Quick Overview
- 1#1: STACK - Cloud-based digital takeoff and estimating software designed to help contractors create accurate bids quickly.
- 2#2: PlanSwift - On-screen takeoff software that automates quantity calculations from digital plans for precise estimates.
- 3#3: Bluebeam Revu - PDF-based markup and takeoff tool that streamlines measurement and estimation workflows for contractors.
- 4#4: Buildxact - All-in-one estimating and job management platform tailored for residential builders and remodelers.
- 5#5: Procore - Enterprise construction management platform with integrated estimating and bidding features.
- 6#6: Sage Estimating - Robust estimating software with extensive item databases and advanced reporting for professional contractors.
- 7#7: JobTread - Integrated construction management software featuring customizable estimating and scheduling tools.
- 8#8: Knowify - Cloud platform for construction businesses offering estimating, job costing, and invoicing capabilities.
- 9#9: Clear Estimates - Simple estimating software that generates professional proposals and tracks costs efficiently.
- 10#10: Autodesk Takeoff - Cloud-based quantity takeoff solution integrated with Autodesk's construction cloud for accurate estimates.
We selected and ranked these tools based on robust features (including quantity takeoff, automation, and bid management), user experience (interface, ease of use), reliability, and overall value, ensuring they address the diverse needs of modern construction professionals.
Comparison Table
Selecting the right general contractor estimate software requires evaluating tools like STACK, PlanSwift, Bluebeam Revu, Buildxact, Procore, and more—each with unique strengths. This comparison table outlines key features, usability, and ideal use cases to help readers navigate options and find software that streamlines estimating workflows and fits their project needs.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | STACK Cloud-based digital takeoff and estimating software designed to help contractors create accurate bids quickly. | specialized | 9.7/10 | 9.8/10 | 9.5/10 | 9.6/10 |
| 2 | PlanSwift On-screen takeoff software that automates quantity calculations from digital plans for precise estimates. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 3 | Bluebeam Revu PDF-based markup and takeoff tool that streamlines measurement and estimation workflows for contractors. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.3/10 |
| 4 | Buildxact All-in-one estimating and job management platform tailored for residential builders and remodelers. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 5 | Procore Enterprise construction management platform with integrated estimating and bidding features. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.1/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 6 | Sage Estimating Robust estimating software with extensive item databases and advanced reporting for professional contractors. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 9.1/10 | 6.8/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 7 | JobTread Integrated construction management software featuring customizable estimating and scheduling tools. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.4/10 | 7.9/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 8 | Knowify Cloud platform for construction businesses offering estimating, job costing, and invoicing capabilities. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 9 | Clear Estimates Simple estimating software that generates professional proposals and tracks costs efficiently. | specialized | 7.6/10 | 8.1/10 | 7.2/10 | 7.4/10 |
| 10 | Autodesk Takeoff Cloud-based quantity takeoff solution integrated with Autodesk's construction cloud for accurate estimates. | enterprise | 7.4/10 | 8.1/10 | 6.7/10 | 7.0/10 |
Cloud-based digital takeoff and estimating software designed to help contractors create accurate bids quickly.
On-screen takeoff software that automates quantity calculations from digital plans for precise estimates.
PDF-based markup and takeoff tool that streamlines measurement and estimation workflows for contractors.
All-in-one estimating and job management platform tailored for residential builders and remodelers.
Enterprise construction management platform with integrated estimating and bidding features.
Robust estimating software with extensive item databases and advanced reporting for professional contractors.
Integrated construction management software featuring customizable estimating and scheduling tools.
Cloud platform for construction businesses offering estimating, job costing, and invoicing capabilities.
Simple estimating software that generates professional proposals and tracks costs efficiently.
Cloud-based quantity takeoff solution integrated with Autodesk's construction cloud for accurate estimates.
STACK
specializedCloud-based digital takeoff and estimating software designed to help contractors create accurate bids quickly.
Patented PDF-to-BIM takeoff engine that instantly measures and extracts quantities from any plan set with pixel-perfect accuracy
STACK (stackct.com) is a cloud-based takeoff and estimating platform designed specifically for general contractors, allowing users to perform fast, accurate digital takeoffs directly from PDF plans, blueprints, and images without needing CAD files. It automates quantity calculations, assembles material and labor costs, and generates professional bid documents to streamline the estimating process. With real-time collaboration and unlimited storage on the free plan, it scales from solo estimators to large teams handling complex projects.
Pros
- Lightning-fast on-screen takeoffs with drag-and-drop tools and auto-counting for assemblies
- Seamless integration with accounting software like QuickBooks and robust template libraries for consistent estimating
- Generous free plan with unlimited projects and storage, plus mobile app for on-site verification
Cons
- Advanced reporting and custom branding require paid upgrades
- Steeper learning curve for complex assemblies compared to simpler tools
- Occasional glitches with very large or low-quality PDF files
Best For
General contractors and estimators managing high-volume bids on residential, commercial, or remodeling projects who need precise, scalable takeoff and estimating without desktop software.
Pricing
Free plan for unlimited solo use; Pro plans start at $2,499/year (or $249/month) for teams with advanced features like custom reports and API access.
PlanSwift
specializedOn-screen takeoff software that automates quantity calculations from digital plans for precise estimates.
Point-and-click digital takeoff that measures lengths, areas, and counts directly on-screen with automatic scaling and error reduction
PlanSwift is a specialized digital takeoff and estimating software tailored for construction professionals, particularly general contractors. It allows users to import blueprints in PDF, CAD, or image formats and perform precise quantity takeoffs using an intuitive point-and-click interface. The software automates calculations, builds cost assemblies from customizable databases, and generates professional estimates and reports, integrating with accounting tools like QuickBooks.
Pros
- Extremely fast and accurate digital takeoffs from plans
- Robust customizable assemblies and item databases
- Seamless integration with accounting and project management software
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users
- Windows desktop-only, no cloud or mobile version
- High upfront licensing cost with annual maintenance
Best For
General contractors and estimators dealing with complex blueprints who prioritize speed and precision in quantity takeoffs.
Pricing
Perpetual license starts at ~$1,600 per user, plus ~$400 annual maintenance; volume discounts available.
Bluebeam Revu
specializedPDF-based markup and takeoff tool that streamlines measurement and estimation workflows for contractors.
Quantity Link, which automatically syncs and updates takeoff measurements in Excel spreadsheets
Bluebeam Revu is a powerful PDF editing and markup software tailored for the construction industry, featuring advanced digital takeoff and measurement tools that enable general contractors to extract precise quantities from blueprints for estimating. It supports custom tool sets, area/perimeter/volume calculations, and seamless export to Excel via Quantity Link, streamlining pre-construction workflows. While not a full-fledged estimating suite with pricing databases, it excels in plan analysis and collaboration, making it a strong supplementary tool for quantity-based estimates.
Pros
- Exceptionally accurate digital takeoff and measurement tools with support for complex geometries and scales
- Quantity Link integrates measurements directly with Excel for dynamic estimating
- Robust collaboration features like Studio Sessions for team plan reviews
Cons
- Lacks built-in cost databases, assemblies, or bid management capabilities
- Steeper learning curve for advanced custom tool sets and scripting
- Subscription model can be pricey for smaller firms without full utilization
Best For
General contractors who specialize in digital takeoffs from PDFs and integrate quantities into spreadsheet-based estimating processes.
Pricing
Annual subscription: Standard $240/user, CAD $300/user, Extreme $350/user.
Buildxact
specializedAll-in-one estimating and job management platform tailored for residential builders and remodelers.
Live pricing feeds from integrated material suppliers for up-to-date, region-specific costing without manual updates
Buildxact is a cloud-based estimating, takeoff, and job management software designed specifically for residential builders, remodelers, and general contractors. It streamlines digital takeoffs, professional quote generation, material costing with supplier integrations, and project tracking from estimate to completion. The platform emphasizes speed and accuracy for small to medium-sized operations, with mobile access and accounting integrations like QuickBooks and Xero.
Pros
- Lightning-fast digital takeoffs with 2D/3D plan viewing
- Real-time supplier pricing integrations for accurate costing
- Seamless transition from quotes to job costing and scheduling
Cons
- Steep initial learning curve for non-tech-savvy users
- Higher pricing may not suit solo contractors
- Limited advanced customization for reporting and large-scale commercial projects
Best For
Small to medium residential general contractors and remodelers seeking efficient estimating and job tracking without needing extensive enterprise features.
Pricing
Subscription starts at $149/month (Solo/Essentials), $299/month (Teams/Premium), up to $499+/month for Enterprise; annual discounts available.
Procore
enterpriseEnterprise construction management platform with integrated estimating and bidding features.
Integrated Bid Board that centralizes subcontractor invites, bids, and comparisons directly within the estimating workflow
Procore is a comprehensive cloud-based construction management platform with dedicated estimating tools tailored for general contractors, enabling digital takeoffs, cost databases, assemblies, and bid management. It integrates estimating seamlessly with project scheduling, financials, and subcontractor bidding to streamline preconstruction workflows. While powerful for enterprise-level operations, its estimating module shines in collaborative environments but may require training for full utilization.
Pros
- Robust digital takeoff and estimating tools with customizable assemblies and cost databases
- Seamless integration with bid management and full project lifecycle features
- Real-time collaboration and mobile access for team-based estimating
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to extensive feature set
- High pricing that may not suit smaller contractors
- Overkill for users needing only standalone estimating without full platform
Best For
Mid-to-large general contractors seeking integrated estimating within a complete construction management ecosystem.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing, typically starting at $500+ per month per project or user, with add-ons for advanced estimating features.
Sage Estimating
enterpriseRobust estimating software with extensive item databases and advanced reporting for professional contractors.
Patented Visual Assemblies for intuitive drag-and-drop creation of complex cost assemblies
Sage Estimating is a robust, database-driven software solution tailored for general contractors and construction estimators, enabling precise bid preparation through itemized cost databases, digital takeoffs, and customizable assemblies. It supports front-end estimating with integration to Sage accounting and project management tools for streamlined workflows. Ideal for handling complex projects, it features real-time cost updates from a national database and advanced reporting capabilities.
Pros
- Extensive national cost database with frequent updates
- Powerful visual assemblies and customizable templates
- Seamless integration with Sage 300 and other ERP systems
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring significant training
- Outdated user interface compared to modern competitors
- High pricing with custom quotes often exceeding budget for smaller firms
Best For
Mid-to-large general contractors managing complex, high-volume bids who prioritize database accuracy over simplicity.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing, typically $150-$250 per user/month or perpetual licenses starting at $5,000+ per seat with annual maintenance.
JobTread
specializedIntegrated construction management software featuring customizable estimating and scheduling tools.
Drag-and-drop assemblies for rapid, accurate estimate creation with built-in labor, material, and overhead calculations
JobTread is a cloud-based construction management platform tailored for general contractors, with robust tools for creating detailed estimates using digital takeoffs, assemblies, and a built-in cost database. It streamlines the entire job lifecycle, including scheduling, change orders, job costing, subcontract management, and invoicing. The software offers mobile access and seamless integrations with QuickBooks for efficient financial tracking.
Pros
- Powerful estimating with drag-and-drop assemblies and real-time cost updates
- All-in-one job management including scheduling, change orders, and invoicing
- Strong QuickBooks integration and mobile app for field use
Cons
- Steeper learning curve for complex assemblies and custom setups
- Limited advanced reporting and analytics compared to enterprise tools
- Pricing scales quickly with additional users and features
Best For
Small to mid-sized general contractors and remodelers needing integrated estimating and job tracking without enterprise complexity.
Pricing
Starts at $69/user/month (Basic), $99/user/month (Pro), $149/user/month (Enterprise); billed annually with a free trial.
Knowify
specializedCloud platform for construction businesses offering estimating, job costing, and invoicing capabilities.
One-click estimate-to-job conversion with automatic cost tracking
Knowify is a cloud-based construction management software tailored for general contractors and subcontractors, with robust tools for creating detailed estimates, digital takeoffs, and job costing. It streamlines the process from bidding to invoicing by integrating estimating with project management, time tracking, and financials. The platform emphasizes real-time cost tracking and mobile accessibility for field teams, making it suitable for mid-sized operations.
Pros
- Comprehensive estimating with digital takeoff and assemblies
- Seamless integration with QuickBooks and other accounting software
- Real-time job costing and mobile app for on-site updates
Cons
- Steeper learning curve for new users
- Higher pricing for smaller teams
- Limited advanced reporting customization
Best For
Mid-sized general contractors needing integrated estimating, job costing, and invoicing without enterprise-level complexity.
Pricing
Starts at $99/user/month for basic plans, with Pro at $199/user/month and Enterprise custom pricing.
Clear Estimates
specializedSimple estimating software that generates professional proposals and tracks costs efficiently.
Vast pre-built assembly library with drag-and-drop takeoff for accelerating estimates from scratch
Clear Estimates is a Windows-based desktop software tailored for general contractors and remodelers, enabling rapid creation of professional estimates using a database of over 20,000 pre-built assemblies and line items. Users can input measurements via takeoff tools, apply automatic markups, taxes, and labor calculations, and generate customizable PDF proposals with photos and signatures. It supports exporting to Excel and QuickBooks integration for seamless invoicing.
Pros
- Extensive database of 20,000+ assemblies for quick estimating
- Professional PDF outputs with drag-and-drop customization
- Solid QuickBooks integration and automatic calculations
Cons
- Desktop-only (Windows), no mobile or cloud access
- Steep learning curve for advanced customizations
- Limited third-party integrations beyond QuickBooks
Best For
Small to mid-sized general contractors and remodelers focused on fast, standalone estimate creation without needing full project management suites.
Pricing
Subscription starts at $99/month or $995/year per user; one-time purchase options available for older versions.
Autodesk Takeoff
enterpriseCloud-based quantity takeoff solution integrated with Autodesk's construction cloud for accurate estimates.
Native 3D quantity takeoff directly from Revit and other BIM models without file conversion
Autodesk Takeoff is a cloud-based quantity takeoff tool within the Autodesk Construction Cloud suite, enabling estimators to extract quantities from 2D drawings like PDFs and CAD files, as well as 3D BIM models. It supports issue tracking, custom assemblies, and cost estimating to help general contractors prepare accurate bids. Designed for collaboration, it integrates seamlessly with other Autodesk products like Revit and Autodesk Build for end-to-end project workflows.
Pros
- Deep integration with Autodesk ecosystem including Revit and BIM 360 for seamless workflows
- Robust 2D and 3D takeoff capabilities with support for PDFs, CAD, and IFC models
- Cloud collaboration features for real-time team access and issue management
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to complex interface, especially for non-Autodesk users
- Pricing tied to broader Autodesk subscriptions, which can be costly for takeoff-only needs
- Limited advanced estimating customization compared to dedicated software
Best For
General contractors embedded in the Autodesk ecosystem seeking integrated takeoff within larger construction management workflows.
Pricing
Included in Autodesk Build and Construction Cloud subscriptions starting at ~$65/user/month (billed annually); standalone access requires higher-tier plans.
Conclusion
Evaluating the top 10 general contractor estimate software tools reveals STACK as the standout choice, delivering swift and precise bid creation. PlanSwift earns a strong second place with its automated quantity takeoff, ensuring accuracy from digital plans, while Bluebeam Revu shines as a reliable option for streamlining PDF-based measurement workflows. Each tool caters to distinct needs, making the decision ultimately dependent on specific project requirements.
Explore STACK now to unlock faster, more accurate estimating—your next winning bid starts here.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison