Quick Overview
- 1#1: PlanSwift - Digital takeoff and estimating software using point-and-click technology for rapid and accurate construction cost calculations.
- 2#2: Stack - Cloud-based platform for construction takeoff, estimating, and bidding with real-time collaboration features.
- 3#3: Bluebeam Revu - PDF markup and takeoff tool for precise quantity extraction and measurement from construction drawings.
- 4#4: Sage Estimating - Robust enterprise estimating software with database-driven assemblies and accounting integration.
- 5#5: Autodesk Takeoff - Cloud-based 2D and 3D quantity takeoff solution integrated with Autodesk Construction Cloud.
- 6#6: Buildxact - User-friendly estimating and takeoff software tailored for residential builders and remodelers.
- 7#7: ProEst - Cloud estimating platform offering digital takeoff, invitation to bid, and real-time collaboration.
- 8#8: Methvin - Online quantity surveying and estimating tool for construction tendering and cost management.
- 9#9: Clear Estimates - Simple cloud-based estimating software for generating professional quotes for home builders.
- 10#10: Hover - AI-powered 3D measurement and estimating from smartphone photos of building exteriors.
Ranked based on feature depth (including takeoff, collaboration, and integration), usability, reliability, and value, ensuring alignment with both small contractors and enterprise-level workflows.
Comparison Table
This comparison table highlights key features, workflows, and suitability for different needs of popular construction estimating software, including PlanSwift, Stack, Bluebeam Revu, Sage Estimating, Autodesk Takeoff, and more. It helps users identify tools aligned with their project requirements, whether prioritizing speed, integration, or accuracy.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | PlanSwift Digital takeoff and estimating software using point-and-click technology for rapid and accurate construction cost calculations. | specialized | 9.4/10 | 9.6/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.9/10 |
| 2 | Stack Cloud-based platform for construction takeoff, estimating, and bidding with real-time collaboration features. | specialized | 9.2/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.8/10 |
| 3 | Bluebeam Revu PDF markup and takeoff tool for precise quantity extraction and measurement from construction drawings. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 4 | Sage Estimating Robust enterprise estimating software with database-driven assemblies and accounting integration. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 9.0/10 | 7.5/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 5 | Autodesk Takeoff Cloud-based 2D and 3D quantity takeoff solution integrated with Autodesk Construction Cloud. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.7/10 |
| 6 | Buildxact User-friendly estimating and takeoff software tailored for residential builders and remodelers. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 8.9/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.3/10 |
| 7 | ProEst Cloud estimating platform offering digital takeoff, invitation to bid, and real-time collaboration. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.6/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 8 | Methvin Online quantity surveying and estimating tool for construction tendering and cost management. | specialized | 7.8/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 9 | Clear Estimates Simple cloud-based estimating software for generating professional quotes for home builders. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.8/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 10 | Hover AI-powered 3D measurement and estimating from smartphone photos of building exteriors. | specialized | 7.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 9.1/10 | 6.4/10 |
Digital takeoff and estimating software using point-and-click technology for rapid and accurate construction cost calculations.
Cloud-based platform for construction takeoff, estimating, and bidding with real-time collaboration features.
PDF markup and takeoff tool for precise quantity extraction and measurement from construction drawings.
Robust enterprise estimating software with database-driven assemblies and accounting integration.
Cloud-based 2D and 3D quantity takeoff solution integrated with Autodesk Construction Cloud.
User-friendly estimating and takeoff software tailored for residential builders and remodelers.
Cloud estimating platform offering digital takeoff, invitation to bid, and real-time collaboration.
Online quantity surveying and estimating tool for construction tendering and cost management.
Simple cloud-based estimating software for generating professional quotes for home builders.
AI-powered 3D measurement and estimating from smartphone photos of building exteriors.
PlanSwift
specializedDigital takeoff and estimating software using point-and-click technology for rapid and accurate construction cost calculations.
Revolutionary point-and-click digital takeoff that counts areas, lengths, and counts instantly without digitizers
PlanSwift is a premier digital takeoff and estimating software designed specifically for construction professionals, allowing users to extract quantities directly from PDF plans, blueprints, and CAD files using intuitive point-and-click tools. It excels in assembling estimates with customizable databases, formulas, and real-time cost calculations, while supporting seamless exports to Excel, QuickBooks, and other accounting systems. As a top-ranked solution for general construction estimating, it significantly reduces manual errors and speeds up the bidding process for contractors of all sizes.
Pros
- Ultra-fast point-and-click takeoffs from digital plans
- Powerful assemblies and formula-driven estimating
- Robust integrations with Excel, accounting software, and job costing tools
Cons
- Steep learning curve for advanced features
- Windows-only compatibility
- Higher upfront or subscription costs compared to basic alternatives
Best For
General contractors and estimators handling complex bids who need rapid, accurate takeoffs from digital plans.
Pricing
Subscription starts at $1,749/year for standard edition; perpetual licenses available with maintenance fees around $500-$1,000 annually.
Stack
specializedCloud-based platform for construction takeoff, estimating, and bidding with real-time collaboration features.
AI Automatic Takeoff that instantly quantities elements from uploaded PDFs without manual tracing
Stack (stackct.com) is an AI-powered construction estimating software designed for general contractors, automating quantity takeoffs directly from PDF plans and drawings. It uses machine learning to identify and measure elements like walls, doors, and openings with high accuracy, then assembles comprehensive estimates including materials, labor, and subcontractors. The platform integrates with accounting tools and supports collaborative workflows to streamline pre-construction bidding processes.
Pros
- Lightning-fast AI-driven takeoffs that save hours on manual measuring
- High accuracy for complex commercial plans and assemblies
- Seamless integrations with Procore, QuickBooks, and other construction tools
Cons
- Pricing can be steep for smaller firms
- Occasional AI inaccuracies requiring manual verification on unique projects
- Limited advanced customization for highly specialized estimating needs
Best For
Mid-sized general contractors handling commercial projects who need rapid, accurate takeoffs and estimating to win more bids.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing starting around $500/month for basic plans, scaling to $2,000+/month for enterprise with unlimited users and projects; annual contracts recommended.
Bluebeam Revu
specializedPDF markup and takeoff tool for precise quantity extraction and measurement from construction drawings.
Dynamic measurement tools with visual quantity linking and instant report generation from PDF markups
Bluebeam Revu is a powerful PDF editor and markup tool tailored for the construction industry, enabling users to perform precise digital takeoffs, measurements, and quantity extractions from blueprints and plans. It supports generating customizable quantity reports that can be exported to Excel for cost estimating, making it a strong front-end tool for general construction estimating workflows. While it lacks built-in cost databases or advanced bid management, its integration capabilities and accuracy in takeoffs position it well for pre-construction quantity analysis.
Pros
- Exceptional PDF takeoff tools with automatic scaling and measurement accuracy
- Real-time collaboration via Bluebeam Studio for team reviews
- Seamless export of quantities to Excel or other estimating software
Cons
- No native cost databases or assemblies for full estimating
- Advanced features require training and the Complete/Extreme editions
- Subscription model adds up for small teams without broad PDF needs
Best For
Construction estimators and project managers focused on accurate digital quantity takeoffs from PDFs who integrate with spreadsheet-based cost analysis.
Pricing
Annual per-user subscriptions: Basics $239, Core $349, Complete $549, Extreme $699 (volume discounts available).
Sage Estimating
enterpriseRobust enterprise estimating software with database-driven assemblies and accounting integration.
Proprietary Visual Assemblies database for rapid, accurate construction cost modeling
Sage Estimating is a comprehensive construction estimating software tailored for general contractors, featuring extensive pre-built cost databases with assemblies, items, and labor units for accurate bid preparation. It supports digital takeoffs, what-if analysis, and customizable reports to streamline the estimating process from takeoff to bid submission. Seamlessly integrated with Sage 300 accounting software, it facilitates smooth handoff from estimates to job costing and project management.
Pros
- Extensive, industry-specific cost databases regularly updated
- Strong integration with Sage accounting and project management tools
- Advanced tools for detailed takeoffs, assemblies, and bid management
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to complex interface
- High pricing limits accessibility for small firms
- Primarily desktop-based with limited mobile functionality
Best For
Mid-to-large general contractors needing robust, database-driven estimating integrated with enterprise accounting systems.
Pricing
Subscription from $150/user/month; on-premise perpetual licenses start at $5,000+ with annual maintenance fees; custom quotes required.
Autodesk Takeoff
enterpriseCloud-based 2D and 3D quantity takeoff solution integrated with Autodesk Construction Cloud.
Integrated 3D quantity takeoff directly from native BIM models like Revit files
Autodesk Takeoff is a cloud-based quantity takeoff software within the Autodesk Construction Cloud suite, designed for construction professionals to extract accurate quantities from 2D plans, PDFs, and 3D BIM models. It supports detailed measurements, assemblies, and condition-based takeoffs to streamline preconstruction estimating workflows. The tool emphasizes collaboration, allowing teams to share markups and reports in real-time for better bidding accuracy.
Pros
- Deep integration with Autodesk tools like Revit and BIM 360
- Robust 2D and 3D takeoff capabilities with customizable assemblies
- Real-time cloud collaboration for team-based estimating
Cons
- Steep learning curve for users new to Autodesk ecosystem
- Subscription costs add up for small firms without broader Autodesk use
- Limited standalone advanced estimating; best paired with other modules
Best For
Mid-sized construction firms and estimators already using Autodesk products who prioritize accurate digital takeoffs from BIM models.
Pricing
Takeoff Pro at ~$1,080/user/year; included in Autodesk Build Premium (~$1,845/user/year) or higher tiers.
Buildxact
specializedUser-friendly estimating and takeoff software tailored for residential builders and remodelers.
Real-time material pricing directly from integrated suppliers for up-to-date cost accuracy
Buildxact is a cloud-based estimating and takeoff software tailored for residential builders, remodelers, and trade contractors in the general construction industry. It streamlines the creation of professional quotes through digital plan takeoffs, customizable templates, and real-time material pricing from integrated suppliers. Additional features include job costing, basic scheduling, and seamless integrations with accounting software like QuickBooks and Xero, making it a comprehensive tool for efficient project bidding and management.
Pros
- Intuitive digital takeoff tools that save time on measurements
- Customizable templates and real-time supplier pricing for accurate estimates
- Strong integrations with popular accounting platforms
Cons
- Pricing can be steep for solo operators or very small teams
- Limited advanced project management beyond estimating
- Primarily optimized for residential construction, less ideal for commercial
Best For
Small to medium residential builders and remodelers seeking user-friendly estimating and takeoff capabilities.
Pricing
Starts at $149/month (Essentials), $249/month (Pro), $349/month (Premium); 14-day free trial and annual discounts available.
ProEst
specializedCloud estimating platform offering digital takeoff, invitation to bid, and real-time collaboration.
The trade-specific Visual Database with thousands of pre-built assemblies and real-time labor/material pricing updates
ProEst is a cloud-based construction estimating software tailored for general contractors, electrical, mechanical, plumbing, and other specialty trades. It provides digital takeoff tools, a vast database of pre-built assemblies and items, and bid management capabilities to streamline preconstruction workflows. The platform supports real-time collaboration, mobile access, and seamless integrations with tools like Procore, Sage, and QuickBooks.
Pros
- Extensive pre-built database of items, assemblies, and labor rates for quick, accurate estimates
- Strong integrations with accounting and project management software like Sage and Procore
- Cloud-based platform enabling real-time team collaboration and mobile access
Cons
- Steep learning curve for users new to advanced estimating software
- Pricing is quote-based and lacks transparency on public website
- Digital takeoff tools are functional but less advanced than dedicated takeoff specialists
Best For
Mid-sized general contractors and trade contractors seeking robust, database-driven estimating with bid management for competitive bidding.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; typically starts around $5,000-$10,000 annually depending on users, modules, and add-ons.
Methvin
specializedOnline quantity surveying and estimating tool for construction tendering and cost management.
Global cost databases with live pricing updates for precise regional estimating
Methvin is a cloud-based construction estimating software that specializes in digital takeoff, bill of quantities (BOQ) generation, and cost estimating for general construction projects. It provides tools for 2D/3D measurements, customizable pricing databases, and tender management to streamline bidding processes. The platform supports team collaboration and integrates with accounting software like Xero and QuickBooks.
Pros
- Cloud-based access for real-time collaboration
- Extensive built-in cost libraries and customizable databases
- Accurate 2D/3D takeoff tools with BOQ automation
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users
- Limited advanced integrations compared to top competitors
- Mobile app lacks full desktop functionality
Best For
Small to mid-sized construction firms focused on accurate estimating and tendering without enterprise-level complexity.
Pricing
Starts at $49/month per user for basic plan; Pro and Enterprise tiers from $99/month with advanced features and unlimited projects.
Clear Estimates
specializedSimple cloud-based estimating software for generating professional quotes for home builders.
Pre-loaded database of over 12,000 residential-specific assemblies for rapid, accurate cost estimating
Clear Estimates is a cloud-based construction estimating software tailored primarily for residential remodelers and home builders, offering digital takeoff, rapid estimating with pre-built assemblies, professional proposal generation, and job cost tracking. It features a vast database of over 12,000 cost assemblies and integrates with QuickBooks for seamless accounting. The platform emphasizes speed and simplicity, with mobile access for on-site use, making it suitable for small to medium-sized contractors.
Pros
- Intuitive interface with quick learning curve
- Extensive pre-built assemblies database for fast estimating
- Professional, customizable proposals and QuickBooks integration
Cons
- Limited suitability for large-scale commercial projects
- Customer support response times can be inconsistent
- Pricing may feel steep for solo contractors
Best For
Small to medium residential contractors and remodelers seeking straightforward takeoff and estimating tools without complex setups.
Pricing
Starts at $149/user/month (billed annually) for Pro plan; Enterprise tiers for teams with add-ons available.
Hover
specializedAI-powered 3D measurement and estimating from smartphone photos of building exteriors.
AI-driven photogrammetry that creates detailed 3D roof models from a handful of smartphone photos
Hover (hover.to) is a mobile-first platform that uses AI and photogrammetry to generate precise 2D floor plans, 3D models, and measurement reports from smartphone photos of building exteriors, primarily roofs and facades. It automates takeoffs for materials like shingles and siding, streamlining pre-construction estimating. While excellent for exterior measurements, it lacks full-spectrum estimating tools for interiors or complex assemblies.
Pros
- Rapid, accurate measurements from simple phone photos, eliminating tape measures
- Automatic generation of material takeoffs and shareable PDF reports
- Seamless integrations with tools like QuickBooks and EagleView
Cons
- Limited to exterior/roof measurements, not suitable for full general construction estimating
- Costs accumulate with pay-per-report model for high-volume users
- Accuracy depends heavily on photo quality and lighting conditions
Best For
Roofing, siding, and exterior contractors needing quick site measurements without specialized equipment.
Pricing
Pay-per-report from $29-$99 per property; Pro subscription $125/month for unlimited basic reports.
Conclusion
The reviewed construction estimating software showcases robust options, with PlanSwift leading for its rapid, point-and-click takeoff and accurate cost calculations. Stack and Bluebeam Revu excel as alternatives—Stack for real-time cloud collaboration, and Bluebeam for precise PDF-based measurements—catering to distinct user needs. Together, these tools demonstrate how innovation and versatility drive efficiency in construction project planning.
Elevate your estimating workflow by trying PlanSwift first, or explore Stack or Bluebeam if specific features better match your process—each offers unique strengths to streamline your projects.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison