Quick Overview
- 1#1: Procore - Enterprise cloud-based construction management platform with integrated estimating, bidding, and takeoff capabilities.
- 2#2: Autodesk Construction Cloud - Cloud collaboration suite featuring advanced 2D and 3D quantity takeoff and estimating tools for construction teams.
- 3#3: Buildertrend - All-in-one cloud software for home builders providing estimating, scheduling, and financial management tools.
- 4#4: Buildxact - Cloud-based estimating and digital takeoff software designed for residential builders and remodelers.
- 5#5: Stack - AI-powered cloud platform for fast digital takeoff and accurate construction estimating.
- 6#6: Leap - Cloud estimating and project management tool that streamlines bidding for trade contractors.
- 7#7: Knowify - Cloud construction management software with estimating, job costing, and invoicing features.
- 8#8: Joist - Mobile-first cloud app for quick estimating, invoicing, and payments tailored to small contractors.
- 9#9: Methvin - Online cloud-based estimating software for construction tendering, budgeting, and cost planning.
- 10#10: Togal.AI - AI-driven cloud takeoff tool that automates quantity extraction from drawings to speed up estimating.
These tools were selected based on user-centric design, robust feature integration, proven reliability, and overall value, ensuring they meet the varied needs of contractors, builders, and trade professionals across scales and project types.
Comparison Table
As construction teams embrace cloud-based tools for estimating, comparing platforms like Procore, Autodesk Construction Cloud, Buildertrend, Buildxact, and Stack is essential. This table outlines key features, pricing structures, and integration capabilities to help readers identify the software that aligns with their project scale and workflow needs, from beginner-friendly interfaces to advanced takeoff tools.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Procore Enterprise cloud-based construction management platform with integrated estimating, bidding, and takeoff capabilities. | enterprise | 9.4/10 | 9.6/10 | 8.7/10 | 9.0/10 |
| 2 | Autodesk Construction Cloud Cloud collaboration suite featuring advanced 2D and 3D quantity takeoff and estimating tools for construction teams. | enterprise | 9.1/10 | 9.4/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 3 | Buildertrend All-in-one cloud software for home builders providing estimating, scheduling, and financial management tools. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 8.9/10 | 7.6/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 4 | Buildxact Cloud-based estimating and digital takeoff software designed for residential builders and remodelers. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.0/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 5 | Stack AI-powered cloud platform for fast digital takeoff and accurate construction estimating. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 6 | Leap Cloud estimating and project management tool that streamlines bidding for trade contractors. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.9/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 7 | Knowify Cloud construction management software with estimating, job costing, and invoicing features. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.6/10 | 7.6/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 8 | Joist Mobile-first cloud app for quick estimating, invoicing, and payments tailored to small contractors. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 7.4/10 | 9.4/10 | 8.8/10 |
| 9 | Methvin Online cloud-based estimating software for construction tendering, budgeting, and cost planning. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.8/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 10 | Togal.AI AI-driven cloud takeoff tool that automates quantity extraction from drawings to speed up estimating. | specialized | 8.5/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.3/10 | 7.8/10 |
Enterprise cloud-based construction management platform with integrated estimating, bidding, and takeoff capabilities.
Cloud collaboration suite featuring advanced 2D and 3D quantity takeoff and estimating tools for construction teams.
All-in-one cloud software for home builders providing estimating, scheduling, and financial management tools.
Cloud-based estimating and digital takeoff software designed for residential builders and remodelers.
AI-powered cloud platform for fast digital takeoff and accurate construction estimating.
Cloud estimating and project management tool that streamlines bidding for trade contractors.
Cloud construction management software with estimating, job costing, and invoicing features.
Mobile-first cloud app for quick estimating, invoicing, and payments tailored to small contractors.
Online cloud-based estimating software for construction tendering, budgeting, and cost planning.
AI-driven cloud takeoff tool that automates quantity extraction from drawings to speed up estimating.
Procore
enterpriseEnterprise cloud-based construction management platform with integrated estimating, bidding, and takeoff capabilities.
Bid Board integration for direct subcontractor outreach, invitation management, and real-time bid leveling within the estimating workflow
Procore Estimating is a powerful cloud-based tool within the Procore construction management platform, designed for digital takeoffs, precise cost estimation, and bid management. It enables teams to collaborate in real-time on plans, assemble accurate bids using a vast cost database, and seamlessly transition estimates into project execution workflows. This integration minimizes errors and enhances efficiency from preconstruction through completion.
Pros
- Seamless integration with Procore's full project management suite for end-to-end workflow
- Robust digital takeoff tools, customizable assemblies, and industry-leading cost database
- Real-time cloud collaboration for teams and subcontractors during bidding
Cons
- High cost structure, especially for smaller firms or those not using the full platform
- Steep learning curve for advanced features and customization
- Pricing is quote-based and opaque without sales contact
Best For
Mid-to-large construction firms seeking integrated estimating that flows directly into project management and execution.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; starts around $500+/user/year for core modules, scales with users/projects (full platform often $10K+ annually).
Autodesk Construction Cloud
enterpriseCloud collaboration suite featuring advanced 2D and 3D quantity takeoff and estimating tools for construction teams.
Integrated cloud-based 3D quantity takeoff directly from native BIM models
Autodesk Construction Cloud (ACC) is a comprehensive cloud-based platform designed to unify construction workflows, with strong estimating capabilities via its Autodesk Takeoff module for 2D and 3D quantity extraction. It integrates seamlessly with BIM models from Revit and other Autodesk tools, enabling accurate cost estimation, real-time collaboration, and issue tracking across project teams. ACC supports end-to-end project delivery, making estimating a connected part of design, bidding, and construction management.
Pros
- Seamless integration with Autodesk BIM tools for precise 2D/3D takeoffs
- Real-time cloud collaboration for distributed teams
- Robust reporting and cost estimation tied to project management
Cons
- Steep learning curve, especially for non-Autodesk users
- Higher cost compared to standalone estimating software
- Performance dependent on stable internet and device compatibility
Best For
Large AEC firms and contractors handling complex BIM-integrated projects that require unified estimating and collaboration.
Pricing
Subscription tiers start at ~$65/user/month (Build), $85/user/month (Premium), and custom enterprise plans; billed annually with a free trial available.
Buildertrend
enterpriseAll-in-one cloud software for home builders providing estimating, scheduling, and financial management tools.
Seamless linkage of estimates to real-time job costing, change orders, and forecasting for proactive financial control
Buildertrend is a cloud-based all-in-one construction management platform with robust estimating features, including digital takeoffs, customizable assemblies, cost databases, and bid management tools. It enables seamless integration of estimates into project budgets, schedules, and financial tracking for end-to-end workflow efficiency. The software supports real-time collaboration with teams, subs, and clients through its portal and mobile app.
Pros
- Comprehensive integration of estimating with scheduling, budgeting, and job costing
- Mobile app for on-site takeoffs and updates
- Extensive templates, assemblies, and QuickBooks integration for accurate bids
Cons
- Steep learning curve, especially for advanced estimating functions
- Higher pricing may not suit very small operations
- Less specialized takeoff tools compared to pure estimating software like PlanSwift
Best For
Mid-sized residential builders and remodelers needing integrated estimating within full project management.
Pricing
Starts at $99/user/month (minimum 5 users, billed annually); scales to $399+/month for larger teams with custom enterprise options.
Buildxact
specializedCloud-based estimating and digital takeoff software designed for residential builders and remodelers.
Prime Cloud's automatically updated national material pricing database for precise, real-time cost estimates
Buildxact is a cloud-based construction estimating software tailored for residential builders, remodelers, and trade professionals. It enables digital takeoffs, accurate material cost estimates with real-time pricing, and seamless job costing from quote to completion. The platform integrates with accounting tools like Xero and QuickBooks, allowing users to manage projects on desktop or mobile devices anywhere.
Pros
- Fast digital takeoffs and estimating with drag-and-drop tools
- Real-time material pricing database (Prime Cloud)
- Strong integrations with accounting and supplier software
Cons
- Limited scalability for large commercial projects
- Steeper learning curve for advanced customization
- Pricing can be high for solo operators
Best For
Small to medium residential builders and remodelers who need quick, accurate cloud-based estimating without on-premise software.
Pricing
Starts at $149/user/month (Essentials), $249 (Pro), $299 (Premium); annual plans offer 10-20% discounts.
Stack
specializedAI-powered cloud platform for fast digital takeoff and accurate construction estimating.
Real-time collaborative canvas for multiple users to perform takeoffs and build estimates simultaneously
Stack (stackct.com) is a cloud-based construction takeoff and estimating software designed for trade contractors, enabling digital measurement of plans from PDFs, CAD, and BIM files. It automates quantity takeoffs, builds estimates using customizable assemblies and labor rates, and supports real-time team collaboration. The platform integrates with accounting tools like QuickBooks and project management software, streamlining the bidding process from takeoff to bid submission.
Pros
- Lightning-fast digital takeoffs with point-and-click tools
- Real-time multiplayer collaboration on shared canvases
- Extensive pre-built assemblies and integrations with accounting software
Cons
- Steep learning curve for non-expert users
- Higher pricing limits accessibility for solo estimators
- Reporting and customization options could be more robust
Best For
Mid-sized trade contractors in electrical, mechanical, or plumbing who need collaborative cloud-based takeoff and estimating for competitive bidding.
Pricing
Subscription starts at $199/user/month for basic plans, up to $499/user/month for advanced features; custom enterprise pricing available.
Leap
specializedCloud estimating and project management tool that streamlines bidding for trade contractors.
Pre-built assemblies and AI takeoff that enable bids in minutes rather than days
Leap is a cloud-based preconstruction platform tailored for electrical, mechanical, and plumbing contractors, specializing in rapid estimating through AI-assisted digital takeoffs and pre-built assemblies. It automates bid creation, quantity takeoff, labor/material costing, and project handoff, while integrating with tools like QuickBooks, Procore, and Autodesk. The software emphasizes speed and collaboration, enabling teams to produce accurate bids faster than traditional methods.
Pros
- Lightning-fast estimating with pre-built assemblies library
- AI-powered digital takeoff and prefab optimization
- Seamless integrations with accounting and PM software
Cons
- Primarily optimized for electrical trade, less flexible for general construction
- Moderate learning curve for advanced features
- Pricing can be steep for small firms or infrequent users
Best For
Electrical and specialty trade contractors seeking to dramatically speed up bid production and improve accuracy.
Pricing
Starts at $299/user/month for Essentials plan; scales to Enterprise with custom pricing based on volume and features.
Knowify
specializedCloud construction management software with estimating, job costing, and invoicing features.
Bid-to-job conversion with automatic cost tracking and profitability analysis
Knowify is a cloud-based construction management platform tailored for trade contractors, with robust estimating tools that include digital takeoffs, assemblies, and customizable cost databases. It enables seamless conversion of estimates into jobs, tracking costs in real-time alongside invoicing, scheduling, and financial reporting. Integrated deeply with QuickBooks and other accounting software, it provides end-to-end visibility from bid to payment for small to mid-sized firms.
Pros
- Comprehensive estimating with digital takeoffs and assemblies
- Strong QuickBooks integration for real-time job costing
- Mobile app for on-site access and approvals
Cons
- Steeper learning curve for non-tech-savvy users
- Pricing can add up for larger teams
- Limited advanced reporting customization
Best For
Small to mid-sized trade contractors needing integrated estimating and job management without complex enterprise overhead.
Pricing
Starts at $149/user/month for Pro plan (billed annually), with custom enterprise pricing; free trial available.
Joist
specializedMobile-first cloud app for quick estimating, invoicing, and payments tailored to small contractors.
On-the-spot mobile estimating with instant e-signatures and integrated payments
Joist is a cloud-based estimating and invoicing software tailored for small construction contractors and service trades like roofers, painters, and handymen. It enables quick creation of professional estimates using pre-built templates and assemblies, with mobile apps for iOS and Android that support on-site client e-signatures and payments. The platform syncs data across devices, integrates with QuickBooks, and includes basic job scheduling and CRM tools to streamline workflows from bid to billing.
Pros
- Intuitive mobile-first interface for field use
- Fast estimate generation with templates and assemblies
- Seamless e-signatures and payment collection on-site
Cons
- Lacks advanced takeoff and quantity surveying tools
- Limited customization for complex, large-scale projects
- Basic reporting and analytics compared to enterprise solutions
Best For
Small service-based contractors needing quick, mobile estimates and invoicing without steep learning curves.
Pricing
Free Solo plan; Small Team at $29/month; Business at $69/month (billed annually).
Methvin
specializedOnline cloud-based estimating software for construction tendering, budgeting, and cost planning.
Extensive, location-specific construction cost database with frequent updates
Methvin is a cloud-based construction estimating software designed to streamline takeoff, estimating, and tendering processes for construction professionals. It provides digital measurement tools, customizable cost databases, and bill of quantities generation, enabling accurate and collaborative project bidding. The platform supports real-time updates and integrations for efficient pre-construction workflows.
Pros
- Cloud accessibility for remote collaboration
- Comprehensive cost database with regional rates
- Integrated digital takeoff and tender management
Cons
- Learning curve for complex features
- Limited third-party integrations
- Mobile app lacks full desktop functionality
Best For
Mid-sized construction firms and estimators seeking reliable cloud-based tools for accurate bidding and tendering.
Pricing
Subscription plans start at $49/user/month for basic access, with pay-per-project options and enterprise tiers up to custom pricing.
Togal.AI
specializedAI-driven cloud takeoff tool that automates quantity extraction from drawings to speed up estimating.
AI Auto-Takeoff that instantly analyzes any PDF plan to detect, measure, and quantify elements with minimal user input
Togal.AI is a cloud-based construction takeoff and estimating software that leverages AI to automate the extraction of quantities from PDF blueprints and plans. It instantly detects and measures elements such as walls, doors, windows, and fixtures with high accuracy, generating detailed takeoff reports in minutes rather than hours. The platform supports collaboration, integrations with estimating tools like Procore and PlanSwift, and scalable workflows for construction professionals.
Pros
- AI-driven automation drastically reduces takeoff time from hours to minutes
- High accuracy in detecting and measuring plan elements
- Cloud-based collaboration and seamless integrations with popular construction software
Cons
- Pricing can be steep for small firms or low-volume users
- Occasional AI inaccuracies requiring manual corrections on complex plans
- Limited support for 3D models or BIM files compared to some competitors
Best For
Mid-sized construction estimators and contractors who handle high volumes of 2D PDF plans and want to automate takeoffs for faster bidding.
Pricing
Subscription plans start at $495/month for Pro (up to 50 plans), with Enterprise custom pricing for unlimited use and advanced features.
Conclusion
Cloud-based construction estimating software varies widely in focus, but Procore stands unrivaled as the top choice, boasting an integrated platform that combines estimating, bidding, and takeoff. Autodesk Construction Cloud excels with advanced 2D and 3D quantity takeoff tools, while Buildertrend proves a strong alternative for home builders with its all-in-one scheduling and financial management features. Each tool in the list offers unique value, but Procore's comprehensive suite makes it the go-to for diverse needs.
Take the first step toward efficient estimating—try Procore to leverage its seamless, end-to-end capabilities and elevate your construction processes.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison