Quick Overview
- 1#1: ConEst IntelliBid - Provides comprehensive electrical takeoff, estimating, and bidding with automated assemblies and labor calculations.
- 2#2: Trimble Accubid - Delivers precise electrical quantity takeoff and cost estimating integrated with design tools and real-time pricing.
- 3#3: PlanSwift - Enables fast digital plan takeoff for electrical components with drag-and-drop assemblies and customizable templates.
- 4#4: PataBid - Offers AI-powered automated takeoff and estimating specifically for electrical and MEP trades from PDF plans.
- 5#5: Bluebeam Revu - Supports accurate PDF-based electrical takeoff with measurement tools, custom markups, and quantity reporting.
- 6#6: On-Screen Takeoff - Facilitates detailed 2D electrical quantity takeoff from digital plans with point-and-click extraction and export to estimating.
- 7#7: Stack - Cloud-based platform for quick electrical takeoff, collaboration, and estimating with real-time updates.
- 8#8: Togal.AI - Uses AI to automatically detect and quantify electrical items from construction drawings for faster takeoff.
- 9#9: Autodesk Takeoff - Cloud-integrated 2D takeoff tool for extracting electrical quantities and linking to project management workflows.
- 10#10: ProEst - Cloud estimating software with takeoff capabilities tailored for electrical contractors and real-time cost databases.
Tools were selected based on key attributes including feature robustness (such as automation and integration), ease of use, and practical value, ensuring a balanced review of offerings tailored to diverse project requirements.
Comparison Table
This comparison table examines top electrical takeoff software, such as ConEst IntelliBid, Trimble Accubid, PlanSwift, PataBid, Bluebeam Revu, and more, to assist readers in understanding key features, workflows, and suitability for diverse projects. By comparing these tools, users can streamline their selection process and identify the solution that best aligns with their needs for accuracy, efficiency, and compatibility.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | ConEst IntelliBid Provides comprehensive electrical takeoff, estimating, and bidding with automated assemblies and labor calculations. | specialized | 9.4/10 | 9.7/10 | 8.2/10 | 9.0/10 |
| 2 | Trimble Accubid Delivers precise electrical quantity takeoff and cost estimating integrated with design tools and real-time pricing. | enterprise | 8.8/10 | 9.4/10 | 7.6/10 | 8.3/10 |
| 3 | PlanSwift Enables fast digital plan takeoff for electrical components with drag-and-drop assemblies and customizable templates. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 4 | PataBid Offers AI-powered automated takeoff and estimating specifically for electrical and MEP trades from PDF plans. | general_ai | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.9/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 5 | Bluebeam Revu Supports accurate PDF-based electrical takeoff with measurement tools, custom markups, and quantity reporting. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.7/10 |
| 6 | On-Screen Takeoff Facilitates detailed 2D electrical quantity takeoff from digital plans with point-and-click extraction and export to estimating. | specialized | 7.6/10 | 8.2/10 | 6.5/10 | 7.1/10 |
| 7 | Stack Cloud-based platform for quick electrical takeoff, collaboration, and estimating with real-time updates. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.4/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 8 | Togal.AI Uses AI to automatically detect and quantify electrical items from construction drawings for faster takeoff. | general_ai | 7.8/10 | 8.4/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.2/10 |
| 9 | Autodesk Takeoff Cloud-integrated 2D takeoff tool for extracting electrical quantities and linking to project management workflows. | enterprise | 7.2/10 | 7.5/10 | 6.8/10 | 6.9/10 |
| 10 | ProEst Cloud estimating software with takeoff capabilities tailored for electrical contractors and real-time cost databases. | enterprise | 7.1/10 | 7.3/10 | 7.0/10 | 6.8/10 |
Provides comprehensive electrical takeoff, estimating, and bidding with automated assemblies and labor calculations.
Delivers precise electrical quantity takeoff and cost estimating integrated with design tools and real-time pricing.
Enables fast digital plan takeoff for electrical components with drag-and-drop assemblies and customizable templates.
Offers AI-powered automated takeoff and estimating specifically for electrical and MEP trades from PDF plans.
Supports accurate PDF-based electrical takeoff with measurement tools, custom markups, and quantity reporting.
Facilitates detailed 2D electrical quantity takeoff from digital plans with point-and-click extraction and export to estimating.
Cloud-based platform for quick electrical takeoff, collaboration, and estimating with real-time updates.
Uses AI to automatically detect and quantify electrical items from construction drawings for faster takeoff.
Cloud-integrated 2D takeoff tool for extracting electrical quantities and linking to project management workflows.
Cloud estimating software with takeoff capabilities tailored for electrical contractors and real-time cost databases.
ConEst IntelliBid
specializedProvides comprehensive electrical takeoff, estimating, and bidding with automated assemblies and labor calculations.
Advanced electrical assemblies with automatic labor factoring, wire/conduit optimization, and live pricing updates
ConEst IntelliBid is a leading electrical estimating and takeoff software tailored for electrical contractors, enabling precise digital quantity takeoffs from PDF, CAD, or scanned plans. It automates material pricing, labor calculations, and bid assembly using an extensive electrical-specific database with pre-built assemblies for fixtures, conduits, and wiring. The software streamlines the entire bidding process, from takeoff to professional proposal generation, ensuring accuracy and efficiency for complex projects.
Pros
- Comprehensive electrical-specific database with thousands of assemblies and automatic calculations for wire sizing, conduit fill, and labor
- Powerful digital takeoff tools with quadrant measurement and on-screen integration for fast, accurate quantities
- Robust reporting, bid customization, and integration with accounting software like QuickBooks
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to extensive features and customization options
- High upfront cost and primarily desktop-based with limited mobile functionality
- Occasional performance issues with very large plan sets
Best For
Mid-to-large electrical contractors and estimators managing complex commercial and industrial projects requiring precise, automated takeoffs and bids.
Pricing
Perpetual licenses start at around $6,000-$12,000 per seat with annual maintenance; subscription models available from $2,500/year.
Trimble Accubid
enterpriseDelivers precise electrical quantity takeoff and cost estimating integrated with design tools and real-time pricing.
Industry-leading database of 100,000+ pre-priced electrical assemblies with automated labor and material calculations
Trimble Accubid is a robust electrical takeoff and estimating software tailored for electrical contractors, enabling precise digital quantity takeoffs from PDFs and CAD files. It leverages an extensive database of over 100,000 pre-built items, labor units, and assemblies to generate accurate bids and cost estimates. The tool supports advanced features like conduit and cable routing calculations, what-if analysis, and seamless integration with Trimble's project management ecosystem.
Pros
- Vast electrical-specific database with labor factoring
- Powerful digital takeoff and 3D conduit modeling
- Excellent customization and reporting capabilities
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users
- Higher pricing limits accessibility for small firms
- Primarily Windows desktop-focused with limited mobile access
Best For
Mid-to-large electrical contractors managing complex commercial and industrial projects that demand precise, database-driven estimating.
Pricing
Perpetual licenses starting around $4,000-$6,000 per seat plus annual maintenance fees of 20%; custom quotes available.
PlanSwift
specializedEnables fast digital plan takeoff for electrical components with drag-and-drop assemblies and customizable templates.
Drag-and-drop assemblies that let users pre-build and reuse entire electrical systems (e.g., full lighting circuits) across plans
PlanSwift is a desktop-based takeoff and estimating software tailored for construction trades, including electrical contractors, allowing users to extract quantities from digital plans via point-and-click methods. It excels in quantifying electrical components like conduits, wiring, panels, and fixtures from PDFs, DWGs, and scanned images. Custom assemblies and formulas enable detailed cost estimating, with seamless exports to Excel and accounting tools like QuickBooks.
Pros
- Highly customizable assemblies for complex electrical systems like circuits and panels
- Lightning-fast point-and-click takeoffs with real-time calculations
- Strong integrations with Excel, QuickBooks, and other estimating tools
Cons
- Steep learning curve for beginners despite intuitive drag-and-drop interface
- Desktop-only application with no native cloud or mobile access
- High upfront cost without subscription flexibility
Best For
Mid-to-large electrical contractors handling detailed blueprints who prioritize speed and customization over cloud collaboration.
Pricing
Perpetual license starts at $1,749 per user, plus ~$450 annual maintenance; volume discounts available.
PataBid
general_aiOffers AI-powered automated takeoff and estimating specifically for electrical and MEP trades from PDF plans.
AI-powered electrical symbol recognition that automatically identifies and counts devices, lights, and panels from PDF blueprints
PataBid is a cloud-based takeoff and estimating software tailored specifically for electrical contractors, enabling digital takeoffs from PDF plans with automated counting of symbols, fixtures, and measurements of conduits and wiring. It streamlines the bidding process by integrating takeoff data directly into customizable assemblies and proposals. The platform emphasizes speed and accuracy for electrical projects, reducing manual errors common in traditional methods.
Pros
- Highly accurate AI-driven symbol detection and counting for electrical elements
- Seamless integration of takeoff data into estimating and bidding workflows
- Cloud accessibility with real-time collaboration for teams
Cons
- Moderate learning curve for advanced customization
- Pricing can be steep for solo contractors or small firms
- Limited native integrations with some popular accounting software
Best For
Mid-sized electrical contractors seeking specialized, automated takeoff tools for efficient bidding on commercial projects.
Pricing
Subscription starts at $99/user/month for basic plan, up to $299/user/month for enterprise with advanced features; free trial available.
Bluebeam Revu
specializedSupports accurate PDF-based electrical takeoff with measurement tools, custom markups, and quantity reporting.
Customizable dynamic toolsets for rapid electrical symbol counting and measurement chaining
Bluebeam Revu is a robust PDF-based software widely used in the AEC industry for document review, markup, and quantity takeoffs from plans. As an electrical takeoff solution, it provides measurement tools for counting fixtures, panels, conduits, and wiring runs directly on PDF drawings, with customizable toolsets and exportable reports to Excel. It emphasizes collaboration via Studio features, making it suitable for team-based estimating workflows, though it's more general-purpose than specialized electrical software.
Pros
- Powerful measurement and counting tools with custom electrical symbol sets
- Excellent PDF collaboration and markup capabilities for team reviews
- Visual reporting and Excel integration for accurate bid generation
Cons
- Steep learning curve for advanced takeoff customizations
- Higher pricing compared to dedicated takeoff tools
- Limited automation for complex electrical schematics without manual setup
Best For
Electrical contractors and estimators working primarily with 2D PDF plans who value PDF collaboration and customizable reporting.
Pricing
Subscription-based: Basics (~$250/user/year), Core (~$350/user/year), Complete (~$450/user/year); volume discounts available.
On-Screen Takeoff
specializedFacilitates detailed 2D electrical quantity takeoff from digital plans with point-and-click extraction and export to estimating.
Advanced customizable assemblies that automate repetitive electrical takeoff tasks like cable pulls and device counts
On-Screen Takeoff (OST) by ConstructConnect is a desktop-based digital takeoff software that enables construction professionals, including electrical estimators, to measure quantities directly from PDF plans, CAD files, and scanned drawings. It supports electrical-specific takeoffs through customizable assemblies for items like conduits, wiring runs, devices, panels, and fixtures, allowing for linear, area, and count measurements with high precision. The tool integrates with estimating software like Quick Bid and exports data to Excel for further analysis.
Pros
- Highly accurate 2D digital measurements from PDFs and CAD files
- Customizable electrical assemblies for automated quantity calculations
- Seamless integration with ConstructConnect estimating tools and Excel export
Cons
- Steep learning curve for beginners due to complex interface
- Desktop-only (Windows), lacking robust mobile or cloud collaboration
- Higher upfront costs compared to cloud-native alternatives
Best For
Mid-sized electrical contractors and estimators who handle complex 2D plans and need precise takeoffs integrated with traditional estimating workflows.
Pricing
Perpetual license starts at $1,695 per user plus annual maintenance (~20%); subscription plans from $175/month per user.
Stack
specializedCloud-based platform for quick electrical takeoff, collaboration, and estimating with real-time updates.
Patented AI engine that auto-detects and measures electrical symbols from plans, learning from user inputs for progressive accuracy
Stack (stackct.com) is a cloud-based takeoff and estimating software that uses AI to automate quantity extraction from PDFs, blueprints, and plans, with strong support for electrical trades including conduits, devices, panels, and wiring. It streamlines the takeoff process by automatically detecting symbols and measurements, allowing users to build custom assemblies and generate detailed reports. The platform emphasizes collaboration, real-time sharing, and integrations with tools like Procore and QuickBooks, making it efficient for electrical contractors handling digital plans.
Pros
- AI-powered automation speeds up electrical takeoffs significantly
- Excellent real-time collaboration and cloud accessibility
- Customizable assemblies tailored for electrical items like fixtures and circuits
Cons
- Limited depth in highly specialized electrical databases compared to niche tools
- Pricing can be steep for solo estimators or very small firms
- AI accuracy may require manual corrections on complex or poor-quality drawings
Best For
Mid-sized electrical contractors and estimators who process high volumes of digital plans and value speed and team collaboration.
Pricing
Subscriptions start at $99/user/month (billed annually), with Pro and Enterprise tiers up to $199+/user/month including advanced features and unlimited projects.
Togal.AI
general_aiUses AI to automatically detect and quantify electrical items from construction drawings for faster takeoff.
Self-learning AI that improves takeoff accuracy over time by incorporating user corrections on electrical symbols
Togal.AI is an AI-driven construction takeoff platform that automates quantity extraction from blueprints, with strong support for electrical components like lights, receptacles, conduits, and panels. It processes PDF plans using machine learning to detect and measure items rapidly, allowing users to verify and export data for estimating. The tool emphasizes speed and scalability for electrical contractors handling repetitive takeoff tasks.
Pros
- Ultra-fast AI automation reduces takeoff time from hours to minutes
- Adapts to custom electrical symbols via user training for improved accuracy
- Seamless cloud collaboration and integrations with estimating software
Cons
- Requires manual verification for non-standard or handwritten plans
- Lacks deep electrical-specific tools like panel scheduling or cable calculations
- Subscription pricing may not suit very small or infrequent users
Best For
Mid-sized electrical contractors processing high volumes of standard digital plans who need AI to accelerate quantity takeoffs.
Pricing
Starts at $99/user/month for Starter plan (limited projects), with Pro ($199/user/month) and Enterprise (custom) tiers based on usage and features.
Autodesk Takeoff
enterpriseCloud-integrated 2D takeoff tool for extracting electrical quantities and linking to project management workflows.
Native integration with Autodesk Docs for direct takeoff from shared project PDFs and seamless data flow to BIM models
Autodesk Takeoff is a cloud-based quantity takeoff tool designed for construction professionals to perform 2D measurements and quantity extractions from PDF plans, CAD files, and digital drawings. It allows users to create custom assemblies and catalogs for various trades, including electrical components like conduits, wiring, and fixtures. Integrated into the Autodesk Construction Cloud, it supports collaboration and data export to estimating and project management tools, though it lacks deep electrical-specific automation.
Pros
- Seamless integration with Autodesk ecosystem (Revit, BIM 360, Construction Cloud)
- Powerful 2D takeoff tools with customizable assemblies for electrical items
- Cloud-based collaboration for team reviews and real-time updates
Cons
- Lacks specialized electrical libraries or automated circuiting calculations
- Steep learning curve for complex custom setups and assemblies
- Subscription pricing can be high for users not fully utilizing Autodesk suite
Best For
AEC firms and general contractors already in the Autodesk ecosystem who need a versatile 2D takeoff tool adaptable for electrical quantities alongside other trades.
Pricing
Free Basic version available; Takeoff Pro starts at ~$1,150/user/year as part of Autodesk Construction Cloud subscriptions.
ProEst
enterpriseCloud estimating software with takeoff capabilities tailored for electrical contractors and real-time cost databases.
Direct linkage of digital takeoff quantities to dynamic cost estimating assemblies for rapid bid generation
ProEst is a cloud-based construction estimating platform with integrated digital takeoff tools, designed to support electrical contractors in quantifying materials like conduits, wiring, panels, and fixtures from PDF plans. It automates measurements, counts symbols, and links takeoff data to customizable cost databases for accurate bidding. While versatile for general construction, its electrical takeoff capabilities emphasize efficiency in pre-bid workflows but lack some specialized automation found in dedicated tools.
Pros
- Cloud-based access for remote collaboration and real-time updates
- Strong integration of takeoff data into estimating and bidding processes
- Customizable assemblies and databases tailored for electrical items
Cons
- Takeoff tools are more general-purpose than electrical-specific, lacking advanced automation for complex systems
- Steeper learning curve for advanced features and custom setups
- Higher pricing may not suit small firms or infrequent users
Best For
Mid-sized electrical contractors seeking an integrated takeoff-to-estimate workflow for competitive bidding.
Pricing
Subscription starts at ~$500/user/month for basic plans, scaling to $2,000+/month for enterprise with custom quotes required.
Conclusion
After reviewing the top 10 electrical takeoff software tools, ConEst IntelliBid emerges as the top choice, with its comprehensive automated assemblies and labor calculations streamlining every stage of the process. Trimble Accubid follows closely, offering precise quantity takeoff and integration with design tools and real-time pricing, while PlanSwift stands out for its fast digital takeoff and customizable templates—each tool delivers unique value to fit different workflows.
Don’t miss the chance to experience ConEst IntelliBid’s strengths; try it today to enhance your electrical takeoff and estimating efficiency.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison