Quick Overview
- 1#1: Procore - All-in-one construction management platform with advanced estimating, takeoff, and cost calculation tools.
- 2#2: Bluebeam Revu - PDF-based software for precise digital takeoffs, measurements, and construction estimating.
- 3#3: PlanSwift - Digital takeoff and estimating software that enables point-and-click quantity calculations from plans.
- 4#4: Autodesk Takeoff - Cloud-based 2D and 3D takeoff tool for accurate quantity extraction and cost estimation.
- 5#5: Sage Estimating - Database-driven construction estimating software with customizable assemblies and real-time pricing.
- 6#6: Stack - Cloud-based preconstruction platform for collaborative takeoffs and estimating.
- 7#7: Buildxact - User-friendly estimating and takeoff software tailored for residential builders and remodelers.
- 8#8: Togal.AI - AI-powered automated takeoff software that instantly extracts quantities from construction plans.
- 9#9: Kreo - BIM quantity takeoff and cost planning software with AI-assisted measurements.
- 10#10: Destini Estimator - AI-driven 5D BIM estimating platform for real-time cost modeling and scenario analysis.
Tools were selected and ranked based on a balanced assessment of technical capabilities (including estimating accuracy, takeoff efficiency, and collaboration features), user experience, reliability, and long-term value, ensuring they represent the most impactful and versatile options available.
Comparison Table
This comparison table outlines key features, practical uses, and performance metrics of top construction calculation software, such as Procore, Bluebeam Revu, PlanSwift, Autodesk Takeoff, and Sage Estimating. Readers will discover how each tool suits distinct workflows—from takeoff to project coordination—to identify the best fit for their needs.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Procore All-in-one construction management platform with advanced estimating, takeoff, and cost calculation tools. | enterprise | 9.4/10 | 9.6/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 2 | Bluebeam Revu PDF-based software for precise digital takeoffs, measurements, and construction estimating. | specialized | 9.1/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.4/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 3 | PlanSwift Digital takeoff and estimating software that enables point-and-click quantity calculations from plans. | specialized | 8.3/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.8/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 4 | Autodesk Takeoff Cloud-based 2D and 3D takeoff tool for accurate quantity extraction and cost estimation. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.7/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 5 | Sage Estimating Database-driven construction estimating software with customizable assemblies and real-time pricing. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.1/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 6 | Stack Cloud-based preconstruction platform for collaborative takeoffs and estimating. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 7 | Buildxact User-friendly estimating and takeoff software tailored for residential builders and remodelers. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 8.6/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 8 | Togal.AI AI-powered automated takeoff software that instantly extracts quantities from construction plans. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.6/10 | 7.7/10 |
| 9 | Kreo BIM quantity takeoff and cost planning software with AI-assisted measurements. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 10 | Destini Estimator AI-driven 5D BIM estimating platform for real-time cost modeling and scenario analysis. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.8/10 |
All-in-one construction management platform with advanced estimating, takeoff, and cost calculation tools.
PDF-based software for precise digital takeoffs, measurements, and construction estimating.
Digital takeoff and estimating software that enables point-and-click quantity calculations from plans.
Cloud-based 2D and 3D takeoff tool for accurate quantity extraction and cost estimation.
Database-driven construction estimating software with customizable assemblies and real-time pricing.
Cloud-based preconstruction platform for collaborative takeoffs and estimating.
User-friendly estimating and takeoff software tailored for residential builders and remodelers.
AI-powered automated takeoff software that instantly extracts quantities from construction plans.
BIM quantity takeoff and cost planning software with AI-assisted measurements.
AI-driven 5D BIM estimating platform for real-time cost modeling and scenario analysis.
Procore
enterpriseAll-in-one construction management platform with advanced estimating, takeoff, and cost calculation tools.
Intelligent Estimating with automated quantity takeoffs and predictive cost analytics
Procore is a comprehensive cloud-based construction management platform with robust tools for construction calculations, including quantity takeoffs, cost estimating, budgeting, and financial forecasting. It integrates takeoff data with real-time cost tracking, change order management, and analytics to ensure accurate project calculations throughout the lifecycle. Ideal for handling complex calculations in bidding, procurement, and project execution, Procore streamlines workflows for construction professionals.
Pros
- Advanced estimating and takeoff tools with AI-assisted measurements for precise calculations
- Real-time financial dashboards and forecasting that integrate calculations across projects
- Seamless collaboration and integrations with accounting software for accurate cost management
Cons
- Steep learning curve for advanced calculation features and full platform mastery
- High pricing that may not suit small contractors
- Occasional performance lags with very large datasets in takeoff modules
Best For
Mid-to-large construction firms and general contractors needing integrated calculation tools within a full project management suite.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing, typically $500-$700 per month per user for core packages, with add-ons for estimating and financials.
Bluebeam Revu
specializedPDF-based software for precise digital takeoffs, measurements, and construction estimating.
Dynamic Quantity columns with built-in formulas that automatically recalculate totals across multiple drawings and support scripting for complex custom computations
Bluebeam Revu is a specialized PDF editor designed for the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry, offering robust tools for quantity takeoff, precise measurements, and custom calculations from digital plans and drawings. It enables users to mark up PDFs, perform area, length, volume, and count measurements, and apply formulas in customizable quantity columns for automated summaries and exports to Excel. With features like Sets for multi-document management and Studio for cloud collaboration, it streamlines construction estimation workflows while supporting scripting for advanced calculations.
Pros
- Highly accurate measurement and takeoff tools with dynamic scaling
- Customizable columns with formulas for automated calculations and summaries
- Seamless integration with Excel and cloud collaboration via Studio
Cons
- Steep learning curve for advanced takeoff and scripting features
- Primarily PDF-focused, less ideal for non-PDF workflows
- Subscription pricing can be costly for small teams
Best For
Construction estimators, architects, and engineers who rely on PDF plans for quantity takeoffs and need precise, collaborative measurement tools.
Pricing
Subscription tiers: Basics ($240/user/year), Core ($360/user/year), Complete ($600/user/year); perpetual licenses start at $349 with annual maintenance.
PlanSwift
specializedDigital takeoff and estimating software that enables point-and-click quantity calculations from plans.
Drag-and-drop assemblies that automatically calculate quantities, costs, and labor based on plan measurements
PlanSwift is a powerful desktop-based takeoff and estimating software tailored for construction professionals, enabling quick digitization of blueprints from PDFs, CAD files, or scanned images. It features drag-and-drop assemblies for rapid quantity takeoffs, cost calculations, and report generation, streamlining the pre-construction bidding process. Users can customize databases for materials, labor, and formulas to fit specific project needs, integrating seamlessly with Excel and accounting software.
Pros
- Lightning-fast drag-and-drop assemblies for accurate takeoffs
- Highly customizable databases and formulas for precise calculations
- Strong integration with Excel and popular estimating tools
Cons
- Desktop-only with no native cloud collaboration
- Steep initial learning curve for advanced customization
- High upfront licensing costs without flexible subscription options
Best For
Experienced construction estimators and contractors handling complex takeoffs from digital plans who prioritize speed and accuracy over cloud features.
Pricing
Perpetual license starts at ~$1,749 per user, plus ~$600 annual maintenance; volume discounts available.
Autodesk Takeoff
enterpriseCloud-based 2D and 3D takeoff tool for accurate quantity extraction and cost estimation.
Direct 3D model takeoff from Revit and Navisworks with live linking for dynamic quantity updates
Autodesk Takeoff is a cloud-based preconstruction tool within Autodesk Construction Cloud, specializing in digital quantity takeoff and basic estimating from 2D PDFs, drawings, and 3D models. It automates measurements for lengths, areas, volumes, and counts, streamlining material quantity calculations for construction projects. The software supports team collaboration and integrates seamlessly with Autodesk's BIM tools like Revit for accurate, model-based takeoffs.
Pros
- Robust 2D and 3D takeoff capabilities with automatic quantity calculations
- Seamless integration with Autodesk Construction Cloud and BIM tools like Revit
- Cloud-based collaboration for real-time sharing and issue tracking
Cons
- Steep learning curve for users unfamiliar with Autodesk ecosystem
- Higher pricing limits accessibility for small firms or solo estimators
- Limited advanced estimating features compared to dedicated software like PlanSwift
Best For
Mid-to-large construction firms and estimators deeply integrated into the Autodesk ecosystem needing precise BIM-linked quantity takeoffs.
Pricing
Subscription-based at approximately $1,075 per user per year (Takeoff Pro plan); included in higher Autodesk Construction Cloud tiers.
Sage Estimating
enterpriseDatabase-driven construction estimating software with customizable assemblies and real-time pricing.
Industry-leading, subscription-updated national cost databases from trusted sources like Craftsman
Sage Estimating is a robust construction estimation software that enables contractors to produce precise cost estimates using an extensive database of items, assemblies, and labor rates. It supports digital takeoff, bid management, and customizable reporting, integrating seamlessly with Sage accounting solutions like Sage 300. Designed for professional estimators, it streamlines preconstruction workflows from quantity takeoff to final bid submission.
Pros
- Extensive, regularly updated cost databases for accurate pricing
- Seamless integration with Sage accounting and project management tools
- Advanced digital takeoff and customizable assemblies for complex projects
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring significant training
- High pricing that may not suit small firms
- Occasional performance issues with large databases
Best For
Mid-to-large construction firms and general contractors needing scalable, database-driven estimating for commercial projects.
Pricing
Quote-based pricing, typically $3,500-$6,000 per user annually depending on modules and support.
Stack
specializedCloud-based preconstruction platform for collaborative takeoffs and estimating.
Lightning Takeoff tool for ultra-fast, precise quantity extraction and calculations from digital plans
Stack (stackct.com) is a cloud-based construction takeoff and estimating software designed to streamline quantity takeoffs, cost calculations, and bid management for construction projects. It features digital plan import, automated assemblies for rapid material and labor calculations, and real-time collaboration tools. Users can generate detailed estimates with integrated costing databases, making it suitable for pre-construction planning and accuracy in calculations.
Pros
- Lightning-fast digital takeoffs from PDFs and CAD files
- Pre-built assemblies and customizable templates for accurate calculations
- Seamless integrations with QuickBooks and Procore
Cons
- Limited advanced reporting for enterprise-scale projects
- Steep initial learning curve for non-digital takeoff users
- No perpetual license option, subscription-only model
Best For
Small to mid-sized construction estimators and contractors focused on efficient takeoffs and cost calculations.
Pricing
Pro plan at $149/user/month (billed annually), Enterprise custom pricing; 14-day free trial available.
Buildxact
specializedUser-friendly estimating and takeoff software tailored for residential builders and remodelers.
Live material pricing directly from 200+ suppliers, ensuring quotes reflect current market rates without manual updates
Buildxact is a cloud-based construction takeoff and estimating software tailored for residential builders, remodelers, and trade contractors. It enables digital takeoffs from PDFs or CAD files, automated quantity calculations, and professional quote generation with real-time material pricing from integrated suppliers. The platform also supports job costing, scheduling, and seamless integrations with accounting tools like QuickBooks and Xero for streamlined financial management.
Pros
- Intuitive digital takeoff and estimating tools that save time on manual calculations
- Live pricing integration with 200+ suppliers for accurate, up-to-date costing
- Strong mobile app and cloud access for on-site use
Cons
- Primarily geared toward residential construction with less support for commercial projects
- Subscription pricing can add up for larger teams
- Limited advanced customization compared to enterprise-level competitors
Best For
Small to medium residential builders and remodelers seeking user-friendly takeoff and estimating without a steep learning curve.
Pricing
Starts at $149 AUD/month for Essentials (1 user), with Pro ($299 AUD/month) and Premium ($499 AUD/month) tiers; annual discounts available.
Togal.AI
specializedAI-powered automated takeoff software that instantly extracts quantities from construction plans.
AI-powered instant takeoff that automatically identifies and measures thousands of plan elements in seconds
Togal.AI is an AI-powered construction takeoff software that automates quantity calculations from 2D blueprints and PDFs. Users upload plans, and the platform's computer vision technology instantly detects, measures, and quantifies elements like walls, doors, windows, and areas. It generates detailed takeoff reports exportable to Excel or integrated estimating tools, significantly reducing manual effort in pre-construction estimation.
Pros
- Ultra-fast AI-automated takeoffs saving up to 90% of time
- High accuracy in element detection and measurement
- Easy exports to Excel and integration with popular estimating software
Cons
- Pricing can be steep for small firms or low-volume users
- Occasional need for manual verification on complex plans
- Primarily optimized for 2D plans, with limited 3D support
Best For
Mid-to-large construction firms and estimators handling high volumes of blueprints who need rapid, accurate quantity takeoffs.
Pricing
Usage-based subscription starting at around $500/month for teams, with enterprise custom plans available.
Kreo
specializedBIM quantity takeoff and cost planning software with AI-assisted measurements.
AI-powered automatic quantity takeoff that processes 2D drawings and 3D models in seconds with high accuracy
Kreo (kreo.net) is an AI-powered cloud-based platform designed for construction professionals, specializing in automated quantity takeoffs, estimating, and planning from 2D PDFs, CAD files, and 3D BIM models. It streamlines construction calculations by generating precise bills of quantities (BoQs), cost estimates, and tender documents with minimal manual input. The software emphasizes speed, accuracy, and collaboration, making it suitable for pre-construction phases in the AEC industry.
Pros
- Lightning-fast AI-automated takeoffs from 2D and 3D sources
- Accurate BoQ generation and real-time collaboration tools
- Seamless integration with BIM models and common file formats
Cons
- Pricing can be steep for small firms or solo users
- Limited advanced customization for complex regional standards
- Occasional dependency on input file quality for optimal accuracy
Best For
Mid-sized construction firms and quantity surveyors seeking automated takeoff and estimating to accelerate bidding processes.
Pricing
Subscription plans start at around $150/user/month for basic access, scaling to enterprise custom pricing with volume discounts.
Destini Estimator
enterpriseAI-driven 5D BIM estimating platform for real-time cost modeling and scenario analysis.
DProfiler technology for rapid 3D conceptual modeling and instant quantity-based estimating
Destini Estimator, from Beck Technology (now part of Trimble), is a cloud-based construction estimating software designed for early-stage conceptual cost estimation using 3D BIM models. It automates quantity takeoffs, applies parametric rates, and leverages historical data for accurate predictions on large-scale projects. The platform supports collaborative workflows and integrates seamlessly with tools like Revit and Trimble Connect.
Pros
- Advanced 3D model integration for automated quantity takeoff
- Parametric estimating with historical benchmarking data
- Cloud-based collaboration for team efficiency
Cons
- Steep learning curve for non-expert users
- Pricing is enterprise-focused and not transparent
- Limited support for non-BIM workflows
Best For
Construction estimators and firms handling complex BIM-based projects that require precise early-stage cost calculations.
Pricing
Subscription-based with custom enterprise pricing; typically starts at $5,000-$10,000 annually depending on users and features.
Conclusion
With a range of tools designed to meet diverse construction needs, the top-ranked solutions deliver exceptional value—yet Procore leads as the top choice, thanks to its all-in-one construction management platform that seamlessly integrates advanced estimating, takeoff, and cost calculation tools. Bluebeam Revu stands out for its precise PDF-based takeoffs and measurements, while PlanSwift shines with its user-friendly point-and-click quantity calculations, making them strong alternatives for specific workflows. Together, these three set the standard for efficiency in construction calculation software.
Take the next step in optimizing your projects—explore Procore today to experience the power of a leading tool that can elevate your construction processes.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison
