Quick Overview
- 1#1: Trimble AccuBid - Comprehensive electrical estimating software with extensive pre-built fire alarm assemblies, labor units, and real-time material pricing.
- 2#2: ConEst IntelliBid - Advanced electrical bidding tool featuring detailed fire alarm databases, automated calculations, and integration with CAD plans.
- 3#3: Sage Estimating - Customizable construction estimating platform with robust support for fire alarm system takeoffs and cost databases.
- 4#4: PlanSwift - Digital takeoff and estimating software optimized for quick fire alarm device counting and labor/material cost generation from plans.
- 5#5: Stack - AI-powered cloud takeoff platform that accelerates fire alarm panel, detector, and wiring estimates with collaborative features.
- 6#6: QuickBid - Integrated estimating solution for electrical contractors handling fire alarm projects with customizable item libraries and reporting.
- 7#7: eTakeoff - Precise 2D/3D digital takeoff software tailored for fire alarm system measurements and preliminary cost estimates.
- 8#8: Bluebeam Revu - PDF markup and takeoff tool essential for annotating fire alarm plans and generating accurate quantity takeoffs.
- 9#9: Togal.AI - AI-driven automated takeoff software that rapidly identifies and quantifies fire alarm components from digital plans.
- 10#10: Kreo Software - AI-based MEP estimating platform supporting fire alarm layouts with instant quantity extraction and cost forecasting.
Tools were ranked based on fire alarm-specific features, ease of use, data precision, integration potential, and overall value, ensuring they meet the unique demands of modern fire safety project planning.
Comparison Table
fire alarm estimating demands the right tools, and this comparison table outlines key software options—such as Trimble AccuBid, ConEst IntelliBid, Sage Estimating, PlanSwift, Stack, and more. Readers will discover each tool’s unique strengths, ideal project types, and core features to identify the best fit for their needs, whether for small jobs or large-scale installations. This guide simplifies the selection process, highlighting how these software solutions enhance accuracy and efficiency in fire alarm estimating.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Trimble AccuBid Comprehensive electrical estimating software with extensive pre-built fire alarm assemblies, labor units, and real-time material pricing. | enterprise | 9.5/10 | 9.8/10 | 8.2/10 | 9.0/10 |
| 2 | ConEst IntelliBid Advanced electrical bidding tool featuring detailed fire alarm databases, automated calculations, and integration with CAD plans. | enterprise | 9.1/10 | 9.4/10 | 7.9/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 3 | Sage Estimating Customizable construction estimating platform with robust support for fire alarm system takeoffs and cost databases. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 9.0/10 | 6.8/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 4 | PlanSwift Digital takeoff and estimating software optimized for quick fire alarm device counting and labor/material cost generation from plans. | other | 8.1/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 5 | Stack AI-powered cloud takeoff platform that accelerates fire alarm panel, detector, and wiring estimates with collaborative features. | specialized | 7.3/10 | 6.9/10 | 8.1/10 | 7.0/10 |
| 6 | QuickBid Integrated estimating solution for electrical contractors handling fire alarm projects with customizable item libraries and reporting. | enterprise | 7.1/10 | 6.9/10 | 7.8/10 | 7.2/10 |
| 7 | eTakeoff Precise 2D/3D digital takeoff software tailored for fire alarm system measurements and preliminary cost estimates. | other | 7.2/10 | 6.8/10 | 8.1/10 | 7.0/10 |
| 8 | Bluebeam Revu PDF markup and takeoff tool essential for annotating fire alarm plans and generating accurate quantity takeoffs. | other | 7.8/10 | 7.5/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 9 | Togal.AI AI-driven automated takeoff software that rapidly identifies and quantifies fire alarm components from digital plans. | general_ai | 7.4/10 | 7.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.0/10 |
| 10 | Kreo Software AI-based MEP estimating platform supporting fire alarm layouts with instant quantity extraction and cost forecasting. | general_ai | 7.4/10 | 7.8/10 | 7.2/10 | 7.0/10 |
Comprehensive electrical estimating software with extensive pre-built fire alarm assemblies, labor units, and real-time material pricing.
Advanced electrical bidding tool featuring detailed fire alarm databases, automated calculations, and integration with CAD plans.
Customizable construction estimating platform with robust support for fire alarm system takeoffs and cost databases.
Digital takeoff and estimating software optimized for quick fire alarm device counting and labor/material cost generation from plans.
AI-powered cloud takeoff platform that accelerates fire alarm panel, detector, and wiring estimates with collaborative features.
Integrated estimating solution for electrical contractors handling fire alarm projects with customizable item libraries and reporting.
Precise 2D/3D digital takeoff software tailored for fire alarm system measurements and preliminary cost estimates.
PDF markup and takeoff tool essential for annotating fire alarm plans and generating accurate quantity takeoffs.
AI-driven automated takeoff software that rapidly identifies and quantifies fire alarm components from digital plans.
AI-based MEP estimating platform supporting fire alarm layouts with instant quantity extraction and cost forecasting.
Trimble AccuBid
enterpriseComprehensive electrical estimating software with extensive pre-built fire alarm assemblies, labor units, and real-time material pricing.
Intelligent pre-built assemblies that auto-generate complete fire alarm system bids with precise labor, material, and code-compliant calculations
Trimble AccuBid is a comprehensive electrical estimating software renowned for its precision in fire alarm system takeoffs and bidding. It features an extensive database of pre-engineered assemblies tailored to fire alarm components, including panels, detectors, pull stations, and wiring, enabling rapid and accurate cost generation. The software supports labor factoring, conduit fill calculations, and integration with live material pricing from major suppliers, streamlining the entire estimating process for fire protection contractors.
Pros
- Vast library of fire alarm-specific assemblies and labor units for quick, code-compliant estimates
- Real-time material pricing integration and automatic conduit/wire calculations
- Robust reporting tools and customization for detailed bid presentations
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring significant training for new users
- High upfront and ongoing costs
- Primarily desktop-based with limited mobile functionality
Best For
Large electrical and fire alarm contractors handling complex, commercial-scale projects that demand high accuracy and database-driven efficiency.
Pricing
Quote-based; base licenses start around $5,000-$10,000 with annual maintenance fees of 15-20% and optional modules extra.
ConEst IntelliBid
enterpriseAdvanced electrical bidding tool featuring detailed fire alarm databases, automated calculations, and integration with CAD plans.
Dynamic pre-engineered assemblies that automate fire alarm riser calculations and device takeoffs
ConEst IntelliBid is a robust digital takeoff and estimating software primarily designed for electrical contractors, offering specialized assemblies and databases for fire alarm system estimation. It enables precise quantity takeoffs, automated labor calculations, and detailed bid generation tailored to fire alarm projects, including devices, wiring, and panels. The platform supports customizable templates and real-time cost updates, making it suitable for complex installations.
Pros
- Extensive pre-built assemblies for fire alarm components and systems
- Advanced digital takeoff and labor factoring for accuracy
- Strong reporting and integration with accounting software
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to feature depth
- Windows-only platform with limited mobile support
- Higher upfront cost for smaller operations
Best For
Mid-to-large electrical contractors managing complex fire alarm projects that demand precise, detailed estimating.
Pricing
Perpetual licenses start at around $4,000-$6,000 per user, plus 18-20% annual maintenance fees.
Sage Estimating
enterpriseCustomizable construction estimating platform with robust support for fire alarm system takeoffs and cost databases.
Database-driven Visual Assemblies that allow drag-and-drop modeling of fire alarm systems with automatic cost calculations
Sage Estimating is a robust construction cost estimating software designed for detailed bid preparation across trades, including electrical and fire alarm systems. It leverages extensive databases of items, assemblies, and labor factors to generate precise cost estimates, supports digital takeoffs, and integrates with accounting and project management tools. Users can customize estimates for complex fire alarm installations, factoring in devices, wiring, panels, and compliance costs.
Pros
- Extensive pre-built electrical and fire alarm assemblies for accurate material and labor takeoff
- Strong integration with Sage accounting and ERP systems for seamless project workflow
- Advanced reporting and bid management tools for competitive tendering
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring significant training for new users
- High cost may not suit small fire alarm contractors
- Interface feels dated compared to modern cloud-native alternatives
Best For
Mid-to-large electrical contractors managing complex fire alarm projects that require detailed, database-driven estimates and enterprise integrations.
Pricing
Custom annual subscriptions starting around $5,000-$15,000 depending on modules and user count; contact sales for quote.
PlanSwift
otherDigital takeoff and estimating software optimized for quick fire alarm device counting and labor/material cost generation from plans.
Drag-and-drop assembly builder that automates complex calculations for fire alarm points, loops, and ancillary items
PlanSwift is a versatile digital takeoff and estimating software primarily used in construction for measuring quantities from PDF, CAD, and image files via intuitive point-and-click tools. For fire alarm estimating, it excels in calculating device counts, wiring lengths, and labor through customizable assemblies and databases. While not purpose-built for fire alarms, its flexibility allows adaptation for NFPA-compliant takeoffs and cost modeling. It integrates with Excel and accounting systems for streamlined bidding.
Pros
- Rapid point-and-click takeoffs from digital plans reduce manual measuring time
- Customizable assemblies and point factors ideal for fire alarm devices and wiring runs
- Strong integration with Excel and estimating databases for accurate cost projections
Cons
- Lacks pre-built fire alarm libraries or NFPA-specific compliance tools
- Windows-only platform limits accessibility
- Initial setup and customization require significant time investment
Best For
Mid-sized fire alarm contractors seeking a general-purpose takeoff tool they can tailor to complex system estimating without specialized software.
Pricing
One-time license fee starts at $1,595 per user, plus optional annual maintenance around $300-$400.
Stack
specializedAI-powered cloud takeoff platform that accelerates fire alarm panel, detector, and wiring estimates with collaborative features.
Item Intelligence with AI-driven real-time material pricing and supplier data integration
Stack (stackct.com) is a cloud-based construction takeoff and estimating platform that enables digital plan analysis, automated measurements, and professional bid generation from PDFs and CAD files. It supports custom assemblies and item intelligence for accurate cost estimation across trades, making it adaptable for fire alarm projects through user-defined templates for devices, wiring, and panels. While not exclusively tailored for fire alarms, its robust tools streamline workflows for electrical contractors handling low-voltage systems.
Pros
- Lightning-fast PDF takeoffs with point-and-click measurements
- Cloud collaboration for team bidding in real-time
- Extensive item intelligence database with live pricing updates
Cons
- No pre-built fire alarm-specific assemblies or NAC circuit calculators
- Customization required for specialized fire alarm takeoffs
- Pricing can be steep for solo estimators
Best For
Electrical contractors and general construction firms needing versatile, scalable estimating software that can be adapted for fire alarm projects alongside other trades.
Pricing
Annual subscriptions start at $2,495 for Pro plan (1 user); scales to $4,995+ for teams; custom enterprise pricing available.
QuickBid
enterpriseIntegrated estimating solution for electrical contractors handling fire alarm projects with customizable item libraries and reporting.
Integration with ConstructConnect's proprietary national cost database for up-to-date pricing on electrical components
QuickBid by ConstructConnect is a digital takeoff and estimating software primarily designed for general construction bidding, enabling users to perform accurate quantity takeoffs from PDF plans and assemble costs using a vast database of items. For fire alarm estimating, it supports electrical and low-voltage system calculations through customizable assemblies, material pricing, and labor factors, though it lacks specialized fire alarm libraries or NFPA-specific compliance tools. It streamlines the bid process with reporting and integration options, making it adaptable for multi-trade estimators.
Pros
- Powerful digital takeoff tools for precise fire alarm device and wiring counts from plans
- Access to ConstructConnect's extensive cost database for real-time material and labor pricing
- Customizable assemblies and reporting for professional bid packages
Cons
- No dedicated fire alarm component libraries or pre-built templates for systems like NAC circuits or initiators
- Requires significant manual customization for specialized fire alarm estimating workflows
- General construction focus may overwhelm users seeking niche low-voltage tools
Best For
General construction estimators handling fire alarm bids alongside other electrical trades in commercial projects.
Pricing
Subscription-based with custom quotes; typically $100-$300 per user/month depending on modules and volume.
eTakeoff
otherPrecise 2D/3D digital takeoff software tailored for fire alarm system measurements and preliminary cost estimates.
Advanced on-screen measurement tools with auto-counting and dimensioning for precise fire alarm device and wiring takeoffs from digital plans
eTakeoff is a digital takeoff and estimating software designed for construction professionals to perform precise quantity takeoffs from PDF, CAD, and scanned plans. For fire alarm estimating, it excels at measuring device counts, wiring lengths, and conduit runs using customizable assemblies and tools like automatic counting and linear measurements. While not specialized for fire alarm systems, it integrates well with external estimating software for cost buildup and supports team collaboration via cloud sharing.
Pros
- Highly accurate on-screen takeoff tools for counting devices and measuring runs
- Customizable assemblies for fire alarm components like detectors and NAC circuits
- Seamless integration with popular estimating platforms like Sage and Viewpoint
Cons
- Lacks built-in fire alarm databases or specialized calculators (e.g., voltage drop)
- Requires manual setup for complex fire alarm assemblies
- Subscription model can be pricey for small firms without heavy usage
Best For
Construction estimators and fire alarm contractors who need robust general takeoff capabilities integrated into broader project workflows.
Pricing
Subscription starts at $199/user/month or $1,995/year; volume discounts and perpetual licenses available upon request.
Bluebeam Revu
otherPDF markup and takeoff tool essential for annotating fire alarm plans and generating accurate quantity takeoffs.
Quantity Link for real-time syncing of PDF measurements to Excel spreadsheets
Bluebeam Revu is a robust PDF editing and markup software widely used in the AEC industry for document review and quantity takeoffs. For fire alarm estimating, it provides precise measurement tools to quantify devices, cable runs, and areas directly from digital plans, with customizable markups for symbols and annotations. While versatile, it requires manual workflows and external tools for full cost estimating, lacking fire alarm-specific databases or automated calculations.
Pros
- Precise scaled measurement and dynamic quantity takeoff tools
- Customizable toolsets for fire alarm symbols and annotations
- Seamless Excel integration via Quantity Link for data export
Cons
- No built-in fire alarm device libraries or pricing databases
- Lacks automated calculations for circuits, voltage drops, or NAC loading
- Not a dedicated estimating platform; requires supplements for bidding
Best For
Fire alarm estimators focused on PDF plan takeoffs and markups who integrate with Excel or other estimating software.
Pricing
Annual subscriptions from $240/user (Basics) to $400/user (Complete), with perpetual options available.
Togal.AI
general_aiAI-driven automated takeoff software that rapidly identifies and quantifies fire alarm components from digital plans.
Patented AI engine that automatically detects and quantifies elements from any PDF or image upload without CAD conversion
Togal.AI is an AI-powered takeoff and estimating platform designed for construction professionals, automating quantity extraction from blueprints and PDFs using computer vision technology. For fire alarm estimating, it excels at rapidly counting devices, measuring conduit runs, and calculating areas from plans, though it requires some manual tweaks for specialized fire alarm symbols. It integrates with popular estimating tools like Quick Bid and Excel, streamlining the workflow from takeoff to bid submission.
Pros
- Ultra-fast AI-driven takeoffs reduce manual measuring time by up to 10x
- High accuracy for standard architectural and electrical symbols on plans
- Seamless cloud collaboration and integrations with estimating software
Cons
- Lacks pre-built templates for niche fire alarm components like specific detectors or NAC circuits
- Occasional need for manual corrections on complex or non-standard drawings
- Pricing can add up for high-volume users without enterprise discounts
Best For
Construction estimators juggling multiple trades who need quick, AI-assisted takeoffs for fire alarm systems on standard plans.
Pricing
Subscription tiers start at $99/user/month for basic access, with pay-per-drawing options (~$0.50/sheet) and enterprise custom pricing.
Kreo Software
general_aiAI-based MEP estimating platform supporting fire alarm layouts with instant quantity extraction and cost forecasting.
AI-powered automated 2D takeoff from PDF drawings for rapid quantity extraction
Kreo Software (kreo.net) is a cloud-based construction takeoff and estimating platform powered by AI, enabling automated 2D measurements from PDF plans for trades like electrical, including fire alarm systems. It supports custom assemblies for devices, wiring, and labor, with real-time collaboration and detailed cost reports. While versatile for general construction estimating, it requires customization for specialized fire alarm workflows.
Pros
- AI-driven automated takeoff significantly reduces manual measurement time
- Cloud-based collaboration for team estimating on fire alarm projects
- Customizable item databases and assemblies adaptable to electrical/fire alarm needs
Cons
- Lacks pre-built templates specific to fire alarm systems and NFPA standards
- Subscription costs can be high for smaller firms with infrequent use
- Steep learning curve for non-standard electrical assemblies
Best For
Mid-sized electrical contractors needing scalable digital takeoff for fire alarm and general electrical estimating.
Pricing
Custom subscription pricing starting around $150/user/month, with tiers based on features and usage volume
Conclusion
Trimble AccuBid emerges as the top pick for fire alarm estimating, boasting comprehensive pre-built assemblies, real-time material pricing, and detailed labor units that streamline workflows. ConEst IntelliBid follows closely with its advanced databases and CAD integration, while Sage Estimating excels in customization, making each a standout choice depending on project priorities.
Don’t miss out on optimizing your fire alarm estimating—explore Trimble AccuBid today to experience its robust tools and gain a competitive edge in your work.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison