Quick Overview
- 1#1: PlanSwift - Digital takeoff and estimating software that enables precise measurements and cost calculations from plans for carpentry projects.
- 2#2: STACK - Cloud-based construction takeoff and estimating tool with customizable assemblies optimized for carpentry material and labor costs.
- 3#3: Buildxact - User-friendly estimating and job management software tailored for carpenters, builders, and remodelers with quick quoting features.
- 4#4: Bluebeam Revu - PDF markup and takeoff software providing accurate quantity takeoffs and measurements essential for carpentry estimating.
- 5#5: Xactimate - Industry-standard estimating platform with comprehensive pricing database for carpentry, remodeling, and restoration work.
- 6#6: ProEst - Cloud estimating software integrating real-time pricing and assemblies for efficient carpentry bid preparation.
- 7#7: Sage Estimating - Advanced database-driven estimating solution supporting detailed carpentry cost breakdowns and historical data.
- 8#8: Methvin - Online estimating software with pre-built templates and calculators for carpentry and trade-specific projects.
- 9#9: CostX - 2D and BIM-enabled estimating software for live-linked takeoffs and carpentry quantity calculations.
- 10#10: National Estimator - Desktop estimating software with updated cost data and assemblies focused on carpentry and construction trades.
Tools were rigorously evaluated based on key factors including core features like measurement accuracy and cost calculation depth, user experience intuitiveness, reliability in real-world projects, and overall value, ensuring they cater to the unique demands of carpentry and related trades.
Comparison Table
This comparison table breaks down key carpentry estimating tools, including PlanSwift, STACK, Buildxact, Bluebeam Revu, Xactimate, and more, to help readers understand their unique strengths. It outlines features, usability, and practical applications, guiding informed choices for project planning and efficiency.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | PlanSwift Digital takeoff and estimating software that enables precise measurements and cost calculations from plans for carpentry projects. | specialized | 9.5/10 | 9.8/10 | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 2 | STACK Cloud-based construction takeoff and estimating tool with customizable assemblies optimized for carpentry material and labor costs. | specialized | 9.1/10 | 9.4/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.9/10 |
| 3 | Buildxact User-friendly estimating and job management software tailored for carpenters, builders, and remodelers with quick quoting features. | specialized | 8.6/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.3/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 4 | Bluebeam Revu PDF markup and takeoff software providing accurate quantity takeoffs and measurements essential for carpentry estimating. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 5 | Xactimate Industry-standard estimating platform with comprehensive pricing database for carpentry, remodeling, and restoration work. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.5/10 | 6.8/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 6 | ProEst Cloud estimating software integrating real-time pricing and assemblies for efficient carpentry bid preparation. | enterprise | 7.6/10 | 8.2/10 | 6.9/10 | 7.1/10 |
| 7 | Sage Estimating Advanced database-driven estimating solution supporting detailed carpentry cost breakdowns and historical data. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 8 | Methvin Online estimating software with pre-built templates and calculators for carpentry and trade-specific projects. | other | 7.8/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.5/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 9 | CostX 2D and BIM-enabled estimating software for live-linked takeoffs and carpentry quantity calculations. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 9.2/10 | 6.8/10 | 7.4/10 |
| 10 | National Estimator Desktop estimating software with updated cost data and assemblies focused on carpentry and construction trades. | other | 7.6/10 | 8.4/10 | 6.9/10 | 7.2/10 |
Digital takeoff and estimating software that enables precise measurements and cost calculations from plans for carpentry projects.
Cloud-based construction takeoff and estimating tool with customizable assemblies optimized for carpentry material and labor costs.
User-friendly estimating and job management software tailored for carpenters, builders, and remodelers with quick quoting features.
PDF markup and takeoff software providing accurate quantity takeoffs and measurements essential for carpentry estimating.
Industry-standard estimating platform with comprehensive pricing database for carpentry, remodeling, and restoration work.
Cloud estimating software integrating real-time pricing and assemblies for efficient carpentry bid preparation.
Advanced database-driven estimating solution supporting detailed carpentry cost breakdowns and historical data.
Online estimating software with pre-built templates and calculators for carpentry and trade-specific projects.
2D and BIM-enabled estimating software for live-linked takeoffs and carpentry quantity calculations.
Desktop estimating software with updated cost data and assemblies focused on carpentry and construction trades.
PlanSwift
specializedDigital takeoff and estimating software that enables precise measurements and cost calculations from plans for carpentry projects.
Drag-and-drop assemblies that instantly generate complete material, labor, and waste calculations for intricate carpentry components like walls, roofs, and stairs.
PlanSwift is a leading digital takeoff and estimating software tailored for construction trades like carpentry, enabling users to extract quantities directly from PDF, CAD, or scanned plans using intuitive point-and-click tools. It supports customizable assemblies for framing, trim, doors, and other carpentry elements, automatically generating material lists, labor costs, and totals. The software integrates seamlessly with Excel, QuickBooks, and other accounting tools, streamlining the estimating process from takeoff to bid submission.
Pros
- Lightning-fast point-and-click takeoffs with high accuracy for linear, area, and count measurements
- Powerful drag-and-drop assemblies pre-built for carpentry items like studs, joists, and sheathing
- Robust integrations with Excel, QuickBooks, and bid management software for seamless workflows
Cons
- Steep initial learning curve despite intuitive interface
- Windows-only compatibility, no native Mac or web version
- High upfront cost with ongoing annual maintenance fees
Best For
Professional carpentry contractors and estimators managing complex framing and finishing projects that require precise, visual quantity takeoffs and detailed cost breakdowns.
Pricing
One-time license starting at $1,749 per user, plus $574 annual maintenance; volume discounts available.
STACK
specializedCloud-based construction takeoff and estimating tool with customizable assemblies optimized for carpentry material and labor costs.
Customizable assemblies for grouped takeoffs, allowing instant replication of carpentry details like walls, stairs, and roofs across entire plans
STACK is a cloud-based takeoff and estimating platform designed for construction professionals, including carpenters, enabling digital measurements from PDFs, CAD files, and images. It excels in creating precise material takeoffs using customizable assemblies tailored for carpentry tasks like framing, trim, and cabinetry. The software supports real-time collaboration, cost estimating, and integration with accounting tools to streamline project bidding.
Pros
- Rapid digital takeoffs with drag-and-drop assemblies for carpentry elements
- Real-time team collaboration and unlimited project storage
- Robust reporting and integration with QuickBooks and Excel
Cons
- Initial learning curve for advanced assembly customization
- Higher pricing may deter solo carpenters or very small shops
- Mobile app lacks full desktop takeoff capabilities
Best For
Mid-sized carpentry contractors and subcontractors who handle complex framing and finish work needing scalable digital estimating.
Pricing
Annual plans start at $2,499 per user (Pro tier) with unlimited projects; pay-per-drawing options from $0.15/sq ft available.
Buildxact
specializedUser-friendly estimating and job management software tailored for carpenters, builders, and remodelers with quick quoting features.
Live supplier pricing integration that auto-updates material costs for precise carpentry estimates
Buildxact is a cloud-based estimating and takeoff software tailored for trades like carpenters, builders, and remodelers, enabling quick creation of material lists, cost estimates, and professional quotes from digital plans or sketches. It features automated takeoffs, real-time supplier pricing integration, and seamless job management tools including scheduling, invoicing, and purchase orders. Ideal for carpentry projects, it helps users accurately estimate timber, hardware, and labor costs while minimizing errors and saving time on bids.
Pros
- Automated 2D takeoffs from PDFs with high accuracy for carpentry materials
- Real-time pricing from 250+ suppliers reduces guesswork on costs
- Integrated job costing and mobile app for on-site management
Cons
- Steeper learning curve for advanced takeoff customizations
- Limited free tier or trial depth may deter solo carpenters
- Higher pricing tiers needed for full multi-user collaboration
Best For
Small to medium carpentry businesses and remodeling contractors needing integrated estimating and job tracking without complex enterprise setups.
Pricing
Starts at $149 AUD/month (Essentials) up to $499 AUD/month (Premier); annual plans offer 20% discount, with a 14-day free trial.
Bluebeam Revu
specializedPDF markup and takeoff software providing accurate quantity takeoffs and measurements essential for carpentry estimating.
Custom measurement assemblies that allow users to define carpentry-specific calculations like linear footage with waste factors or board foot totals
Bluebeam Revu is a robust PDF review and markup software designed for the AEC industry, offering powerful tools for digital takeoffs, measurements, and quantity estimation from blueprints. For carpentry estimating, it excels in calculating material quantities such as lumber lengths, plywood areas, and framing counts through precise, customizable measurement tools and assemblies. It supports collaboration via Studio sessions and exports data to Excel for further cost analysis, making it a strong 2D takeoff solution.
Pros
- Highly accurate measurement and takeoff tools tailored for construction plans
- Customizable toolsets and assemblies for repetitive carpentry tasks
- Seamless Excel integration for quantity export and basic costing
Cons
- No built-in pricing databases or full bid generation capabilities
- Steep learning curve for advanced features and scripting
- Subscription pricing adds up for solo carpenters or small firms
Best For
Carpenters and estimators focused on quantity takeoffs from 2D PDF blueprints who need precision without a comprehensive estimating suite.
Pricing
Annual subscriptions start at $249/user for Basics, $349 for Core, and $699 for eXtreme editions.
Xactimate
enterpriseIndustry-standard estimating platform with comprehensive pricing database for carpentry, remodeling, and restoration work.
The proprietary Xactimate price list, the gold standard for insurance-aligned carpentry costs with automatic regional adjustments
Xactimate, developed by Xactware, is an industry-standard estimating software widely used in property restoration and insurance claims for creating precise cost estimates across trades like carpentry. It features a massive database of line items with regionally adjusted pricing, allowing users to detail carpentry tasks such as framing, trim installation, and cabinetry repairs. The software supports diagramming via its Sketch tool, macro libraries for repetitive tasks, and generates insurer-ready reports, making it a powerhouse for accurate, standardized carpentry estimating in restoration projects.
Pros
- Extensive, standardized line-item library tailored for carpentry with real-time regional pricing updates
- Powerful Sketch tool for accurate takeoffs and visualizations
- High acceptance by insurance companies, streamlining claims approval
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to complex interface and terminology
- High subscription costs may not suit small carpentry shops
- Primarily optimized for insurance restoration, less flexible for general contracting
Best For
Insurance restoration contractors and adjusters needing precise, insurer-accepted carpentry estimates.
Pricing
Subscription-based starting at ~$289/month per user for online version; desktop and mobile plans range $359-$500+/month with annual commitments.
ProEst
enterpriseCloud estimating software integrating real-time pricing and assemblies for efficient carpentry bid preparation.
Visual Estimating with drag-and-drop assemblies for rapid carpentry bid assembly
ProEst is a cloud-based construction estimating software designed for accurate takeoffs, bidding, and cost management across various trades, including carpentry through customizable assemblies and material databases. It supports digital plan takeoffs, labor and material calculations, and integration with accounting systems like QuickBooks. While versatile for general construction, it requires user customization for specialized carpentry estimating like framing or finish work.
Pros
- Robust database of pre-built assemblies adaptable for carpentry items
- Cloud-based access with mobile support for on-site adjustments
- Strong integrations with accounting and project management tools
Cons
- Steep learning curve for setup and customization
- Pricing can be high for small carpentry shops
- Lacks out-of-the-box carpentry-specific templates compared to niche tools
Best For
Mid-sized construction firms with carpentry divisions seeking scalable, database-driven estimating.
Pricing
Quote-based subscription, typically $5,000–$20,000 annually depending on users and features.
Sage Estimating
enterpriseAdvanced database-driven estimating solution supporting detailed carpentry cost breakdowns and historical data.
The unparalleled database of over 20,000 industry-standard assemblies, including detailed carpentry items that auto-populate costs and labor for rapid bid creation
Sage Estimating is a comprehensive construction cost estimating software designed for detailed takeoffs, bidding, and job costing across various trades, including carpentry. It features a massive database of over 20,000 pre-built assemblies and items specific to carpentry tasks like framing, trim, and cabinetry, with digital plan takeoff tools and customizable worksheets. The software integrates seamlessly with Sage accounting solutions for streamlined project management from estimate to invoice.
Pros
- Extensive library of carpentry-specific assemblies and material pricing databases for quick, accurate estimates
- Powerful digital takeoff and quantity calculation tools that handle complex framing and finish carpentry
- Strong integration with Sage 300 accounting for end-to-end workflow efficiency
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to its depth and customization options, requiring significant training
- High cost makes it less accessible for small carpentry shops
- Interface feels dated compared to more modern cloud-native estimating tools
Best For
Mid-to-large carpentry contractors or general contractors with carpentry divisions needing enterprise-level precision and accounting integration.
Pricing
Quote-based pricing, typically $5,000+ annually per user for subscriptions or perpetual licenses starting around $10,000 with maintenance fees.
Methvin
otherOnline estimating software with pre-built templates and calculators for carpentry and trade-specific projects.
Lightning-fast PDF takeoff with automatic edge detection for precise carpentry measurements
Methvin (methvin.org) is a cloud-based construction estimating and digital takeoff software designed for trades like carpentry, allowing users to measure quantities directly from PDFs and CAD files with high accuracy. It features customizable estimating templates, cost databases, and integration with job management tools to streamline bidding and project costing. The platform supports Australian and international standards, making it suitable for carpenters handling framing, joinery, and formwork estimates.
Pros
- Rapid digital takeoff from PDFs and images with area/perimeter tools
- Extensive customizable cost libraries and templates for carpentry items
- Cloud-based access for real-time collaboration across teams
Cons
- Interface feels somewhat dated compared to modern competitors
- Steeper learning curve for advanced takeoff features
- Limited integrations with popular accounting software outside Australia
Best For
Small to medium carpentry contractors seeking efficient takeoff and estimating tools for residential and commercial projects.
Pricing
Subscription plans start at $59 AUD/month per user, with pay-per-calculation options and enterprise custom pricing.
CostX
enterprise2D and BIM-enabled estimating software for live-linked takeoffs and carpentry quantity calculations.
Live Linking technology that dynamically syncs takeoff quantities with estimate sheets for instant accuracy
CostX by Exactal is a robust digital takeoff and estimating software tailored for construction professionals, including carpenters, enabling precise quantity measurements from 2D PDFs, CAD files, and 3D BIM models. It features live-linked worksheets where takeoff changes automatically update cost estimates, supporting detailed carpentry calculations for timber, framing, joinery, and hardware. The software excels in creating customizable templates and reports for accurate bidding and project management.
Pros
- Highly accurate hybrid 2D/3D takeoff capabilities
- Live-linking between drawings and estimates for real-time updates
- Extensive customization and BIM integration for complex projects
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring significant training
- High cost may deter small operations
- Primarily desktop-based with limited mobile functionality
Best For
Mid-to-large carpentry firms managing detailed estimates from digital plans on substantial construction projects.
Pricing
Perpetual licenses from ~$5,000 AUD plus annual maintenance (~20%); subscription plans start at ~$2,500 AUD/user/year.
National Estimator
otherDesktop estimating software with updated cost data and assemblies focused on carpentry and construction trades.
Vast library of over 22,000 pre-built assemblies with current national average costs, specifically tuned for carpentry estimating accuracy
National Estimator from Craftsman Software is a Windows-based desktop estimating tool designed for construction professionals, including carpenters, providing detailed cost databases for materials, labor, and equipment. It features interactive worksheets and pre-built assemblies tailored to carpentry tasks like framing, trim, doors, and cabinetry, enabling quick and accurate bid preparation. Users can customize estimates, apply regional adjustments, and export to Excel or PDF for professional proposals.
Pros
- Comprehensive, regularly updated cost databases with thousands of carpentry assemblies
- Flexible worksheets for detailed material takeoffs and labor calculations
- Regional cost adjustments and export options for seamless integration
Cons
- Outdated interface with a steeper learning curve for new users
- Windows-only desktop app, no mobile or cloud support
- Additional costs for multi-trade databases and annual updates
Best For
Experienced carpentry contractors and small construction firms needing precise, data-driven estimates without relying on cloud software.
Pricing
One-time purchase from $195 for base software plus databases; annual updates $99 per database.
Conclusion
The reviewed tools serve as powerful assets for carpenters, with the top three rising to the forefront—PlanSwift leads as the top choice, excelling in precise takeoff and cost calculations. STACK follows closely, offering customizable assemblies optimized for material and labor costs, while Buildxact stands out for its user-friendly design and quick quoting features. Each of these top tools addresses distinct needs, ensuring there’s a strong fit for diverse workflows.
Don’t miss the opportunity to enhance your estimating process—dive into PlanSwift, the top-ranked tool, and unlock efficiency and accuracy for your carpentry projects.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison
