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Top 10 Best Building Estimator Software of 2026

Discover top building estimator software tools. Compare features, find the best fit, and streamline your construction projects today.

Sarah Mitchell

Sarah Mitchell

Feb 11, 2026

10 tools comparedExpert reviewed
Independent evaluation · Unbiased commentary · Updated regularly
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Accurate, efficient estimating is critical to construction success, directly impacting cost control, timeline adherence, and project feasibility. With a spectrum of tools available, choosing the right building estimator software can transform operations—making this curated list of leading solutions indispensable for professionals.

Quick Overview

  1. 1#1: Stack - AI-powered construction takeoff and estimating platform that automates quantity extraction and cost calculations from digital plans.
  2. 2#2: ProEst - Cloud-based construction estimating software that streamlines bid creation, cost databases, and project management integration.
  3. 3#3: PlanSwift - Digital takeoff and estimating tool enabling fast measurements and assemblies directly from PDFs, CAD, and images.
  4. 4#4: Togal.AI - AI-driven automated quantity takeoff software that instantly detects and measures building elements from blueprints.
  5. 5#5: Bluebeam Revu - PDF-based markup and takeoff software for precise measurements, annotations, and collaborative estimating in construction.
  6. 6#6: Autodesk Takeoff - Cloud-based 2D takeoff and estimating solution integrated with BIM for accurate quantity and cost analysis.
  7. 7#7: Buildxact - Estimating and takeoff software tailored for residential builders with job costing, quoting, and supplier integration.
  8. 8#8: Sage Estimating - Database-driven estimating software providing detailed cost breakdowns, assemblies, and integration with accounting systems.
  9. 9#9: Buildertrend - Construction management platform with built-in estimating, takeoff, and scheduling tools for home builders.
  10. 10#10: Clear Estimates - User-friendly estimating software for remodelers and builders featuring pre-loaded assemblies and customizable templates.

Tools were selected and ranked based on rigorous assessment of feature depth (including automation and integration), user-friendliness, output quality, and value, ensuring they cater to diverse construction needs and expertise levels.

Comparison Table

This comparison table outlines key building estimator software tools, featuring Stack, ProEst, PlanSwift, Togal.AI, Bluebeam Revu, and more, to guide readers in evaluating options. It explores core features, strengths, and practical use cases, clarifying how each tool performs in efficiency, integration, and user-friendliness to suit diverse project needs.

1Stack logo9.6/10

AI-powered construction takeoff and estimating platform that automates quantity extraction and cost calculations from digital plans.

Features
9.8/10
Ease
9.3/10
Value
9.2/10
2ProEst logo9.1/10

Cloud-based construction estimating software that streamlines bid creation, cost databases, and project management integration.

Features
9.5/10
Ease
8.2/10
Value
8.7/10
3PlanSwift logo8.7/10

Digital takeoff and estimating tool enabling fast measurements and assemblies directly from PDFs, CAD, and images.

Features
9.2/10
Ease
7.8/10
Value
8.5/10
4Togal.AI logo8.8/10

AI-driven automated quantity takeoff software that instantly detects and measures building elements from blueprints.

Features
9.5/10
Ease
8.2/10
Value
8.0/10

PDF-based markup and takeoff software for precise measurements, annotations, and collaborative estimating in construction.

Features
8.5/10
Ease
8.8/10
Value
7.6/10

Cloud-based 2D takeoff and estimating solution integrated with BIM for accurate quantity and cost analysis.

Features
9.0/10
Ease
7.5/10
Value
7.8/10
7Buildxact logo8.4/10

Estimating and takeoff software tailored for residential builders with job costing, quoting, and supplier integration.

Features
8.7/10
Ease
9.1/10
Value
8.0/10

Database-driven estimating software providing detailed cost breakdowns, assemblies, and integration with accounting systems.

Features
9.1/10
Ease
6.8/10
Value
7.4/10

Construction management platform with built-in estimating, takeoff, and scheduling tools for home builders.

Features
8.2/10
Ease
8.0/10
Value
7.2/10

User-friendly estimating software for remodelers and builders featuring pre-loaded assemblies and customizable templates.

Features
8.5/10
Ease
8.0/10
Value
7.6/10
1
Stack logo

Stack

specialized

AI-powered construction takeoff and estimating platform that automates quantity extraction and cost calculations from digital plans.

Overall Rating9.6/10
Features
9.8/10
Ease of Use
9.3/10
Value
9.2/10
Standout Feature

AI Auto-Takeoff that instantly detects and measures elements like walls, doors, and areas from uploaded PDFs with 95%+ accuracy

Stack (stackct.com) is an AI-powered cloud-based platform designed for construction takeoff and estimating, automating quantity measurements directly from PDF plans and blueprints. It enables building estimators to generate precise material takeoffs, labor calculations, and cost estimates in minutes, significantly reducing manual work. With seamless integration into bidding workflows and real-time team collaboration, it's tailored for residential, commercial, and subcontractor projects.

Pros

  • AI-driven auto-takeoff delivers lightning-fast, accurate measurements from digital plans
  • Robust estimating tools with customizable assemblies and real-time cost updates
  • Cloud collaboration allows instant sharing and editing across teams

Cons

  • Higher pricing tiers may be steep for solo estimators or very small firms
  • AI accuracy can vary with complex or low-quality plan scans
  • Limited native integrations with some legacy accounting software

Best For

Construction estimators and contractors handling high-volume bids who need speed and precision in takeoffs for competitive building projects.

Pricing

Custom quote-based pricing with tiers starting around $99/user/month for Pro plan; includes 14-day free trial and scalable Enterprise options.

Visit Stackstackct.com
2
ProEst logo

ProEst

specialized

Cloud-based construction estimating software that streamlines bid creation, cost databases, and project management integration.

Overall Rating9.1/10
Features
9.5/10
Ease of Use
8.2/10
Value
8.7/10
Standout Feature

Dynamic, vendor-sourced cost database with automated real-time pricing intelligence

ProEst is a cloud-based construction estimating software designed specifically for building estimators, offering digital takeoff, quantity takeoff, and detailed cost estimating tools. It features an extensive database of over 24,000 line items for materials, labor, and equipment, with real-time pricing updates and customizable assemblies. The platform integrates seamlessly with ERP systems like Sage 300 and project management tools like Procore, streamlining bidding and project handoff processes.

Pros

  • Comprehensive cost databases with frequent real-time updates
  • Strong integrations with popular construction ERP and PM software
  • Cloud accessibility enabling team collaboration from anywhere

Cons

  • Steep learning curve requiring training for full utilization
  • Quote-based pricing that can be expensive for smaller firms
  • Interface can feel dated compared to newer competitors

Best For

Mid-to-large construction firms needing precise, scalable estimating with robust integrations.

Pricing

Custom quote-based pricing, typically $5,000–$15,000+ annually based on users, features, and company size.

Visit ProEstproest.com
3
PlanSwift logo

PlanSwift

specialized

Digital takeoff and estimating tool enabling fast measurements and assemblies directly from PDFs, CAD, and images.

Overall Rating8.7/10
Features
9.2/10
Ease of Use
7.8/10
Value
8.5/10
Standout Feature

Drag-and-drop assemblies that allow instant application of pre-built estimating templates across plans

PlanSwift is a powerful on-screen takeoff and estimating software tailored for construction professionals, enabling quick digital measurements from PDF plans, blueprints, and CAD files using intuitive point-and-click tools. It supports customizable assemblies, automatic calculations, and reporting for accurate bid preparation. The software integrates with popular accounting systems like QuickBooks and excels in handling complex projects across residential, commercial, and remodeling sectors.

Pros

  • Lightning-fast point-and-click takeoffs with visual accuracy
  • Highly customizable assemblies and formulas for precise estimating
  • Seamless integrations with accounting and project management tools

Cons

  • Steep learning curve for new users
  • Desktop-only application lacking cloud collaboration
  • High upfront licensing costs without subscription flexibility

Best For

Experienced building estimators managing detailed takeoffs for mid-to-large construction projects who prioritize speed and customization over simplicity.

Pricing

Perpetual license starts at $1,749 per user, plus ~$500 annual maintenance; volume discounts available.

Visit PlanSwiftplanswift.com
4
Togal.AI logo

Togal.AI

specialized

AI-driven automated quantity takeoff software that instantly detects and measures building elements from blueprints.

Overall Rating8.8/10
Features
9.5/10
Ease of Use
8.2/10
Value
8.0/10
Standout Feature

Patented AI engine that performs instant, pixel-perfect quantity takeoffs from any PDF blueprint without templates

Togal.AI is an AI-powered construction takeoff and estimating platform that automates the extraction of quantities from blueprints and PDFs. It uses machine learning to instantly detect and measure elements like rooms, walls, doors, and fixtures, drastically reducing manual takeoff time. The software integrates with popular estimating tools and supports collaborative workflows for construction teams.

Pros

  • Lightning-fast AI-driven takeoffs saving up to 90% of time
  • High accuracy on standard drawings with support for 100+ element types
  • Seamless integrations with Procore, PlanSwift, and Excel

Cons

  • Accuracy can falter on complex or poor-quality plans requiring manual tweaks
  • Steep pricing may not suit solo estimators or small firms
  • Limited advanced reporting and customization options

Best For

Mid-sized to large construction firms and estimators handling high-volume bidding who prioritize speed and automation in takeoffs.

Pricing

Starts at $299/user/month for the Starter plan; Pro plan at $599/user/month; custom Enterprise pricing for high-volume users.

5
Bluebeam Revu logo

Bluebeam Revu

specialized

PDF-based markup and takeoff software for precise measurements, annotations, and collaborative estimating in construction.

Overall Rating8.2/10
Features
8.5/10
Ease of Use
8.8/10
Value
7.6/10
Standout Feature

Dynamic measurement tools with automatic quantity calculations and customizable cost columns directly on PDFs

Bluebeam Revu is a robust PDF review and markup software designed for the AEC industry, allowing building estimators to perform precise quantity takeoffs, measurements, and annotations on digital blueprints and plans. It features customizable measurement tools, cost assignment, and export capabilities to Excel for further estimation analysis. While excelling in digital takeoff workflows, it serves as a complementary tool rather than a comprehensive estimating platform with built-in databases or assemblies.

Pros

  • Highly accurate and customizable measurement and takeoff tools for PDFs
  • Seamless collaboration via Bluebeam Studio for cloud-based reviews
  • Strong integration with Excel and other estimating software for data export

Cons

  • Not a full-featured estimating solution lacking labor/material databases
  • Subscription pricing can be high for smaller firms
  • Advanced features require significant training time

Best For

Building estimators focused on digital plan takeoffs and measurements who pair it with separate estimating software.

Pricing

Subscription tiers: Basics (~$200/year), Core (~$350/year), Complete (~$600/year) per user; volume discounts available.

6
Autodesk Takeoff logo

Autodesk Takeoff

enterprise

Cloud-based 2D takeoff and estimating solution integrated with BIM for accurate quantity and cost analysis.

Overall Rating8.2/10
Features
9.0/10
Ease of Use
7.5/10
Value
7.8/10
Standout Feature

Automated quantity takeoff directly from native 3D BIM models with object recognition

Autodesk Takeoff is a cloud-based quantity takeoff and estimating tool within the Autodesk Construction Cloud suite, designed for construction estimators to extract quantities from 2D plans, PDFs, CAD files, and 3D BIM models. It automates measurements, assembles cost estimates using customizable databases, and supports team collaboration in real-time. The software integrates deeply with Autodesk products like Revit and BIM 360, streamlining preconstruction workflows for accurate bidding.

Pros

  • Seamless integration with Autodesk BIM tools like Revit for automated 3D takeoffs
  • Cloud-based collaboration for real-time sharing and markups
  • Robust customizable item and assembly databases for precise estimating

Cons

  • Steep learning curve, especially for users new to Autodesk ecosystem
  • Subscription pricing can be costly for small firms or standalone use
  • Limited advanced reporting customization compared to specialized estimators

Best For

Experienced building estimators in mid-to-large firms already using Autodesk BIM workflows for complex projects.

Pricing

Included in Autodesk Construction Cloud subscriptions; Takeoff Pro starts at ~$975/user/year (billed annually).

7
Buildxact logo

Buildxact

specialized

Estimating and takeoff software tailored for residential builders with job costing, quoting, and supplier integration.

Overall Rating8.4/10
Features
8.7/10
Ease of Use
9.1/10
Value
8.0/10
Standout Feature

Real-time material pricing pulled directly from integrated supplier databases

Buildxact is a cloud-based estimating and takeoff software tailored for residential builders and contractors, enabling digital takeoffs from PDFs, CAD files, and images. It automates material calculations, generates professional quotes, and tracks job costs with real-time supplier pricing integrations. The platform also includes scheduling, variation management, and seamless connections to accounting tools like Xero and QuickBooks.

Pros

  • Intuitive interface ideal for non-technical builders
  • Accurate 2D/3D takeoffs with auto-material lists
  • Live pricing from 400+ suppliers for up-to-date estimates

Cons

  • Limited advanced customization for complex projects
  • Higher tiers required for full scheduling features
  • Occasional glitches in PDF imports reported by users

Best For

Small to medium residential builders seeking quick, user-friendly estimating without a steep learning curve.

Pricing

Starts at $149 AUD/user/month (Takeoff & Estimate), $299 for Pro, $499 for Full Works; annual billing offers 20% discount.

Visit Buildxactbuildxact.com
8
Sage Estimating logo

Sage Estimating

enterprise

Database-driven estimating software providing detailed cost breakdowns, assemblies, and integration with accounting systems.

Overall Rating8.2/10
Features
9.1/10
Ease of Use
6.8/10
Value
7.4/10
Standout Feature

Proprietary Sage National Cost Database with real-time updates and historical data for precise, location-specific estimating.

Sage Estimating is a comprehensive construction estimating software tailored for building estimators, featuring a vast national cost database with assemblies, labor units, and material pricing. It supports detailed takeoffs, bid management, and reporting, allowing for phased estimating from conceptual to detailed levels. The tool integrates with Sage 300 and other ERP systems for streamlined workflows in large-scale projects.

Pros

  • Extensive, regularly updated national cost database for accurate pricing
  • Powerful customization of items, assemblies, and formulas
  • Seamless integration with Sage accounting and project management tools

Cons

  • Steep learning curve requiring significant training
  • High cost, especially for smaller firms
  • Primarily desktop-based with limited mobile/cloud flexibility

Best For

Large construction firms with experienced estimators needing database-driven, detailed building cost estimates for complex projects.

Pricing

Subscription pricing starts at around $5,000 per user annually, with enterprise quotes varying based on modules and users.

9
Buildertrend logo

Buildertrend

enterprise

Construction management platform with built-in estimating, takeoff, and scheduling tools for home builders.

Overall Rating7.8/10
Features
8.2/10
Ease of Use
8.0/10
Value
7.2/10
Standout Feature

Dynamic linking between estimates and schedules that auto-adjusts timelines and budgets in real-time

Buildertrend is a comprehensive construction management platform that includes estimating tools for takeoffs, cost databases, and bid creation tailored for builders and remodelers. It integrates estimating seamlessly with scheduling, budgeting, and project tracking to streamline workflows from bid to completion. While not a standalone estimator, its features support accurate cost projections and real-time updates across the project lifecycle.

Pros

  • Seamless integration of estimating with project management and scheduling
  • Mobile app for on-site estimating and updates
  • Customizable templates and cost databases for faster bids

Cons

  • Estimating tools less advanced than dedicated software like PlanSwift
  • Higher cost may not suit solo estimators
  • Steep initial learning curve for full feature set

Best For

Small to mid-sized construction companies needing integrated estimating within broader project management.

Pricing

Starts at $299/month (billed annually) for up to 15 users; scales to $399+ for larger teams with advanced features.

Visit Buildertrendbuildertrend.com
10
Clear Estimates logo

Clear Estimates

specialized

User-friendly estimating software for remodelers and builders featuring pre-loaded assemblies and customizable templates.

Overall Rating8.1/10
Features
8.5/10
Ease of Use
8.0/10
Value
7.6/10
Standout Feature

Comprehensive database of 1,000+ pre-built assemblies for instant, accurate remodeling cost calculations

Clear Estimates is a specialized software solution tailored for remodeling contractors, enabling quick creation of professional estimates, proposals, change orders, and invoices. It features a vast database of pre-built assemblies for materials and labor costs specific to home improvement projects, streamlining the takeoff and bidding process. The tool supports QuickBooks integration, mobile on-site estimating, and customizable templates to fit various project needs.

Pros

  • Extensive pre-built assemblies database speeds up estimate creation
  • Seamless QuickBooks integration for easy accounting
  • Mobile app supports on-site data entry and photos

Cons

  • Primarily focused on remodeling, less ideal for general construction
  • Desktop-centric with some cloud limitations
  • Pricing can feel steep for solo operators

Best For

Small to mid-sized remodeling contractors who need fast, accurate bids for residential projects.

Pricing

Starts at $79/month (Basic), $149/month (Pro), with annual discounts and custom Enterprise options.

Visit Clear Estimatesclearestimates.com

Conclusion

The review of top building estimator software underscores Stack as the leading choice, with AI-powered automation streamlining takeoff and cost calculations seamlessly. ProEst follows, excelling in bid creation efficiency and project management integration, while PlanSwift stands out for rapid, accurate measurements from diverse files. Collectively, these top tools offer tailored solutions, ensuring there’s a strong option for nearly every construction workflow.

Stack logo
Our Top Pick
Stack

Take the next step in your estimating journey—try Stack to unlock automated precision and transform how you approach construction projects.