Quick Overview
- 1#1: PlanSwift - Digital takeoff and estimating software that enables rapid measurement and cost calculation of building materials directly from PDFs and CAD files.
- 2#2: Sage Estimating - Comprehensive enterprise-grade construction estimating tool with extensive material databases and integration for accurate quantity and cost analysis.
- 3#3: ProEst - Cloud-based estimating platform that streamlines material takeoffs, assemblies, and bidding with real-time cost updates.
- 4#4: Buildxact - All-in-one builder software focused on material lists, instant estimating, and job costing for residential construction projects.
- 5#5: Stack - AI-powered takeoff and estimating tool that automates material quantity extraction from plans for faster and more accurate bids.
- 6#6: Togal.AI - AI-driven platform for automated construction takeoffs, identifying and quantifying building materials from digital drawings in minutes.
- 7#7: Bluebeam Revu - PDF markup and collaboration software with advanced quantity takeoff tools for measuring and estimating construction materials.
- 8#8: Autodesk Takeoff - Cloud-based 2D takeoff solution integrated with Autodesk ecosystem for precise material quantity extraction from project drawings.
- 9#9: CostX - 5D BIM estimating software that links 2D takeoffs and 3D models to detailed building material quantities and costs.
- 10#10: Methvin - Online estimating tool with customizable material libraries, takeoff capabilities, and trade-specific templates for construction projects.
We evaluated tools based on features like automated takeoff efficiency, database depth, integration capabilities, user-friendliness, and overall value, prioritizing performance, reliability, and relevance to modern construction workflows.
Comparison Table
This comparison table examines leading building material estimating software, featuring PlanSwift, Sage Estimating, ProEst, Buildxact, Stack, and more, to guide readers in selecting tools that suit their project requirements. It outlines key features, usability, and practical capabilities, aiding informed decisions for efficient material cost management.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | PlanSwift Digital takeoff and estimating software that enables rapid measurement and cost calculation of building materials directly from PDFs and CAD files. | specialized | 9.5/10 | 9.8/10 | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 2 | Sage Estimating Comprehensive enterprise-grade construction estimating tool with extensive material databases and integration for accurate quantity and cost analysis. | enterprise | 9.2/10 | 9.6/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 3 | ProEst Cloud-based estimating platform that streamlines material takeoffs, assemblies, and bidding with real-time cost updates. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.0/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 4 | Buildxact All-in-one builder software focused on material lists, instant estimating, and job costing for residential construction projects. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.6/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 5 | Stack AI-powered takeoff and estimating tool that automates material quantity extraction from plans for faster and more accurate bids. | general_ai | 8.4/10 | 8.8/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 6 | Togal.AI AI-driven platform for automated construction takeoffs, identifying and quantifying building materials from digital drawings in minutes. | general_ai | 8.3/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.7/10 |
| 7 | Bluebeam Revu PDF markup and collaboration software with advanced quantity takeoff tools for measuring and estimating construction materials. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.9/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 8 | Autodesk Takeoff Cloud-based 2D takeoff solution integrated with Autodesk ecosystem for precise material quantity extraction from project drawings. | enterprise | 7.6/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.0/10 | 7.1/10 |
| 9 | CostX 5D BIM estimating software that links 2D takeoffs and 3D models to detailed building material quantities and costs. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 9.1/10 | 6.8/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 10 | Methvin Online estimating tool with customizable material libraries, takeoff capabilities, and trade-specific templates for construction projects. | other | 7.6/10 | 7.8/10 | 7.5/10 | 8.2/10 |
Digital takeoff and estimating software that enables rapid measurement and cost calculation of building materials directly from PDFs and CAD files.
Comprehensive enterprise-grade construction estimating tool with extensive material databases and integration for accurate quantity and cost analysis.
Cloud-based estimating platform that streamlines material takeoffs, assemblies, and bidding with real-time cost updates.
All-in-one builder software focused on material lists, instant estimating, and job costing for residential construction projects.
AI-powered takeoff and estimating tool that automates material quantity extraction from plans for faster and more accurate bids.
AI-driven platform for automated construction takeoffs, identifying and quantifying building materials from digital drawings in minutes.
PDF markup and collaboration software with advanced quantity takeoff tools for measuring and estimating construction materials.
Cloud-based 2D takeoff solution integrated with Autodesk ecosystem for precise material quantity extraction from project drawings.
5D BIM estimating software that links 2D takeoffs and 3D models to detailed building material quantities and costs.
Online estimating tool with customizable material libraries, takeoff capabilities, and trade-specific templates for construction projects.
PlanSwift
specializedDigital takeoff and estimating software that enables rapid measurement and cost calculation of building materials directly from PDFs and CAD files.
Revolutionary point-and-click takeoff engine that instantly computes material quantities, cuts, and wastes directly on digital plans
PlanSwift is a leading digital takeoff and estimating software tailored for construction professionals, allowing users to import blueprints in PDF, CAD, or image formats and perform rapid point-and-click measurements for building materials like lumber, drywall, roofing, and more. It features customizable assemblies that automatically calculate quantities, costs, labor, and totals, streamlining the estimating process from takeoff to bid. With robust reporting and integration capabilities, it helps contractors produce precise material estimates efficiently.
Pros
- Ultra-fast point-and-click takeoffs with real-time quantity calculations
- Extensive customizable assemblies for accurate building material estimating
- Seamless exports to Excel, QuickBooks, and other estimating tools
Cons
- Steep learning curve for advanced assemblies and customization
- Windows-only compatibility limits accessibility
- Upfront licensing cost without a free tier
Best For
Construction estimators and contractors who need precise, high-volume building material takeoffs from digital plans.
Pricing
One-time license starting at $1,645 per user, plus optional annual maintenance around $495.
Sage Estimating
enterpriseComprehensive enterprise-grade construction estimating tool with extensive material databases and integration for accurate quantity and cost analysis.
Industry-leading database of over 100,000 pre-defined items, assemblies, and labor units with automatic pricing updates from major suppliers
Sage Estimating is a comprehensive construction estimating software from Sage that specializes in detailed cost estimation for building projects, including precise material takeoffs, labor, and equipment calculations. It features an extensive database of over 100,000 pre-built items and assemblies aligned with CSI MasterFormat standards, enabling accurate quantity surveying from digital plans. The software supports both 2D and 3D takeoffs, real-time pricing updates, and seamless integration with accounting systems for streamlined workflows.
Pros
- Massive database of 100,000+ building materials, assemblies, and costs with real-time updates
- Powerful digital takeoff tools supporting CAD/BIM integration for accurate material quantities
- Strong integration with Sage accounting and project management software
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring significant training for new users
- High cost with custom enterprise pricing
- Limited native mobile functionality for on-site use
Best For
Mid-to-large construction firms and professional estimators handling complex building projects that demand database-driven accuracy and scalability.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing, typically starting at $5,000+ per user annually for subscriptions, with perpetual licenses and add-ons available.
ProEst
enterpriseCloud-based estimating platform that streamlines material takeoffs, assemblies, and bidding with real-time cost updates.
Intelligent Pricing Service that automatically pulls real-time material costs from suppliers for accurate, up-to-date estimates
ProEst is a cloud-based construction estimating software that excels in digital takeoff, quantity calculation, and cost estimation for building projects, including materials like concrete, steel, and lumber. It features extensive databases for materials, labor, and equipment, with customizable assemblies and formulas to speed up accurate bid preparation. The platform supports real-time collaboration and integrates with accounting systems, making it suitable for general contractors handling building material estimates alongside other trade work.
Pros
- Comprehensive material and pricing databases with frequent updates
- Powerful digital takeoff tools for precise quantity calculations
- Cloud-based access for team collaboration and integrations with ERP systems
Cons
- Steep learning curve for beginners and advanced customization
- Pricing is quote-based and can be expensive for small firms
- Limited specialized tools for niche building materials like advanced timber modeling
Best For
Mid-sized general contractors and estimators needing robust, scalable tools for building material quantity takeoffs and cost bidding.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; typically $300-$600 per user/month or $5,000+ annually depending on features and users.
Buildxact
specializedAll-in-one builder software focused on material lists, instant estimating, and job costing for residential construction projects.
Real-time live pricing from a vast supplier network that auto-updates material costs
Buildxact is a cloud-based takeoff and estimating software tailored for residential builders, remodelers, and trade contractors. It enables digital plan takeoffs from PDFs or images, automatic generation of material lists, and real-time pricing from integrated supplier databases. The platform also supports job costing, scheduling, and seamless QuickBooks integration for streamlined workflows.
Pros
- Fast digital takeoffs with area and length tools
- Live pricing from 500+ suppliers for accurate estimates
- Excellent QuickBooks and Xero integrations
Cons
- Limited support for large-scale commercial projects
- Advanced features locked behind higher tiers
- Occasional glitches in mobile app syncing
Best For
Small to medium residential builders and remodelers needing quick, accurate material estimates and job costing.
Pricing
Starts at $149/user/month (Essentials), $299 (Pro), $499 (Premium); annual billing offers discounts.
Stack
general_aiAI-powered takeoff and estimating tool that automates material quantity extraction from plans for faster and more accurate bids.
AI-driven instant material takeoff with seamless real-time supplier pricing and automated ordering
Stack (stackct.com) is a cloud-based construction software platform focused on digital takeoff, material estimating, and procurement for building materials, particularly in residential construction. It leverages AI to perform rapid quantity takeoffs from plans, integrates real-time pricing from suppliers, and facilitates direct ordering to streamline the process from estimate to purchase. Designed for builders and remodelers, it emphasizes speed, accuracy, and collaboration across teams.
Pros
- AI-powered instant takeoffs from PDFs and plans for quick estimating
- Real-time supplier pricing and one-click procurement integration
- Mobile app for on-site collaboration and updates
Cons
- Limited depth for non-residential or highly custom projects
- Pricing is custom and can feel premium for small teams
- Reporting and advanced analytics are basic compared to competitors
Best For
Mid-sized residential homebuilders and remodelers seeking fast material estimating tied to direct supplier procurement.
Pricing
Custom subscription pricing based on team size and usage; typically starts at $200/month for small teams, with enterprise plans available.
Togal.AI
general_aiAI-driven platform for automated construction takeoffs, identifying and quantifying building materials from digital drawings in minutes.
Patented AI that auto-detects and measures 2D plan elements without manual tracing
Togal.AI is an AI-powered construction takeoff and estimating platform that automates the extraction of measurements from blueprints and plans for building material quantities. It uses computer vision to detect and quantify elements like walls, doors, windows, and areas, generating detailed takeoffs in minutes rather than hours. Ideal for pre-bid estimating, it integrates with popular software like Procore and PlanSwift to streamline material cost calculations.
Pros
- Ultra-fast AI-driven takeoffs from PDFs and images
- High accuracy for standard architectural plans
- Seamless integrations with estimating and project management tools
Cons
- Struggles with highly complex or hand-drawn plans
- Steep pricing for small firms
- Requires initial training data setup for optimal custom performance
Best For
Mid-sized contractors and estimators focused on residential/commercial takeoffs who need speed without sacrificing precision.
Pricing
Subscription starts at $299/user/month for basic plans, scaling to $999+ for enterprise with unlimited projects; custom quotes available.
Bluebeam Revu
specializedPDF markup and collaboration software with advanced quantity takeoff tools for measuring and estimating construction materials.
Visual measurement verification with dynamic scaling and automatic quantity summaries directly on PDF blueprints
Bluebeam Revu is a robust PDF editor tailored for the AEC industry, providing precise digital takeoff and measurement tools essential for building material estimating from blueprints. It enables users to measure lengths, areas, volumes, and counts directly on PDFs, with customizable toolsets for different materials and automatic quantity calculations. Reports can be exported to Excel for cost integration, making it a strong front-end solution for quantity takeoffs in material estimation workflows.
Pros
- Exceptional PDF-based takeoff accuracy with visual markups for verification
- Customizable measurement toolsets tailored to specific building materials
- Seamless integration with Excel and collaboration via Studio Sessions/Projects
Cons
- No built-in cost databases or material pricing libraries
- Limited support for complex assemblies or full bid management
- Subscription model can add up for small teams without perpetual options
Best For
Estimators and contractors who handle PDF plans and need reliable quantity takeoffs as a precursor to material cost estimation.
Pricing
Subscription starts at $240/user/year (Basics), $349/user/year (Core), up to $600+/user/year (Complete); perpetual licenses available with annual maintenance.
Autodesk Takeoff
enterpriseCloud-based 2D takeoff solution integrated with Autodesk ecosystem for precise material quantity extraction from project drawings.
Customizable item assemblies that allow quick application of material quantities and costs across drawings
Autodesk Takeoff is a cloud-based quantity takeoff tool within Autodesk Construction Cloud designed for extracting accurate material quantities from 2D PDFs, CAD files, and images. It enables users to create customizable assemblies for building material estimating, generate reports, and collaborate in real-time with project teams. Ideal for preconstruction phases, it integrates seamlessly with Autodesk's BIM ecosystem to support efficient quantity calculations and cost estimation.
Pros
- Seamless integration with Autodesk Revit and BIM 360 for streamlined workflows
- Robust 2D takeoff tools with customizable assemblies for precise material estimating
- Cloud collaboration features enabling real-time team access and updates
Cons
- Limited native 3D model takeoff capabilities without additional Autodesk Build modules
- Steep learning curve for users unfamiliar with Autodesk ecosystem
- Higher pricing compared to standalone estimating tools
Best For
Construction estimators and teams already in the Autodesk ecosystem seeking reliable 2D takeoff and basic material quantity calculations.
Pricing
Subscription-based as part of Autodesk Construction Cloud; starts at ~$765/user/year for Takeoff access in Build plans.
CostX
enterprise5D BIM estimating software that links 2D takeoffs and 3D models to detailed building material quantities and costs.
Live Linked™ worksheets that dynamically sync takeoff measurements to the bill of quantities without manual recalculations
CostX by Exactal is a comprehensive takeoff and estimating software designed for construction professionals, enabling precise quantity takeoffs from 2D PDFs, CAD files, and 3D BIM models. It excels in building material estimation through its live-linked worksheets that automatically update bills of quantities as measurements change. The software supports detailed cost planning, rate libraries, and reporting for accurate project budgeting in building projects.
Pros
- Powerful live-linking between takeoffs and estimates for real-time accuracy
- Seamless integration with BIM models and 2D/3D hybrid workflows
- Extensive customizable rate libraries and reporting tools
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring significant training
- High cost with pricing not transparently listed
- Limited native integrations with some popular project management tools
Best For
Quantity surveyors and cost estimators handling complex commercial building projects with BIM involvement.
Pricing
Custom quote required; typically annual subscriptions starting around $5,000-$10,000 per user depending on modules and seats.
Methvin
otherOnline estimating tool with customizable material libraries, takeoff capabilities, and trade-specific templates for construction projects.
Integrated building calculators that automatically compute material quantities for common construction assemblies like framing and concrete
Methvin is a cloud-based estimating and takeoff software tailored for construction professionals, focusing on accurate building material quantity takeoffs and cost estimation. It features digital plan measurement tools, extensive material libraries, and customizable templates for generating professional bids and tenders. The platform supports project management and collaboration, making it suitable for builders handling residential and commercial projects.
Pros
- Free tier available for basic use, lowering entry barriers
- Cloud-based access with real-time collaboration
- Specialized calculators for building elements like walls and slabs
Cons
- Takeoff tools less advanced than dedicated competitors like Bluebeam
- Interface can feel dated and requires training for full utilization
- Limited integrations with popular accounting software
Best For
Small to medium construction firms seeking affordable, cloud-based material estimating without complex enterprise needs.
Pricing
Free plan; Pro starts at $49/user/month; Enterprise custom pricing.
Conclusion
The top building material estimating software reviewed offer powerful solutions, with PlanSwift leading as the best choice, thanks to its rapid measurement and cost calculation from PDFs and CAD files. Sage Estimating stands out for its comprehensive enterprise-grade tools and extensive material databases, while ProEst excels with cloud-based real-time updates, providing strong alternatives for different project needs.
Don’t miss out on optimizing your material estimating process—start with PlanSwift, the top-ranked tool, to enjoy its efficient and accurate workflow
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison