Quick Overview
- 1#1: Cleopatra Enterprise - Comprehensive enterprise software for cost estimating, planning, benchmarking, and project control across industries.
- 2#2: ARES PRISM - Robust project controls solution providing parametric cost estimating, budgeting, and change management for capital projects.
- 3#3: Aspen Capital Cost Estimator - Advanced parametric estimating tool for accurate capital cost estimates in process and energy industries.
- 4#4: EcoSys - Enterprise project performance platform for integrated cost management, earned value, and forecasting.
- 5#5: InEight Estimate - Intelligent estimating software with 3D model integration, AI-driven takeoff, and real-time collaboration.
- 6#6: QUE$TOR - Specialized cost estimation and benchmarking tool for onshore and offshore oil & gas field developments.
- 7#7: CostX - Digital measuring and 2D/3D takeoff software for fast and accurate quantity-based cost estimating.
- 8#8: Benchmark Estimating Software - Flexible database-driven estimating solution for construction, engineering, and maintenance projects.
- 9#9: Sage Estimating - Integrated construction estimating software with customizable assemblies and real-time pricing updates.
- 10#10: ProEst - Cloud-based estimating platform streamlining bid management and cost calculations for construction firms.
Tools were selected based on technical rigor, user-friendliness, industry relevance, and overall value, ensuring a balanced assessment of performance, adaptability, and practical utility for professionals.
Comparison Table
Discover a concise comparison of top cost engineering software solutions, featuring Cleopatra Enterprise, ARES PRISM, Aspen Capital Cost Estimator, EcoSys, InEight Estimate, and additional tools. This table outlines key capabilities, usability, and practical fit to guide readers in selecting the ideal software for their cost management requirements.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Cleopatra Enterprise Comprehensive enterprise software for cost estimating, planning, benchmarking, and project control across industries. | enterprise | 9.7/10 | 9.9/10 | 8.3/10 | 9.4/10 |
| 2 | ARES PRISM Robust project controls solution providing parametric cost estimating, budgeting, and change management for capital projects. | enterprise | 9.2/10 | 9.6/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.9/10 |
| 3 | Aspen Capital Cost Estimator Advanced parametric estimating tool for accurate capital cost estimates in process and energy industries. | specialized | 8.8/10 | 9.5/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 4 | EcoSys Enterprise project performance platform for integrated cost management, earned value, and forecasting. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 5 | InEight Estimate Intelligent estimating software with 3D model integration, AI-driven takeoff, and real-time collaboration. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.6/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 6 | QUE$TOR Specialized cost estimation and benchmarking tool for onshore and offshore oil & gas field developments. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.6/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 7 | CostX Digital measuring and 2D/3D takeoff software for fast and accurate quantity-based cost estimating. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 8 | Benchmark Estimating Software Flexible database-driven estimating solution for construction, engineering, and maintenance projects. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 9 | Sage Estimating Integrated construction estimating software with customizable assemblies and real-time pricing updates. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 6.9/10 | 7.4/10 |
| 10 | ProEst Cloud-based estimating platform streamlining bid management and cost calculations for construction firms. | enterprise | 7.8/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.3/10 |
Comprehensive enterprise software for cost estimating, planning, benchmarking, and project control across industries.
Robust project controls solution providing parametric cost estimating, budgeting, and change management for capital projects.
Advanced parametric estimating tool for accurate capital cost estimates in process and energy industries.
Enterprise project performance platform for integrated cost management, earned value, and forecasting.
Intelligent estimating software with 3D model integration, AI-driven takeoff, and real-time collaboration.
Specialized cost estimation and benchmarking tool for onshore and offshore oil & gas field developments.
Digital measuring and 2D/3D takeoff software for fast and accurate quantity-based cost estimating.
Flexible database-driven estimating solution for construction, engineering, and maintenance projects.
Integrated construction estimating software with customizable assemblies and real-time pricing updates.
Cloud-based estimating platform streamlining bid management and cost calculations for construction firms.
Cleopatra Enterprise
enterpriseComprehensive enterprise software for cost estimating, planning, benchmarking, and project control across industries.
The fully integrated single-database architecture that synchronizes estimating, planning, and cost control in real-time, preventing data discrepancies common in siloed tools
Cleopatra Enterprise is a comprehensive, integrated cost engineering software platform tailored for capital-intensive projects in industries like oil & gas, chemicals, infrastructure, and renewables. It unifies estimating, planning, scheduling, progress measurement, and cost control within a single database, enabling accurate cost predictions, real-time tracking, and benchmarking against a vast historical database. The software supports parametric, factored, and detailed estimating methods, ensuring compliance with standards like AACE and supports the full project lifecycle from FEED to closeout.
Pros
- Seamless integration of estimating, scheduling, and cost control in one database, eliminating silos
- Extensive historical cost database with over 30 years of benchmarking data for accuracy
- Advanced parametric and hybrid estimating tools compliant with industry standards like AACEI
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to its depth and customization options
- High upfront costs and implementation time for full deployment
- Interface feels dated compared to modern SaaS tools
Best For
Large EPC contractors and project owners handling complex, multi-billion-dollar capital projects requiring precise lifecycle cost management.
Pricing
Custom enterprise licensing starting at $50,000+ annually, based on modules, users, and database access; perpetual licenses also available with maintenance fees.
ARES PRISM
enterpriseRobust project controls solution providing parametric cost estimating, budgeting, and change management for capital projects.
PRISM's global benchmarking database with over 20 years of vetted project data for location-specific cost accuracy
ARES PRISM is a comprehensive cost engineering software suite from AspenTech, tailored for EPC industries like oil & gas, chemicals, and power generation. It excels in parametric estimating, project cost planning, benchmarking against historical data, and progress tracking with earned value management. The platform integrates advanced risk analysis, including Monte Carlo simulations, to deliver accurate forecasts and control project costs throughout the lifecycle.
Pros
- Extensive parametric databases and benchmarking with millions of historical data points
- Powerful risk management tools including Monte Carlo probabilistic analysis
- Seamless integration with ERP systems and other AspenTech software
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users due to its depth and complexity
- High enterprise-level pricing not suited for small firms
- Interface feels dated compared to modern cloud-native tools
Best For
Large EPC firms and engineering consultancies managing complex, high-value industrial projects.
Pricing
Custom enterprise licensing, typically $50,000+ annually depending on modules and users; perpetual licenses also available.
Aspen Capital Cost Estimator
specializedAdvanced parametric estimating tool for accurate capital cost estimates in process and energy industries.
Dynamic integration with process simulators for real-time, simulation-driven cost estimates
Aspen Capital Cost Estimator (ACCE) is a premier capital cost estimating software from AspenTech, designed for the process industries including oil & gas, chemicals, and refining. It enables users to produce estimates ranging from conceptual (+/-50% accuracy) to detailed Class 5 (+/-10% accuracy) using parametric models, detailed equipment takeoffs, and extensive cost databases. ACCE integrates seamlessly with Aspen process simulation tools like Aspen Plus and HYSYS, enhancing accuracy by linking process data directly to cost models.
Pros
- Industry-leading accuracy with validated methodologies and global cost databases
- Seamless integration with AspenTech simulation suite for process-driven estimates
- Supports all AACE estimate classes with detailed reporting and audit trails
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring engineering expertise
- High cost suitable only for enterprise-scale users
- Resource-intensive, demanding powerful hardware for large projects
Best For
EPC contractors and engineering firms managing large-scale capital projects in process industries.
Pricing
Enterprise licensing with annual subscriptions; custom quotes typically start at $50,000+ depending on modules and users.
EcoSys
enterpriseEnterprise project performance platform for integrated cost management, earned value, and forecasting.
Live Cost Engine for real-time, dynamic what-if forecasting and scenario analysis
EcoSys is an enterprise-grade project cost management software designed for capital-intensive industries like construction, oil & gas, and infrastructure. It provides comprehensive tools for cost estimating, budgeting, earned value management (EVM), forecasting, and change control, with seamless integration to scheduling tools like Primavera P6 and Oracle Primavera Cloud. The platform enables real-time visibility into project costs, supporting data-driven decisions throughout the project lifecycle.
Pros
- Powerful earned value management and forecasting capabilities
- Robust integrations with major PPM and ERP systems
- Scalable for mega-projects with unlimited baseline support
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex setup
- High implementation costs and time
- Limited out-of-the-box reporting customization
Best For
Large enterprises managing complex, high-value capital projects in industries requiring rigorous cost control and compliance.
Pricing
Custom enterprise licensing; typically annual subscriptions starting at $100,000+ based on users, modules, and deployment scale.
InEight Estimate
enterpriseIntelligent estimating software with 3D model integration, AI-driven takeoff, and real-time collaboration.
Dynamic integration of estimates with project schedules and historical data for real-time cost forecasting and variance analysis
InEight Estimate is a cloud-based cost estimating software tailored for capital construction projects in engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) industries. It provides tools for digital takeoff, parametric estimating, and database-driven cost modeling using historical data to deliver accurate, auditable estimates. The platform integrates with other InEight modules for scheduling, forecasting, and risk analysis, enabling end-to-end project controls.
Pros
- Powerful digital takeoff and quantity takeoff tools with high accuracy
- Extensive historical cost database and parametric estimating for reliable benchmarks
- Seamless integration with InEight's project controls suite for holistic management
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to complex interface and advanced features
- Enterprise-level pricing may not suit small to mid-sized firms
- Limited mobile functionality compared to some competitors
Best For
Large EPC firms and capital project owners managing complex, multi-billion-dollar construction projects requiring precise, data-driven cost estimates.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing; typically subscription-based starting at $50,000+ annually depending on users, modules, and project scale—contact vendor for quote.
QUE$TOR
specializedSpecialized cost estimation and benchmarking tool for onshore and offshore oil & gas field developments.
Proprietary global cost benchmarking database powered by S&P Global's market intelligence
QUE$TOR by S&P Global is a cloud-based cost engineering platform specializing in parametric cost estimating and benchmarking for construction, infrastructure, and real estate projects. It draws on an extensive proprietary database of historical cost data to deliver accurate forecasts, risk analysis, and performance benchmarking against industry peers. The software supports BIM integration and covers diverse asset classes, making it suitable for quantity surveyors and cost engineers seeking data-driven insights.
Pros
- Vast proprietary historical cost database for reliable benchmarking
- Advanced parametric modeling for quick and accurate estimates
- Seamless BIM and API integrations for project workflows
Cons
- Steep learning curve for non-expert users
- Enterprise-level pricing limits accessibility for small firms
- Primarily optimized for UK/European markets with regional data biases
Best For
Large engineering and construction firms needing robust benchmarking and parametric estimating for complex, data-intensive projects.
Pricing
Custom enterprise subscription pricing; typically starts at several thousand dollars annually, contact S&P Global for quotes.
CostX
enterpriseDigital measuring and 2D/3D takeoff software for fast and accurate quantity-based cost estimating.
Live Linking™ that automatically synchronizes changes between drawings, takeoffs, and bills of quantities
CostX by RIB Software is a powerful 2D/3D takeoff and cost estimating solution tailored for construction cost engineers and quantity surveyors. It excels in integrating BIM models for accurate quantity extraction and features live linking between drawings, bills of quantities, and cost plans to maintain data consistency. The software supports customizable templates, Excel integration, and advanced reporting for efficient cost management throughout project lifecycles.
Pros
- Superior BIM integration with automatic quantity takeoff from 3D models
- Live Linking technology ensures real-time updates to quantities and costs
- Robust customization and reporting tools for complex projects
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users
- High pricing suitable mainly for enterprises
- Limited native mobile app functionality
Best For
Quantity surveyors and cost engineers in mid-to-large construction firms managing BIM-heavy projects.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; typically annual subscriptions starting at $5,000+ per user for professional licenses.
Benchmark Estimating Software
enterpriseFlexible database-driven estimating solution for construction, engineering, and maintenance projects.
Parametric estimating engine that automates detailed resource-based calculations from project parameters and historical data
Benchmark Estimating Software is a robust cloud-based platform tailored for cost estimation in construction, civil engineering, and mining projects. It provides digital takeoff tools, parametric estimating, customizable databases with over 100,000 items, and real-time collaboration for accurate tendering and budgeting. The software excels in handling complex, resource-based estimates while integrating with BIM and ERP systems for streamlined workflows.
Pros
- Extensive customizable item library and parametric estimating for precise cost modeling
- Real-time cloud collaboration and audit trails for team efficiency
- Strong integration with BIM, ERP, and project management tools
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring training for full utilization
- High pricing suitable mainly for mid-to-large enterprises
- Limited focus outside construction and mining sectors
Best For
Cost engineers and estimators in medium-to-large construction firms managing complex infrastructure and civil projects.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; modular subscriptions start around AUD 5,000/user/year for cloud access, with enterprise options for on-premise.
Sage Estimating
enterpriseIntegrated construction estimating software with customizable assemblies and real-time pricing updates.
Extensive, industry-curated databases of 6 million+ items and assemblies tailored to construction trades for unparalleled out-of-the-box accuracy
Sage Estimating is a robust construction cost estimating software that enables users to create detailed, accurate bids using extensive databases of items, assemblies, and labor rates. It supports digital takeoffs, customizable formulas, and integration with CAD files, Excel, and Sage accounting solutions for streamlined workflows. Primarily targeted at construction professionals, it facilitates real-time cost updates and bid management for complex projects.
Pros
- Comprehensive databases with over 100 trade-specific assemblies for quick, accurate estimating
- Strong integrations with Sage accounting, project management, and CAD/Excel tools
- Advanced reporting and bid day features for professional bid submission
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to complex interface and extensive customization options
- Outdated user interface compared to modern cloud-native competitors
- High pricing that may not suit small firms or general cost engineering outside construction
Best For
Mid-to-large construction contractors requiring integrated, database-driven estimating for competitive bidding.
Pricing
Quote-based pricing, typically $5,000–$25,000+ annually depending on modules, users, and deployment (cloud or on-premises).
ProEst
enterpriseCloud-based estimating platform streamlining bid management and cost calculations for construction firms.
Extensive, real-time updated cost database with 24,000+ items and assemblies for rapid, accurate construction estimates
ProEst is a cloud-based construction estimating software tailored for cost engineers and estimators in the construction industry, offering digital takeoff, detailed cost databases, and bid management capabilities. It provides an extensive library of over 24,000 pre-built items, assemblies, and labor rates to accelerate accurate estimating. The platform supports real-time collaboration and integrates with accounting systems like QuickBooks and Sage, as well as project management tools like Procore.
Pros
- Vast, customizable cost database with frequent updates
- Strong integrations with accounting and PM software
- Cloud-based access for remote team collaboration
Cons
- Pricing can be steep for small firms
- Occasional performance issues with large takeoffs
- Mobile app lacks full desktop functionality
Best For
Mid-sized construction firms and cost engineers needing reliable, database-driven estimating with solid integrations.
Pricing
Subscription-based with custom quotes; starts around $5,000/year for basic plans, scaling with users and features.
Conclusion
The reviewed cost engineering software caters to varied needs, from enterprise-level management to industry-specific estimating. Cleopatra Enterprise leads as the top choice, offering comprehensive tools for estimating, planning, and control across sectors. ARES PRISM and Aspen Capital Cost Estimator are strong next options, with ARES PRISM excelling in project controls and Aspen thriving in process and energy industries. The right pick depends on unique requirements, but all deliver significant value.
Explore Cleopatra Enterprise to experience its integrated capabilities—ideal for businesses seeking to streamline cost management and boost project efficiency.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison