Quick Overview
- 1#1: PlanSwift - Digital takeoff and estimating software that enables fast measurements and cost calculations directly from digital plans and PDFs.
- 2#2: Bluebeam Revu - PDF-based tool for precise quantity takeoffs, markups, and collaborative estimating in construction projects.
- 3#3: Stack - Cloud-based platform automating takeoffs, estimating, and planning to streamline preconstruction workflows.
- 4#4: Togal.AI - AI-driven takeoff software that automatically detects and quantifies elements from construction drawings.
- 5#5: Buildxact - All-in-one estimating, takeoff, and job management software tailored for residential builders and remodelers.
- 6#6: Sage Estimating - Robust estimating solution with extensive cost databases, assemblies, and integration for complex construction bids.
- 7#7: Trimble IntelliBid - Electrical and mechanical estimating software featuring labor factoring, assemblies, and real-time pricing updates.
- 8#8: Autodesk Takeoff - Cloud quantity takeoff tool integrated with BIM for accurate measurements and collaborative estimating.
- 9#9: JobTread - Construction management platform with integrated digital takeoff and customizable estimating templates.
- 10#10: Methvin - Online estimating and tendering software supporting 2D/3D takeoffs and resource-based cost modeling.
Tools were selected based on a rigorous evaluation of functionality (including takeoff, cost modeling, and integrations), user experience (intuitive design and learning curves), reliability, and overall value across segments like residential, commercial, and specialized trades.
Comparison Table
Construction projects thrive on accurate, efficient estimating—and sorting through software options can be overwhelming. This comparison table breaks down tools like PlanSwift, Bluebeam Revu, Stack, Togal.AI, Buildxact, and more, outlining key features, workflows, and strengths to help readers find the best fit for their needs.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | PlanSwift Digital takeoff and estimating software that enables fast measurements and cost calculations directly from digital plans and PDFs. | specialized | 9.3/10 | 9.6/10 | 8.4/10 | 9.0/10 |
| 2 | Bluebeam Revu PDF-based tool for precise quantity takeoffs, markups, and collaborative estimating in construction projects. | specialized | 9.1/10 | 9.3/10 | 8.8/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 3 | Stack Cloud-based platform automating takeoffs, estimating, and planning to streamline preconstruction workflows. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 4 | Togal.AI AI-driven takeoff software that automatically detects and quantifies elements from construction drawings. | specialized | 8.5/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.1/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 5 | Buildxact All-in-one estimating, takeoff, and job management software tailored for residential builders and remodelers. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 8.9/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.3/10 |
| 6 | Sage Estimating Robust estimating solution with extensive cost databases, assemblies, and integration for complex construction bids. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.0/10 | 7.4/10 |
| 7 | Trimble IntelliBid Electrical and mechanical estimating software featuring labor factoring, assemblies, and real-time pricing updates. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 9.2/10 | 6.7/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 8 | Autodesk Takeoff Cloud quantity takeoff tool integrated with BIM for accurate measurements and collaborative estimating. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 9 | JobTread Construction management platform with integrated digital takeoff and customizable estimating templates. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 7.9/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 10 | Methvin Online estimating and tendering software supporting 2D/3D takeoffs and resource-based cost modeling. | specialized | 7.6/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.1/10 | 7.8/10 |
Digital takeoff and estimating software that enables fast measurements and cost calculations directly from digital plans and PDFs.
PDF-based tool for precise quantity takeoffs, markups, and collaborative estimating in construction projects.
Cloud-based platform automating takeoffs, estimating, and planning to streamline preconstruction workflows.
AI-driven takeoff software that automatically detects and quantifies elements from construction drawings.
All-in-one estimating, takeoff, and job management software tailored for residential builders and remodelers.
Robust estimating solution with extensive cost databases, assemblies, and integration for complex construction bids.
Electrical and mechanical estimating software featuring labor factoring, assemblies, and real-time pricing updates.
Cloud quantity takeoff tool integrated with BIM for accurate measurements and collaborative estimating.
Construction management platform with integrated digital takeoff and customizable estimating templates.
Online estimating and tendering software supporting 2D/3D takeoffs and resource-based cost modeling.
PlanSwift
specializedDigital takeoff and estimating software that enables fast measurements and cost calculations directly from digital plans and PDFs.
Drag-and-drop assemblies that instantly calculate material, labor, and costs from digitized takeoffs
PlanSwift is a premier on-screen takeoff and estimating software tailored for construction professionals, enabling users to import PDFs, blueprints, and CAD files for digital measurements. It features point-and-click tools for quantifying lengths, areas, volumes, and counts, while assembling bids with drag-and-drop databases of pre-built items, labor, and costs. The software automates calculations, generates professional reports, and integrates seamlessly with tools like QuickBooks and Excel to streamline the entire estimating workflow.
Pros
- Extremely fast point-and-click takeoffs with high accuracy
- Highly customizable assemblies and databases for complex projects
- Robust integrations and detailed reporting capabilities
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users
- Windows-only compatibility
- Subscription model can be costly for small firms
Best For
Experienced construction estimators and contractors managing detailed bids on large-scale projects.
Pricing
Annual subscription starting at $1,695 for Standard edition; Pro and higher tiers up to $2,495+ with add-ons.
Bluebeam Revu
specializedPDF-based tool for precise quantity takeoffs, markups, and collaborative estimating in construction projects.
Quantity Link for automatic syncing of takeoffs to customizable Excel templates with live updates
Bluebeam Revu is a specialized PDF editor and markup tool designed for the AEC industry, excelling in digital quantity takeoffs, measurements, and annotations on construction plans. It supports construction estimating by enabling users to extract lengths, areas, volumes, and counts with high precision, generate customizable reports, and export data directly to Excel for cost integration. Collaboration features like Bluebeam Studio allow real-time sharing and review of estimates among teams.
Pros
- Powerful and accurate digital takeoff tools with dynamic measurements and assemblies
- Seamless Excel integration for exporting quantities and estimates
- Robust collaboration via cloud-based Studio for team reviews
Cons
- Steep learning curve for advanced takeoff and scripting features
- High pricing without built-in cost databases or full bid management
- Limited mobile app functionality compared to desktop version
Best For
Construction estimators and takeoff specialists who primarily work with PDF plans and need precise quantity extraction integrated into Excel workflows.
Pricing
Subscription from $240/user/year (Basics) to $600/user/year (Complete); perpetual licenses available from $349 one-time.
Stack
specializedCloud-based platform automating takeoffs, estimating, and planning to streamline preconstruction workflows.
Ultra-fast AI-powered PDF takeoffs that detect and measure areas, lengths, and counts automatically
Stack (stackct.com) is a cloud-based construction takeoff and estimating software that enables precise digital measurements from PDF plans, CAD files, images, and BIM models. It automates quantity takeoffs, cost calculations, and bid generation while supporting team collaboration in real-time. The platform integrates with accounting software like QuickBooks and Sage, making it ideal for streamlining preconstruction workflows.
Pros
- Lightning-fast automated takeoffs from PDFs and CAD
- Robust cloud collaboration and sharing tools
- Seamless integrations with accounting and PM software
Cons
- Steep learning curve for complex assemblies
- Pricing can be high for solo estimators or small firms
- Limited advanced reporting customization
Best For
Mid-sized construction firms and estimators handling high-volume takeoffs on detailed plans.
Pricing
Starts at $295/month for Basic (1 user), $595/month for Pro (up to 5 users), with custom Enterprise pricing.
Togal.AI
specializedAI-driven takeoff software that automatically detects and quantifies elements from construction drawings.
AI computer vision that instantly detects, counts, and measures plan elements without manual tracing
Togal.AI is an AI-powered construction takeoff and estimating software that uses computer vision to automatically analyze blueprints, PDFs, and plans, identifying and measuring elements like walls, doors, windows, and areas. It streamlines the pre-construction bidding process by generating accurate quantity takeoffs in minutes rather than hours. The platform integrates with popular estimating tools and exports data for seamless workflows.
Pros
- Ultra-fast AI-driven takeoffs from PDFs and images
- High accuracy for standard architectural elements
- Integrations with Procore, PlanSwift, and Excel exports
Cons
- Higher pricing limits accessibility for small firms
- AI may require manual corrections on complex or poor-quality plans
- Limited advanced customization for niche project types
Best For
Mid-sized construction firms and estimating teams focused on accelerating takeoffs for residential and commercial bids.
Pricing
Starts at $99/user/month (Pro plan), with Team ($199/user/month) and custom Enterprise options.
Buildxact
specializedAll-in-one estimating, takeoff, and job management software tailored for residential builders and remodelers.
Live material pricing from 300+ integrated suppliers for precise, current cost estimates
Buildxact is a cloud-based construction estimating and takeoff software tailored for residential builders, remodelers, and trade contractors. It enables quick creation of professional estimates using digital takeoffs, customizable templates, and 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 project management.
Pros
- Intuitive interface with drag-and-drop takeoffs ideal for non-technical users
- Real-time supplier pricing integration for accurate, up-to-date estimates
- Strong mobile app for on-site access and collaboration
Cons
- Higher pricing tiers may not suit very small operations
- Primarily optimized for residential projects, with limited commercial scalability
- Some advanced customization requires higher plans
Best For
Small to medium residential builders and remodelers seeking user-friendly estimating and takeoff tools with supplier integrations.
Pricing
Starts at $149/month (Basic), $299/month (Core), $499/month (Pro); annual billing offers discounts.
Sage Estimating
enterpriseRobust estimating solution with extensive cost databases, assemblies, and integration for complex construction bids.
The Sage Master Library with over 100,000 vetted construction assemblies for instant, standardized cost data.
Sage Estimating is a powerful desktop-based construction estimating software that enables contractors to create detailed, accurate bids using a vast database of over 100,000 pre-built assemblies and items. It supports itemized takeoffs, labor and material costing, and customizable reports, with seamless integration into the Sage 300 accounting suite for end-to-end project management. Designed for professional estimators, it excels in handling complex projects across residential, commercial, and industrial construction.
Pros
- Extensive database of assemblies for rapid, accurate estimating
- Strong integrations with Sage accounting and project management tools
- Highly customizable for complex project requirements
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring training
- High upfront and ongoing costs
- Desktop-only with limited mobile accessibility
Best For
Mid-to-large construction firms with in-house estimators who need database-driven accuracy and integrate with Sage accounting software.
Pricing
Custom quotes typically start at $4,000-$6,000 per user per year for subscriptions, with perpetual licenses and maintenance fees available.
Trimble IntelliBid
enterpriseElectrical and mechanical estimating software featuring labor factoring, assemblies, and real-time pricing updates.
Dynamic assemblies with conditional logic for automated, trade-specific cost modeling
Trimble IntelliBid is a robust on-premise estimating software tailored primarily for electrical, mechanical, and plumbing contractors, enabling detailed bid preparation through digital takeoff, customizable assemblies, and accurate cost calculations. It features extensive item databases, labor factoring, and reporting tools to streamline pre-construction workflows and improve bid accuracy. The software integrates with Trimble's broader ecosystem, including project management and field tools, for end-to-end construction processes.
Pros
- Comprehensive trade-specific databases with real-time pricing updates
- Powerful customizable assemblies and labor factoring for precise estimates
- Seamless integration with Trimble Connect and other construction software
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring significant training
- On-premise deployment lacks cloud flexibility and mobility
- Higher upfront costs and maintenance fees
Best For
Established electrical and mechanical contractors handling complex, large-scale bids who prioritize accuracy over simplicity.
Pricing
Perpetual licenses start at $4,000-$10,000 plus annual maintenance (~20% of license cost); subscription options from $5,000/year depending on modules and users.
Autodesk Takeoff
enterpriseCloud quantity takeoff tool integrated with BIM for accurate measurements and collaborative estimating.
Direct 3D quantity takeoff from native Revit models without file exports
Autodesk Takeoff is a cloud-based construction estimating tool that enables precise 2D takeoffs from PDF drawings and 3D quantity extraction from BIM models like Revit. It streamlines the estimating process by automating measurements, calculations, and collaboration within the Autodesk Construction Cloud ecosystem. Ideal for teams needing accurate quantity takeoffs integrated with project management and design workflows.
Pros
- Seamless integration with Autodesk Revit and Construction Cloud for BIM-based estimating
- Supports both 2D PDF takeoffs and 3D model quantity extraction with high accuracy
- Cloud collaboration features for team-based estimating and real-time updates
Cons
- Steep learning curve for users new to Autodesk ecosystem
- Higher pricing may not suit small firms or solo estimators
- Limited native integrations with non-Autodesk estimating or bidding software
Best For
Mid-to-large construction firms already using Autodesk BIM tools and needing integrated 2D/3D takeoff capabilities.
Pricing
Subscription-based via Autodesk Construction Cloud; Takeoff Pro tier starts at ~$1,085/user/year, often bundled in higher Build plans.
JobTread
specializedConstruction management platform with integrated digital takeoff and customizable estimating templates.
Automatic data flow from estimates to job costing and invoicing, eliminating manual re-entry
JobTread is an all-in-one construction management software tailored for contractors, focusing on estimating, job costing, scheduling, invoicing, and CRM functionalities. It enables users to create professional estimates using digital takeoffs, assemblies, and cost databases, while tracking job progress from bid to completion in real-time. The platform integrates seamlessly with QuickBooks and offers a mobile app for on-site management, making it suitable for streamlining operations in residential and light commercial construction.
Pros
- Intuitive interface with quick setup for estimates and job tracking
- Strong QuickBooks integration for seamless accounting
- Robust mobile app for field updates and real-time data access
Cons
- Limited advanced takeoff tools compared to specialized estimating software
- Reporting and customization options are basic for complex projects
- Pricing can become expensive for teams with multiple users
Best For
Small to mid-sized contractors seeking an affordable, user-friendly all-in-one platform for estimating and job management.
Pricing
Starts at $150/month for Crew plan (1 user), $300/month for Foreman (up to 3 users), $600/month for Superintendent (unlimited users), with custom Enterprise options.
Methvin
specializedOnline estimating and tendering software supporting 2D/3D takeoffs and resource-based cost modeling.
Extensive built-in global pricing databases and resource libraries for rapid, location-specific cost estimation
Methvin (methvin.org) is a cloud-based construction estimating software designed for quantity surveyors, estimators, and contractors to perform digital takeoffs, generate bills of quantities (BOQs), and manage tenders. It features built-in pricing databases, resource libraries, and tools for cost planning across residential, commercial, and civil projects. The platform supports both 2D and 3D takeoffs with collaboration capabilities for teams.
Pros
- Comprehensive resource and pricing libraries for accurate estimates
- Strong tender management and bid comparison tools
- Cloud-based accessibility with real-time collaboration
Cons
- Steep learning curve for advanced features
- Limited integrations with popular accounting software
- Interface feels somewhat dated compared to modern competitors
Best For
Small to medium-sized construction firms and quantity surveyors focused on tendering and BOQ generation in Australia and similar markets.
Pricing
Starts at AUD $49/user/month for basic plans, scaling to enterprise tiers with custom pricing; free trial available.
Conclusion
The review highlights a range of top-tier construction estimating tools, with PlanSwift leading as the top choice for its fast digital takeoffs and precise cost calculations. Bluebeam Revu stands out for robust PDF-based takeoffs and collaboration, while Stack impresses with its automation streamlining preconstruction workflows. Each tool offers unique strengths, ensuring suitability for diverse project needs.
Begin your estimating journey with PlanSwift to unlock efficiency and accuracy, or explore Bluebeam Revu or Stack based on your specific requirements to find the perfect fit.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison