Quick Overview
- 1#1: PlanSwift - Digital takeoff and estimating software that automates measurements from PDFs and plans to speed up construction bidding.
- 2#2: Bluebeam Revu - PDF-based tool for precise quantity takeoff, cost estimation, and collaboration on construction documents.
- 3#3: ProEst - Cloud-based construction estimating software integrating with accounting systems for accurate bid creation.
- 4#4: Stack - AI-powered platform for automated construction takeoff and real-time cost estimating from digital plans.
- 5#5: Sage Estimating - Advanced digital estimating solution with customizable assemblies and historical data for precise project costing.
- 6#6: Autodesk Takeoff - Cloud-based 2D takeoff and estimating tool that integrates with BIM models for accurate quantity and cost calculations.
- 7#7: CostX - Integrated takeoff and estimating software supporting 2D, 3D, and BIM for live-linked cost calculations.
- 8#8: Buildxact - Estimating and quoting software tailored for residential builders with instant pricing from material databases.
- 9#9: Buildertrend - Construction management platform with built-in estimating tools for budgeting, scheduling, and client updates.
- 10#10: HCSS HeavyBid - Heavy construction bidding and estimating software focused on civil projects with resource and production rate analysis.
Tools were evaluated based on key factors including automation (AI-driven takeoff, quantity calculations), integration with complementary systems (BIM, accounting software), user experience, and value, ensuring they deliver robust performance across varied project types.
Comparison Table
This comparison table outlines key features of popular construction cost estimation software, including PlanSwift, Bluebeam Revu, ProEst, Stack, Sage Estimating, and more, to guide users in understanding functionality, usability, and suitability for their project needs.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | PlanSwift Digital takeoff and estimating software that automates measurements from PDFs and plans to speed up construction bidding. | specialized | 9.2/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 2 | Bluebeam Revu PDF-based tool for precise quantity takeoff, cost estimation, and collaboration on construction documents. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.1/10 | 8.4/10 |
| 3 | ProEst Cloud-based construction estimating software integrating with accounting systems for accurate bid creation. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.9/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 4 | Stack AI-powered platform for automated construction takeoff and real-time cost estimating from digital plans. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 5 | Sage Estimating Advanced digital estimating solution with customizable assemblies and historical data for precise project costing. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.6/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 6 | Autodesk Takeoff Cloud-based 2D takeoff and estimating tool that integrates with BIM models for accurate quantity and cost calculations. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.6/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 7 | CostX Integrated takeoff and estimating software supporting 2D, 3D, and BIM for live-linked cost calculations. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 9.0/10 | 7.5/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 8 | Buildxact Estimating and quoting software tailored for residential builders with instant pricing from material databases. | specialized | 8.6/10 | 8.8/10 | 9.0/10 | 8.3/10 |
| 9 | Buildertrend Construction management platform with built-in estimating tools for budgeting, scheduling, and client updates. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.4/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 10 | HCSS HeavyBid Heavy construction bidding and estimating software focused on civil projects with resource and production rate analysis. | enterprise | 8.3/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.5/10 | 7.8/10 |
Digital takeoff and estimating software that automates measurements from PDFs and plans to speed up construction bidding.
PDF-based tool for precise quantity takeoff, cost estimation, and collaboration on construction documents.
Cloud-based construction estimating software integrating with accounting systems for accurate bid creation.
AI-powered platform for automated construction takeoff and real-time cost estimating from digital plans.
Advanced digital estimating solution with customizable assemblies and historical data for precise project costing.
Cloud-based 2D takeoff and estimating tool that integrates with BIM models for accurate quantity and cost calculations.
Integrated takeoff and estimating software supporting 2D, 3D, and BIM for live-linked cost calculations.
Estimating and quoting software tailored for residential builders with instant pricing from material databases.
Construction management platform with built-in estimating tools for budgeting, scheduling, and client updates.
Heavy construction bidding and estimating software focused on civil projects with resource and production rate analysis.
PlanSwift
specializedDigital takeoff and estimating software that automates measurements from PDFs and plans to speed up construction bidding.
Revolutionary point-and-click takeoff system that measures quantities instantly by dragging across plans
PlanSwift is a leading construction takeoff and estimating software that enables users to perform digital takeoffs directly from PDF, DWG, and image plans using intuitive point-and-click tools. It automates quantity calculations for areas, lengths, volumes, and counts, while supporting customizable assemblies and real-time cost estimating with formula-driven pricing. The software integrates seamlessly with Excel for reporting and allows for on-screen visualization, significantly speeding up the bidding process for construction professionals.
Pros
- Lightning-fast point-and-click takeoffs from digital plans
- Highly customizable assemblies and formulas for accurate estimating
- Seamless Excel integration and export capabilities
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users despite visual interface
- Windows-only compatibility limits accessibility
- Perpetual license model with maintenance fees can be costly upfront
Best For
Construction estimators and contractors handling high volumes of digital plan takeoffs and needing precise, customizable cost calculations.
Pricing
Perpetual licenses start at around $1,595 per seat, plus annual maintenance fees of about $400; volume discounts available.
Bluebeam Revu
specializedPDF-based tool for precise quantity takeoff, cost estimation, and collaboration on construction documents.
Quantity Link for real-time syncing of takeoff measurements to Excel spreadsheets
Bluebeam Revu is a versatile PDF editor tailored for the AEC industry, excelling in digital takeoffs and quantity measurements essential for construction cost estimation. It allows users to extract precise quantities like lengths, areas, volumes, and counts directly from PDF drawings using customizable toolsets. Data can be linked to Excel for cost calculations, making it a strong pre-estimation tool, though it lacks native pricing databases or full estimating engines.
Pros
- Highly accurate and customizable takeoff tools for quantities from PDFs
- Seamless integration with Excel for cost exporting and live linking
- Robust collaboration via Studio Sessions and Projects for team reviews
Cons
- No built-in cost databases or automated pricing lookups
- Requires Excel or external software for full estimation workflows
- Steep learning curve for advanced scripting and custom toolsets
Best For
Construction estimators and project managers focused on digital takeoffs from blueprints who integrate with spreadsheet-based cost calculations.
Pricing
Annual subscriptions start at $240/user for Basics, $360 for Core, and $550 for Complete; perpetual licenses available from $349 with maintenance fees.
ProEst
enterpriseCloud-based construction estimating software integrating with accounting systems for accurate bid creation.
Dynamic Assemblies system for rapid, accurate bid creation from standardized cost databases
ProEst is a cloud-based construction cost estimation software that automates digital takeoff, detailed estimating, and bid management for general contractors and subcontractors. It features a vast database of pre-built assemblies, real-time collaboration tools, and seamless integrations with accounting systems like QuickBooks, Sage, and Viewpoint. The platform enables users to generate accurate bids quickly, track costs, and produce professional reports from anywhere.
Pros
- Extensive library of pre-built assemblies for fast estimating
- Strong integrations with ERP and accounting software
- Cloud-based access with mobile support for real-time collaboration
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users
- Pricing is custom and can be expensive for small firms
- Occasional performance issues with large projects
Best For
Mid-to-large construction firms requiring robust, scalable estimating with deep integrations.
Pricing
Custom pricing via quote; typically $300-$600 per user/month depending on modules and users.
Stack
specializedAI-powered platform for automated construction takeoff and real-time cost estimating from digital plans.
AI-powered bid leveling that automatically normalizes and compares bids in different formats for precise cost analysis
Stack (stackct.com) is a preconstruction platform designed primarily for general contractors to automate subcontractor bid management and collaboration. It excels in outreach to trade partners, bid collection, leveling, and comparison, helping teams quickly identify the best bids for accurate cost estimation. While not a full takeoff or quantity-based estimating tool, it significantly streamlines the process of gathering subcontractor pricing, which forms a major part of construction cost totals.
Pros
- Automated bid outreach and collection from vast subcontractor networks
- Intelligent bid leveling for apples-to-apples comparisons
- Seamless integration with Procore and other PM tools for project handoff
Cons
- Lacks built-in quantity takeoff or cost database features
- Not ideal for detailed in-house estimating without subcontractors
- Pricing is custom and can be steep for smaller firms
Best For
Mid-sized to large general contractors managing high-volume subcontractor bids on commercial projects.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing based on project volume and users; typically starts at $5,000+/year with demos required for quotes.
Sage Estimating
enterpriseAdvanced digital estimating solution with customizable assemblies and historical data for precise project costing.
Visual Assemblies for drag-and-drop creation of customizable, parametric estimating models
Sage Estimating is a robust construction cost estimation software tailored for contractors, providing access to extensive national cost databases for labor, materials, and equipment. It supports detailed takeoffs, assemblies, and parametric estimating, enabling accurate bid preparation for commercial, residential, and industrial projects. The software integrates deeply with Sage 300 and other ERP systems, streamlining data flow from estimating to accounting.
Pros
- Extensive, regularly updated cost databases with over 22,000 assemblies
- Seamless integration with Sage accounting and project management tools
- Advanced tools for conditional logic and formula-based estimating
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to complex interface
- High licensing and maintenance costs
- Limited native mobile or cloud-based access
Best For
Mid-to-large construction firms already using Sage products that require precise, database-driven estimates integrated with accounting workflows.
Pricing
Subscription-based starting at around $4,000-$6,000 per user annually, plus fees for databases, support, and custom modules.
Autodesk Takeoff
enterpriseCloud-based 2D takeoff and estimating tool that integrates with BIM models for accurate quantity and cost calculations.
Intelligent 3D quantity extraction directly from Autodesk BIM models with automatic updates on design changes
Autodesk Takeoff is a cloud-based quantity takeoff tool designed for construction estimators to perform precise measurements from 2D PDFs, CAD files, and 3D BIM models. It enables quick creation of custom takeoff conditions, assemblies, and reports, streamlining the pre-construction estimation process. Integrated into the Autodesk Construction Cloud, it supports real-time collaboration and seamless data flow to other Autodesk applications like Revit and Autodesk Build.
Pros
- Seamless integration with Autodesk Construction Cloud, Revit, and BIM 360 for end-to-end workflows
- Accurate 2D and 3D quantity takeoff with customizable conditions and assemblies
- Cloud-based collaboration allowing multiple users to work on takeoffs simultaneously
Cons
- Steep learning curve, especially for users unfamiliar with Autodesk's interface
- More focused on quantity takeoff than full-featured cost estimation with advanced databases
- Pricing tied to broader Autodesk subscriptions, which can be expensive for standalone use
Best For
Construction estimators and teams already using Autodesk tools who need efficient, collaborative digital takeoffs from 2D and 3D sources.
Pricing
Included in Autodesk Construction Cloud Build subscriptions (starting at ~$1,000/user/year); standalone Takeoff Pro at ~$1,975/user/year.
CostX
specializedIntegrated takeoff and estimating software supporting 2D, 3D, and BIM for live-linked cost calculations.
Live bidirectional linking between on-screen takeoffs and Excel sheets for real-time estimate updates
CostX by Exactal is a powerful construction cost estimation software designed for digital takeoffs and estimating from 2D PDFs, CAD files, and 3D BIM models. It features live-linking between graphical takeoffs and Excel-based bills of quantities, enabling instant updates to estimates as measurements change. The software supports automated measurements, custom templates, and comprehensive reporting for accurate project costing in construction projects.
Pros
- Seamless live Excel integration for dynamic estimating
- Advanced 2D/3D takeoff from PDFs, CAD, and BIM
- Robust library of pre-built templates and databases
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users
- Pricing can be high for small firms
- Limited native mobile app support
Best For
Mid-to-large construction firms and estimators handling complex projects with BIM integration needs.
Pricing
Annual subscription starting at around $2,500 per user, with modular pricing and enterprise quotes available.
Buildxact
specializedEstimating and quoting software tailored for residential builders with instant pricing from material databases.
Supplier Connect for automated, up-to-date material pricing directly in estimates
Buildxact is a cloud-based construction management software tailored for residential builders, remodelers, and subcontractors, focusing on accurate cost estimation, digital takeoffs, and quote generation. It enables users to create professional estimates quickly with real-time material pricing from integrated suppliers and tracks job costs from estimate to completion. The platform also integrates with accounting tools like QuickBooks for seamless financial management.
Pros
- Intuitive interface with drag-and-drop takeoffs
- Real-time pricing from 300+ suppliers via Supplier Connect
- Strong integrations with QuickBooks and Xero
Cons
- Limited advanced reporting for complex projects
- Pricing can be steep for solo users
- Occasional mobile app limitations
Best For
Small to medium residential builders and remodelers seeking streamlined estimating without a steep learning curve.
Pricing
Starts at $149/user/month (Solo), $199 (Teams), $299 (Jobs); annual plans offer 20% discount.
Buildertrend
enterpriseConstruction management platform with built-in estimating tools for budgeting, scheduling, and client updates.
Automatic cost variance reports that dynamically update as actual expenses and change orders are logged against original estimates
Buildertrend is an all-in-one construction management platform that includes cost estimation tools designed for builders, remodelers, and contractors. It allows users to create detailed estimates from takeoffs, manage cost codes, track actual vs. budgeted costs in real-time, and handle change orders efficiently. The software integrates seamlessly with scheduling, job costing, and accounting systems like QuickBooks, providing a holistic view of project finances.
Pros
- Integrated estimation with full project management and scheduling
- Real-time cost tracking and variance reporting
- Strong mobile app for on-site estimate updates and approvals
Cons
- Estimation tools lack advanced digital takeoff capabilities of specialized software
- Pricing can be steep for small teams or solo users
- Steeper learning curve for customizing cost databases
Best For
Small to mid-sized general contractors and home builders seeking an integrated platform for estimation alongside project management.
Pricing
Subscription-based with plans starting at $399/month (billed annually) for the On-Demand tier; custom enterprise pricing available based on users and features.
HCSS HeavyBid
enterpriseHeavy construction bidding and estimating software focused on civil projects with resource and production rate analysis.
Item Intelligence, which uses AI-driven historical bid data for dynamic, accurate cost modeling and recommendations
HCSS HeavyBid is a specialized construction cost estimation and bidding software tailored for heavy civil projects like highways, utilities, and sitework. It enables detailed takeoffs, cost buildup, bid preparation, and post-bid analysis with integration to job costing and field management tools. The platform leverages historical data for accurate forecasting and supports subcontractor bid management to optimize competitive bidding.
Pros
- Robust tools for complex heavy construction estimates with historical data intelligence
- Seamless integration with HCSS HeavyJob for field-to-office workflow
- Advanced bid analysis and subcontractor management capabilities
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to feature depth and customization
- High cost unsuitable for small contractors
- Primarily desktop-focused with evolving cloud and mobile features
Best For
Mid-to-large heavy civil contractors managing intricate infrastructure bids requiring precise cost control and integrations.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; annual subscriptions often start at $10,000+ based on users, modules, and company size.
Conclusion
The top 10 construction cost estimation tools offer robust solutions, with PlanSwift leading as the best for its automated measurement of PDF and plan data, accelerating bidding. Bluebeam Revu excels in precise quantity takeoff and collaborative document handling, while ProEst impresses with its seamless integration with accounting systems for accurate bid creation. Each tool serves distinct needs, but PlanSwift emerges as the clear front-runner for overall efficiency.
Unlock faster, more accurate bidding—try PlanSwift today to streamline your construction estimating process and gain a competitive edge.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison