Quick Overview
- 1#1: PlanSwift - Digital takeoff software that allows construction professionals to measure and estimate quantities directly from PDF plans with drag-and-drop assemblies.
- 2#2: Bluebeam Revu - PDF-based tool for precise takeoffs, measurements, markups, and quantity calculations on construction drawings.
- 3#3: On-Screen Takeoff - On-screen digital takeoff solution for extracting quantities from plans with seamless integration to estimating software.
- 4#4: Stack - Cloud-based construction takeoff and estimating platform that streamlines quantity extraction and bid management.
- 5#5: Togal.AI - AI-powered software that automatically detects and quantifies elements from construction plans for rapid takeoffs.
- 6#6: Autodesk Takeoff - Integrated 2D takeoff and estimating tool within Autodesk Construction Cloud for accurate quantity extraction from digital plans.
- 7#7: ProEst - Cloud estimating software with built-in digital takeoff features for real-time quantity calculation and bid preparation.
- 8#8: Kreo - AI-enhanced 2D/3D takeoff platform that automates measurements and generates bills of quantities from plans.
- 9#9: Sage Estimating - Advanced estimating software with digital takeoff capabilities for detailed quantity takeoffs and cost analysis.
- 10#10: Buildxact - All-in-one takeoff and estimating tool designed for residential builders to measure plans and generate quotes quickly.
We selected and ranked these tools by prioritizing robust feature sets for precision, user-friendly interfaces, reliable performance, and value that aligns with varying workflows, ensuring recommendations deliver practical, long-term utility for construction teams.
Comparison Table
Construction plan takeoff software simplifies measuring materials and quantities from blueprints, with tools varying in features and usability. This comparison table includes popular options like PlanSwift, Bluebeam Revu, On-Screen Takeoff, Stack, Togal.AI, and more, outlining key differences to help readers identify the right fit for their projects.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | PlanSwift Digital takeoff software that allows construction professionals to measure and estimate quantities directly from PDF plans with drag-and-drop assemblies. | specialized | 9.4/10 | 9.6/10 | 8.8/10 | 9.1/10 |
| 2 | Bluebeam Revu PDF-based tool for precise takeoffs, measurements, markups, and quantity calculations on construction drawings. | specialized | 9.2/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 3 | On-Screen Takeoff On-screen digital takeoff solution for extracting quantities from plans with seamless integration to estimating software. | specialized | 8.6/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.7/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 4 | Stack Cloud-based construction takeoff and estimating platform that streamlines quantity extraction and bid management. | enterprise | 8.3/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 5 | Togal.AI AI-powered software that automatically detects and quantifies elements from construction plans for rapid takeoffs. | general_ai | 8.7/10 | 9.3/10 | 8.4/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 6 | Autodesk Takeoff Integrated 2D takeoff and estimating tool within Autodesk Construction Cloud for accurate quantity extraction from digital plans. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 7 | ProEst Cloud estimating software with built-in digital takeoff features for real-time quantity calculation and bid preparation. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.8/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 8 | Kreo AI-enhanced 2D/3D takeoff platform that automates measurements and generates bills of quantities from plans. | general_ai | 8.2/10 | 9.0/10 | 8.3/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 9 | Sage Estimating Advanced estimating software with digital takeoff capabilities for detailed quantity takeoffs and cost analysis. | enterprise | 7.6/10 | 8.2/10 | 6.4/10 | 7.1/10 |
| 10 | Buildxact All-in-one takeoff and estimating tool designed for residential builders to measure plans and generate quotes quickly. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.8/10 |
Digital takeoff software that allows construction professionals to measure and estimate quantities directly from PDF plans with drag-and-drop assemblies.
PDF-based tool for precise takeoffs, measurements, markups, and quantity calculations on construction drawings.
On-screen digital takeoff solution for extracting quantities from plans with seamless integration to estimating software.
Cloud-based construction takeoff and estimating platform that streamlines quantity extraction and bid management.
AI-powered software that automatically detects and quantifies elements from construction plans for rapid takeoffs.
Integrated 2D takeoff and estimating tool within Autodesk Construction Cloud for accurate quantity extraction from digital plans.
Cloud estimating software with built-in digital takeoff features for real-time quantity calculation and bid preparation.
AI-enhanced 2D/3D takeoff platform that automates measurements and generates bills of quantities from plans.
Advanced estimating software with digital takeoff capabilities for detailed quantity takeoffs and cost analysis.
All-in-one takeoff and estimating tool designed for residential builders to measure plans and generate quotes quickly.
PlanSwift
specializedDigital takeoff software that allows construction professionals to measure and estimate quantities directly from PDF plans with drag-and-drop assemblies.
Drag-and-drop assemblies that dynamically calculate quantities, labor, and costs in real-time as measurements are added
PlanSwift is a premier on-screen takeoff and estimating software tailored for the construction industry, enabling users to import PDF, CAD, or scanned plans and perform precise digital measurements with simple point-and-click tools. It features drag-and-drop assemblies for rapid cost estimation, customizable databases, and automated reporting to streamline workflows from takeoff to bid submission. Widely used by contractors, subcontractors, and estimators, it significantly reduces manual calculations and errors compared to traditional methods.
Pros
- Lightning-fast point-and-click takeoffs from any plan view or scale
- Highly customizable assemblies and databases for tailored estimating
- Strong integrations with Excel, QuickBooks, and other construction tools
Cons
- Steep learning curve for advanced customization and formulas
- Perpetual license model with ongoing maintenance fees adds to long-term costs
- Limited native mobile app support for on-site use
Best For
Construction estimators and contractors managing medium to large-scale projects who prioritize speed and accuracy in digital plan takeoffs and bidding.
Pricing
Perpetual license starts at $1,749 per user, plus $349 annual maintenance; volume discounts available.
Bluebeam Revu
specializedPDF-based tool for precise takeoffs, measurements, markups, and quantity calculations on construction drawings.
Scalable 'Sets' for hierarchical, multi-sheet takeoffs with automatic scaling and synchronized measurements
Bluebeam Revu is a powerful PDF-based platform designed for the AEC industry, specializing in digital plan takeoffs, markups, and quantity estimations from construction drawings. It provides precise measurement tools for lengths, areas, volumes, and counts, with customizable tool sets and scalable 'Sets' functionality for multi-page projects. The software excels in collaborative workflows via Bluebeam Studio, allowing teams to share takeoffs and revisions in real-time, making it a staple for pre-construction bidding and estimation.
Pros
- Highly accurate and customizable takeoff tools with scripting for complex quantities
- Superior collaboration through Studio cloud sessions and real-time markups
- Robust PDF editing and integration with Excel/estimating software
Cons
- Steep learning curve for advanced features and custom toolsets
- Subscription model can be costly for small teams
- Less automated than dedicated takeoff software for repetitive tasks
Best For
Estimators and contractors handling large PDF plan sets who need precise takeoffs combined with team collaboration.
Pricing
Subscription tiers: Basics (~$240/user/year), Core (~$360/user/year), Complete (~$480/user/year).
On-Screen Takeoff
specializedOn-screen digital takeoff solution for extracting quantities from plans with seamless integration to estimating software.
Visual Assemblies database for rapid, customizable takeoff of multi-component building elements
On-Screen Takeoff is a robust desktop software solution designed for construction estimators to perform precise digital quantity takeoffs directly from PDF plans, scanned blueprints, or paper documents. It provides advanced measurement tools for lengths, areas, counts, and volumes, along with customizable assemblies to build detailed estimates efficiently. Ideal for handling large-scale projects, it emphasizes accuracy and integration with estimating tools like Quick Bid.
Pros
- Highly accurate measurement tools with sub-millimeter precision
- Powerful Visual Assemblies for drag-and-drop complex estimates
- Seamless integration with popular estimating software like Quick Bid
Cons
- No cloud or mobile access, strictly desktop-based
- Steep learning curve for new users
- High upfront licensing costs without subscription flexibility
Best For
Experienced construction estimators and firms focused on detailed, high-precision takeoffs for complex projects.
Pricing
Perpetual licenses start at $1,795 per user, plus ~20% annual maintenance fees; volume discounts available.
Stack
enterpriseCloud-based construction takeoff and estimating platform that streamlines quantity extraction and bid management.
AI-powered automatic takeoff that instantly quantifies elements from uploaded PDFs without manual tracing
Stack (stackct.com) is an AI-powered construction takeoff software designed to automate quantity takeoffs from PDF plans, blueprints, and CAD files. It enables users to quickly measure lengths, areas, counts, and volumes with high accuracy, while integrating seamlessly with estimating tools and project management platforms like Procore. The cloud-based platform supports collaboration among teams, making it efficient for pre-construction bidding and planning processes.
Pros
- AI-driven automation speeds up takeoffs significantly with auto-detection of elements
- Strong integrations with popular construction software like Procore and Excel
- Cloud collaboration allows real-time team access and revisions
Cons
- Higher pricing tiers may be steep for small contractors
- Occasional accuracy issues with complex or non-standard plans
- Limited advanced customization options compared to enterprise competitors
Best For
Mid-sized construction firms and estimators handling digital plans who need fast, collaborative takeoffs for bidding.
Pricing
Starts at $99/user/month (Team plan), $149/user/month (Pro), with Enterprise custom pricing; billed annually.
Togal.AI
general_aiAI-powered software that automatically detects and quantifies elements from construction plans for rapid takeoffs.
Patented AI that automatically detects and measures takeoff items across entire plan sets in seconds with ongoing model learning.
Togal.AI is an AI-powered construction takeoff software that automates quantity extraction from digital blueprints and PDFs by detecting and measuring elements like walls, doors, windows, and fixtures across multiple sheets. It streamlines the traditionally manual takeoff process, enabling users to generate accurate material counts and areas in minutes rather than hours. The platform supports customization of measurements, collaboration tools, and exports to popular estimating software like Procore and PlanSwift.
Pros
- Ultra-fast AI-driven automation reduces takeoff time by up to 90%
- High accuracy on complex, multi-sheet plans with minimal manual corrections
- Strong integrations with estimating and project management tools
Cons
- Premium pricing may not suit small firms or infrequent users
- Performance can vary with poor-quality or non-standard plan scans
- Initial learning curve for advanced customization and AI training
Best For
Mid-to-large construction firms and estimators handling high-volume, complex projects that require rapid and scalable plan takeoffs.
Pricing
Quote-based enterprise pricing, typically starting at $1,000/month for teams with pay-per-project options available.
Autodesk Takeoff
enterpriseIntegrated 2D takeoff and estimating tool within Autodesk Construction Cloud for accurate quantity extraction from digital plans.
Deep BIM model integration for automated quantity extraction from 3D models alongside 2D plans
Autodesk Takeoff is a cloud-based quantity takeoff solution designed for construction professionals to perform precise measurements from 2D plans, PDFs, CAD files, and 3D BIM models. It enables users to create customizable takeoff items, assemblies, and reports while supporting real-time collaboration within the Autodesk Construction Cloud ecosystem. The software streamlines preconstruction workflows by integrating takeoff data with estimating, bidding, and project management tools for enhanced accuracy and efficiency.
Pros
- Seamless integration with Autodesk Construction Cloud, Revit, and other AEC tools
- Robust support for 2D/3D takeoffs with automatic calculations and issue tracking
- Real-time collaboration and cloud accessibility for team workflows
Cons
- Steep learning curve for non-Autodesk users
- Higher pricing suitable mainly for mid-to-large firms
- Limited advanced customization options compared to specialized competitors
Best For
Mid-to-large construction firms already invested in the Autodesk ecosystem seeking integrated takeoff and BIM workflows.
Pricing
Annual subscription starting at $975 per user for standalone Takeoff; bundled in Autodesk Build Pro at ~$1,215/year per user.
ProEst
enterpriseCloud estimating software with built-in digital takeoff features for real-time quantity calculation and bid preparation.
Dynamic assemblies engine that instantly generates detailed cost estimates from takeoff quantities without manual data entry
ProEst is a cloud-based construction estimating platform with robust digital takeoff capabilities, enabling users to measure quantities directly from PDF, CAD, and scanned plans. It automates the link between takeoffs and cost estimating using a vast library of pre-built assemblies, streamlining the pre-construction bidding process. Integrated with popular accounting software like QuickBooks and Sage, it supports real-time collaboration and bid management for construction professionals.
Pros
- Powerful on-screen takeoff tools with support for PDFs, CAD, and hybrid measurements
- Extensive pre-built assemblies database that auto-populates estimates from takeoff data
- Strong integrations with accounting and project management software for seamless workflows
Cons
- Steeper learning curve for beginners due to its comprehensive feature set
- Pricing can be high for smaller firms without volume discounts
- Limited advanced customization in reporting and takeoff annotations compared to specialized tools
Best For
Mid-sized general contractors and subcontractors needing integrated takeoff and estimating for accurate, scalable bidding.
Pricing
Custom quotes based on users and modules; typically starts at $250/user/month with annual contracts, ranging $5,000-$25,000/year.
Kreo
general_aiAI-enhanced 2D/3D takeoff platform that automates measurements and generates bills of quantities from plans.
AI Plan Takeoff that automatically detects, classifies, and quantifies elements from uploaded 2D drawings with minimal user input
Kreo is an AI-powered construction takeoff and estimating software designed to automate quantity extraction from 2D plans like PDFs and images. It uses machine learning to detect and measure elements such as walls, doors, windows, and areas, generating accurate takeoffs in minutes. The platform supports collaboration, reporting, and integration with estimating workflows, streamlining pre-construction bidding processes.
Pros
- AI-driven automation significantly reduces manual takeoff time
- High accuracy for standard residential and commercial plans
- Real-time collaboration and cloud-based access for teams
Cons
- Struggles with highly complex or non-standard plan details requiring manual adjustments
- Pricing can be steep for small firms or solo estimators
- Limited integrations compared to more established competitors
Best For
Mid-sized construction firms and estimators seeking AI automation for faster, repeatable takeoffs on typical 2D plans.
Pricing
Subscription-based starting at around $150/user/month for Pro plan, with Enterprise custom pricing.
Sage Estimating
enterpriseAdvanced estimating software with digital takeoff capabilities for detailed quantity takeoffs and cost analysis.
Industry-leading database of over 85,000 pre-defined assemblies across 100+ trades for rapid, accurate takeoffs and estimates
Sage Estimating is a comprehensive construction estimating software that includes robust digital plan takeoff capabilities for quantity extraction from blueprints and PDFs. It automates calculations, leverages a massive database of assemblies, and generates detailed cost estimates for bidding. Designed for professional contractors, it integrates seamlessly with Sage accounting and project management tools to streamline workflows from takeoff to final bid.
Pros
- Extensive pre-built assemblies database for accurate quantity takeoff and pricing
- Strong integration with Sage ERP and accounting systems
- Advanced reporting and bid management tools
Cons
- Steep learning curve with complex interface
- High cost and requires significant training investment
- Limited mobile and cloud-native functionality
Best For
Mid-to-large construction firms seeking an all-in-one takeoff and estimating solution integrated with enterprise accounting.
Pricing
Custom pricing upon request; typically $4,000–$10,000+ annually per user depending on modules and user count.
Buildxact
specializedAll-in-one takeoff and estimating tool designed for residential builders to measure plans and generate quotes quickly.
Automatic supplier price book integration that pulls real-time material costs into takeoffs and estimates
Buildxact is a cloud-based construction management software tailored for residential builders, offering digital plan takeoff from PDFs and images, automated material takeoffs, and seamless integration into estimating and quoting. It streamlines workflows by linking takeoff data to job costing, scheduling, and supplier ordering. Users benefit from real-time collaboration and mobile access, making it suitable for small to medium-sized operations focused on efficiency.
Pros
- Intuitive digital takeoff tools for quick measurements from PDFs
- Integrated estimating and quoting directly from takeoff data
- Cloud-based with mobile app for on-site access and real-time updates
Cons
- Limited advanced CAD import and customization for complex commercial projects
- Pricing scales up quickly for teams or additional features
- Fewer integrations compared to enterprise-level takeoff specialists
Best For
Small to medium residential builders and remodelers seeking an all-in-one takeoff and estimating solution without steep learning curves.
Pricing
Starts at $149 AUD/month for Solo plan (1 user), $299 AUD/month for Teams (up to 3 users), with Enterprise custom pricing.
Conclusion
The tools reviewed offer versatile solutions for construction professionals, with PlanSwift emerging as the top choice, excelling in direct PDF quantity measurement and drag-and-drop assembly management. Bluebeam Revu stands out for precise PDF-based takeoffs and markups, while On-Screen Takeoff impresses with seamless integration to estimating software—each serving distinct needs in the workflow. Together, they redefine efficiency in takeoff and estimating processes.
Take the next step in streamlining your projects by trying PlanSwift first; its intuitive design and powerful features are poised to transform how you measure, estimate, and win bids.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison