Quick Overview
- 1#1: PlanSwift - Digital takeoff and estimating software that enables fast, accurate quantity calculations and cost estimates from digital plans.
- 2#2: Stack - Cloud-based construction takeoff and estimating platform with AI-assisted measurements and real-time collaboration.
- 3#3: ProEst - Integrated cloud estimating software that streamlines bidding, integrates with accounting, and improves accuracy for contractors.
- 4#4: Sage Estimating - Powerful construction estimating solution with extensive cost databases, assemblies, and customizable reporting.
- 5#5: Bluebeam Revu - PDF-based software for precise quantity takeoffs, markup, and estimating with advanced measurement tools.
- 6#6: Buildertrend - All-in-one construction management platform with built-in estimating, takeoff, and bid management features.
- 7#7: CoConstruct - Custom home building software offering professional estimating, selections, and project budgeting tools.
- 8#8: Knowify - Cloud platform for subcontractors providing job costing, takeoffs, and estimating with QuickBooks integration.
- 9#9: JobTread - Construction management software with customizable estimating templates, scheduling, and financial tracking.
- 10#10: Jobber - Field service management tool with quoting, estimating, invoicing, and scheduling for service contractors.
Tools were selected and ranked by evaluating feature depth, user experience, technical robustness, and overall value, ensuring they deliver measurable benefits in takeoff accuracy, cost estimation, and integration with broader project management processes.
Comparison Table
For contractors and estimators aiming to streamline estimation processes, this comparison table details top tools like PlanSwift, Stack, ProEst, Sage Estimating, Bluebeam Revu, and more, examining key features, usability, and practicality to help readers identify the best fit for their projects. Whether handling complex takeoffs or managing costs, the table simplifies software selection by highlighting critical metrics that enhance daily workflow efficiency.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | PlanSwift Digital takeoff and estimating software that enables fast, accurate quantity calculations and cost estimates from digital plans. | specialized | 9.5/10 | 9.7/10 | 8.9/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 2 | Stack Cloud-based construction takeoff and estimating platform with AI-assisted measurements and real-time collaboration. | specialized | 9.2/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.8/10 | 8.9/10 |
| 3 | ProEst Integrated cloud estimating software that streamlines bidding, integrates with accounting, and improves accuracy for contractors. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.4/10 |
| 4 | Sage Estimating Powerful construction estimating solution with extensive cost databases, assemblies, and customizable reporting. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 5 | Bluebeam Revu PDF-based software for precise quantity takeoffs, markup, and estimating with advanced measurement tools. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.5/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 6 | Buildertrend All-in-one construction management platform with built-in estimating, takeoff, and bid management features. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.3/10 | 7.8/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 7 | CoConstruct Custom home building software offering professional estimating, selections, and project budgeting tools. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.4/10 | 7.9/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 8 | Knowify Cloud platform for subcontractors providing job costing, takeoffs, and estimating with QuickBooks integration. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.6/10 | 7.7/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 9 | JobTread Construction management software with customizable estimating templates, scheduling, and financial tracking. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.4/10 | 7.9/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 10 | Jobber Field service management tool with quoting, estimating, invoicing, and scheduling for service contractors. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.6/10 |
Digital takeoff and estimating software that enables fast, accurate quantity calculations and cost estimates from digital plans.
Cloud-based construction takeoff and estimating platform with AI-assisted measurements and real-time collaboration.
Integrated cloud estimating software that streamlines bidding, integrates with accounting, and improves accuracy for contractors.
Powerful construction estimating solution with extensive cost databases, assemblies, and customizable reporting.
PDF-based software for precise quantity takeoffs, markup, and estimating with advanced measurement tools.
All-in-one construction management platform with built-in estimating, takeoff, and bid management features.
Custom home building software offering professional estimating, selections, and project budgeting tools.
Cloud platform for subcontractors providing job costing, takeoffs, and estimating with QuickBooks integration.
Construction management software with customizable estimating templates, scheduling, and financial tracking.
Field service management tool with quoting, estimating, invoicing, and scheduling for service contractors.
PlanSwift
specializedDigital takeoff and estimating software that enables fast, accurate quantity calculations and cost estimates from digital plans.
Revolutionary point-and-click takeoff system that assembles quantities and costs instantly as you trace plans
PlanSwift is a leading on-screen takeoff and estimating software tailored for construction contractors, allowing users to import digital blueprints, PDFs, and CAD files for rapid quantity takeoffs. It features drag-and-drop assemblies, customizable databases, and automated cost calculations to streamline the estimating process from takeoff to bid. Widely praised for boosting accuracy and efficiency, it's a go-to tool for professionals handling complex projects.
Pros
- Ultra-fast point-and-click takeoffs with real-time calculations
- Highly customizable assemblies and databases for precise estimating
- Strong integrations with QuickBooks, Excel, and other construction tools
Cons
- Steep initial learning curve for advanced features
- Windows-only compatibility, no Mac support
- Upfront licensing cost without a free tier
Best For
Construction contractors and estimators managing medium to large-scale projects who prioritize speed and accuracy in digital takeoffs and bidding.
Pricing
Perpetual license starts at $1,595 per user, with annual maintenance at $395; volume discounts available.
Stack
specializedCloud-based construction takeoff and estimating platform with AI-assisted measurements and real-time collaboration.
Patented AI-driven automatic quantity takeoff that recognizes and counts items from plans with high accuracy
Stack (stackct.com) is a cloud-based construction takeoff and estimating software designed specifically for contractors to streamline quantity takeoffs from PDFs, CAD files, and images using AI-assisted automation. It allows users to build detailed estimates with customizable assemblies, pricing databases, and real-time collaboration tools for team bidding. The platform integrates with accounting software like QuickBooks and supports bid management to help win more projects efficiently.
Pros
- AI-powered automated takeoffs drastically reduce manual counting time
- Robust integrations with QuickBooks, Procore, and Excel for seamless workflows
- Real-time collaboration and cloud access enable team efficiency on any device
Cons
- Subscription pricing can be steep for solo contractors or very small firms
- Slight learning curve for advanced AI and assembly customization features
- Limited offline functionality due to cloud dependency
Best For
Mid-sized construction firms and estimators handling complex projects who prioritize speed and accuracy in takeoffs and bidding.
Pricing
Starts at $125/user/month for Pro plan (billed annually), with Enterprise custom pricing; 14-day free trial available.
ProEst
enterpriseIntegrated cloud estimating software that streamlines bidding, integrates with accounting, and improves accuracy for contractors.
Visual Estimating with AI-assisted takeoff that automatically detects and quantifies items from plans for faster, error-reduced estimates
ProEst is a cloud-based construction estimating software tailored for contractors, offering digital takeoff, cost databases, and automated bid management to streamline pre-construction workflows. It enables users to perform accurate quantity takeoffs from PDFs, DWGs, and images, build estimates using customizable assemblies, and generate professional proposals. The platform integrates with accounting systems like QuickBooks, Sage, and Viewpoint, ensuring seamless data synchronization for better financial oversight.
Pros
- Powerful digital takeoff tools with support for multiple file formats
- Robust integrations with major accounting and project management software
- Customizable item and assembly databases for industry-specific accuracy
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users despite intuitive interface updates
- Pricing can be high for small contractors or solo estimators
- Limited advanced reporting and analytics compared to top competitors
Best For
Mid-sized to large construction firms requiring precise, scalable estimating with strong accounting integrations.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing, typically $250-$500 per user/month or $5,000+ annually for base plans, with enterprise tiers scaling by users and features.
Sage Estimating
enterprisePowerful construction estimating solution with extensive cost databases, assemblies, and customizable reporting.
The industry-leading Sage National Cost Database with programmable logic for custom estimating assemblies
Sage Estimating is a robust construction estimating software designed for contractors to produce accurate, detailed bids using a centralized database of material, labor, and equipment costs. It features digital takeoff capabilities from PDFs, CAD files, and BIM models, with customizable assemblies and formulas for precise quantity takeoffs. The software integrates deeply with Sage's accounting and project management tools, streamlining workflows from estimate to invoice.
Pros
- Vast, regularly updated cost database with millions of line items
- Advanced visual takeoff tools supporting 2D/3D models
- Seamless integration with Sage accounting and ERP systems
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring significant training
- High pricing not ideal for small contractors
- Interface feels dated compared to modern cloud-native tools
Best For
Mid-to-large construction firms handling complex projects that need database-driven accuracy and ERP integration.
Pricing
Quote-based pricing, typically $4,000–$12,000 per year per user depending on modules and deployment (cloud or on-premise).
Bluebeam Revu
specializedPDF-based software for precise quantity takeoffs, markup, and estimating with advanced measurement tools.
Dynamic quantity takeoff tools with automatic scaling, area/perimeter calculations, and visual summaries
Bluebeam Revu is a powerful PDF editing and markup software designed specifically for the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry. It enables contractors and estimators to perform precise digital takeoffs, measurements, and quantity estimations directly from PDF blueprints and project documents. While excelling in document collaboration and visualization, it serves as a foundational tool for estimating workflows rather than a complete end-to-end estimating solution.
Pros
- Exceptional accuracy in digital takeoffs and quantity measurements with customizable toolsets
- Seamless collaboration via Bluebeam Studio for real-time cloud sharing
- Robust integration with Excel and other estimating software for data export
Cons
- Steep learning curve for advanced features
- Lacks built-in cost databases or full estimating assemblies
- Subscription pricing can be high for small teams
Best For
Construction estimators and contractors focused on precise PDF-based takeoffs and document-heavy workflows who pair it with complementary estimating tools.
Pricing
Annual subscriptions start at $239/user for Basics, $299 for Core, and $449 for Complete; perpetual licenses and volume discounts available.
Buildertrend
enterpriseAll-in-one construction management platform with built-in estimating, takeoff, and bid management features.
Estimate-to-Schedule automation that converts bids directly into detailed project timelines and purchase orders
Buildertrend is an all-in-one construction management platform with robust estimating capabilities tailored for contractors, enabling digital takeoffs, assemblies, cost databases, and bid creation. It integrates estimating seamlessly with job costing, scheduling, and client communication tools, streamlining the transition from bid to build. While not a pure-play estimator, its features support accurate cost projections and real-time updates across projects.
Pros
- Seamless integration of estimates with scheduling and job costing
- Digital takeoff tools and customizable assemblies for quick bidding
- Mobile app supports field updates to estimates in real-time
Cons
- Steeper learning curve due to extensive feature set
- Pricing is higher than dedicated estimating software
- Advanced takeoff features lag behind specialized tools like PlanSwift
Best For
Mid-sized contractors and remodelers seeking integrated estimating within full project management workflows.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing, typically $299-$599/month based on team size, projects, and features.
CoConstruct
specializedCustom home building software offering professional estimating, selections, and project budgeting tools.
The interactive client portal that lets homeowners view, comment on, and approve detailed estimates and selections in real-time
CoConstruct is an all-in-one construction management software designed primarily for custom home builders and remodelers, featuring robust estimating tools for creating detailed bids, takeoffs, and cost breakdowns. It integrates estimating seamlessly with scheduling, budgeting, and client communication, allowing contractors to generate professional proposals and track changes in real-time. The platform emphasizes collaboration through a client portal where homeowners can review and approve estimates and selections directly.
Pros
- Seamless integration of estimating with project management and QuickBooks
- Customizable templates and assemblies for fast, accurate residential estimates
- Excellent client portal for estimate approvals and change order tracking
Cons
- Pricing can be steep for smaller operations with per-project add-ons
- Steeper learning curve for advanced takeoff and estimating features
- Less suited for commercial or large-scale estimating compared to specialized tools
Best For
Custom residential builders and remodelers who want estimating tightly integrated with client communication and full project oversight.
Pricing
Custom quotes starting at around $299/month for basic plans, up to $499+/month for advanced features, plus potential per-project fees.
Knowify
specializedCloud platform for subcontractors providing job costing, takeoffs, and estimating with QuickBooks integration.
Real-time job costing that updates estimates dynamically as project changes occur
Knowify is a cloud-based construction management platform designed for trade contractors, offering robust estimating tools with digital takeoffs, customizable assemblies, and real-time job costing. It streamlines the bidding process by integrating cost databases, labor rates, and material pricing for accurate estimates. Beyond estimating, it handles project management, invoicing, and scheduling with strong QuickBooks integration for seamless accounting.
Pros
- Seamless QuickBooks integration for automated invoicing and payments
- Powerful digital takeoff and estimating tools with assemblies
- Real-time job costing and mobile app for field updates
Cons
- Steep learning curve, especially for non-tech-savvy users
- Pricing can be expensive for very small teams or solo contractors
- Interface feels dated compared to modern competitors
Best For
Small to medium trade contractors needing integrated estimating, job costing, and QuickBooks-synced invoicing.
Pricing
Starts at $149/month for Starter (1-5 users), $299/month for Pro, with custom Enterprise pricing; billed annually.
JobTread
specializedConstruction management software with customizable estimating templates, scheduling, and financial tracking.
Visual Job Board for intuitive drag-and-drop scheduling and real-time job status tracking
JobTread is a cloud-based construction management platform designed for contractors, featuring robust estimating tools for creating detailed bids with digital takeoffs, assemblies, and cost databases. It streamlines the estimating process by allowing users to generate professional proposals and track costs in real-time against budgets. Beyond estimating, it offers integrated scheduling, invoicing, time tracking, and QuickBooks synchronization for comprehensive project oversight.
Pros
- Powerful estimating with digital takeoffs and customizable templates
- Strong integrations including QuickBooks for seamless accounting
- Mobile app for on-site access and real-time updates
Cons
- Moderate learning curve for new users
- Pricing can add up for teams needing higher-tier plans
- Reporting customization is somewhat limited
Best For
Small to mid-sized contractors and remodelers seeking an all-in-one tool for estimating, bidding, and job management.
Pricing
Starts at $69/user/month (Crew plan), $99 (Field), $139 (Office), with annual discounts and custom enterprise pricing.
Jobber
specializedField service management tool with quoting, estimating, invoicing, and scheduling for service contractors.
Client Hub portal for instant quote approvals, payments, and self-service updates without phone calls
Jobber is a comprehensive field service management platform tailored for contractors and home service businesses, offering robust quoting and estimating tools to create professional estimates quickly using customizable templates, line items, and attachments like photos. It streamlines the workflow by allowing seamless conversion of approved quotes into scheduled jobs, invoices, and payments. Beyond estimating, it includes CRM, dispatching, and client communication features, making it an all-in-one solution for managing contractor operations.
Pros
- Intuitive quote builder with templates, discounts, and digital signatures
- Seamless integration with scheduling, invoicing, and payments
- Mobile app enables on-site estimate creation and client approvals
Cons
- Lacks advanced takeoff, CAD integration, or quantity surveying tools found in specialized estimators
- Full features require higher pricing tiers, which may not suit solo operators
- Customization options for complex, multi-phase estimates are somewhat limited
Best For
Small to mid-sized service contractors seeking an user-friendly all-in-one platform for quoting alongside scheduling and billing.
Pricing
Lite plan starts at $69/month (annual billing) for basic quoting; Core ($169/month), Grow ($349/month), and custom Plus plans add advanced features; per-user pricing applies for teams.
Conclusion
The top 10 contractor estimator software reviewed offer robust tools for takeoff, cost estimation, and project management, each with unique strengths. Leading the pack is PlanSwift, celebrated for its fast, accurate quantity calculations from digital plans. Close alternatives like Stack, with AI-assisted measurements, and ProEst, focusing on integration and bidding, provide excellent options for different workflows.
Take the first step to streamline your estimating process—try PlanSwift today to experience its efficient takeoff and budget modeling capabilities, and see how it can enhance your project outcomes.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison
