Quick Overview
- 1#1: Stack - AI-powered cloud-based takeoff and estimating software that automates quantity takeoffs and bid generation for construction projects.
- 2#2: Procore - Comprehensive construction management platform with integrated estimating, bidding, and bid board features for streamlined preconstruction workflows.
- 3#3: PlanSwift - Digital takeoff and estimating software that enables fast point-and-click measurements and assemblies for accurate construction bids.
- 4#4: Bluebeam Revu - PDF-based markup and takeoff tool designed for construction professionals to perform precise measurements and collaborate on bid documents.
- 5#5: Sage Estimating - Professional-grade estimating software with extensive databases and customizable assemblies for detailed construction cost estimation.
- 6#6: OnCenter - On-Screen Takeoff and Quick Bid suite for digital plan takeoffs, assemblies, and bid management tailored to construction estimators.
- 7#7: Buildxact - Cloud estimating and takeoff software optimized for residential builders to create professional bids and manage job costs efficiently.
- 8#8: ConstructConnect - Bid management platform providing access to project leads, document management, and invitation-to-bid tools for contractors.
- 9#9: Togal.AI - AI-driven automated takeoff software that instantly detects and measures elements from blueprints to accelerate bid preparation.
- 10#10: Trimble HeavyBid - Heavy civil construction bidding software for job costing, resource planning, and competitive bid analysis.
Tools were selected based on features like automation, collaboration, and industry-specific optimization, as well as user-friendliness, reliability, and value, ensuring they deliver tangible benefits across residential, heavy civil, and general contracting contexts.
Comparison Table
In the competitive construction industry, choosing the right bid software is key to efficiency and precision. This comparison table examines leading tools such as Stack, Procore, PlanSwift, Bluebeam Revu, Sage Estimating, and more, helping you identify features, strengths, and best-fit use cases for your project needs.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Stack AI-powered cloud-based takeoff and estimating software that automates quantity takeoffs and bid generation for construction projects. | specialized | 9.6/10 | 9.8/10 | 9.3/10 | 9.4/10 |
| 2 | Procore Comprehensive construction management platform with integrated estimating, bidding, and bid board features for streamlined preconstruction workflows. | enterprise | 9.2/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.4/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 3 | PlanSwift Digital takeoff and estimating software that enables fast point-and-click measurements and assemblies for accurate construction bids. | specialized | 8.6/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.9/10 | 8.3/10 |
| 4 | Bluebeam Revu PDF-based markup and takeoff tool designed for construction professionals to perform precise measurements and collaborate on bid documents. | specialized | 8.6/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 5 | Sage Estimating Professional-grade estimating software with extensive databases and customizable assemblies for detailed construction cost estimation. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 9.0/10 | 7.5/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 6 | OnCenter On-Screen Takeoff and Quick Bid suite for digital plan takeoffs, assemblies, and bid management tailored to construction estimators. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 7 | Buildxact Cloud estimating and takeoff software optimized for residential builders to create professional bids and manage job costs efficiently. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 8.8/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.3/10 |
| 8 | ConstructConnect Bid management platform providing access to project leads, document management, and invitation-to-bid tools for contractors. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 8.8/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.7/10 |
| 9 | Togal.AI AI-driven automated takeoff software that instantly detects and measures elements from blueprints to accelerate bid preparation. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 10 | Trimble HeavyBid Heavy civil construction bidding software for job costing, resource planning, and competitive bid analysis. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 | 6.9/10 | 7.4/10 |
AI-powered cloud-based takeoff and estimating software that automates quantity takeoffs and bid generation for construction projects.
Comprehensive construction management platform with integrated estimating, bidding, and bid board features for streamlined preconstruction workflows.
Digital takeoff and estimating software that enables fast point-and-click measurements and assemblies for accurate construction bids.
PDF-based markup and takeoff tool designed for construction professionals to perform precise measurements and collaborate on bid documents.
Professional-grade estimating software with extensive databases and customizable assemblies for detailed construction cost estimation.
On-Screen Takeoff and Quick Bid suite for digital plan takeoffs, assemblies, and bid management tailored to construction estimators.
Cloud estimating and takeoff software optimized for residential builders to create professional bids and manage job costs efficiently.
Bid management platform providing access to project leads, document management, and invitation-to-bid tools for contractors.
AI-driven automated takeoff software that instantly detects and measures elements from blueprints to accelerate bid preparation.
Heavy civil construction bidding software for job costing, resource planning, and competitive bid analysis.
Stack
specializedAI-powered cloud-based takeoff and estimating software that automates quantity takeoffs and bid generation for construction projects.
The STACK Marketplace, providing instant access to a massive network of vetted subcontractors with verified qualifications and historical performance data.
Stack (stackct.com) is a comprehensive preconstruction platform tailored for general contractors, focusing on streamlining the bidding process from invitation to award. It features a vast subcontractor marketplace, automated bid leveling, qualification management, and seamless integration with estimating tools. By centralizing subcontractor data and communications, Stack minimizes bid leakage and accelerates project handoff to field management.
Pros
- Extensive database of over 1 million pre-qualified subcontractors
- Advanced AI-powered bid leveling for accurate apples-to-apples comparisons
- Robust integrations with Procore, Autodesk, and other construction software
Cons
- High cost suitable mainly for mid-to-large firms
- Initial setup and data migration can be time-intensive
- Limited standalone mobile app; relies on web interface
Best For
Mid-to-large general contractors handling complex, high-volume bidding processes who need enterprise-grade subcontractor management.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing starting at approximately $5,000/month based on user count and features; annual contracts required.
Procore
enterpriseComprehensive construction management platform with integrated estimating, bidding, and bid board features for streamlined preconstruction workflows.
Bid Board for centralized, real-time bid collection, leveling, and comparison with automated notifications
Procore is a comprehensive cloud-based construction management platform with specialized tools for bid management, including Bid Boards, Invitations to Bid (ITB), and subcontractor bid leveling. It enables users to streamline the bidding process by automating invitations, collecting bids in a centralized location, and comparing them side-by-side for informed decision-making. The software integrates bidding seamlessly with estimating, takeoff, and full project management, reducing silos in pre-construction workflows. As a top-tier solution, it's particularly strong for collaborative bidding across large teams.
Pros
- Robust bid management tools like Bid Board and ITB for efficient subcontractor outreach and comparison
- Seamless integration with estimating, takeoff, and project management for end-to-end workflow
- Strong collaboration features with real-time updates and document sharing
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users due to extensive feature set
- High cost, especially for smaller firms or those only needing bidding tools
- Custom pricing lacks transparency and can be prohibitive without scale
Best For
Mid-to-large construction firms and general contractors seeking an integrated platform for bidding through project execution.
Pricing
Quote-based enterprise pricing; typically $400-$600 per user/year depending on modules and company size, with minimum commitments.
PlanSwift
specializedDigital takeoff and estimating software that enables fast point-and-click measurements and assemblies for accurate construction bids.
Point-and-click takeoff engine that instantly assembles quantities and costs from plan markups
PlanSwift is an on-screen digital takeoff and estimating software tailored for construction bidding and estimating workflows. Users can import plans as PDFs or images and perform rapid point-and-click measurements, with the software automatically populating quantities into customizable assemblies for cost calculations. It supports bid generation, reporting, and integrations with tools like Excel and QuickBooks, making it a staple for precise quantity takeoffs in construction projects.
Pros
- Extremely fast point-and-click takeoff from digital plans
- Robust customizable assemblies and formula-based estimating
- Strong integrations with Excel, QuickBooks, and other construction tools
Cons
- Desktop-only application with no native cloud or mobile access
- Noticeable learning curve for advanced assemblies and customization
- High upfront cost without subscription flexibility
Best For
Construction estimators and contractors managing high-volume takeoffs from blueprints who prioritize speed and precision over cloud collaboration.
Pricing
Perpetual license at $1,749 per user, plus $349 annual maintenance; volume discounts available.
Bluebeam Revu
specializedPDF-based markup and takeoff tool designed for construction professionals to perform precise measurements and collaborate on bid documents.
Dynamic quantity takeoff tools with automatic calculations, scaling, and exportable reports tailored for construction blueprints
Bluebeam Revu is a robust PDF editing and markup software widely used in construction for digital takeoffs, plan review, and collaboration during the bidding process. It excels in quantity measurement from blueprints, generating reports, and enabling team markups without altering originals. While not a full end-to-end bidding platform, it integrates well with estimating tools like Excel for cost analysis.
Pros
- Highly accurate digital quantity takeoff tools for areas, lengths, and counts directly from PDFs
- Real-time collaboration via Bluebeam Studio for bid reviews and markups
- Customizable templates and reporting for streamlined bid documentation
Cons
- Steep learning curve for advanced takeoff and scripting features
- No built-in cost databases or full estimating capabilities, requiring exports to other software
- Windows-only, with higher pricing that may not suit small firms
Best For
Construction estimators and teams handling large PDF plan sets who need precise takeoffs and collaborative markup for competitive bidding.
Pricing
Subscription tiers from $240/user/year (Basics) to $349/user/year (eXtreme); perpetual licenses start at $700/user.
Sage Estimating
enterpriseProfessional-grade estimating software with extensive databases and customizable assemblies for detailed construction cost estimation.
Patented Visual Assemblies technology for drag-and-drop creation of complex, customizable estimate assemblies
Sage Estimating is a robust construction bidding software that enables contractors to produce precise estimates using a comprehensive database of over 22,000 pre-built assemblies and items tailored to various trades. It supports digital takeoffs, labor planning, and real-time cost data integration, streamlining the bid creation process from quantity takeoff to final proposal. As part of Sage Construction Cloud, it offers seamless connectivity with accounting, project management, and ERP systems for end-to-end workflow efficiency.
Pros
- Extensive industry-specific database with thousands of assemblies and real-time cost data
- Strong integrations with Sage accounting and project management tools
- Advanced tools for digital takeoff, labor factoring, and bid analysis
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to complex interface and depth of features
- High cost makes it less accessible for small contractors
- Limited standalone mobile app functionality
Best For
Mid-to-large construction firms with experienced estimators needing database-driven accuracy and ERP integration.
Pricing
Quote-based subscription pricing; typically $5,000–$25,000+ annually depending on users, modules, and cloud deployment.
OnCenter
specializedOn-Screen Takeoff and Quick Bid suite for digital plan takeoffs, assemblies, and bid management tailored to construction estimators.
Real-time, on-screen digital takeoff with automatic calculations and direct export to bidding worksheets
OnCenter provides On-Screen Takeoff (OST) and Quick Bid, desktop-based software solutions designed for construction estimating and bidding. OST enables precise digital takeoffs from PDF, CAD, and paper plans with real-time measurements and assemblies, while Quick Bid assembles bids using imported takeoff data, cost databases, and customizable worksheets. Together, they streamline pre-construction workflows for accurate quantity takeoffs and competitive bidding.
Pros
- Highly accurate digital takeoff tools with support for PDFs, CAD, and scanned plans
- Seamless integration between OST and Quick Bid for efficient bid assembly
- Extensive pre-built assemblies library and customizable cost databases
Cons
- Primarily desktop-based with limited cloud collaboration features
- Steep learning curve for advanced functionalities
- Higher pricing compared to some cloud-native alternatives
Best For
Mid-sized general contractors and subcontractors focused on precise plan takeoffs and detailed bid preparation.
Pricing
Annual subscriptions start at ~$1,850 for On-Screen Takeoff Pro, ~$2,150 for Quick Bid, with bundles up to $4,000+; perpetual licenses available at higher upfront costs.
Buildxact
specializedCloud estimating and takeoff software optimized for residential builders to create professional bids and manage job costs efficiently.
Dynamic, supplier-integrated material pricing that auto-updates costs in real-time
Buildxact is a cloud-based construction management software tailored for residential builders and remodelers, specializing in fast and accurate estimating, quoting, and bid creation. It offers digital takeoffs, material cost databases, job tracking, and seamless integrations with accounting tools like QuickBooks and Xero. The platform helps streamline the bidding process from initial takeoff to final invoicing, reducing errors and saving time for construction professionals.
Pros
- Intuitive interface for quick quote generation
- Real-time material pricing database
- Strong integrations with accounting and supplier software
Cons
- Limited advanced takeoff tools for complex blueprints
- Less suitable for large commercial projects
- Subscription pricing may be steep for solo users
Best For
Small to medium residential builders and remodelers seeking efficient bid creation and job management without a steep learning curve.
Pricing
Starts at $149/month for Solo plan, $299/month for Teams, and up to $499/month for Business (annual billing discounts available).
ConstructConnect
enterpriseBid management platform providing access to project leads, document management, and invitation-to-bid tools for contractors.
North America's largest construction project database with real-time updates on over 700,000 opportunities.
ConstructConnect is a leading construction intelligence platform that delivers access to an extensive database of over 700,000 active projects across North America, including detailed leads, plans, specifications, and bidding opportunities. It provides tools for bid management, quantity takeoff, planroom collaboration, and market analytics to help contractors identify and pursue profitable projects. The software streamlines preconstruction workflows by integrating project data with estimating and takeoff capabilities.
Pros
- Vast database of projects with rich details like plans and specs
- Robust bid tabs, analytics, and takeoff tools
- Strong integration with popular estimating software
Cons
- Steep learning curve and dated interface
- High pricing that may not suit small firms
- Occasional issues with lead accuracy or duplicates
Best For
Mid-to-large general contractors and subcontractors focused on commercial projects needing comprehensive market intelligence.
Pricing
Custom subscription pricing starting at around $500/month per user, scaling with modules like leads, planroom, and analytics.
Togal.AI
specializedAI-driven automated takeoff software that instantly detects and measures elements from blueprints to accelerate bid preparation.
AI-powered instant object detection and quantification from uploaded blueprints
Togal.AI is an AI-powered takeoff software designed for construction bidding, automating quantity takeoffs from digital blueprints and PDFs with machine learning. It instantly detects and measures elements like walls, doors, windows, and areas, generating accurate counts and quantities in seconds. The tool integrates with estimating platforms like Procore and PlanSwift, streamlining the bid preparation process for estimators and contractors.
Pros
- Lightning-fast AI-driven takeoffs save hours of manual work
- High accuracy on standard blueprint elements with minimal training
- Seamless integrations with popular estimating and project management tools
Cons
- Pricing can be steep for small subcontractors or solo estimators
- Performance depends on blueprint quality and may require manual corrections for complex plans
- Primarily focused on 2D takeoffs, with limited 3D/BIM support
Best For
Mid-sized general contractors and estimating teams seeking to accelerate bid preparation through AI automation.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing; starts around $495/user/month for Pro plan, with volume discounts available.
Trimble HeavyBid
enterpriseHeavy civil construction bidding software for job costing, resource planning, and competitive bid analysis.
HeavyBid Abstract Sheet for dynamic bid item management with unlimited historical bid data and real-time cost adjustments
Trimble HeavyBid is a specialized construction estimating and bidding software tailored for heavy civil and highway contractors. It provides end-to-end tools for digital takeoff, cost estimating, subcontractor bid management, and bid analysis, helping users prepare accurate and competitive bids. Integrated with Trimble's broader ecosystem like Trimble Connect, it supports data-driven decision-making for large-scale infrastructure projects.
Pros
- Highly accurate estimating for heavy construction with specialized takeoff tools for earthwork and paving
- Seamless integration with Trimble Connect and other Trimble products for project lifecycle management
- Robust bid analysis and subcontractor management features with historical data tracking
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to complex interface and extensive customization options
- High cost that may not suit smaller contractors or non-heavy construction firms
- Limited mobile functionality compared to more modern cloud-native alternatives
Best For
Large heavy civil contractors managing complex infrastructure bids like highways, bridges, and utilities.
Pricing
Quote-based pricing with annual subscriptions typically starting at $5,000-$15,000 depending on users, modules, and deployment (on-premise or cloud).
Conclusion
The reviewed tools each bring distinct value, with Stack emerging as the top choice due to its AI-powered automation for takeoffs and bid generation. Procore and PlanSwift, ranking second and third, excel with their comprehensive management and fast point-and-click takeoff capabilities, standing as strong alternatives for varying needs in construction bidding.
Take the first step toward more efficient bids by testing Stack—unlock streamlined workflows and competitive advantages for your next project.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison