Quick Overview
- 1#1: PlanSwift - Digital takeoff software that enables fast and accurate quantity measurements directly from PDF and CAD plans.
- 2#2: Bluebeam Revu - Advanced PDF editor with powerful measurement and takeoff tools tailored for construction estimating.
- 3#3: Stack - Cloud-based platform for collaborative construction takeoff and estimating from digital plans.
- 4#4: On-Screen Takeoff - Precise on-screen measurement software for generating detailed quantity takeoffs from blueprints.
- 5#5: Togal.AI - AI-driven automated takeoff tool that instantly detects and quantifies elements from construction drawings.
- 6#6: Presto - 3D model-based takeoff software for accurate quantity extraction and cost estimating.
- 7#7: Buildxact - Integrated takeoff, estimating, and job management software for residential construction projects.
- 8#8: Methvin - Online takeoff and estimating tool with customizable libraries for construction quantities.
- 9#9: Cubit - Quantity takeoff and estimating software supporting CAD, PDF, and BIM imports for detailed analysis.
- 10#10: Kreo - BIM-integrated takeoff platform that automates quantity extraction for faster construction estimating.
Tools were selected based on performance (e.g., speed, accuracy), feature set (support for digital plans, integration capabilities), user-friendliness (intuitive interfaces, onboarding resources), and overall value (scalability, cost-effectiveness for different project sizes).
Comparison Table
Construction quantity takeoff software simplifies measuring materials and quantities for projects; this comparison table highlights key tools like PlanSwift, Bluebeam Revu, Stack, On-Screen Takeoff, and Togal.AI, helping readers understand each tool's strengths to select the best fit for their workflow and project needs.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | PlanSwift Digital takeoff software that enables fast and accurate quantity measurements directly from PDF and CAD plans. | specialized | 9.4/10 | 9.6/10 | 8.7/10 | 9.1/10 |
| 2 | Bluebeam Revu Advanced PDF editor with powerful measurement and takeoff tools tailored for construction estimating. | enterprise | 9.1/10 | 9.4/10 | 8.6/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 3 | Stack Cloud-based platform for collaborative construction takeoff and estimating from digital plans. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.1/10 | 8.3/10 |
| 4 | On-Screen Takeoff Precise on-screen measurement software for generating detailed quantity takeoffs from blueprints. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.8/10 | 7.6/10 | 7.4/10 |
| 5 | Togal.AI AI-driven automated takeoff tool that instantly detects and quantifies elements from construction drawings. | general_ai | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 6 | Presto 3D model-based takeoff software for accurate quantity extraction and cost estimating. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.0/10 |
| 7 | Buildxact Integrated takeoff, estimating, and job management software for residential construction projects. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.4/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 8 | Methvin Online takeoff and estimating tool with customizable libraries for construction quantities. | specialized | 7.6/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.1/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 9 | Cubit Quantity takeoff and estimating software supporting CAD, PDF, and BIM imports for detailed analysis. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 10 | Kreo BIM-integrated takeoff platform that automates quantity extraction for faster construction estimating. | enterprise | 7.9/10 | 8.4/10 | 7.8/10 | 7.2/10 |
Digital takeoff software that enables fast and accurate quantity measurements directly from PDF and CAD plans.
Advanced PDF editor with powerful measurement and takeoff tools tailored for construction estimating.
Cloud-based platform for collaborative construction takeoff and estimating from digital plans.
Precise on-screen measurement software for generating detailed quantity takeoffs from blueprints.
AI-driven automated takeoff tool that instantly detects and quantifies elements from construction drawings.
3D model-based takeoff software for accurate quantity extraction and cost estimating.
Integrated takeoff, estimating, and job management software for residential construction projects.
Online takeoff and estimating tool with customizable libraries for construction quantities.
Quantity takeoff and estimating software supporting CAD, PDF, and BIM imports for detailed analysis.
BIM-integrated takeoff platform that automates quantity extraction for faster construction estimating.
PlanSwift
specializedDigital takeoff software that enables fast and accurate quantity measurements directly from PDF and CAD plans.
Drag-and-drop assemblies for instant grouping and costing of complex construction items
PlanSwift is a premier on-screen digital takeoff and estimating software tailored for construction professionals, enabling rapid quantity takeoffs from PDFs, CAD files, scanned images, and blueprints via intuitive point-and-click tools. It features customizable assemblies, real-time calculations, and formulas that automatically update quantities and costs as measurements change. The software excels in generating detailed reports and exporting data to Excel or integrating with popular estimating platforms, streamlining the pre-construction bidding process.
Pros
- Lightning-fast point-and-click takeoffs with real-time updates
- Highly flexible assemblies and custom formulas without programming
- Seamless Excel export and integration with estimating software
Cons
- Dated interface that feels less modern
- Steep initial learning curve for advanced features
- Primarily desktop-based with limited cloud or mobile support
Best For
Construction estimators and quantity surveyors managing high-volume plan takeoffs for accurate bidding.
Pricing
Perpetual license starts at $1,595 with $495 annual maintenance, or subscription from $1,749/year.
Bluebeam Revu
enterpriseAdvanced PDF editor with powerful measurement and takeoff tools tailored for construction estimating.
Dynamic measurement toolsets in Tool Chest that store reusable symbols with embedded takeoff data, enabling fast, consistent quantity extraction across projects
Bluebeam Revu is a powerful PDF-based software suite designed for the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry, specializing in document management, markup, and precise quantity takeoffs from 2D plans. It provides advanced measurement tools for lengths, areas, volumes, and counts, with customizable toolsets that allow users to create repeatable takeoff workflows and generate instant summaries. The software excels in exporting takeoff data to Excel for cost estimation and supports real-time collaboration via Bluebeam Studio, making it a staple for construction professionals working with digital PDFs.
Pros
- Highly accurate measurement tools with scale calibration and real-time quantity summaries
- Customizable tool chests for efficient, repeatable takeoffs
- Seamless Excel integration and Studio collaboration for team workflows
Cons
- Steep learning curve for advanced features and custom toolsets
- Subscription pricing can be expensive for small firms or solo users
- Limited native 3D/BIM takeoff capabilities compared to specialized tools
Best For
Construction estimators, project managers, and AEC teams primarily working with 2D PDF plans who need robust markup, precise takeoffs, and collaborative review capabilities.
Pricing
Subscription-based: $239/user/year (Basics), $349 (Core), $449 (Complete); perpetual licenses available with maintenance.
Stack
enterpriseCloud-based platform for collaborative construction takeoff and estimating from digital plans.
AI-powered PDF takeoff engine that automatically detects and quantifies project elements without manual tracing
Stack (stackct.com) is an AI-powered construction quantity takeoff software designed to automate the extraction of measurements and quantities directly from PDF plans and drawings. It streamlines the takeoff process by using machine learning to identify and quantify elements like areas, lengths, and counts with high speed and accuracy. The platform also supports bid management, reporting, and integrations with popular estimating tools, making it ideal for contractors handling competitive bidding workflows.
Pros
- Lightning-fast AI-driven takeoffs from PDFs, often completing jobs in minutes
- High accuracy for standard construction elements like walls, slabs, and rebar
- Seamless integrations with Procore, PlanSwift, and other estimating software
Cons
- Struggles with highly complex or hand-drawn plans requiring manual corrections
- Limited customization for niche trades or unique project types
- Subscription model can feel pricey for solo estimators or very small firms
Best For
Mid-sized general contractors and subcontractors who need to accelerate quantity takeoffs and bidding for residential and commercial projects.
Pricing
Subscription starts at $99/user/month for basic plans, scaling to $299+/user/month for enterprise features with custom quotes available.
On-Screen Takeoff
specializedPrecise on-screen measurement software for generating detailed quantity takeoffs from blueprints.
Dynamic Assemblies system that lets users stack and customize takeoff elements into bid-ready items with formulas and conditions
On-Screen Takeoff (OST) by ConstructConnect is a desktop-based construction quantity takeoff software designed for measuring and quantifying materials directly from digital PDF plans, scanned drawings, and images. It enables point-and-click takeoffs for counts, lengths, areas, and volumes, with tools to group measurements into customizable assemblies for estimating. The software excels in detailed bid preparation and integrates with Quick Bid for seamless transition to full cost estimating workflows.
Pros
- Highly accurate digital measurements with zoom and pan capabilities
- Powerful assemblies builder for complex bid item creation
- Customizable reports and export options for stakeholder sharing
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users
- Desktop-only with no native mobile or cloud collaboration
- Additional costs for integrations and advanced modules
Best For
Experienced construction estimators and quantity surveyors handling detailed takeoffs from PDF plans for competitive bidding.
Pricing
Perpetual license starts at ~$1,495 for base OST, plus ~$1,200 for Quick Bid integration; annual maintenance ~20% of license fee.
Togal.AI
general_aiAI-driven automated takeoff tool that instantly detects and quantifies elements from construction drawings.
AI Auto-Takeoff engine that instantly measures and counts elements across full plan sets with trainable accuracy
Togal.AI is an AI-powered construction quantity takeoff software that uses computer vision to automatically detect, measure, and quantify elements like walls, doors, windows, and areas directly from PDF blueprints. It allows users to train custom AI models on their specific standards for improved accuracy and supports collaborative workflows for teams. The platform exports takeoff data to Excel, CSV, and integrates with popular estimating tools like Procore and PlanSwift, streamlining the pre-construction bidding process.
Pros
- Ultra-fast AI automation processes entire plans in minutes
- Customizable AI models adapt to project-specific needs
- Strong integrations with estimating software and Excel exports
Cons
- Less effective on highly complex or hand-drawn plans
- Initial setup for custom training requires time investment
- Pricing can be steep for very small firms or infrequent users
Best For
Mid-sized construction estimators and contractors who frequently perform takeoffs from digital blueprints and seek AI-driven efficiency.
Pricing
Subscription-based with tiers starting at ~$125/user/month; custom enterprise pricing available based on usage and features.
Presto
specialized3D model-based takeoff software for accurate quantity extraction and cost estimating.
Customizable 'Diggers' for automated, rules-based quantity extraction directly from Revit BIM models
Presto by Beck Technology is a cloud-based construction takeoff and estimating software specializing in BIM model integration for accurate quantity extraction. It enables visual, model-based takeoffs with automated tools like Diggers, supporting real-time collaboration and seamless import from Revit and other BIM formats. Designed for preconstruction teams, it streamlines the transition from design to estimating with element-level precision.
Pros
- Superior BIM integration with automated Diggers for precise quantity takeoff
- Real-time cloud collaboration for team-based estimating
- Visual 3D interface reduces errors in traditional 2D takeoffs
Cons
- Steep learning curve for users without BIM experience
- High enterprise-level pricing limits accessibility for small firms
- Limited support for non-BIM or legacy 2D drawing workflows
Best For
Mid-to-large construction firms with BIM-heavy workflows needing model-based quantity takeoff and collaborative estimating.
Pricing
Custom subscription pricing, typically $5,000–$15,000/year per user/seat based on scale; contact for quote.
Buildxact
enterpriseIntegrated takeoff, estimating, and job management software for residential construction projects.
One-click takeoff to fully priced quote generation with live supplier pricing integrations
Buildxact is a cloud-based construction management software tailored for residential builders, featuring digital quantity takeoff tools that allow users to measure plans from PDFs, CAD files, or images. It automatically generates material takeoffs, cost estimates, and quotes, integrating seamlessly with job costing and scheduling. Designed for small to medium-sized operations, it streamlines the transition from takeoff to project execution without needing multiple tools.
Pros
- Intuitive digital takeoff from PDFs and images with automatic quantity calculations
- Seamless integration of takeoff data into estimating, quoting, and job management
- Cloud-based access with mobile app support for on-site use
Cons
- Limited advanced tools for complex commercial takeoffs compared to specialized software
- Pricing tiers can become expensive for solo users or very small teams
- Relies heavily on plan quality and may require manual adjustments for accuracy
Best For
Small to medium residential builders and remodelers seeking an integrated takeoff-to-estimating workflow.
Pricing
Starts at $149/user/month (Essentials, billed annually) up to $499/user/month (Enterprise); free trial available.
Methvin
specializedOnline takeoff and estimating tool with customizable libraries for construction quantities.
Extensive cloud-hosted library of region-specific rates, assemblies, and templates for rapid, accurate quantity takeoffs.
Methvin (methvin.org) is a cloud-based construction quantity takeoff and estimating software that enables users to measure quantities directly from PDF, CAD, and image files. It features an extensive library of pre-built assemblies, rates, and templates to streamline takeoff processes and generate accurate cost estimates. The platform supports real-time collaboration and project tendering, making it suitable for contractors handling small to medium-sized projects.
Pros
- Free forever plan with core takeoff tools
- Cloud-based access with real-time collaboration
- Vast global library of rates and assemblies
Cons
- Limited advanced BIM integration
- Learning curve for complex custom assemblies
- Export options restricted in free tier
Best For
Small to medium construction firms and independent estimators seeking affordable, accessible takeoff solutions without heavy investment.
Pricing
Free plan available; Pro and Enterprise plans start at $39/user/month with advanced features and unlimited projects.
Cubit
specializedQuantity takeoff and estimating software supporting CAD, PDF, and BIM imports for detailed analysis.
Dynamic Worksheets that live-link takeoff measurements to formulas for instant quantity and cost updates without manual data entry
Cubit from Buildsoft is a robust quantity takeoff and estimating software tailored for construction professionals, enabling precise measurements from PDF, CAD, scanned images, and BIM files. It features interactive graphical takeoffs linked to dynamic worksheets that automatically calculate quantities, rates, and costs for building, earthworks, and infrastructure projects. Primarily designed for the Australian market, it supports compliance with local standards while offering flexibility for custom libraries and integrations with tools like Excel.
Pros
- Powerful graphical takeoff tools with real-time linking to worksheets for accurate quantities
- Extensive customization via material libraries and formula-based calculations
- Strong integration with Excel, tendering systems, and Australian compliance standards
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to complex interface and advanced features
- Higher pricing suitable mainly for mid-to-large firms, less ideal for solos
- Limited native support for non-Australian markets and mobile access
Best For
Mid-sized Australian construction firms and estimators handling detailed building or earthworks projects that require precise, customizable takeoffs.
Pricing
Quote-based perpetual licenses starting around AUD $5,000-$10,000 depending on modules (e.g., Building, Earthworks); annual maintenance ~15-20% of license cost.
Kreo
enterpriseBIM-integrated takeoff platform that automates quantity extraction for faster construction estimating.
Adaptive AI Live Takeoff that learns from user inputs to automate future measurements accurately across drawings
Kreo (kreo.net) is a cloud-based construction quantity takeoff and estimating software that uses AI to automate measurements from 2D PDFs, CAD files, and 3D BIM models. It supports real-time collaboration, custom formula libraries, and integration with ERP systems for streamlined pre-construction workflows. The platform emphasizes speed and accuracy, reducing manual takeoff time significantly for estimators.
Pros
- AI-powered automated takeoffs from diverse file types including PDFs and BIM
- Real-time team collaboration and cloud accessibility
- Customizable estimating formulas and ERP integrations
Cons
- Pricing can be high for small firms or low-volume users
- Learning curve for advanced AI customization and BIM workflows
- Limited free trial and fewer pre-built templates than top competitors
Best For
Mid-sized construction contractors and estimators handling complex projects who want AI automation to speed up takeoffs without full manual measurement.
Pricing
Subscription-based starting at ~$150/user/month for Pro plan; custom Enterprise quotes for larger teams.
Conclusion
Evaluating the best construction quantity takeoff software reveals a standout leader in PlanSwift, celebrated for its fast, accurate measurement tools from PDF and CAD plans. Bluebeam Revu and Stack secure the next spots, with Revu impressing with advanced PDF editing and Stack excelling in collaborative workflows—each a strong fit for different project requirements. The top 10 list reflects a diverse range of solutions, from AI-driven automation to BIM integration, ensuring there’s a tool for nearly every estimation need.
Don’t miss out on streamlining your takeoff process—start with PlanSwift today to unlock fast, precise measurements that elevate your construction estimating efficiency.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison