Quick Overview
- 1#1: PlanSwift - Provides fast digital takeoff and estimating capabilities with customizable HVAC assemblies for commercial projects.
- 2#2: AccuBid - Offers comprehensive MEP estimating including detailed HVAC databases, labor factors, and spec-driven calculations for commercial jobs.
- 3#3: STACK - Cloud-based takeoff and estimating platform supporting HVAC quantity extraction and cost databases for collaborative commercial workflows.
- 4#4: Bluebeam Revu - Enables precise PDF-based quantity takeoff and markup with scripting for HVAC estimating in commercial construction.
- 5#5: On-Screen Takeoff - Industry-standard 2D/3D takeoff software integrated with estimating for accurate HVAC material and labor quantification.
- 6#6: ProEst - Cloud estimating solution with pre-built HVAC item libraries and real-time pricing for commercial contractors.
- 7#7: Destini Estimator - BIM and model-based estimating tool specialized for mechanical systems including large-scale commercial HVAC projects.
- 8#8: Sage Estimating - Robust construction estimating software with customizable HVAC databases and integration for commercial bidding.
- 9#9: Autodesk Takeoff - Cloud-based 2D and 3D takeoff tool with BIM integration for HVAC quantity and cost estimation in commercial environments.
- 10#10: Kreo Software - AI-powered takeoff and estimating platform accelerating HVAC measurements and cost analysis for commercial projects.
Tools were selected based on feature robustness, user experience, integration capabilities, and overall value, ensuring they address the unique demands of modern commercial HVAC projects.
Comparison Table
Commercial HVAC estimating thrives on accuracy and speed, with the right software streamlining processes—this comparison table evaluates key tools like PlanSwift, AccuBid, STACK, Bluebeam Revu, On-Screen Takeoff, and more, helping readers assess features, workflows, and fit for their unique projects.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | PlanSwift Provides fast digital takeoff and estimating capabilities with customizable HVAC assemblies for commercial projects. | specialized | 9.3/10 | 9.6/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 2 | AccuBid Offers comprehensive MEP estimating including detailed HVAC databases, labor factors, and spec-driven calculations for commercial jobs. | enterprise | 9.1/10 | 9.5/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 3 | STACK Cloud-based takeoff and estimating platform supporting HVAC quantity extraction and cost databases for collaborative commercial workflows. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 4 | Bluebeam Revu Enables precise PDF-based quantity takeoff and markup with scripting for HVAC estimating in commercial construction. | specialized | 7.8/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.2/10 |
| 5 | On-Screen Takeoff Industry-standard 2D/3D takeoff software integrated with estimating for accurate HVAC material and labor quantification. | enterprise | 7.8/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.5/10 | 7.0/10 |
| 6 | ProEst Cloud estimating solution with pre-built HVAC item libraries and real-time pricing for commercial contractors. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.6/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 7 | Destini Estimator BIM and model-based estimating tool specialized for mechanical systems including large-scale commercial HVAC projects. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.6/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 8 | Sage Estimating Robust construction estimating software with customizable HVAC databases and integration for commercial bidding. | enterprise | 7.6/10 | 8.2/10 | 6.8/10 | 7.0/10 |
| 9 | Autodesk Takeoff Cloud-based 2D and 3D takeoff tool with BIM integration for HVAC quantity and cost estimation in commercial environments. | enterprise | 7.6/10 | 8.1/10 | 7.0/10 | 7.4/10 |
| 10 | Kreo Software AI-powered takeoff and estimating platform accelerating HVAC measurements and cost analysis for commercial projects. | specialized | 7.8/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.2/10 | 7.5/10 |
Provides fast digital takeoff and estimating capabilities with customizable HVAC assemblies for commercial projects.
Offers comprehensive MEP estimating including detailed HVAC databases, labor factors, and spec-driven calculations for commercial jobs.
Cloud-based takeoff and estimating platform supporting HVAC quantity extraction and cost databases for collaborative commercial workflows.
Enables precise PDF-based quantity takeoff and markup with scripting for HVAC estimating in commercial construction.
Industry-standard 2D/3D takeoff software integrated with estimating for accurate HVAC material and labor quantification.
Cloud estimating solution with pre-built HVAC item libraries and real-time pricing for commercial contractors.
BIM and model-based estimating tool specialized for mechanical systems including large-scale commercial HVAC projects.
Robust construction estimating software with customizable HVAC databases and integration for commercial bidding.
Cloud-based 2D and 3D takeoff tool with BIM integration for HVAC quantity and cost estimation in commercial environments.
AI-powered takeoff and estimating platform accelerating HVAC measurements and cost analysis for commercial projects.
PlanSwift
specializedProvides fast digital takeoff and estimating capabilities with customizable HVAC assemblies for commercial projects.
Drag-and-drop assemblies that automatically calculate HVAC quantities like linear feet of duct, fittings, and supports with real-time cost updates.
PlanSwift is a leading digital takeoff and estimating software designed for construction professionals, enabling precise quantity measurements directly from PDF, CAD, and scanned plans. For commercial HVAC estimating, it offers customizable assemblies for ducts, piping, equipment, insulation, and hangers, automating calculations and generating detailed bids. Its visual interface and database integration streamline workflows from takeoff to cost estimation, making it a top choice for accurate, scalable HVAC projects.
Pros
- Exceptionally fast point-and-click takeoffs with auto-counting for HVAC components
- Robust customizable assemblies and databases tailored for ducts, fittings, and equipment
- Seamless exports to Excel, QuickBooks, and other estimating/accounting tools
Cons
- Steep learning curve for advanced assemblies and scripting
- Windows-only platform with no native Mac or cloud version
- Perpetual license cost can be high upfront without flexible financing options
Best For
Commercial HVAC contractors and estimators handling large-scale projects who need precise digital takeoffs and customizable cost databases from plans.
Pricing
Perpetual licenses start at $1,749 for standard edition; Pro at $2,149; includes optional annual maintenance at 20% of license cost.
AccuBid
enterpriseOffers comprehensive MEP estimating including detailed HVAC databases, labor factors, and spec-driven calculations for commercial jobs.
Pre-engineered HVAC assemblies database that allows rapid assembly of detailed estimates from proven commercial configurations
AccuBid by Trimble is a powerful estimating software tailored for commercial HVAC, mechanical, plumbing, and electrical contractors, enabling precise digital takeoffs, cost calculations, and bid generation. It leverages an extensive database of pre-engineered assemblies, real-time material pricing, and labor units to streamline complex commercial project estimates. The platform supports customization, reporting, and integration with project management tools for efficient workflow.
Pros
- Extensive library of HVAC assemblies and real-time pricing data for accuracy
- Advanced digital takeoff and labor factoring tools
- Robust integrations with ERP and project management systems
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to complex interface
- High cost unsuitable for small contractors
- Primarily desktop-based with limited mobile access
Best For
Mid-to-large commercial HVAC contractors handling complex, high-value projects that demand precise and customizable estimating.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing; typically $5,000+ annually per user, with modular add-ons and perpetual license options available.
STACK
enterpriseCloud-based takeoff and estimating platform supporting HVAC quantity extraction and cost databases for collaborative commercial workflows.
Real-time cloud collaboration with unlimited users and storage for seamless team estimating
STACK (stackct.com) is a cloud-based takeoff and estimating platform designed for construction professionals, including those in commercial HVAC, enabling fast digital measurements from PDFs, CAD files, and images. It supports HVAC-specific estimating through customizable assemblies for ducts, piping, equipment, and labor, with tools for generating detailed bids and reports. The software emphasizes collaboration, allowing teams to work in real-time, and integrates with accounting systems like QuickBooks for seamless workflows.
Pros
- Lightning-fast digital takeoff tools reduce manual measuring time significantly
- Unlimited cloud storage and real-time team collaboration
- Customizable pricing databases and assemblies tailored for HVAC components
Cons
- Lacks built-in HVAC-specific calculations like load or duct sizing
- Higher pricing tiers may not suit very small firms
- Advanced reporting requires some customization effort
Best For
Mid-sized commercial HVAC contractors needing efficient digital takeoffs and collaborative estimating for large projects.
Pricing
Free tier for 1 project; Pro at $2,495/user/year; Team at $3,995/user/year; Enterprise custom pricing.
Bluebeam Revu
specializedEnables precise PDF-based quantity takeoff and markup with scripting for HVAC estimating in commercial construction.
Dynamic quantity takeoff with customizable measurement scripts that automatically calculate lengths, areas, and counts for HVAC components across multi-page drawings
Bluebeam Revu is a robust PDF-based markup and takeoff software widely used in the construction industry, including for commercial HVAC estimating through precise digital measurements of ducts, pipes, equipment, and areas from blueprints. It excels in quantity takeoffs with customizable toolsets tailored to HVAC components, allowing users to annotate plans, generate reports, and export data to Excel for cost estimating. While powerful for pre-estimating takeoffs and collaboration, it lacks native HVAC-specific pricing databases or automated load calculations, making it a complementary tool rather than a full estimating suite.
Pros
- Highly accurate digital takeoff and measurement tools for HVAC elements like ducts and fittings
- Customizable symbol libraries and scripting for efficient quantity extraction
- Seamless integration with Excel and cloud collaboration via Studios
Cons
- No built-in material pricing, labor rates, or HVAC-specific assemblies/databases
- Requires external tools for full cost estimating and load calculations
- Subscription or perpetual licensing can be costly for takeoff-only use
Best For
HVAC estimators and contractors who prioritize PDF takeoffs, plan markups, and team collaboration over integrated pricing and automated estimating.
Pricing
Subscription from $149/user/year (Basics) to $349/user/year (Complete); perpetual licenses $239-$739 depending on edition.
On-Screen Takeoff
enterpriseIndustry-standard 2D/3D takeoff software integrated with estimating for accurate HVAC material and labor quantification.
Point-and-click on-screen takeoff with real-time quantity updates and customizable HVAC assemblies
On-Screen Takeoff by ConstructConnect is a digital quantity takeoff and estimating software designed for construction professionals to extract measurements directly from PDF plans and blueprints. It excels in performing precise on-screen takeoffs for HVAC components like ductwork, piping, and equipment, supporting customizable assemblies to streamline bid preparation. While versatile across trades, it integrates well with estimating tools for commercial HVAC projects, though it lacks advanced engineering calculations like load analysis or pressure drops.
Pros
- Highly accurate digital takeoff from PDFs with point-and-click measurements
- Customizable assemblies tailored for HVAC quantities like ducts and fittings
- Seamless integration with Quick Bid and other ConstructConnect estimating software
Cons
- Lacks specialized HVAC features like sizing calculations or energy modeling
- Steep learning curve for complex assemblies and reporting
- Subscription pricing can be costly for smaller firms or infrequent users
Best For
Mid-sized commercial HVAC contractors needing reliable quantity takeoff from digital plans for competitive bidding.
Pricing
Subscription starts at $149/user/month for basic takeoff, up to $349/user/month for advanced features; annual discounts available.
ProEst
enterpriseCloud estimating solution with pre-built HVAC item libraries and real-time pricing for commercial contractors.
Dynamic pre-built assemblies that automatically adjust quantities and costs based on HVAC system parameters and project specs
ProEst is a cloud-based construction estimating software tailored for commercial contractors, including HVAC specialists, offering digital takeoff, customizable assemblies, and rapid bid generation. It features an extensive database of HVAC materials, labor rates, and pre-built assemblies to streamline quantity takeoffs and cost calculations. The platform integrates with accounting systems like QuickBooks and Sage, enabling seamless data flow from estimate to project management.
Pros
- Vast HVAC-specific database with thousands of pre-built assemblies for quick setup
- Lightning-fast digital takeoff and estimating engine reduces bid time significantly
- Robust integrations with ERP/accounting software like Viewpoint and Sage
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users due to dense interface
- Customizable but somewhat dated UI compared to modern competitors
- Pricing can be opaque and higher for smaller firms
Best For
Mid-sized commercial HVAC contractors focused on high-volume bidding who need speed and accuracy over simplicity.
Pricing
Custom subscription pricing starting around $300-$500 per user/month, with annual contracts and modules billed separately; quotes required.
Destini Estimator
enterpriseBIM and model-based estimating tool specialized for mechanical systems including large-scale commercial HVAC projects.
Direct, native extraction of quantities from Revit models without file exports or manual rekeying
Destini Estimator by Beck Technology is a BIM-integrated estimating software designed for commercial construction, with strong capabilities in HVAC and MEP trades. It automates quantity takeoffs directly from 3D models in Revit, Navisworks, and other platforms, generating accurate cost estimates with real-time labor and material pricing. The tool supports collaborative workflows and integrates with accounting systems like Procore and Sage, streamlining the bid process for complex projects.
Pros
- Seamless BIM model integration for automated, accurate quantity takeoffs
- Real-time cost databases and customizable assemblies for HVAC-specific estimating
- Strong collaboration features and ERP integrations for team-based bidding
Cons
- Steep learning curve for users without BIM experience
- High pricing makes it less accessible for small firms
- Limited reporting flexibility compared to generalist estimating tools
Best For
Mid-to-large commercial HVAC estimators relying on BIM workflows for complex, model-based projects.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; typically $5,000–$20,000+ annually depending on modules, users, and project scale.
Sage Estimating
enterpriseRobust construction estimating software with customizable HVAC databases and integration for commercial bidding.
Formula Intelligence with Visual Assemblies for dynamic, rule-based cost modeling that auto-adjusts HVAC estimates based on project variables
Sage Estimating is a robust, database-driven construction estimating software tailored for commercial trades, including HVAC, with extensive pre-built assemblies, items, and labor units specific to mechanical systems. It enables precise takeoffs, cost calculations, and bid preparation through customizable databases and formula intelligence. The platform integrates seamlessly with Sage 300 accounting and project management tools, supporting end-to-end workflows for larger contractors.
Pros
- Extensive HVAC-specific databases with thousands of assemblies and accurate labor/product data
- Advanced formula-driven calculations for dynamic pricing and what-if scenarios
- Strong integration with Sage ERP and accounting for streamlined project handoff
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to complex, desktop-heavy interface
- High cost with quote-based pricing and ongoing maintenance fees
- Limited modern cloud/mobile features compared to specialized HVAC tools
Best For
Established commercial HVAC contractors handling complex, large-scale projects that need detailed estimating integrated with enterprise accounting systems.
Pricing
Quote-based annual subscriptions starting around $2,000-$5,000 per user, scaling to $10,000+ for full modules, unlimited users, and support.
Autodesk Takeoff
enterpriseCloud-based 2D and 3D takeoff tool with BIM integration for HVAC quantity and cost estimation in commercial environments.
Direct 3D BIM model quantity takeoff with automatic updates from Revit changes
Autodesk Takeoff is a cloud-based quantity takeoff and estimating tool within the Autodesk Construction Cloud suite, designed for extracting accurate quantities from 2D PDFs, CAD files, and 3D BIM models for construction projects. It supports defining custom assemblies, conditions, and items tailored to mechanical trades like HVAC, enabling material and labor cost estimates for commercial jobs. While versatile for general construction, it excels when integrated with Autodesk's ecosystem for streamlined workflows in MEP estimating.
Pros
- Seamless integration with Revit and Autodesk Construction Cloud for BIM-driven takeoffs
- Robust 2D/3D quantity extraction with custom HVAC assemblies and real-time collaboration
- Cloud-based access with mobile support for on-site verification
Cons
- Steep learning curve, especially for users new to Autodesk tools
- Lacks specialized HVAC automation like automatic duct sizing or pressure loss calculations
- Pricing escalates with full Autodesk suite requirements for optimal use
Best For
Commercial HVAC estimators embedded in the Autodesk ecosystem who need BIM-integrated takeoff for large-scale projects.
Pricing
Included in Autodesk Construction Cloud subscriptions starting at ~$975/year per user (Build plan); custom enterprise pricing available.
Kreo Software
specializedAI-powered takeoff and estimating platform accelerating HVAC measurements and cost analysis for commercial projects.
AI-powered automatic quantity takeoff that identifies and measures HVAC elements like ducts and fittings directly from uploaded drawings
Kreo Software (kreo.net) is an AI-powered takeoff and estimating platform tailored for construction professionals, including those in commercial HVAC, enabling automated quantity extraction from 2D PDFs, CAD files, and 3D BIM models. It supports MEP trades with pre-built assemblies, labor rates, and real-time collaboration for accurate bid preparation. The tool accelerates the estimating process by reducing manual measurements, making it suitable for complex commercial HVAC projects involving ductwork, piping, and equipment takeoffs.
Pros
- AI-driven automatic takeoffs significantly speed up quantity extraction from plans
- Strong BIM integration for 3D model analysis in MEP/HVAC projects
- Cloud-based collaboration and customizable estimating databases
Cons
- Steep learning curve for non-tech-savvy users
- Limited HVAC-specific templates compared to dedicated tools
- Subscription pricing can add up for small firms
Best For
Mid-sized commercial HVAC contractors needing AI-assisted takeoffs for large BIM-heavy projects.
Pricing
Subscription tiers starting at $99/user/month for basic takeoff features, up to enterprise plans with custom pricing.
Conclusion
Evaluating the top commercial HVAC estimating tools reveals PlanSwift as the standout winner, leading with fast digital takeoff and customizable assemblies for varied projects. AccuBid and STACK follow, offering comprehensive MEP insights and robust cloud collaboration respectively, making them strong picks for specific needs. Together, these tools enhance efficiency and accuracy in commercial HVAC estimating workflows.
For those seeking to streamline their estimating process, starting with PlanSwift—built for speed and tailored assemblies—can transform how commercial HVAC projects are bid and executed.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison
