Quick Overview
- 1#1: Bluebeam Revu - Industry-leading PDF software for precise digital plan markup, measurement, and quantity takeoff in construction.
- 2#2: PlanSwift - Powerful desktop software for fast digital takeoff, assemblies, and estimating from blueprints.
- 3#3: On-Screen Takeoff - Accurate 2D digital takeoff tool that integrates with Digital Estimating for construction bidding.
- 4#4: Stack - Cloud-based platform for collaborative digital takeoff, estimating, and planning on construction projects.
- 5#5: Autodesk Takeoff - Cloud takeoff solution within Autodesk Construction Cloud for 2D/3D quantities from plans and BIM models.
- 6#6: Togal.AI - AI-driven software that automates quantity takeoff by instantly analyzing digital plans.
- 7#7: CostX - Advanced 2D and 3D digital takeoff and estimating tool with seamless BIM integration.
- 8#8: Kreo Software - Cloud BIM platform using AI for automated takeoff, quantities, and collaborative estimating.
- 9#9: Buildxact - Integrated takeoff, quoting, and job management software tailored for residential builders.
- 10#10: Beam AI - AI-powered takeoff and estimating tool that generates accurate quantities from plans in minutes.
Tools were ranked based on feature depth, user experience, integration potential, and value, ensuring relevance across diverse project scales and workflows
Comparison Table
Digital takeoff software simplifies construction and renovation estimation by automating measurements and calculations, with diverse tools to meet varying project needs. This comparison table explores options such as Bluebeam Revu, PlanSwift, On-Screen Takeoff, Stack, Autodesk Takeoff, and more, outlining key features, usability, and target workflows to help readers identify the best fit for their projects.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Bluebeam Revu Industry-leading PDF software for precise digital plan markup, measurement, and quantity takeoff in construction. | enterprise | 9.5/10 | 9.8/10 | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 2 | PlanSwift Powerful desktop software for fast digital takeoff, assemblies, and estimating from blueprints. | specialized | 9.1/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.4/10 |
| 3 | On-Screen Takeoff Accurate 2D digital takeoff tool that integrates with Digital Estimating for construction bidding. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 4 | Stack Cloud-based platform for collaborative digital takeoff, estimating, and planning on construction projects. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 5 | Autodesk Takeoff Cloud takeoff solution within Autodesk Construction Cloud for 2D/3D quantities from plans and BIM models. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 6 | Togal.AI AI-driven software that automates quantity takeoff by instantly analyzing digital plans. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 7 | CostX Advanced 2D and 3D digital takeoff and estimating tool with seamless BIM integration. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.0/10 | 7.4/10 |
| 8 | Kreo Software Cloud BIM platform using AI for automated takeoff, quantities, and collaborative estimating. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.9/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 9 | Buildxact Integrated takeoff, quoting, and job management software tailored for residential builders. | specialized | 8.0/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 10 | Beam AI AI-powered takeoff and estimating tool that generates accurate quantities from plans in minutes. | specialized | 6.8/10 | 7.2/10 | 6.5/10 | 6.2/10 |
Industry-leading PDF software for precise digital plan markup, measurement, and quantity takeoff in construction.
Powerful desktop software for fast digital takeoff, assemblies, and estimating from blueprints.
Accurate 2D digital takeoff tool that integrates with Digital Estimating for construction bidding.
Cloud-based platform for collaborative digital takeoff, estimating, and planning on construction projects.
Cloud takeoff solution within Autodesk Construction Cloud for 2D/3D quantities from plans and BIM models.
AI-driven software that automates quantity takeoff by instantly analyzing digital plans.
Advanced 2D and 3D digital takeoff and estimating tool with seamless BIM integration.
Cloud BIM platform using AI for automated takeoff, quantities, and collaborative estimating.
Integrated takeoff, quoting, and job management software tailored for residential builders.
AI-powered takeoff and estimating tool that generates accurate quantities from plans in minutes.
Bluebeam Revu
enterpriseIndustry-leading PDF software for precise digital plan markup, measurement, and quantity takeoff in construction.
Quantity Link, which provides dynamic, bi-directional syncing of takeoff measurements with Excel spreadsheets for real-time updates and error reduction
Bluebeam Revu is a premier PDF-based software designed for the AEC industry, specializing in digital takeoffs, markups, and collaboration on construction documents. It offers precise measurement tools for lengths, areas, volumes, and counts directly from PDF plans, with features like automatic scaling, chaining, and custom symbol counts. Users can generate detailed takeoff reports, export data to Excel via Quantity Link, and automate workflows with scripting, making it a comprehensive solution for quantity estimation and pre-construction bidding.
Pros
- Exceptionally accurate and customizable takeoff tools with chaining and dynamic fills
- Seamless Excel integration via Quantity Link for live data syncing
- Robust collaboration through Studio Sessions and cloud project management
Cons
- Steep learning curve for advanced features and customization
- Windows-only platform with no native Mac support
- Premium pricing may deter small firms or solo users
Best For
Professional construction estimators, quantity surveyors, and AEC teams managing complex digital takeoffs from PDF blueprints.
Pricing
Subscription from $239/user/year (Basics) to $349/user/year (eXtreme); perpetual licenses start at $425 with maintenance fees.
PlanSwift
specializedPowerful desktop software for fast digital takeoff, assemblies, and estimating from blueprints.
Drag-and-drop assemblies with advanced formula editor for dynamic, user-defined quantity and cost computations
PlanSwift is a leading digital takeoff and estimating software tailored for construction professionals, enabling precise quantity measurements from digital plans like PDFs, DWGs, and scanned images via an intuitive point-and-click interface. It excels in creating customizable assemblies with formula-driven calculations for rapid cost estimating and supports real-time updates as takeoffs are performed. The tool integrates seamlessly with Excel and other estimating software, streamlining workflows from takeoff to bid preparation.
Pros
- Lightning-fast point-and-click takeoffs with real-time quantity and cost calculations
- Highly customizable assemblies and formulas for complex estimating needs
- Robust export options to Excel and integration with popular construction software
Cons
- Steeper learning curve for advanced customization and formulas
- Windows-only compatibility, no native Mac or cloud version
- High upfront licensing cost with ongoing maintenance fees
Best For
Construction estimators and contractors handling large-scale projects who require precise, customizable digital takeoffs from blueprints.
Pricing
Perpetual license starts at ~$1,749 per user, plus ~20% annual maintenance; volume discounts available.
On-Screen Takeoff
enterpriseAccurate 2D digital takeoff tool that integrates with Digital Estimating for construction bidding.
Advanced assembly builder that automatically calculates totals, pricing, and labor from point-and-click measurements
On-Screen Takeoff (OST) by Trimble is a specialized digital takeoff software designed for construction estimators to perform precise quantity measurements directly from PDF, DWG, or scanned plans on-screen. It excels in creating assemblies of materials, labor, and costs, generating detailed reports, and exporting data to integrated estimating tools like Digital Estimating. Widely adopted in the AEC industry, OST streamlines pre-bid processes by replacing manual takeoff methods with accurate, scalable digital workflows.
Pros
- Exceptionally accurate 2D takeoff tools with customizable assemblies and real-time calculations
- Robust integration with Trimble's ecosystem including Digital Estimating and Viewpoint
- Comprehensive reporting and bid item management for complex projects
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to dense interface and advanced features
- Primarily 2D-focused with limited native 3D/BIM takeoff capabilities
- Subscription pricing can be premium for smaller firms
Best For
Experienced construction estimators and general contractors handling large-scale 2D plan takeoffs and detailed bid assemblies.
Pricing
Annual subscription starting at ~$1,995 per user, with volume discounts and custom quotes available.
Stack
enterpriseCloud-based platform for collaborative digital takeoff, estimating, and planning on construction projects.
Visual drag-and-drop assemblies that instantly apply takeoff rules across entire drawings
Stack (stackct.com) is a cloud-based digital takeoff and estimating software designed for construction professionals to perform accurate quantity takeoffs from PDFs, CAD files, and images. It automates measurements for areas, lengths, volumes, and counts, while integrating takeoff data directly into estimating and bidding workflows. The platform emphasizes speed, collaboration, and visual tools to streamline preconstruction processes for teams.
Pros
- Lightning-fast takeoff speeds with automated assemblies
- Real-time cloud collaboration for teams
- Strong integrations with Procore, PlanSwift, and estimating tools
Cons
- Steeper learning curve for advanced customizations
- Performance can lag with very large plan sets
- Mobile app lacks full desktop functionality
Best For
Mid-sized construction firms and estimators seeking collaborative, cloud-based takeoff with integrated estimating.
Pricing
Subscription tiers start at $59/user/month for basic takeoff, $99/user/month for full estimating, with custom enterprise plans.
Autodesk Takeoff
enterpriseCloud takeoff solution within Autodesk Construction Cloud for 2D/3D quantities from plans and BIM models.
Native integration with Revit and BIM models for linking 2D takeoffs to 3D data without manual imports
Autodesk Takeoff is a cloud-based digital takeoff solution within the Autodesk Construction Cloud ecosystem, enabling construction professionals to perform precise 2D quantity takeoffs from PDFs, scanned drawings, and CAD files. It supports creating customizable assemblies, generating detailed reports, and exporting data for estimating. The tool emphasizes collaboration by integrating seamlessly with other Autodesk products like Revit and BIM 360 for streamlined workflows.
Pros
- Deep integration with Autodesk ecosystem including Revit and Construction Cloud
- Robust 2D takeoff tools with customizable assemblies and real-time collaboration
- Accurate quantity extraction and reporting for efficient pre-construction workflows
Cons
- Steeper learning curve, especially for users outside the Autodesk suite
- Subscription model can be costly for small teams or standalone use
- Limited native 3D model takeoff capabilities compared to specialized competitors
Best For
Construction estimators and teams already invested in the Autodesk Construction Cloud who need integrated 2D takeoff and collaboration.
Pricing
Included in Autodesk Construction Cloud Premium and Enterprise plans; starts at ~$100/user/month (billed annually), with free access for qualified Autodesk subscribers.
Togal.AI
specializedAI-driven software that automates quantity takeoff by instantly analyzing digital plans.
Patented AI engine that automatically detects and quantifies drawing elements in seconds without templates
Togal.AI is an AI-powered digital takeoff software designed for construction professionals, automating quantity takeoffs directly from PDF blueprints and drawings. It uses machine learning to instantly detect, measure, and quantify elements like areas, lengths, counts, and openings with minimal manual input. The platform supports collaborative reviewing, editing, and exporting to estimating tools, streamlining pre-construction bidding processes.
Pros
- Ultra-fast AI-automated takeoffs saving hours of manual work
- High accuracy for standard architectural and MEP drawings
- Cloud-based collaboration for teams with real-time updates
Cons
- High cost limits accessibility for small firms
- AI can struggle with highly complex or non-standard plans requiring manual corrections
- Limited integrations compared to some competitors
Best For
Mid-sized to large construction estimators and GCs handling high-volume bidding with standard blueprints.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; typically starts at $1,000/month for teams, with pay-per-project options available.
CostX
enterpriseAdvanced 2D and 3D digital takeoff and estimating tool with seamless BIM integration.
Live Linking technology that automatically synchronizes takeoff changes across worksheets and bills of quantities
CostX by RIB Software is a powerful digital takeoff and estimating solution tailored for construction quantity surveyors and estimators. It enables precise 2D and 3D quantity takeoffs from PDFs, CAD files, scanned drawings, and BIM models like IFC. Key strengths include its live linking technology, which dynamically connects takeoffs to worksheets and bills of quantities for automatic updates, streamlining the estimating process.
Pros
- Superior 2D/3D takeoff from diverse formats including BIM
- Live Linking for real-time updates between drawings and costs
- Robust reporting and customization for complex projects
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users
- High pricing limits accessibility for small firms
- Primarily Windows-based with limited cloud/mobile options
Best For
Large construction firms and quantity surveyors handling complex BIM-integrated projects requiring precise, linked takeoffs and estimates.
Pricing
Quote-based; perpetual licenses start around $6,000-$10,000 per user with annual maintenance, or subscription from $3,000+ per year.
Kreo Software
specializedCloud BIM platform using AI for automated takeoff, quantities, and collaborative estimating.
AI-driven automatic recognition and quantification of elements directly from Revit models and PDFs, reducing manual input by up to 80%
Kreo Software (kreo.net) is a cloud-based digital takeoff and estimating platform designed for construction professionals, utilizing AI and BIM technology to automate quantity extraction from 2D PDFs, CAD files, and 3D models. It streamlines the takeoff process by enabling precise measurements of areas, lengths, volumes, and counts, while generating detailed reports and bills of quantities. The software supports real-time collaboration and integrates with ERP systems, making it suitable for pre-construction bidding and estimating workflows.
Pros
- AI-powered automation for rapid takeoffs from PDFs and BIM models
- Strong support for both 2D and 3D measurements with customizable templates
- Real-time cloud collaboration and integration with tools like Procore and Autodesk
Cons
- Steep learning curve for advanced BIM features
- Pricing can be high for small teams or infrequent users
- Occasional performance lags with very large models
Best For
Mid-sized construction and estimating firms that rely on BIM models and need collaborative, AI-assisted takeoffs for accurate bidding.
Pricing
Subscription-based plans starting at $99/user/month for basic takeoff features, with Pro ($199/user/month) and Enterprise custom pricing including advanced BIM and integrations.
Buildxact
specializedIntegrated takeoff, quoting, and job management software tailored for residential builders.
Live supplier price integration that automatically updates takeoff-generated material lists with current costs from connected vendors
Buildxact is a cloud-based construction management software tailored for residential builders, featuring digital takeoff tools to measure quantities directly from imported PDF plans. It streamlines the process from takeoff to estimating, job costing, and scheduling by automatically generating material lists and pulling live supplier pricing. The platform emphasizes ease of use for small to medium-sized builders, with mobile access for on-site verification.
Pros
- Intuitive drag-and-drop takeoff interface with auto-counting for common elements
- Seamless integration of takeoff data into professional estimates with real-time pricing
- Cloud-based with strong mobile app support for fieldwork
Cons
- Lacks advanced 3D takeoff or BIM integration compared to specialized tools
- Primarily optimized for Australian residential market, limiting global supplier data
- Customization options can feel restrictive for highly complex projects
Best For
Small to medium residential builders seeking an all-in-one takeoff and estimating solution without needing separate specialized software.
Pricing
Starts at AUD $149/user/month (Essentials) up to $499/user/month (Premium), with annual discounts and free trial available.
Beam AI
specializedAI-powered takeoff and estimating tool that generates accurate quantities from plans in minutes.
Custom AI agent builder that can be trained specifically for blueprint analysis and quantity extraction
Beam AI is an AI-powered platform primarily designed for building custom AI agents, but it can be adapted for digital takeoff tasks in construction through specialized agent configurations for analyzing blueprints and extracting quantities. It leverages machine learning to process plans, identify elements like areas and lengths, and generate takeoff reports, though it's not a dedicated takeoff tool. This general-purpose AI approach offers flexibility but requires custom setup for optimal construction estimating workflows.
Pros
- Flexible AI agent customization for takeoff automation
- Scalable for various document types including PDFs
- Integrates with developer tools for advanced workflows
Cons
- Not specialized for construction takeoff, leading to setup complexity
- Lacks built-in industry-specific templates and accuracy guarantees
- Higher learning curve for non-technical users
Best For
Tech-savvy contractors or developers who want to build custom AI solutions for occasional digital takeoffs.
Pricing
Usage-based pricing starting at $0.10 per agent run, with pro plans from $99/month.
Conclusion
The reviewed tools demonstrate the construction industry’s strong array of digital takeoff solutions, each with distinct advantages. Bluebeam Revu leads as the top choice, excelling in industry-leading PDF markup and measurement. Close behind, PlanSwift and On-Screen Takeoff stand out as powerful alternatives, offering speed and accuracy suited to different workflows, ensuring there’s a fit for nearly every project need.
Take the next step in enhancing your takeoff process—explore Bluebeam Revu to leverage its precision and streamline your workflow.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison