Quick Overview
- 1#1: ProEst - Cloud-based construction estimating software that automates takeoffs, assemblies, and bid management for accurate cost estimates.
- 2#2: Buildxact - Cloud estimating and takeoff tool designed for residential builders and remodelers to create professional quotes quickly.
- 3#3: Destini Estimator - Advanced cloud-based 5D estimating platform that integrates BIM models with real-time cost data for precise construction bids.
- 4#4: Stack - AI-powered cloud platform for automated construction takeoffs and estimating from digital plans.
- 5#5: Togal.AI - AI-driven cloud software that instantly detects and measures elements from blueprints for fast takeoffs and estimates.
- 6#6: Knowify - Cloud construction management platform with integrated estimating, job costing, and invoicing for subcontractors.
- 7#7: Joist - Mobile-first cloud app for quick estimating, invoicing, and payments tailored to trade contractors.
- 8#8: Leap - All-in-one cloud platform for home builders featuring estimating, scheduling, and selection management.
- 9#9: Clear Estimates - Simple cloud-based estimating software for remodelers and small contractors to build and send professional quotes.
- 10#10: Premier Construction Software - Cloud ERP system with robust estimating capabilities for job costing and project management in construction.
Tools were selected for their ability to automate key processes, integrate seamlessly with workflows, offer intuitive design, and deliver measurable value, ensuring they address the unique demands of contractors across project scales.
Comparison Table
Cloud-based estimating software simplifies construction project planning, and this comparison table explores tools like ProEst, Buildxact, Destini Estimator, Stack, Togal.AI, and more. Readers will gain insights into features, usability, integration, and pricing to find the best fit for their workflow, from small tasks to large-scale projects.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | ProEst Cloud-based construction estimating software that automates takeoffs, assemblies, and bid management for accurate cost estimates. | enterprise | 9.4/10 | 9.6/10 | 8.7/10 | 9.1/10 |
| 2 | Buildxact Cloud estimating and takeoff tool designed for residential builders and remodelers to create professional quotes quickly. | enterprise | 9.2/10 | 9.5/10 | 9.0/10 | 8.8/10 |
| 3 | Destini Estimator Advanced cloud-based 5D estimating platform that integrates BIM models with real-time cost data for precise construction bids. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 4 | Stack AI-powered cloud platform for automated construction takeoffs and estimating from digital plans. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.4/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 5 | Togal.AI AI-driven cloud software that instantly detects and measures elements from blueprints for fast takeoffs and estimates. | general_ai | 8.7/10 | 9.4/10 | 8.3/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 6 | Knowify Cloud construction management platform with integrated estimating, job costing, and invoicing for subcontractors. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 7 | Joist Mobile-first cloud app for quick estimating, invoicing, and payments tailored to trade contractors. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 7.9/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 8 | Leap All-in-one cloud platform for home builders featuring estimating, scheduling, and selection management. | enterprise | 8.3/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 9 | Clear Estimates Simple cloud-based estimating software for remodelers and small contractors to build and send professional quotes. | other | 8.1/10 | 8.3/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.7/10 |
| 10 | Premier Construction Software Cloud ERP system with robust estimating capabilities for job costing and project management in construction. | enterprise | 7.8/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.6/10 |
Cloud-based construction estimating software that automates takeoffs, assemblies, and bid management for accurate cost estimates.
Cloud estimating and takeoff tool designed for residential builders and remodelers to create professional quotes quickly.
Advanced cloud-based 5D estimating platform that integrates BIM models with real-time cost data for precise construction bids.
AI-powered cloud platform for automated construction takeoffs and estimating from digital plans.
AI-driven cloud software that instantly detects and measures elements from blueprints for fast takeoffs and estimates.
Cloud construction management platform with integrated estimating, job costing, and invoicing for subcontractors.
Mobile-first cloud app for quick estimating, invoicing, and payments tailored to trade contractors.
All-in-one cloud platform for home builders featuring estimating, scheduling, and selection management.
Simple cloud-based estimating software for remodelers and small contractors to build and send professional quotes.
Cloud ERP system with robust estimating capabilities for job costing and project management in construction.
ProEst
enterpriseCloud-based construction estimating software that automates takeoffs, assemblies, and bid management for accurate cost estimates.
Intelligent Assemblies Database with pre-built, trade-specific templates for one-click estimating and real-time cost updates
ProEst is a premier cloud-based estimating software tailored for construction professionals, particularly in mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and general contracting. It offers digital takeoff, precise cost estimating, bid management, and real-time collaboration tools to streamline pre-construction workflows. With seamless integrations to ERP and accounting systems like Sage 300 and Viewpoint, it enables data-driven decisions and efficient project bidding from anywhere.
Pros
- Comprehensive digital takeoff and intelligent assemblies for rapid, accurate estimates
- Real-time cloud collaboration and mobile access for team efficiency
- Robust integrations with major accounting and project management software
Cons
- Steep learning curve for users new to advanced estimating tools
- Pricing is custom and can be higher for smaller firms
- Limited built-in reporting customization without add-ons
Best For
Mid-to-large construction firms and estimators in MEP and general trades needing scalable, precise cloud-based bidding solutions.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; typically starts at $5,000-$10,000 annually per user, with enterprise plans scaling by company size.
Buildxact
enterpriseCloud estimating and takeoff tool designed for residential builders and remodelers to create professional quotes quickly.
Dynamic pricing matrices and supplier price lists tailored for builders, enabling instant quote generation with region-specific accuracy
Buildxact is a cloud-based estimating, takeoff, and job management software designed specifically for residential builders, remodelers, and trade contractors. It enables users to create professional quotes, perform digital takeoffs, track job costs, and manage schedules in real-time from any device. With pre-loaded material price lists, customizable templates, and seamless integrations with QuickBooks and Xero, it simplifies the entire estimating workflow while minimizing errors.
Pros
- Lightning-fast digital takeoffs with automatic calculations
- Extensive builder-specific pricing databases that auto-update
- Strong integrations with accounting and CRM tools
Cons
- Higher pricing may deter solo operators
- Limited advanced customization for non-residential projects
- Occasional glitches in mobile app reported by users
Best For
Small to medium residential builders and remodelers seeking an all-in-one cloud solution for accurate, professional estimating and job tracking.
Pricing
Starts at $149/month for Essentials plan (billed annually), up to $399/month for Premium with advanced job management; 14-day free trial available.
Destini Estimator
enterpriseAdvanced cloud-based 5D estimating platform that integrates BIM models with real-time cost data for precise construction bids.
Patented Digger engine for generating detailed quantity takeoffs and estimates directly from 3D models in minutes
Destini Estimator by Beck Technology is a cloud-based preconstruction platform designed for AEC professionals to perform rapid conceptual estimating using 3D models and BIM integration. It automates cost estimation, supports scenario planning, and enables real-time collaboration across teams. The software leverages extensive cost databases and AI-driven insights to deliver accurate early-stage bids, bridging the gap between design and construction costing.
Pros
- Rapid 3D model-based estimating for quick turnaround
- Strong BIM integration and real-time cloud collaboration
- Comprehensive cost databases with AI enhancements
Cons
- Steep learning curve for non-expert users
- Enterprise-level pricing not ideal for small firms
- Limited reporting customization options
Best For
Mid-to-large AEC firms and estimators needing fast, accurate conceptual estimates from early-stage designs.
Pricing
Custom quote-based subscription pricing; typically enterprise-oriented starting at several thousand dollars annually per user.
Stack
specializedAI-powered cloud platform for automated construction takeoffs and estimating from digital plans.
Lightning Takeoff engine that enables ultra-fast, precise measurements from plans 10x quicker than manual methods
Stack (stackct.com) is a cloud-based takeoff and estimating software tailored for construction professionals, allowing users to measure quantities directly from digital plans, PDFs, and CAD files with remarkable speed. It supports customizable estimating assemblies, real-time team collaboration, and integrations with accounting tools like QuickBooks and Sage. The platform excels in automating repetitive tasks to produce accurate bids faster than traditional methods.
Pros
- Lightning-fast digital takeoff tools that significantly reduce measurement time
- Extensive library of pre-built assemblies and real-time collaboration features
- Seamless integrations with popular construction accounting software
Cons
- Higher pricing tiers may not suit solo operators or small firms
- Steeper learning curve for advanced customization and assemblies
- Limited reporting and analytics compared to some enterprise competitors
Best For
Mid-sized construction contractors and estimators who prioritize speed and accuracy in digital takeoffs for competitive bidding.
Pricing
Solo plan free (limited features); Pro starts at $249/user/month; Enterprise custom pricing.
Togal.AI
general_aiAI-driven cloud software that instantly detects and measures elements from blueprints for fast takeoffs and estimates.
Patented AI engine that automatically detects and measures plan elements in seconds with 99%+ accuracy on trained assemblies
Togal.AI is a cloud-based estimating software that leverages AI to automate quantity takeoffs from digital construction blueprints. It instantly detects, measures, and quantifies elements like walls, doors, windows, and areas, drastically reducing manual effort. The platform supports collaboration, exports to estimating tools, and provides audit trails for accuracy verification.
Pros
- AI-driven takeoffs up to 10x faster than manual methods
- High accuracy on standard 2D plans with visual verification tools
- Seamless cloud collaboration and integrations with Procore, PlanSwift
Cons
- Requires user training for optimal AI performance and custom assemblies
- Pricing lacks transparency and can be costly for small firms
- Less effective on highly complex or non-standard plans without manual adjustments
Best For
Mid-sized construction estimators and GCs seeking AI acceleration for high-volume 2D blueprint takeoffs.
Pricing
Subscription tiers starting at ~$100/user/month for basic access, scaling to enterprise custom plans based on projects and users.
Knowify
enterpriseCloud construction management platform with integrated estimating, job costing, and invoicing for subcontractors.
AI-assisted digital takeoff tool that auto-calculates quantities and pulls real-time material costs from integrated databases
Knowify is a cloud-based construction management platform tailored for trade contractors, offering advanced estimating tools like digital takeoffs, customizable assemblies, and real-time cost databases. It streamlines the bid process from quantity takeoff to professional proposal generation, with seamless integration to QuickBooks for accurate job costing. Beyond estimating, it provides project management, invoicing, and time tracking to manage jobs end-to-end.
Pros
- Robust digital takeoff and estimating with assemblies and cost libraries
- Seamless QuickBooks integration for effortless accounting sync
- Mobile app enables fieldwork integration with estimates
Cons
- Higher pricing tiers may not suit very small operations
- Initial learning curve for advanced takeoff features
- Reporting customization is somewhat limited
Best For
Small to medium-sized trade contractors in electrical, plumbing, HVAC, or general trades needing integrated estimating and job management.
Pricing
Starts at $149/user/month (Essentials), up to $399/user/month (Advanced); annual discounts and custom enterprise plans available.
Joist
enterpriseMobile-first cloud app for quick estimating, invoicing, and payments tailored to trade contractors.
One-tap estimate approval and conversion to invoices with digital signatures
Joist is a cloud-based estimating and invoicing software tailored for service-based trades like contractors, plumbers, and landscapers, enabling quick creation and sending of professional estimates directly from mobile devices. It streamlines workflows by allowing estimates to convert to invoices upon customer approval, tracks job progress, and integrates payments and scheduling. The platform emphasizes simplicity and on-the-go accessibility, syncing data across devices for real-time updates.
Pros
- Highly intuitive mobile-first interface for field use
- Fast template-based estimate creation and sharing
- Built-in payment processing and QuickBooks integration
Cons
- Lacks advanced takeoff or CAD integration for complex jobs
- Reporting and customization options are basic
- Occasional sync delays reported in high-volume use
Best For
Small to mid-sized field service contractors needing quick, mobile estimating without steep learning curves.
Pricing
Free Solo plan for basics; Plus at $24/month, Pro at $49/month (billed annually), with per-user scaling.
Leap
enterpriseAll-in-one cloud platform for home builders featuring estimating, scheduling, and selection management.
Instant Bid Engine that generates professional estimates in seconds using dynamic templates and live material pricing
Leap is a cloud-based estimating and takeoff software tailored for residential construction professionals, enabling quick creation of accurate bids using pre-built templates and real-time data integration. It streamlines the entire pre-construction process by combining estimating with CRM, scheduling, and financing tools in one platform. Designed for home builders and remodelers, Leap automates workflows to reduce manual data entry and speed up sales cycles.
Pros
- Rapid estimating with AI-assisted templates and historical data for accurate bids in minutes
- Seamless integrations with QuickBooks, Salesforce, and other construction tools
- Mobile accessibility and real-time collaboration for on-site use
Cons
- Primarily focused on residential construction, limiting versatility for commercial projects
- Higher pricing tiers can be costly for small teams or solo users
- Steep initial learning curve for advanced customizations
Best For
Residential home builders and remodelers who need fast, integrated estimating tied to sales and project management.
Pricing
Subscription starts at $149/user/month for Essentials plan, up to custom Enterprise pricing; pay-per-estimate options available.
Clear Estimates
otherSimple cloud-based estimating software for remodelers and small contractors to build and send professional quotes.
Comprehensive library of over 1,000 pre-defined assemblies tailored to home improvement trades for rapid, error-free estimating
Clear Estimates is a cloud-based estimating software tailored for home improvement contractors, particularly in roofing, siding, windows, and remodeling. It streamlines the creation of professional estimates using a vast library of pre-built assemblies and customizable templates. Users can generate digital proposals, track job costs, and access everything from any device with internet connectivity.
Pros
- Extensive pre-built assemblies for quick trade-specific estimates
- Cloud accessibility and mobile-friendly interface
- Professional proposal and contract generation with e-signatures
Cons
- Limited support for non-residential or highly custom projects
- Pricing escalates quickly for advanced features
- Fewer third-party integrations than broader platforms
Best For
Small to mid-sized remodeling contractors specializing in roofing, siding, or windows who need fast, accurate estimates on the go.
Pricing
Starts at $99/month for Basic (1 user), $149/month for Pro (unlimited users and advanced tools); annual discounts available.
Premier Construction Software
enterpriseCloud ERP system with robust estimating capabilities for job costing and project management in construction.
Extensive pre-built assemblies database customized for electrical and mechanical trades, enabling rapid and accurate bid preparation
Premier Construction Software (premiercs.com) is a cloud-based estimating platform tailored for electrical, plumbing, and mechanical contractors. It offers digital takeoff tools, accurate estimating with pre-built assemblies, job costing, change order management, and integrated project management features. Accessible from any device, it enables real-time collaboration and data synchronization across teams.
Pros
- Specialized assemblies database for electrical, plumbing, and mechanical trades speeds up estimating
- Full cloud access with mobile support for real-time team collaboration
- Integrated takeoff, estimating, and job costing in one platform
Cons
- Primarily focused on specific trades, limiting versatility for general construction
- Steep learning curve for advanced features and custom assemblies
- Pricing requires custom quotes, lacking transparency
Best For
Small to mid-sized specialty contractors in electrical, plumbing, or mechanical fields needing trade-specific cloud estimating tools.
Pricing
Custom subscription pricing based on users, modules, and trade specifics; typically starts around $100-200/user/month with quotes required.
Conclusion
The top 10 cloud-based estimating tools each offer unique strengths, but ProEst shines as the top choice, leading in automated takeoffs, assemblies, and bid management for reliable cost estimates. Buildxact excels for quick, professional quotes in residential and remodeling work, while Destini Estimator stands out with its advanced 5D integration and real-time cost data, meeting the needs of BIM-focused projects. For users, the ideal pick depends on their specific workflow, but ProEst remains the most versatile and high-performing option.
Take the next step in improving your estimating process—try ProEst today to see how its automation and accuracy can simplify your workflow and boost your bid success.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison
