Quick Overview
- 1#1: PlanSwift - Digital takeoff and estimating software that enables rapid quantity calculation from PDFs, CAD files, and images.
- 2#2: Bluebeam Revu - PDF-based platform for precise takeoffs, measurements, estimating, and collaboration on construction documents.
- 3#3: Stack - AI-powered construction takeoff and estimating tool that automates quantity extraction and cost calculations.
- 4#4: Buildxact - Cloud-based estimating and takeoff software tailored for residential builders and remodelers with job costing.
- 5#5: Procore - Enterprise construction management platform with integrated estimating, bidding, and project budgeting features.
- 6#6: Sage Estimating - Database-driven estimating software for accurate cost modeling, assemblies, and labor calculations in construction.
- 7#7: Buildertrend - Construction project management software including takeoff, estimating, scheduling, and client communication tools.
- 8#8: Clear Estimates - Simple, customizable estimating software for contractors to create professional bids and track costs.
- 9#9: Togal.AI - AI-driven automated takeoff software that instantly detects and measures elements from construction plans.
- 10#10: Kreo - Cloud-based 2D and 3D takeoff and estimating platform for collaborative quantity surveying.
These tools were selected for their ability to deliver precise quantity calculations, automate cost modeling, enhance collaboration, and balance user-friendliness with advanced features, ensuring they meet the diverse demands of contractors and builders.
Comparison Table
This comparison table examines key construction estimate software tools, such as PlanSwift, Bluebeam Revu, Stack, Buildxact, Procore, and more, to guide readers in finding options that fit their project needs. It highlights features, usability, and practical value, empowering informed choices for efficient estimation processes.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | PlanSwift Digital takeoff and estimating software that enables rapid quantity calculation from PDFs, CAD files, and images. | specialized | 9.4/10 | 9.6/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.8/10 |
| 2 | Bluebeam Revu PDF-based platform for precise takeoffs, measurements, estimating, and collaboration on construction documents. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.4/10 |
| 3 | Stack AI-powered construction takeoff and estimating tool that automates quantity extraction and cost calculations. | general_ai | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 4 | Buildxact Cloud-based estimating and takeoff software tailored for residential builders and remodelers with job costing. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 8.8/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.4/10 |
| 5 | Procore Enterprise construction management platform with integrated estimating, bidding, and project budgeting features. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 6 | Sage Estimating Database-driven estimating software for accurate cost modeling, assemblies, and labor calculations in construction. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 9.0/10 | 6.8/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 7 | Buildertrend Construction project management software including takeoff, estimating, scheduling, and client communication tools. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 8.6/10 | 8.1/10 | 7.7/10 |
| 8 | Clear Estimates Simple, customizable estimating software for contractors to create professional bids and track costs. | specialized | 7.9/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.6/10 | 9.1/10 |
| 9 | Togal.AI AI-driven automated takeoff software that instantly detects and measures elements from construction plans. | general_ai | 8.7/10 | 9.4/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 10 | Kreo Cloud-based 2D and 3D takeoff and estimating platform for collaborative quantity surveying. | specialized | 7.8/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.5/10 | 7.4/10 |
Digital takeoff and estimating software that enables rapid quantity calculation from PDFs, CAD files, and images.
PDF-based platform for precise takeoffs, measurements, estimating, and collaboration on construction documents.
AI-powered construction takeoff and estimating tool that automates quantity extraction and cost calculations.
Cloud-based estimating and takeoff software tailored for residential builders and remodelers with job costing.
Enterprise construction management platform with integrated estimating, bidding, and project budgeting features.
Database-driven estimating software for accurate cost modeling, assemblies, and labor calculations in construction.
Construction project management software including takeoff, estimating, scheduling, and client communication tools.
Simple, customizable estimating software for contractors to create professional bids and track costs.
AI-driven automated takeoff software that instantly detects and measures elements from construction plans.
Cloud-based 2D and 3D takeoff and estimating platform for collaborative quantity surveying.
PlanSwift
specializedDigital takeoff and estimating software that enables rapid quantity calculation from PDFs, CAD files, and images.
Revolutionary point-and-click takeoff tool that measures areas, lengths, and counts instantly from any digital plan format
PlanSwift is a premier on-premise construction takeoff and estimating software that allows users to digitally measure quantities from PDF plans, blueprints, and CAD files using intuitive point-and-click tools. It automates calculations, supports customizable assemblies for material and labor costing, and generates detailed bid reports with export options to Excel and accounting software like QuickBooks. Renowned for speeding up the estimating process, it helps contractors win more bids accurately and efficiently.
Pros
- Lightning-fast digital takeoff with drag-and-drop assemblies
- Highly customizable databases for materials, labor, and formulas
- Seamless integration with popular accounting and project management tools
Cons
- On-premise only, lacking cloud collaboration features
- Steep upfront cost and learning curve for advanced customization
- Limited mobile access compared to cloud competitors
Best For
Mid-to-large construction firms and estimators needing precise, high-volume takeoffs from digital plans without subscription fees.
Pricing
One-time license starting at $1,749 per user, with optional annual maintenance (~20%) for updates and support.
Bluebeam Revu
specializedPDF-based platform for precise takeoffs, measurements, estimating, and collaboration on construction documents.
Quantity Link: Real-time synchronization of measurements and markups to Excel spreadsheets for automated estimating updates.
Bluebeam Revu is a robust PDF editing and markup software designed for the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry, excelling in digital takeoffs and quantity measurements from blueprints and plans. It enables users to perform precise linear, area, volume, and count measurements, generate customizable reports, and export data to Excel for cost estimating. While it supports pre-construction workflows effectively, it requires integration with external tools for full bid management and cost databases.
Pros
- Highly accurate and customizable takeoff tools with support for 2D/3D measurements
- Seamless Excel integration via Quantity Link for dynamic data syncing
- Excellent collaboration features including Studio Sessions and cloud storage
Cons
- No built-in cost databases or assemblies, relying on manual or external inputs
- Steep learning curve for advanced markup sets and scripting
- Higher pricing may deter very small firms or solo estimators
Best For
AEC professionals and estimators who prioritize PDF-based quantity takeoffs and need robust markup tools integrated with spreadsheet workflows.
Pricing
Subscription plans start at $239/user/year (Basics), $299 (Core), $349 (Complete); perpetual licenses from $360 one-time with maintenance fees.
Stack
general_aiAI-powered construction takeoff and estimating tool that automates quantity extraction and cost calculations.
AI-powered instant takeoff and estimating directly from uploaded plans
Stack (stackct.com) is an AI-powered construction estimating software that automates takeoffs, material pricing, and bid generation from digital plans. It leverages real-time pricing data and machine learning to deliver fast, accurate estimates, helping contractors win more bids efficiently. The platform supports collaboration and integrates with popular accounting tools like QuickBooks.
Pros
- AI-driven takeoffs generate estimates in minutes from PDFs and images
- Real-time material pricing database for accuracy and competitiveness
- Seamless team collaboration and bid management tools
Cons
- Pricing can be steep for small firms or solo contractors
- Limited advanced customization for complex project types
- Occasional accuracy issues with niche or custom materials
Best For
Mid-sized construction contractors seeking AI automation to speed up estimating and improve bid win rates.
Pricing
Starts at $99/user/month for Pro plan, with Business at $199/user/month and custom Enterprise pricing.
Buildxact
specializedCloud-based estimating and takeoff software tailored for residential builders and remodelers with job costing.
Real-time integrated supplier price books for instant, accurate material costing
Buildxact is a cloud-based estimating and takeoff software tailored for residential builders, remodelers, and trade contractors. It enables digital takeoffs from PDFs or images, professional quote generation with built-in pricing databases, and real-time job costing. The platform also supports project management, supplier integrations, and mobile access for on-site use.
Pros
- Intuitive interface with drag-and-drop takeoffs
- Live supplier pricing for accurate estimates
- Seamless integrations with QuickBooks and Xero
Cons
- Limited scalability for large commercial projects
- Higher pricing tiers required for advanced features
- Occasional learning curve for complex custom assemblies
Best For
Small to medium residential builders and remodelers seeking efficient, mobile-friendly estimating tools.
Pricing
Starts at $149/month (Solo), $199/month (Remodeler), $299/month (Teams), billed annually with a free trial.
Procore
enterpriseEnterprise construction management platform with integrated estimating, bidding, and project budgeting features.
Integrated bid board with real-time subcontractor bidding and historical data analytics
Procore is a comprehensive cloud-based construction management platform with robust estimating capabilities, enabling digital takeoffs, cost databases, and bid management. It allows teams to create detailed estimates using historical data, assemble bids collaboratively, and integrate seamlessly with project management tools for end-to-end workflows. Ideal for construction professionals seeking accuracy and efficiency in preconstruction phases.
Pros
- Seamless integration with Procore's full project management suite
- Advanced digital takeoff and historical cost data tools
- Strong bid invitation and subcontractor collaboration features
Cons
- Steep learning curve for beginners
- High pricing that may overwhelm small firms
- Occasional performance issues with large datasets
Best For
Mid-to-large construction companies needing integrated estimating within a broader management platform.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing, typically $500+/month for core plans with estimating add-ons extra.
Sage Estimating
enterpriseDatabase-driven estimating software for accurate cost modeling, assemblies, and labor calculations in construction.
Centralized, industry-specific estimating database with thousands of pre-built assemblies for consistent, rapid bid creation
Sage Estimating is a comprehensive construction estimating software that enables contractors to build detailed, accurate cost estimates using a robust, centralized database of items, assemblies, and labor rates. It supports digital takeoffs, historical data tracking, and customization for various trades and project types. The tool integrates seamlessly with Sage's construction management and accounting solutions, streamlining workflows from bid to project closeout.
Pros
- Extensive customizable databases for items, assemblies, and costs
- Strong integration with Sage 300 and other ERP systems
- Handles complex, multi-phase estimates with historical data accuracy
Cons
- Steep learning curve and outdated interface
- High implementation and training costs
- Limited native cloud/mobile functionality compared to modern competitors
Best For
Established mid-to-large construction firms integrated into the Sage ecosystem needing database-driven precision for detailed bids.
Pricing
Quote-based pricing, typically $4,000-$12,000 annually per user depending on modules, users, and deployment (desktop/cloud hybrid).
Buildertrend
enterpriseConstruction project management software including takeoff, estimating, scheduling, and client communication tools.
End-to-end workflow integration that automatically flows estimates into schedules, budgets, and change orders
Buildertrend is a comprehensive construction management platform with integrated estimating tools designed for residential and light commercial builders. It features digital takeoff capabilities, customizable assemblies, cost codes, and bid management that sync seamlessly with scheduling, budgeting, and project tracking. The software streamlines the estimating process by allowing teams to generate accurate bids quickly while maintaining real-time collaboration across the project lifecycle.
Pros
- Seamless integration of estimating with full project management tools
- Cloud-based digital takeoff and mobile accessibility for on-site use
- Extensive template library and cost databases for faster bidding
Cons
- Higher pricing can be prohibitive for very small teams
- Steep initial learning curve for advanced estimating features
- Limited advanced customization compared to dedicated estimating software
Best For
Small to mid-sized general contractors and builders seeking an all-in-one platform that combines estimating with end-to-end project management.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing starting around $300/month for basic plans, scaling up for additional users and features; annual contracts offer discounts.
Clear Estimates
specializedSimple, customizable estimating software for contractors to create professional bids and track costs.
Pre-built assemblies that allow users to generate complete estimates for roofs, walls, and other tasks in minutes
Clear Estimates is a Windows-based desktop software tailored for construction professionals, enabling quick creation of detailed estimates using pre-built assemblies and a vast cost database of over 20,000 items. It supports generating professional proposals, contracts, change orders, invoices, and basic job costing, streamlining the pre-construction bidding process. Primarily aimed at small to medium contractors, it emphasizes speed and affordability without subscription fees.
Pros
- One-time purchase model provides exceptional long-term value without recurring fees
- Rapid assembly-based estimating with drag-and-drop functionality for common tasks
- Comprehensive built-in cost database updated regularly for accuracy
Cons
- Limited to Windows desktop with no cloud, mobile, or cross-platform support
- User interface appears dated and may have a learning curve for newcomers
- Lacks advanced integrations and scalability for very large or enterprise-level projects
Best For
Small remodeling contractors and independent builders who need fast, reliable estimating on a budget without ongoing subscriptions.
Pricing
One-time fee: $295 for Standard, $495 for Professional edition; 14-day free trial available.
Togal.AI
general_aiAI-driven automated takeoff software that instantly detects and measures elements from construction plans.
AI Auto Takeoff engine that instantly detects and quantifies project elements from plans with minimal user input
Togal.AI is an AI-powered construction takeoff and estimating platform that automates the detection and measurement of elements like walls, doors, windows, and openings directly from digital blueprints and PDFs. It significantly reduces manual takeoff time by analyzing plans with machine learning trained on millions of drawings, enabling faster bidding and quantity calculations. The cloud-based tool supports real-time collaboration and seamless exports to popular estimating software like Procore and PlanSwift.
Pros
- Ultra-fast AI-driven takeoffs that process entire drawings in seconds
- High accuracy with customizable rules and machine learning improvements
- Real-time team collaboration and integrations with major construction tools
Cons
- Pricing is premium and scales with usage, less ideal for small firms
- Performance can vary with complex or low-quality blueprints
- Limited free trial and steeper learning for advanced customizations
Best For
Mid-to-large construction firms and estimators seeking to automate repetitive takeoff tasks for faster, more accurate bidding.
Pricing
Subscription tiers start at ~$99/user/month for basic plans, with Pro and Enterprise options up to $300+/user/month based on volume; custom quotes required.
Kreo
specializedCloud-based 2D and 3D takeoff and estimating platform for collaborative quantity surveying.
Kreo AI that automatically detects and measures elements from drawings, learning from user corrections for improving accuracy over time
Kreo is an AI-powered construction estimation software that automates digital takeoffs and quantity surveying from 2D PDFs, CAD files, and 3D BIM models. It streamlines the estimating process by generating accurate bills of quantities, cost plans, and tender documents while enabling real-time team collaboration in the cloud. Ideal for contractors and estimators, Kreo reduces manual errors and speeds up bidding workflows compared to traditional desktop tools.
Pros
- AI-driven automatic takeoffs save significant time on measurements
- Seamless support for 2D/3D files and cloud collaboration
- Customizable templates and reporting for precise estimates
Cons
- Learning curve for advanced BIM features
- Limited native integrations with some accounting software
- Pricing can be high for very small teams
Best For
Mid-sized contractors and estimating teams seeking AI automation for faster, accurate takeoffs without full desktop installations.
Pricing
Starts at $49/user/month for Starter plan; Pro at $99/user/month; custom Enterprise pricing.
Conclusion
Evaluating the top tools reveals a range of solutions tailored to diverse construction needs. PlanSwift claims the top spot, leading with rapid quantity calculation from PDFs, CAD files, and images, ensuring speed in estimating. Bluebeam Revu and Stack follow strongly—Revu for precise PDF collaboration and Stack for AI-automated cost extraction, offering reliable alternatives based on specific workflows. Each tool enhances accuracy and efficiency, making the process more manageable for teams.
Take the first step toward smoother estimates: try PlanSwift and experience its unmatched ability to streamline your workflow and elevate project planning.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison