Quick Overview
- 1#1: PlanSwift - Digital takeoff and estimating software for rapid quantity takeoffs from PDFs, CAD, and images with customizable assemblies.
- 2#2: Bluebeam Revu - Advanced PDF editor with precise measurement and takeoff tools for construction documents and collaboration.
- 3#3: On-Screen Takeoff - Powerful desktop software for detailed 2D takeoffs and estimating with bid item management from digital plans.
- 4#4: Stack - Cloud-based takeoff platform enabling real-time collaboration and fast quantity extraction from plans.
- 5#5: eTakeoff - Accurate digital measuring and takeoff tool for construction estimators working with PDF and paper plans.
- 6#6: Takeoff Live - Cloud-native takeoff software for measuring quantities from PDFs and CAD files with team sharing.
- 7#7: Groundplan - Specialized digital takeoff tool optimized for electrical, mechanical, and plumbing contractors.
- 8#8: Togal.AI - AI-automated takeoff software that instantly detects and quantifies elements from construction drawings.
- 9#9: Kreo - AI-powered 2D takeoff and estimating platform for efficient quantity surveying and reporting.
- 10#10: Buildxact - Cloud estimating and takeoff solution tailored for small to medium residential builders.
Tools were ranked based on feature depth, user experience, reliability, and value delivery, ensuring they cater to diverse needs from rapid digital takeoffs to real-time team collaboration across construction segments.
Comparison Table
This comparison table maps out critical features of leading construction takeoff software, including tools like PlanSwift, Bluebeam Revu, On-Screen Takeoff, Stack, eTakeoff, and more, to guide professionals in evaluating their options. Readers will discover key functionalities, usability insights, and unique advantages each tool provides, simplifying the process of finding a solution tailored to their project requirements.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | PlanSwift Digital takeoff and estimating software for rapid quantity takeoffs from PDFs, CAD, and images with customizable assemblies. | specialized | 9.4/10 | 9.7/10 | 8.2/10 | 9.0/10 |
| 2 | Bluebeam Revu Advanced PDF editor with precise measurement and takeoff tools for construction documents and collaboration. | specialized | 9.1/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.4/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 3 | On-Screen Takeoff Powerful desktop software for detailed 2D takeoffs and estimating with bid item management from digital plans. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 4 | Stack Cloud-based takeoff platform enabling real-time collaboration and fast quantity extraction from plans. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 9.0/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 5 | eTakeoff Accurate digital measuring and takeoff tool for construction estimators working with PDF and paper plans. | specialized | 8.5/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.6/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 6 | Takeoff Live Cloud-native takeoff software for measuring quantities from PDFs and CAD files with team sharing. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.7/10 |
| 7 | Groundplan Specialized digital takeoff tool optimized for electrical, mechanical, and plumbing contractors. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 8 | Togal.AI AI-automated takeoff software that instantly detects and quantifies elements from construction drawings. | specialized | 8.3/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.1/10 | 7.7/10 |
| 9 | Kreo AI-powered 2D takeoff and estimating platform for efficient quantity surveying and reporting. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.9/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 10 | Buildxact Cloud estimating and takeoff solution tailored for small to medium residential builders. | specialized | 8.5/10 | 8.3/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.0/10 |
Digital takeoff and estimating software for rapid quantity takeoffs from PDFs, CAD, and images with customizable assemblies.
Advanced PDF editor with precise measurement and takeoff tools for construction documents and collaboration.
Powerful desktop software for detailed 2D takeoffs and estimating with bid item management from digital plans.
Cloud-based takeoff platform enabling real-time collaboration and fast quantity extraction from plans.
Accurate digital measuring and takeoff tool for construction estimators working with PDF and paper plans.
Cloud-native takeoff software for measuring quantities from PDFs and CAD files with team sharing.
Specialized digital takeoff tool optimized for electrical, mechanical, and plumbing contractors.
AI-automated takeoff software that instantly detects and quantifies elements from construction drawings.
AI-powered 2D takeoff and estimating platform for efficient quantity surveying and reporting.
Cloud estimating and takeoff solution tailored for small to medium residential builders.
PlanSwift
specializedDigital takeoff and estimating software for rapid quantity takeoffs from PDFs, CAD, and images with customizable assemblies.
Revolutionary point-and-click visual takeoff that measures quantities instantly without manual entry
PlanSwift is a premier construction takeoff and estimating software that allows users to perform precise quantity takeoffs by simply pointing and clicking on digital plans, PDFs, CAD files, and images. It supports drag-and-drop assemblies, custom formulas, and real-time cost calculations, streamlining the bidding process for contractors. With robust reporting and integration capabilities with tools like QuickBooks and Excel, it enhances accuracy and efficiency in construction estimating.
Pros
- Exceptionally accurate point-and-click takeoff from any digital plan format
- Highly customizable assemblies and formula-driven estimating
- Seamless integrations with accounting and project management software
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users despite intuitive interface
- Windows-only compatibility limits accessibility
- High initial subscription cost may deter small operations
Best For
Mid-to-large construction firms and estimators requiring fast, precise takeoffs for complex projects.
Pricing
Subscription starts at $1,749 per year per user, with volume discounts available.
Bluebeam Revu
specializedAdvanced PDF editor with precise measurement and takeoff tools for construction documents and collaboration.
Dynamic measurement sets that automatically link and update quantities across multiple PDF drawings
Bluebeam Revu is a leading PDF-based software solution designed for the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry, specializing in digital takeoffs, markups, and quantity estimation from plans. It offers precise measurement tools for lengths, areas, volumes, and counts, with dynamic linking that updates quantities across multiple sheets automatically. The software integrates seamlessly with Excel via Quantity Link for exporting takeoff data, supports custom toolsets and scripting for automation, and enables real-time collaboration through Studio Projects.
Pros
- Highly accurate and customizable measurement tools for 2D takeoffs
- Dynamic quantity linking and Excel integration via Quantity Link
- Robust collaboration features with Studio for team markups
Cons
- Steep learning curve for advanced scripting and custom toolsets
- Subscription pricing can be expensive for solo users or small firms
- Limited built-in 3D model support compared to BIM-focused tools
Best For
Construction estimators and AEC teams managing large PDF plan sets who need precise digital takeoffs and collaborative workflows.
Pricing
Subscription tiers: Basics ($240/user/year), Core ($300/user/year), Complete ($350/user/year); volume discounts available.
On-Screen Takeoff
enterprisePowerful desktop software for detailed 2D takeoffs and estimating with bid item management from digital plans.
Patented Digital Ledger providing a clickable, visual audit trail of all takeoff items for verification and team review
On-Screen Takeoff (OST) by ConstructConnect is a powerful desktop-based software for construction takeoff and estimating, allowing users to measure quantities like lengths, areas, counts, and volumes directly from PDF plans, scanned images, or CAD files using a point-and-click interface. It excels in creating customizable assemblies to organize takeoffs into bid-ready formats and generates detailed reports for accurate quantity estimation. The tool integrates seamlessly with estimating software like Sage Estimating and supports bid management workflows for construction professionals.
Pros
- Exceptionally accurate digital measurements with support for complex assemblies and conditions
- Visual Digital Ledger for easy audit trails and collaboration on takeoffs
- Strong integrations with popular estimating tools like Sage and HeavyBid
Cons
- Windows-only desktop application with limited mobile or cloud-native capabilities
- Steep initial learning curve for advanced assembly building and customization
- High upfront perpetual license cost plus annual maintenance fees
Best For
Mid-to-large construction estimators and firms needing precise, scalable takeoffs with enterprise-level integrations.
Pricing
Perpetual license ~$1,595 per user + ~$349 annual maintenance; volume discounts available.
Stack
specializedCloud-based takeoff platform enabling real-time collaboration and fast quantity extraction from plans.
Patented AI engine that automatically detects and quantifies elements from plans with minimal user input
Stack (stackct.com) is an AI-powered construction takeoff and estimating software designed to automate quantity takeoffs from digital plans like PDFs and images. It uses machine learning to detect and measure construction elements such as walls, doors, windows, and fixtures with high speed and accuracy. The platform integrates takeoffs directly into cost estimating, enabling faster bid preparation and collaboration for construction professionals.
Pros
- Rapid AI-automated takeoffs saving hours of manual work
- High accuracy for standard elements like framing and openings
- Cloud-based collaboration and seamless estimating integration
Cons
- Requires manual adjustments for complex or non-standard plans
- Limited third-party integrations compared to competitors
- Subscription pricing may feel high for solo estimators
Best For
Small to mid-sized construction firms and estimators needing quick AI-driven takeoffs for residential and light commercial projects.
Pricing
Starts at $99/user/month for Pro plan, with Team ($199/user/month) and Enterprise custom pricing.
eTakeoff
specializedAccurate digital measuring and takeoff tool for construction estimators working with PDF and paper plans.
Assemblies system for creating and instantly applying pre-built item packages with customizable formulas across multiple drawings
eTakeoff is a dedicated on-screen takeoff software designed for construction professionals to perform precise quantity takeoffs from PDF, CAD, and scanned plans. It excels in 2D measurements, assemblies for grouping items, and generating customizable reports for estimating workflows. The tool supports integration with estimating platforms and offers cloud-based collaboration in its higher tiers, making it suitable for detailed pre-construction analysis.
Pros
- Exceptionally accurate measurement tools with auto-scaling for PDFs and CAD files
- Powerful Assemblies feature for rapid application of complex item groups
- Seamless integration with estimating software like Quick Bid and Excel
Cons
- Dated user interface that feels clunky compared to modern competitors
- Steep learning curve for advanced assemblies and reporting
- Pricing escalates quickly for full-featured Structure edition
Best For
Mid-sized contractors and estimators focused on precise 2D takeoffs from plans without needing advanced 3D BIM capabilities.
Pricing
Free Viewer edition; Dimension ($1,500/year or $149/month); Structure ($2,400/year or $239/month) per user, with volume discounts available.
Takeoff Live
specializedCloud-native takeoff software for measuring quantities from PDFs and CAD files with team sharing.
Real-time collaborative takeoffs allowing multiple users to work on the same plan simultaneously
Takeoff Live is a cloud-based construction takeoff and estimating software designed for quick digital quantity takeoffs from PDF blueprints and plans. It supports assemblies, item management, and customizable reporting, with real-time collaboration features for teams. The platform emphasizes browser accessibility, eliminating the need for desktop installations, making it suitable for on-the-go estimators.
Pros
- Intuitive drag-and-drop takeoff tools for fast quantity extraction
- Real-time multiplayer collaboration for team-based estimating
- Seamless cloud access across devices without software installation
Cons
- Limited advanced customization options for complex assemblies
- Reporting templates lack depth compared to enterprise competitors
- Pricing can feel steep for solo estimators or small projects
Best For
Small to mid-sized construction firms and estimators seeking collaborative, browser-based takeoff tools for efficient fieldwork.
Pricing
Starts at $99/user/month (Basic), $199/user/month (Pro), $299/user/month (Enterprise); annual billing offers discounts, free trial available.
Groundplan
specializedSpecialized digital takeoff tool optimized for electrical, mechanical, and plumbing contractors.
AI Automatic Element Detection that instantly identifies and measures building components from uploaded PDFs
Groundplan is an AI-powered construction takeoff software designed to automate quantity takeoffs from PDF plans, enabling rapid measurement of areas, lengths, counts, and volumes for construction projects. It streamlines the process by automatically detecting elements like walls, doors, windows, and floors, reducing manual effort significantly. The platform supports real-time collaboration and exports data to popular estimating tools for seamless workflow integration.
Pros
- AI-driven automation for ultra-fast takeoffs from PDFs
- High accuracy on standard 2D plans with minimal manual corrections
- Cloud-based collaboration and easy export to estimating software
Cons
- Limited support for 3D BIM models compared to competitors
- Performance relies heavily on plan quality and clarity
- Subscription pricing may be high for solo estimators or small firms
Best For
Mid-sized construction firms and estimators focused on quick, accurate 2D takeoffs from digital plans.
Pricing
Subscription plans start at $99/user/month (Pro plan), with pay-per-drawing options and custom enterprise pricing.
Togal.AI
specializedAI-automated takeoff software that instantly detects and quantifies elements from construction drawings.
Patented AI that automatically detects, classifies, and quantifies hundreds of building elements across entire plan sets in seconds
Togal.AI is an AI-powered construction takeoff software that automates quantity extraction from digital blueprints, identifying and measuring elements like walls, doors, windows, and openings with remarkable speed and accuracy. It processes plans in seconds to minutes, even for multi-story projects, allowing users to review AI results, make adjustments, and export to Excel or integrated estimating tools. The platform supports PDF uploads and cloud collaboration, streamlining workflows for estimators handling large-scale commercial jobs.
Pros
- Ultra-fast AI automation reduces takeoff time from days to minutes
- High accuracy on standard elements with easy review and edit tools
- Seamless exports to Excel, Procore, and other estimating software
Cons
- Struggles with highly complex or non-standard plans requiring manual fixes
- Enterprise pricing lacks transparency and can be expensive for small firms
- Limited free trial and onboarding support for new users
Best For
Mid-to-large construction firms and estimators managing high-volume commercial projects needing rapid, scalable takeoffs from digital plans.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing starting at around $1,000/month per user; contact sales for quotes and demos.
Kreo
specializedAI-powered 2D takeoff and estimating platform for efficient quantity surveying and reporting.
AI Auto-Takeoff that instantly detects, classifies, and quantifies plan elements using machine learning
Kreo is an AI-powered cloud-based construction takeoff and estimating software designed to automate quantity takeoffs from 2D plans and PDFs. It uses machine learning to detect and measure elements like walls, doors, windows, and areas with high speed and accuracy, reducing manual effort significantly. The platform also supports collaborative workflows, 3D visualization, and integration with estimating tools for streamlined bidding processes.
Pros
- AI-driven automatic takeoffs save significant time on quantity surveying
- High accuracy for standard plans with minimal manual corrections
- Cloud collaboration enables real-time team access and updates
Cons
- AI performance can falter on highly complex or non-standard drawings
- Limited third-party integrations compared to established competitors
- Pricing may be steep for smaller firms or infrequent users
Best For
Mid-sized construction firms and estimators seeking AI automation to accelerate 2D takeoff workflows without a steep learning curve.
Pricing
Subscription starts at $99/user/month for basic plans, with Pro at $149/user/month and custom Enterprise pricing.
Buildxact
specializedCloud estimating and takeoff solution tailored for small to medium residential builders.
Live, automatic material price updates from integrated suppliers for real-time accurate estimating
Buildxact is a cloud-based construction management software designed primarily for residential builders and remodelers, focusing on digital takeoff, estimating, quoting, and job management. It allows users to perform takeoffs directly from PDFs and images, generate precise material lists, and integrate live supplier pricing for accurate estimates. The platform streamlines workflows from pre-construction to job completion with tools for scheduling, selections, and financial tracking.
Pros
- Intuitive interface with drag-and-drop takeoff tools
- Seamless integration of takeoff, estimating, and quoting
- Live material pricing from 300+ suppliers
Cons
- Limited advanced 2D/3D takeoff capabilities compared to specialized tools
- Reporting customization could be more flexible
- Pricing scales up quickly for larger teams
Best For
Small to medium residential builders and remodelers seeking an all-in-one solution for takeoffs and estimates without needing heavy customization.
Pricing
Starts at $149/user/month (Solo), $299/user/month (Teams), up to $499/user/month (Enterprise); annual plans offer discounts.
Conclusion
In comparing leading construction takeoff tools, PlanSwift stands out as the top choice, offering rapid quantity takeoffs from diverse files like PDFs, CAD, and images with customizable assemblies. Bluebeam Revu excels in advanced PDF editing and collaborative measurement, while On-Screen Takeoff shines with detailed 2D takeoffs and bid item management—both strong alternatives for specific needs. Each tool brings unique value, but PlanSwift’s versatility and speed make it a standout in the landscape.
Begin your takeoff journey with PlanSwift to enjoy faster, more accurate quantity extraction and elevate your project efficiency today.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison