for quantity-based costing.
Pricing
Subscription from $240/user/year (Basics) to $360/user/year (Complete); perpetual licenses start at $349 with maintenance fees.
Sage Estimating
enterpriseComprehensive database-driven estimating software with assemblies, labor rates, and seamless integration to accounting for large-scale projects.
Real-time access to the comprehensive RSMeans cost database with automatic updates for localized material and labor rates
Sage Estimating is a robust construction estimation software tailored for building professionals, enabling accurate cost takeoffs, bid management, and detailed project budgeting. It leverages a comprehensive, database-driven approach with access to RSMeans cost data for precise material, labor, and equipment pricing. The software supports digital takeoffs from PDFs and CAD files, customizable assemblies, and seamless integration with Sage accounting and project management tools.
Pros
- Extensive RSMeans-integrated cost database for accurate pricing
- Powerful visual assemblies and customizable templates for fast estimating
- Strong integrations with Sage 300 and other ERP systems
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring extensive training
- High pricing limits accessibility for small firms
- Interface feels dated compared to modern cloud-native alternatives
Best For
Mid-to-large construction firms and general contractors seeking enterprise-grade estimating with deep accounting integration.
Pricing
Custom quotes starting at around $5,000-$7,000 per user annually for cloud subscriptions; on-premise licenses available with additional maintenance fees.
ProEst
enterpriseCloud-based construction estimating platform offering real-time material pricing, digital takeoffs, and mobile bidding capabilities.
Dynamic pre-built estimating database with automatic real-time updates from industry cost sources
ProEst is a cloud-based construction estimating software tailored for building professionals, offering digital takeoff, detailed cost estimating, and bid management in a single platform. It features a comprehensive database of assemblies and items with real-time cost updates, integration with accounting systems like QuickBooks and Sage, and tools for subcontractor invitation to bid. The software streamlines pre-construction workflows, helping contractors produce accurate bids faster and track costs effectively throughout projects.
Pros
- Robust digital takeoff and customizable estimating database with real-time cost data
- Seamless integrations with major accounting and project management tools
- Efficient bid management and subcontractor collaboration features
Cons
- Steep learning curve for users new to advanced estimating software
- Pricing can be prohibitive for very small firms
- Limited advanced reporting customization compared to competitors
Best For
Mid-sized general contractors and estimators handling commercial and residential projects who need scalable, database-driven estimating with strong integrations.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; typically $300-$600 per user/month, with annual contracts starting around $5,000-$20,000 depending on modules and users.
CostX
enterpriseAdvanced 2D and 3D takeoff and estimating solution with BIM model integration for accurate quantity takeoff and cost modeling.
Live Linked® technology that automatically updates cost estimates whenever takeoffs change
CostX by Exactal is a leading building estimation and costing software tailored for construction professionals, enabling precise quantity takeoffs from 2D PDFs, CAD drawings, and 3D BIM models (including IFC files). It features advanced querying tools for automated measurements and a robust estimating engine with built-in cost databases. The software excels in live-linking takeoffs directly to estimates, ensuring real-time updates and accuracy throughout the project lifecycle.
Pros
- Superior BIM and 2D/3D takeoff capabilities
- Live-linked estimating for instant synchronization
- Extensive customizable templates and reporting
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users
- High subscription costs
- Limited native mobile or cloud collaboration
Best For
Quantity surveyors and estimators managing complex commercial building projects with heavy BIM usage.
Pricing
Annual subscriptions start at around $2,500 USD per user, with modular pricing and enterprise quotes available.
Buildxact
specializedUser-friendly estimating and job management software designed for residential builders with instant quoting and supplier integration.
Live pricing feeds from major suppliers for real-time, accurate material costing
Buildxact is a cloud-based estimating and takeoff software tailored for residential builders, remodelers, and small construction firms. It streamlines digital takeoffs from PDFs and CAD files, enables quick quote generation with customizable templates, and provides real-time job costing and variation tracking. The platform integrates seamlessly with accounting tools like Xero and QuickBooks, helping users manage projects from estimate to completion efficiently.
Pros
- Intuitive interface with drag-and-drop takeoff tools
- Live supplier pricing integration for accurate material costs
- Strong job costing and variation management features
Cons
- Higher pricing tiers can be costly for solo users
- Limited advanced reporting for large-scale commercial projects
- Some customization options require higher plans
Best For
Small to medium residential builders and remodelers seeking user-friendly estimation and job tracking without complex setups.
Pricing
Subscription plans start at $149 AUD/month for Essentials, up to $499 AUD/month for Premium, billed annually with a free trial.
Stack
specializedAI-powered construction takeoff software that automatically extracts quantities from plans and generates detailed cost estimates.
AI Digital Takeoff that automatically detects and measures elements from uploaded plans and PDFs
Stack (stackct.com) is a cloud-based AI-powered construction takeoff and estimating software designed to automate quantity takeoffs from PDFs, images, and digital plans. It streamlines building estimation and costing by generating accurate material quantities, labor costs, and bids with real-time collaboration features. Targeted at construction professionals, it reduces manual measurement time and integrates with accounting tools for comprehensive project costing.
Pros
- AI-driven automated takeoffs from plans drastically reduce manual work
- Real-time cloud collaboration for team-based estimating
- Strong integrations with tools like QuickBooks and Procore
Cons
- Limited advanced assemblies for complex commercial projects
- AI accuracy can vary with poor-quality plans
- Subscription pricing may be steep for solo estimators
Best For
Small to mid-sized construction firms and estimators seeking fast, AI-accelerated takeoffs and collaborative bidding.
Pricing
Starts at $99/user/month for Starter plan; Pro at $299/user/month; custom enterprise pricing.
Methvin
specializedOnline estimating platform with customizable cost databases, templates, and resource planning for efficient project costing.
Comprehensive cloud-based rate library with automatic updates and regional pricing adjustments
Methvin is a cloud-based construction estimation software tailored for builders, contractors, and estimators, offering digital takeoff, precise costing, and tender management tools. It features a vast library of rates and materials, enabling quick assembly of estimates from templates and real-time collaboration across teams. The platform supports project tracking from bid to completion, with integrations for accounting and project management systems.
Pros
- Extensive global rate database with over 1 million items for accurate costing
- Real-time cloud collaboration and mobile access for on-site use
- Integrated takeoff, estimating, and tendering workflow
Cons
- Steep learning curve for complex projects and custom setups
- Pricing can be high for small firms or solo estimators
- Limited native integrations with some popular accounting software
Best For
Mid-sized construction firms and estimators handling tenders and multi-user projects that require robust cloud-based tools.
Pricing
Subscription plans start at around $99 AUD per user/month for basic access, scaling to enterprise tiers with custom pricing.
Autodesk Takeoff
enterpriseCloud quantity takeoff tool supporting 2D sheets and 3D models with collaboration features in the Autodesk Construction Cloud ecosystem.
Dynamic assemblies and conditions that automatically calculate quantities and costs based on drawing markups
Autodesk Takeoff is a cloud-based quantity takeoff and estimating tool within the Autodesk Construction Cloud ecosystem, designed for construction estimators to perform accurate 2D measurements from PDF, CAD, and scanned drawings. It allows users to create customizable assemblies, apply conditions for precise material and labor costing, and generate professional bid documents. The software facilitates real-time collaboration and seamless integration with other Autodesk tools like BIM 360 and Revit, enhancing preconstruction workflows for AEC professionals.
Pros
- Seamless integration with Autodesk Construction Cloud and BIM tools for end-to-end workflows
- Powerful 2D takeoff capabilities with customizable assemblies and conditions for accurate estimating
- Real-time cloud collaboration enabling team access and markup sharing
Cons
- Steep learning curve for users new to Autodesk software
- Subscription pricing can be costly for small firms or solo estimators
- Primarily focused on 2D takeoffs with limited native 3D model integration
Best For
Mid-to-large construction firms and estimators already using Autodesk products for collaborative preconstruction bidding.
Pricing
Included in Autodesk Construction Cloud subscriptions; Core plan starts at ~$1,065/user/year, with higher tiers up to $2,530/user/year (annual commitment required).
ConEst IntelliBid
specializedAutomated estimating software with pre-built databases for materials, labor, and overheads tailored to trade contractors.
Automated Assemblies technology that generates complete labor-optimized estimates from simple takeoff inputs
ConEst IntelliBid is a robust construction estimating software primarily designed for electrical contractors but adaptable to mechanical, plumbing, and other trades in building projects. It features digital takeoff tools, automated assemblies for rapid quantity and cost calculation, and detailed bid preparation with labor factoring and material pricing. The software integrates with accounting systems to support job costing and project management throughout the construction lifecycle.
Pros
- Powerful digital takeoff with precise quantity extraction
- Extensive pre-built assemblies and real-time pricing database
- Seamless integration with accounting and project management tools
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to complex interface
- Desktop-only (Windows-based) with limited mobile access
- High cost unsuitable for small firms
Best For
Mid-to-large electrical contractors handling complex commercial projects requiring detailed, trade-specific estimates.
Pricing
Custom quote required; typically subscription-based starting at $5,000+ per year per user, with perpetual license options available.
Conclusion
The reviewed tools offer robust solutions for construction estimation, with PlanSwift leading as the top choice for its automated measurements and rapid bid preparation. Bluebeam Revu stands out for precise PDF takeoffs and collaborative markup, while Sage Estimating excels in database-driven accuracy and accounting integration for large projects—each fitting distinct needs.
Explore PlanSwift today to streamline your estimating process and enhance your construction bidding efficiency.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison