Quick Overview
- 1#1: Planswift - Digital takeoff and estimating software with customizable framing assemblies for accurate material counts in walls, floors, and roofs.
- 2#2: On-Screen Takeoff - Precise on-screen measurement tool for construction takeoffs, including detailed framing quantities from digital plans.
- 3#3: Bluebeam Revu - PDF markup and takeoff software enabling accurate linear, area, and volume measurements for framing estimates.
- 4#4: Stack - Cloud-based construction takeoff platform that automates framing counts and generates material reports from plans.
- 5#5: Togal.AI - AI-powered takeoff software that instantly detects and quantifies framing elements like studs and joists from drawings.
- 6#6: Kreo - AI-driven 2D takeoff tool for rapid framing quantity extraction and cost estimation from blueprints.
- 7#7: Autodesk Takeoff - Integrated cloud takeoff solution for measuring framing components within Autodesk's construction workflow.
- 8#8: Buildxact - Estimating software for residential builders with automated framing takeoffs and material pricing.
- 9#9: Groundplan - Online takeoff app for quick framing measurements and customizable templates from PDF plans.
- 10#10: Methvin - Web-based estimating calculator supporting framing takeoffs with built-in libraries and reporting.
We evaluated tools based on features (e.g., framing assembly customization, automated counting), usability, integration with construction workflows, and overall value, ensuring a balanced selection of reliable, professional-grade software.
Comparison Table
Streamlining framing takeoff processes hinges on choosing the right software, and this comparison table explores top tools like Planswift, On-Screen Takeoff, Bluebeam Revu, Stack, Togal.AI, and more. Readers will discover each tool’s unique strengths, usability, and ideal project scenarios, enabling informed decisions for their workflow needs.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Planswift Digital takeoff and estimating software with customizable framing assemblies for accurate material counts in walls, floors, and roofs. | specialized | 9.5/10 | 9.8/10 | 8.5/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 2 | On-Screen Takeoff Precise on-screen measurement tool for construction takeoffs, including detailed framing quantities from digital plans. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 3 | Bluebeam Revu PDF markup and takeoff software enabling accurate linear, area, and volume measurements for framing estimates. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.6/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 4 | Stack Cloud-based construction takeoff platform that automates framing counts and generates material reports from plans. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.7/10 |
| 5 | Togal.AI AI-powered takeoff software that instantly detects and quantifies framing elements like studs and joists from drawings. | general_ai | 8.2/10 | 9.0/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 6 | Kreo AI-driven 2D takeoff tool for rapid framing quantity extraction and cost estimation from blueprints. | general_ai | 8.1/10 | 8.6/10 | 7.7/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 7 | Autodesk Takeoff Integrated cloud takeoff solution for measuring framing components within Autodesk's construction workflow. | enterprise | 7.6/10 | 7.8/10 | 7.2/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 8 | Buildxact Estimating software for residential builders with automated framing takeoffs and material pricing. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.4/10 | 8.8/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 9 | Groundplan Online takeoff app for quick framing measurements and customizable templates from PDF plans. | specialized | 7.9/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 10 | Methvin Web-based estimating calculator supporting framing takeoffs with built-in libraries and reporting. | other | 7.1/10 | 7.3/10 | 6.9/10 | 7.0/10 |
Digital takeoff and estimating software with customizable framing assemblies for accurate material counts in walls, floors, and roofs.
Precise on-screen measurement tool for construction takeoffs, including detailed framing quantities from digital plans.
PDF markup and takeoff software enabling accurate linear, area, and volume measurements for framing estimates.
Cloud-based construction takeoff platform that automates framing counts and generates material reports from plans.
AI-powered takeoff software that instantly detects and quantifies framing elements like studs and joists from drawings.
AI-driven 2D takeoff tool for rapid framing quantity extraction and cost estimation from blueprints.
Integrated cloud takeoff solution for measuring framing components within Autodesk's construction workflow.
Estimating software for residential builders with automated framing takeoffs and material pricing.
Online takeoff app for quick framing measurements and customizable templates from PDF plans.
Web-based estimating calculator supporting framing takeoffs with built-in libraries and reporting.
Planswift
specializedDigital takeoff and estimating software with customizable framing assemblies for accurate material counts in walls, floors, and roofs.
Dynamic assemblies that allow users to draw one framing element (e.g., a wall) and automatically generate complete material takeoffs with cuts, waste factors, and labor.
PlanSwift is a leading digital takeoff and estimating software tailored for construction professionals, with exceptional capabilities for framing takeoffs from PDF plans, CAD files, and scanned images. It enables point-and-click measurements and automated assemblies to quickly quantify framing elements like studs, joists, headers, and sheathing. The software's customizable database and Excel integration streamline accurate material estimates for residential and commercial projects.
Pros
- Lightning-fast point-and-click takeoffs with drag-and-drop assemblies for complex framing
- Robust customizable database for framing materials and labor costs
- Seamless integration with Excel and accounting software like QuickBooks
Cons
- Steep initial learning curve for advanced assemblies
- Windows-only platform with limited mobile accessibility
- Higher upfront cost may deter very small operations
Best For
Framing contractors and estimators managing high-volume residential or commercial projects who prioritize speed and precision in digital takeoffs.
Pricing
Perpetual licenses start at $1,595 with annual maintenance fees around $400; subscription options available through ConstructConnect.
On-Screen Takeoff
specializedPrecise on-screen measurement tool for construction takeoffs, including detailed framing quantities from digital plans.
Dynamic assemblies that automatically generate complete framing material takeoffs from simple geometric inputs
On-Screen Takeoff by ConstructConnect is a robust digital takeoff software tailored for construction professionals, enabling precise quantity extraction from PDF plans, scanned drawings, and CAD files. It specializes in framing takeoffs by supporting linear measurements for studs and joists, area calculations for sheathing, and item counts for framing components. Users can build custom assemblies to automate material lists, waste factors, and labor estimates, making it efficient for detailed wood framing estimations. Its integration with estimating tools like Quick Bid enhances the workflow from takeoff to bid.
Pros
- Exceptionally accurate on-screen measurements with cloud planroom access
- Powerful custom assemblies for automated framing material calculations
- Strong integration with ConstructConnect estimating suite
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to dense interface and advanced features
- Higher cost compared to simpler takeoff tools
- Primarily Windows desktop-focused with limited mobile capabilities
Best For
Professional estimators in mid-to-large construction firms handling complex residential and commercial framing projects.
Pricing
Annual subscription starts at ~$1,995 per user, with perpetual license options around $2,495 plus maintenance fees.
Bluebeam Revu
specializedPDF markup and takeoff software enabling accurate linear, area, and volume measurements for framing estimates.
Assemblies tool for grouping measurements with dynamic formulas, enabling automated calculations for framing quantities like total board feet from studs, headers, and plates
Bluebeam Revu is a versatile PDF-based software widely used in construction for takeoffs, markups, and collaboration, with powerful tools tailored for framing takeoffs through customizable measurement sets and assemblies. It allows users to measure linear footage, counts, and areas from digital plans, applying formulas for materials like studs, joists, and sheathing to generate accurate quantity reports. While not exclusively a framing tool, its flexibility makes it a strong contender for detailed framing estimations exported to Excel or integrated workflows.
Pros
- Highly customizable assemblies and toolsets for precise framing material calculations like board feet and linear footage
- Seamless integration with PDFs, Excel exports, and real-time collaboration via Studio sessions
- Advanced scripting and automation capabilities for repetitive takeoff tasks
Cons
- Steep learning curve for creating custom framing toolsets and formulas
- Higher pricing compared to dedicated framing takeoff software
- Performance can lag with very large or complex plan sets without optimized hardware
Best For
Experienced construction estimators and framers who work primarily with PDF blueprints and need robust, customizable takeoff tools integrated into broader workflows.
Pricing
Subscription-based: Basics at $240/user/year, Core at $360/user/year, Complete at $450/user/year; perpetual licenses also available starting around $1,200.
Stack
specializedCloud-based construction takeoff platform that automates framing counts and generates material reports from plans.
AI Auto-Takeoff that instantly identifies and quantifies framing members from uploaded PDF plans without manual tracing
Stack (stackct.com) is an AI-powered takeoff software designed primarily for framing and roofing in construction projects. It automates the extraction of framing members, joists, trusses, and other elements directly from PDF plans, generating accurate material takeoffs, cut lists, and reports. The cloud-based platform enables real-time collaboration and seamless exports to estimating and accounting tools like Excel and QuickBooks.
Pros
- Lightning-fast AI-driven automatic takeoffs for framing elements
- High accuracy in detecting complex framing configurations
- Strong collaboration tools and integrations with popular construction software
Cons
- Pricing can be steep for small firms or solo users
- Primarily optimized for framing/roofing, with limited support for other trades
- AI occasionally requires manual corrections on intricate or non-standard plans
Best For
Mid-sized framing contractors or subcontractors seeking AI automation to drastically reduce takeoff time on residential and light commercial projects.
Pricing
Starts at $99/user/month (billed annually), with tiered plans up to enterprise custom pricing.
Togal.AI
general_aiAI-powered takeoff software that instantly detects and quantifies framing elements like studs and joists from drawings.
AI-powered automatic detection and quantification of framing components directly from uploaded blueprints
Togal.AI is an AI-powered takeoff software that automates the extraction of framing quantities from construction plans, including studs, plates, headers, and openings. Users upload PDFs or images, and the platform uses machine learning to detect, measure, and quantify elements with minimal manual input. It generates detailed reports and integrates with estimating tools, streamlining workflows for wood framing contractors. Ideal for residential and light commercial projects where speed and accuracy in takeoffs are critical.
Pros
- Highly accurate AI-driven detection of framing elements like studs and sheathing
- Significantly faster takeoffs compared to manual methods, often in minutes
- Seamless integrations with popular estimating software like PlanSwift and Bluebeam
Cons
- Occasional inaccuracies on complex or non-standard plans requiring manual corrections
- Subscription pricing can be steep for small teams or infrequent users
- Limited customization for advanced framing assemblies beyond basic wood framing
Best For
Mid-sized framing contractors and estimators handling residential projects who need quick, AI-automated takeoffs from digital plans.
Pricing
Starts at $149/user/month for Pro plan (unlimited projects), with Enterprise custom pricing; free trial available.
Kreo
general_aiAI-driven 2D takeoff tool for rapid framing quantity extraction and cost estimation from blueprints.
AI Object Recognition that automatically detects and quantifies framing components from drawings
Kreo is an AI-powered cloud-based takeoff and estimating software designed for construction professionals, specializing in automated quantity takeoffs from 2D PDFs and 3D BIM models. It excels in framing takeoffs by identifying and measuring elements like walls, studs, joists, beams, and trusses with high accuracy. The platform integrates takeoff data with cost estimating and supports real-time collaboration for teams.
Pros
- AI automation significantly speeds up framing takeoffs and reduces manual errors
- Strong support for both 2D and 3D models with precise measurements for structural elements
- Cloud collaboration enables real-time team access and revisions
Cons
- Higher pricing may deter small framing crews
- Learning curve for advanced AI and BIM features
- Fewer native integrations with popular accounting/estimating tools compared to top competitors
Best For
Mid-sized framing contractors and estimators seeking AI-driven efficiency for complex residential and commercial projects.
Pricing
Starts at $49/user/month for Basic, $99/user/month for Pro (unlimited projects), with custom Enterprise pricing.
Autodesk Takeoff
enterpriseIntegrated cloud takeoff solution for measuring framing components within Autodesk's construction workflow.
Customizable assemblies that automate complex framing takeoffs like stud spacing and material deductions
Autodesk Takeoff is a cloud-based quantity takeoff and estimating software designed for construction professionals to measure and quantify materials from 2D PDFs, scanned drawings, and CAD files. It excels in creating custom assemblies for framing elements such as walls, floors, roofs, studs, joists, and sheathing, enabling accurate material takeoffs and cost estimates. Integrated with the Autodesk Construction Cloud, it supports real-time collaboration and seamless data flow to other Autodesk tools like Revit and BIM 360.
Pros
- Powerful custom assemblies for efficient framing quantity calculations
- Seamless integration with Autodesk ecosystem for BIM workflows
- Cloud-based collaboration for team access and real-time updates
Cons
- Steeper learning curve for users new to Autodesk interface
- Primarily 2D-focused, with limited native 3D framing model support
- Pricing bundled in subscriptions, less ideal for standalone use
Best For
Construction estimators and teams already in the Autodesk ecosystem needing reliable 2D framing takeoffs from plans.
Pricing
Included in Autodesk Construction Cloud subscriptions; starts at ~$1,200/user/year for Build premium plans.
Buildxact
specializedEstimating software for residential builders with automated framing takeoffs and material pricing.
Smart Assemblies library with automatic waste calculations and supplier price feeds tailored for framing materials
Buildxact is a cloud-based construction takeoff and estimating software designed primarily for residential builders, offering robust tools for framing takeoffs from PDFs, CAD files, and sketches. It automates material calculations for lumber, trusses, sheathing, and hardware, generating detailed takeoff sheets and cost estimates with built-in assemblies and waste factors. The platform integrates with accounting software like QuickBooks and Xero for seamless job costing and supports team collaboration in real-time.
Pros
- Intuitive 2D takeoff tools with auto-counting for framing elements
- Pre-built framing assemblies and customizable templates
- Real-time material pricing integration and cloud accessibility
Cons
- Limited native 3D modeling for complex framing visualizations
- Subscription pricing can add up for solo users
- Less optimized for large-scale commercial framing projects
Best For
Small to medium residential framing contractors needing quick, accurate takeoffs and estimates integrated with job management.
Pricing
Starts at $149/user/month (billed annually) for basic plan; higher tiers up to $299/user/month with advanced features and unlimited projects.
Groundplan
specializedOnline takeoff app for quick framing measurements and customizable templates from PDF plans.
AI automatic takeoff engine that instantly quantifies framing members like studs, headers, and joists from plans
Groundplan is a cloud-based takeoff software tailored for framing, roofing, and siding contractors, using AI to automatically detect and quantify materials like studs, plates, sheathing, and trusses from uploaded PDF plans or images. It generates detailed lumber takeoffs, cut lists, and cost estimates, with tools for customizing assemblies and tracking multiple projects. The platform supports collaboration and exports data to Excel or estimating software, streamlining bidding and procurement processes.
Pros
- AI-powered automatic detection of framing elements for rapid takeoffs
- Detailed material lists and customizable assemblies for precise estimating
- Cloud access with mobile support for on-site verification
Cons
- Limited scope mainly to framing/roofing/siding, less versatile for full-building takeoffs
- Requires manual tweaks for complex or non-standard plans
- Subscription pricing may not suit very small or infrequent users
Best For
Small to mid-sized framing contractors needing quick AI-assisted lumber takeoffs from digital plans.
Pricing
Starts at $49/month (Basic), $99/month (Pro), with Enterprise custom pricing; pay-per-project options available.
Methvin
otherWeb-based estimating calculator supporting framing takeoffs with built-in libraries and reporting.
Free cloud takeoff calculator with shareable links for instant framing quantity checks
Methvin is a cloud-based construction takeoff and estimating software designed for accurate quantity extraction from digital plans, including framing elements like studs, joists, and sheathing. It supports 2D plan takeoffs with tools for linear, area, and count measurements, integrating seamlessly with cost databases for material pricing. While versatile across construction trades, its framing capabilities enable quick generation of material lists and cut lists for wood framing projects.
Pros
- Versatile digital takeoff tools for framing measurements
- Cloud-based collaboration for team access
- Integrated estimating with customizable calculators
Cons
- Dated interface with moderate learning curve
- Limited automation for complex framing assemblies
- Slower customer support for advanced queries
Best For
Small to mid-sized framing contractors seeking affordable, all-in-one takeoff and estimating without heavy specialization.
Pricing
Free for basic takeoffs under 100m²; paid plans start at $49/month for unlimited use, with enterprise options.
Conclusion
Comparing framing takeoff tools, Planswift leads with customizable assemblies for precise wall, floor, and roof material counts. On-Screen Takeoff impresses with exact on-screen measurements for detailed quantity tracking, while Bluebeam Revu offers versatile PDF-based linear, area, and volume calculations. Each tool has distinct strengths, ensuring a strong fit for varied project needs.
Ready to elevate your framing takeoffs? Start with Planswift to unlock accurate estimates and efficient workflows that transform your estimating process.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison