Quick Overview
- 1#1: Stack - AI-powered cloud platform for ultra-fast construction takeoffs and accurate cost estimating to win more bids.
- 2#2: Buildxact - User-friendly cloud-based quoting and estimating software designed for residential builders and remodelers.
- 3#3: Togal.AI - AI-driven digital takeoff tool that automates quantity extraction from plans for efficient construction estimating.
- 4#4: PlanSwift - Digital takeoff and estimating software with drag-and-drop functionality for quick bid assembly from plans.
- 5#5: Bluebeam Revu - Powerful PDF markup and quantity takeoff tool for precise measurements and construction cost estimation.
- 6#6: ProEst - Cloud-based estimating solution with database-driven assemblies for detailed construction quotes.
- 7#7: Buildertrend - All-in-one construction management platform featuring integrated estimating and quoting tools.
- 8#8: Sage Estimating - Professional-grade estimating software with extensive cost databases for accurate construction bidding.
- 9#9: Jobber - Field service software with simple quoting, scheduling, and invoicing for small construction businesses.
- 10#10: Knowify - Construction management tool offering job costing, quoting, and change order tracking.
Tools were ranked based on key factors: robust features (including takeoff, cost estimation, and integration), user experience (intuitive design, drag-and-drop functionality, and learning curve), reliability (data accuracy, cloud stability, and reviews), and overall value (price point, scalability, and added utilities like scheduling or invoicing).
Comparison Table
Navigate the landscape of construction quoting software with this comparison table, which outlines key features, usability, and integration potential of tools like Stack, Buildxact, Togal.AI, PlanSwift, Bluebeam Revu, and more. Readers will learn to match their project needs—from estimate accuracy to team collaboration—with the software best suited to streamline their quoting process.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Stack AI-powered cloud platform for ultra-fast construction takeoffs and accurate cost estimating to win more bids. | specialized | 9.6/10 | 9.8/10 | 9.3/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 2 | Buildxact User-friendly cloud-based quoting and estimating software designed for residential builders and remodelers. | specialized | 9.1/10 | 9.3/10 | 9.4/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 3 | Togal.AI AI-driven digital takeoff tool that automates quantity extraction from plans for efficient construction estimating. | general_ai | 8.7/10 | 9.4/10 | 8.1/10 | 8.3/10 |
| 4 | PlanSwift Digital takeoff and estimating software with drag-and-drop functionality for quick bid assembly from plans. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 9.0/10 | 7.5/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 5 | Bluebeam Revu Powerful PDF markup and quantity takeoff tool for precise measurements and construction cost estimation. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 8.8/10 | 7.6/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 6 | ProEst Cloud-based estimating solution with database-driven assemblies for detailed construction quotes. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.0/10 | 7.5/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 7 | Buildertrend All-in-one construction management platform featuring integrated estimating and quoting tools. | enterprise | 8.3/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.6/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 8 | Sage Estimating Professional-grade estimating software with extensive cost databases for accurate construction bidding. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.1/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 9 | Jobber Field service software with simple quoting, scheduling, and invoicing for small construction businesses. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 7.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.3/10 |
| 10 | Knowify Construction management tool offering job costing, quoting, and change order tracking. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.9/10 | 7.6/10 |
AI-powered cloud platform for ultra-fast construction takeoffs and accurate cost estimating to win more bids.
User-friendly cloud-based quoting and estimating software designed for residential builders and remodelers.
AI-driven digital takeoff tool that automates quantity extraction from plans for efficient construction estimating.
Digital takeoff and estimating software with drag-and-drop functionality for quick bid assembly from plans.
Powerful PDF markup and quantity takeoff tool for precise measurements and construction cost estimation.
Cloud-based estimating solution with database-driven assemblies for detailed construction quotes.
All-in-one construction management platform featuring integrated estimating and quoting tools.
Professional-grade estimating software with extensive cost databases for accurate construction bidding.
Field service software with simple quoting, scheduling, and invoicing for small construction businesses.
Construction management tool offering job costing, quoting, and change order tracking.
Stack
specializedAI-powered cloud platform for ultra-fast construction takeoffs and accurate cost estimating to win more bids.
Patented AI takeoff technology that instantly measures and prices from uploaded plans with 99% accuracy
Stack (stackct.com) is an AI-powered construction takeoff and estimating software designed to revolutionize quoting for contractors. It automates measurements from PDF plans, assembles accurate material takeoffs, applies pricing, and generates professional quotes in minutes. Beyond quoting, it integrates project management tools like scheduling and change orders, streamlining the entire workflow from bid to build.
Pros
- AI-driven takeoffs deliver unprecedented speed and accuracy from plans
- Seamless integration of estimating, scheduling, and invoicing
- Intuitive interface reduces training time for teams
Cons
- Higher pricing may deter very small operations
- AI performance can vary with complex or low-quality plans
- Limited advanced customization for highly specialized trades
Best For
Residential contractors, remodelers, and framing crews seeking to scale quoting efficiency without sacrificing accuracy.
Pricing
Starts at $99/user/month for Pro plan (billed annually), with free trial and enterprise custom pricing.
Buildxact
specializedUser-friendly cloud-based quoting and estimating software designed for residential builders and remodelers.
Live supplier pricing database that automatically updates costs for thousands of materials, ensuring quotes stay current without manual input
Buildxact is a cloud-based construction estimating and quoting software tailored for residential builders, remodelers, and tradespeople. It enables digital takeoffs, accurate material costing with live supplier pricing, and professional quote generation in minutes. The platform also supports job costing, scheduling, and seamless integrations with accounting tools like Xero and QuickBooks for end-to-end project management.
Pros
- Intuitive interface with drag-and-drop takeoff tools for quick estimating
- Live pricing database from major suppliers for accurate, real-time costs
- Strong mobile app for on-site quoting and job tracking
Cons
- Higher pricing tiers may be steep for solo tradespeople
- Limited advanced customization for complex commercial projects
- Primarily focused on residential construction, less ideal for large-scale civils
Best For
Small to medium residential builders and remodelers who need fast, accurate quoting and job management without a steep learning curve.
Pricing
Starts at $149 AUD/month (Trade plan) up to $499 AUD/month (Enterprise), with annual billing discounts and a free trial available.
Togal.AI
general_aiAI-driven digital takeoff tool that automates quantity extraction from plans for efficient construction estimating.
Patented AI engine that instantly detects and measures plan elements without manual templates or training
Togal.AI is an AI-powered construction takeoff and estimating platform that automates the detection and measurement of elements like walls, doors, windows, and areas directly from PDF blueprints. It significantly reduces manual takeoff time from hours to minutes, enabling faster and more accurate quantity calculations for quoting projects. The tool supports collaboration, custom reporting, and integrations with popular estimating software like Procore and PlanSwift.
Pros
- Ultra-fast AI-driven takeoffs that process plans in seconds
- High accuracy with minimal user corrections on standard drawings
- Strong integrations and cloud collaboration for teams
Cons
- Performance depends heavily on blueprint quality and clarity
- Limited support for complex 3D models or highly custom elements
- Pricing requires a demo and can be costly for solo users
Best For
Mid-sized general contractors and estimators who process high volumes of bids and need to accelerate takeoff workflows for competitive quoting.
Pricing
Subscription-based starting at ~$299/user/month for Pro plan; Enterprise custom pricing with free trial available.
PlanSwift
specializedDigital takeoff and estimating software with drag-and-drop functionality for quick bid assembly from plans.
Drag-and-drop assemblies that automatically calculate costs, labor, and quantities from takeoffs
PlanSwift is a digital takeoff and estimating software designed for construction professionals to perform quick quantity takeoffs from PDF plans, blueprints, and CAD files using point-and-click tools. It enables users to build estimates rapidly with drag-and-drop assemblies, formula-driven calculations, and customizable databases for materials and labor. The software integrates with popular accounting systems and exports data to Excel for seamless quoting and bidding workflows.
Pros
- Lightning-fast point-and-click takeoffs from digital plans
- Powerful drag-and-drop assemblies for instant estimating
- Strong integrations with Excel and accounting software
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users
- Windows-only with no native mobile support
- High upfront cost for perpetual license
Best For
Experienced construction estimators and contractors who handle high-volume digital plan takeoffs and need precise, customizable quoting.
Pricing
Perpetual license starts at $1,595 per user, plus optional annual maintenance around $500.
Bluebeam Revu
specializedPowerful PDF markup and quantity takeoff tool for precise measurements and construction cost estimation.
Advanced digital measurement tools that support chained measurements, dynamic scaling, and visual quantity summaries overlaid directly on PDF drawings
Bluebeam Revu is a robust PDF editing and markup software designed for the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry, with strong capabilities for digital takeoff and quantity estimation from blueprints. It allows users to measure lengths, areas, volumes, and counts directly on PDFs, create custom assemblies, and generate exportable quantity reports for quoting purposes. While excelling in pre-construction document review and takeoff, it integrates with Excel for further bid compilation but lacks advanced cost databases or full project management features found in dedicated estimating software.
Pros
- Highly accurate digital takeoff tools with automatic scale calibration
- Seamless PDF markup and collaboration via Bluebeam Studio
- Custom assemblies and Excel export streamline quantity-to-quote workflows
Cons
- Steep learning curve for advanced takeoff features
- Limited built-in cost estimating database compared to specialized tools
- Subscription pricing can add up for small teams
Best For
AEC professionals and estimators who rely on PDF drawings for precise quantity takeoffs and need robust document annotation in their quoting process.
Pricing
Annual per-user subscriptions: Essentials ~$240, Standard ~$349, Extreme ~$549; volume discounts available.
ProEst
enterpriseCloud-based estimating solution with database-driven assemblies for detailed construction quotes.
Iterative estimating engine with RSMeans-integrated cost database for instant, audit-ready bid adjustments
ProEst is a cloud-based construction estimating and quoting software designed to streamline the pre-construction bidding process for contractors. It offers digital takeoff tools, a comprehensive database of assemblies and cost items, and bid management features to create accurate, detailed estimates quickly. The platform integrates with popular tools like Procore, QuickBooks, and Sage, enabling seamless workflows from estimate to project handover.
Pros
- Vast pre-built assemblies and labor database for rapid estimating
- Strong integrations with accounting and PM software
- Cloud-based access for real-time team collaboration
Cons
- Steep learning curve for beginners
- Pricing requires custom quotes and can be expensive
- Limited advanced mobile takeoff capabilities
Best For
Mid-sized commercial contractors and subcontractors managing complex bids that require precise cost data and database-driven accuracy.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; typically starts at around $250/user/month or $5,000+ annually depending on users and modules.
Buildertrend
enterpriseAll-in-one construction management platform featuring integrated estimating and quoting tools.
Integrated bid management that links quotes directly to schedules, budgets, and change orders for real-time project adjustments
Buildertrend is a comprehensive cloud-based construction management platform that includes advanced quoting and estimating tools for creating detailed bids, performing digital takeoffs, and managing cost databases. It integrates quoting seamlessly with scheduling, budgeting, and project tracking to provide end-to-end visibility. Ideal for contractors handling residential and remodeling projects, it supports team collaboration and client portals for transparent bid approvals.
Pros
- Robust estimating with customizable assemblies and real-time cost tracking
- Seamless integration with scheduling, financials, and QuickBooks
- Mobile app for on-site quoting and client updates
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users
- Higher pricing limits appeal for small operations
- Some advanced quoting features require higher-tier plans
Best For
Mid-sized construction firms and remodelers needing integrated quoting within full project management workflows.
Pricing
Starts at $99/month (Solo plan for 1 user/3 projects), $399/month (Team plan), up to custom Enterprise pricing.
Sage Estimating
enterpriseProfessional-grade estimating software with extensive cost databases for accurate construction bidding.
Exclusive Sage National Cost Database, updated 4+ times yearly with verified construction costs from thousands of sources
Sage Estimating is a powerful desktop-based construction estimating software that enables contractors to produce accurate bids and quotes using a vast national cost database. It supports digital takeoffs, customizable assemblies, and labor factoring for detailed cost breakdowns across residential, commercial, and industrial projects. The tool integrates with Sage's accounting and project management solutions for end-to-end workflow efficiency.
Pros
- Extensive, regularly updated national cost database for precise material and labor pricing
- Advanced digital takeoff and customizable assembly tools for complex estimates
- Seamless integration with Sage 300 CRE and other ERP systems
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to complex interface and extensive features
- High pricing with custom quotes, less accessible for small firms
- Primarily Windows desktop app with limited cloud or mobile capabilities
Best For
Mid-to-large construction firms handling complex projects that require detailed, database-driven estimating and ERP integration.
Pricing
Quote-based pricing, typically $5,000–$15,000+ per year per user depending on modules, seats, and support.
Jobber
specializedField service software with simple quoting, scheduling, and invoicing for small construction businesses.
Client Hub for instant quote approvals, progress updates, and payments without phone calls
Jobber is a field service management platform designed for small to medium-sized construction and home service businesses, enabling quick creation of professional quotes with customizable templates, line items for materials and labor, photos, and attachments. It streamlines the quoting process by allowing digital delivery, client approvals via signatures, and seamless conversion of approved quotes into scheduled jobs and invoices. While versatile for service-oriented construction work like repairs and remodels, it integrates with tools like QuickBooks for broader business management.
Pros
- Intuitive quote builder with mobile app support for on-site creation
- Client Hub enables fast digital approvals and self-service updates
- Seamless integrations with QuickBooks and payment processors
Cons
- Lacks advanced takeoff, estimating, or BIM tools for complex projects
- Pricing scales per user, which can get expensive for larger teams
- Reporting and analytics are basic compared to dedicated construction software
Best For
Small construction contractors and home service pros handling residential repairs, maintenance, and light remodels who prioritize ease over advanced estimating.
Pricing
Lite plan starts at $69/month (billed annually, solo user), Core at $169/month (up to 7 users), Grow at $349/month (up to 30 users); monthly billing adds ~20%.
Knowify
specializedConstruction management tool offering job costing, quoting, and change order tracking.
Seamless QuickBooks Online two-way sync that automatically pushes quotes, costs, and invoices for real-time financial visibility
Knowify is a cloud-based construction management software tailored for trade contractors, with strong capabilities in quoting and estimating through digital takeoffs, customizable assemblies, and real-time pricing databases. It streamlines the bidding process by integrating cost data, labor rates, and material pricing to generate accurate quotes quickly. Beyond quoting, it supports job costing, invoicing, change orders, and project tracking, with seamless QuickBooks Online integration for financial accuracy.
Pros
- Powerful digital takeoff and estimating tools with pre-built assemblies
- Deep QuickBooks integration for effortless accounting sync
- Mobile app enables on-site quoting and approvals
Cons
- Steeper learning curve for complex estimates
- Pricing scales quickly for larger teams
- Limited advanced reporting customization
Best For
Mid-sized trade contractors like electrical, plumbing, or HVAC firms needing integrated quoting, job costing, and QuickBooks connectivity.
Pricing
Starts at $149/user/month (Launch plan, min 5 users), up to $299/user/month (Enterprise); annual billing required, custom quotes available.
Conclusion
Evaluating the top 10 construction quoting tools reveals a range of powerful solutions, with Stack emerging as the top choice due to its AI-driven cloud platform for ultra-fast takeoffs and precise cost estimates. Buildxact stands out for its user-friendliness, perfect for residential builders and remodelers, while Togal.AI impresses with its AI-powered takeoff automation, offering a strong alternative for efficient quantity extraction. Each tool caters to distinct needs, but Stack leads as the overall best.
Take the first step toward winning more bids by trying Stack—its combination of speed and accuracy makes it an indispensable asset for any construction professional.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison
