Quick Overview
- 1#1: PlanSwift - Digital takeoff and estimating software that enables contractors to measure quantities directly from PDFs and generate accurate cost estimates quickly.
- 2#2: Stack - Cloud-based AI-powered takeoff and estimating platform designed for fast, accurate quantity extraction and bid creation for general contractors.
- 3#3: Bluebeam Revu - Advanced PDF markup and takeoff tool with estimating features for precise measurements and collaboration on construction documents.
- 4#4: Sage Estimating - Robust estimating software with extensive cost databases, assemblies, and integration for detailed construction bids.
- 5#5: Procore - Construction management platform featuring integrated estimating tools for bidding, budgeting, and project cost tracking.
- 6#6: Buildxact - User-friendly cloud estimating and takeoff software tailored for residential and light commercial contractors.
- 7#7: Autodesk Takeoff - Cloud-based quantity takeoff and estimating solution with BIM integration for accurate material and cost calculations.
- 8#8: Buildertrend - All-in-one construction software with takeoff, estimating, and scheduling tools for managing bids and projects.
- 9#9: Knowify - Construction management platform offering estimating, job costing, and invoicing for trade contractors.
- 10#10: Clear Estimates - Simple, template-based estimating software that generates professional proposals quickly for small to mid-sized contractors.
Tools were selected and ranked based on feature efficacy (quantity takeoff accuracy, cost database depth, and integration potential), user-friendliness (intuitive design, learning curve, and collaboration tools), and long-term value (scalability, pricing models, and operational benefits), ensuring a balanced assessment of suitability for contractors of all sizes.
Comparison Table
General contractor estimating software streamlines project planning, with tools like PlanSwift, Bluebeam Revu, Sage Estimating, and Procore, each tailored to unique workflows. This comparison table breaks down key features, practical use cases, and standout capabilities, helping readers identify the right solution for their needs.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | PlanSwift Digital takeoff and estimating software that enables contractors to measure quantities directly from PDFs and generate accurate cost estimates quickly. | specialized | 9.2/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 2 | Stack Cloud-based AI-powered takeoff and estimating platform designed for fast, accurate quantity extraction and bid creation for general contractors. | specialized | 9.2/10 | 9.6/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.9/10 |
| 3 | Bluebeam Revu Advanced PDF markup and takeoff tool with estimating features for precise measurements and collaboration on construction documents. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.4/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 4 | Sage Estimating Robust estimating software with extensive cost databases, assemblies, and integration for detailed construction bids. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 5 | Procore Construction management platform featuring integrated estimating tools for bidding, budgeting, and project cost tracking. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 6 | Buildxact User-friendly cloud estimating and takeoff software tailored for residential and light commercial contractors. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 8.6/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 7 | Autodesk Takeoff Cloud-based quantity takeoff and estimating solution with BIM integration for accurate material and cost calculations. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.7/10 |
| 8 | Buildertrend All-in-one construction software with takeoff, estimating, and scheduling tools for managing bids and projects. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.6/10 | 7.7/10 |
| 9 | Knowify Construction management platform offering estimating, job costing, and invoicing for trade contractors. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.6/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 10 | Clear Estimates Simple, template-based estimating software that generates professional proposals quickly for small to mid-sized contractors. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.5/10 | 8.2/10 |
Digital takeoff and estimating software that enables contractors to measure quantities directly from PDFs and generate accurate cost estimates quickly.
Cloud-based AI-powered takeoff and estimating platform designed for fast, accurate quantity extraction and bid creation for general contractors.
Advanced PDF markup and takeoff tool with estimating features for precise measurements and collaboration on construction documents.
Robust estimating software with extensive cost databases, assemblies, and integration for detailed construction bids.
Construction management platform featuring integrated estimating tools for bidding, budgeting, and project cost tracking.
User-friendly cloud estimating and takeoff software tailored for residential and light commercial contractors.
Cloud-based quantity takeoff and estimating solution with BIM integration for accurate material and cost calculations.
All-in-one construction software with takeoff, estimating, and scheduling tools for managing bids and projects.
Construction management platform offering estimating, job costing, and invoicing for trade contractors.
Simple, template-based estimating software that generates professional proposals quickly for small to mid-sized contractors.
PlanSwift
specializedDigital takeoff and estimating software that enables contractors to measure quantities directly from PDFs and generate accurate cost estimates quickly.
Drag-and-drop assemblies that automatically apply labor, material, and costs to takeoffs in real-time
PlanSwift is a leading digital takeoff and estimating software tailored for general contractors, enabling rapid measurement of plans from PDFs, CAD files, and images using intuitive point-and-click tools. It automates quantity takeoffs, supports customizable assemblies and formulas for accurate cost estimating, and integrates with tools like Excel, QuickBooks, and Sage. Ideal for streamlining pre-construction bidding processes, it reduces manual errors and speeds up project turnaround.
Pros
- Lightning-fast point-and-click takeoffs from digital plans
- Highly customizable assemblies and real-time cost calculations
- Seamless integrations with accounting and project management software
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users
- Primarily on-premise with limited cloud features
- High upfront licensing costs
Best For
General contractors managing complex, large-scale projects who prioritize precision and speed in digital estimating.
Pricing
Perpetual license starts at $1,749 per seat, plus optional annual maintenance around $350-$500.
Stack
specializedCloud-based AI-powered takeoff and estimating platform designed for fast, accurate quantity extraction and bid creation for general contractors.
AI Automatic Takeoff that instantly measures quantities from PDFs, images, or CAD files with 98%+ accuracy
Stack (stackct.com) is an AI-powered takeoff and estimating platform tailored for general contractors, automating quantity takeoffs from digital plans with high accuracy. It streamlines the estimating process by generating detailed cost breakdowns, assemblies, and reports while supporting real-time collaboration among teams. The software integrates seamlessly with tools like Procore, QuickBooks, and PlanGrid, making it a comprehensive solution for construction bidding and project planning.
Pros
- Ultra-fast AI-driven takeoffs that reduce manual measurement time by up to 90%
- Precise quantity extraction with customizable assemblies and cost databases
- Strong integrations and cloud-based collaboration for team efficiency
Cons
- Higher pricing tiers may not suit very small contractors
- AI performance can vary with complex or low-quality plans
- Steeper initial learning curve for advanced estimating features
Best For
Mid-sized general contractors managing competitive bids on commercial and residential projects who prioritize speed and accuracy in takeoffs.
Pricing
Starts at $99/user/month for basic takeoff features; Pro and Enterprise plans range from $199-$499/user/month with full estimating and unlimited projects.
Bluebeam Revu
specializedAdvanced PDF markup and takeoff tool with estimating features for precise measurements and collaboration on construction documents.
Dynamic JavaScript-powered quantity takeoffs with visual chaining and instant Excel export
Bluebeam Revu is a robust PDF editing and markup software designed for AEC professionals, particularly general contractors, allowing for precise digital takeoffs, measurements, and quantity calculations directly from blueprints and plans. It supports estimating workflows by enabling users to annotate drawings, generate customizable reports, and export data to Excel for cost integration. While not a full standalone estimating suite, its tools streamline pre-construction quantity extraction and collaboration via the Studio cloud platform.
Pros
- Exceptional digital takeoff tools with automatic scaling and calculations
- Seamless PDF collaboration and real-time Studio sessions
- Highly customizable markups and reporting tailored for construction
Cons
- Lacks built-in cost databases or advanced bid management
- Steeper learning curve for advanced takeoff features
- Windows-only with higher pricing for full capabilities
Best For
General contractors who specialize in PDF-based plan takeoffs and need accurate quantity measurements integrated with Excel estimating.
Pricing
Subscription from $249/user/year (Basics) to $449/user/year (Complete); perpetual licenses $600-$1,000+ per user.
Sage Estimating
enterpriseRobust estimating software with extensive cost databases, assemblies, and integration for detailed construction bids.
Visual Assembler for intuitive drag-and-drop assembly building with built-in conditional logic and parametric estimating
Sage Estimating is a comprehensive construction estimating software tailored for general contractors, offering access to extensive national cost databases with over 100,000 line items and assemblies. It enables detailed takeoff, bid preparation, and cost analysis through customizable formulas, conditional logic, and integration with digital plan viewers. The tool supports seamless workflow from estimating to job costing, particularly when paired with Sage accounting software like Sage 300.
Pros
- Vast, regularly updated cost databases for accurate pricing
- Advanced Visual Assembler with conditional logic and formulas
- Strong integrations with Sage accounting and project management tools
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring significant training
- Higher pricing suitable mainly for mid-to-large firms
- Interface feels dated compared to modern cloud-native alternatives
Best For
Established general contractors managing complex, large-scale projects that benefit from database-driven precision and ERP integration.
Pricing
Subscription-based; typically $4,000-$12,000 annually per user depending on modules and firm size—contact Sage for quotes.
Procore
enterpriseConstruction management platform featuring integrated estimating tools for bidding, budgeting, and project cost tracking.
Drawbridge Marketplace for streamlined subcontractor bidding and real-time bid leveling
Procore is a comprehensive cloud-based construction management platform that includes robust estimating and bidding tools tailored for general contractors. It enables users to perform digital takeoffs, generate accurate bids, and manage subcontractor outreach through its Bidding tool, with seamless integration into broader project management workflows. While not a standalone estimating solution, it excels in connecting estimates to financial tracking, RFIs, and change orders for end-to-end visibility.
Pros
- Seamless integration with Procore's full construction suite for bids flowing into project execution
- Powerful digital takeoff and quantity tools with PDF and Excel support
- Extensive subcontractor bidding network via Drawbridge Marketplace
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to the platform's breadth and complexity
- High cost may not justify for estimating-only needs
- Less specialized takeoff precision compared to dedicated tools like PlanSwift
Best For
Mid-to-large general contractors seeking integrated estimating within a full project management ecosystem.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing, typically $500-$700 per month per project or per user stack, with annual contracts required.
Buildxact
specializedUser-friendly cloud estimating and takeoff software tailored for residential and light commercial contractors.
Real-time supplier price integration for instant, accurate cost updates during takeoffs
Buildxact is a cloud-based estimating and takeoff software tailored for residential builders, remodelers, and general contractors. It enables quick digital takeoffs, accurate cost estimates using pre-built material templates and supplier price lists, and seamless job management from quote to invoicing. The platform integrates with accounting tools like QuickBooks and Xero, offering mobile access for on-site updates.
Pros
- Intuitive drag-and-drop takeoff tools for rapid measurements
- Extensive library of pre-loaded material prices from suppliers
- Strong integrations with accounting software for streamlined workflows
Cons
- Higher pricing tiers required for advanced job costing features
- Limited customization options for complex commercial projects
- Reporting capabilities could be more robust
Best For
Small to medium residential general contractors seeking user-friendly estimating without a steep learning curve.
Pricing
Starts at $149 AUD/month (Basic), $299 (Pro), $499 (Premium); annual discounts available.
Autodesk Takeoff
enterpriseCloud-based quantity takeoff and estimating solution with BIM integration for accurate material and cost calculations.
Deep native integration with Autodesk Revit and BIM 360 for bidirectional data flow between takeoff, design, and field management
Autodesk Takeoff is a cloud-based software solution focused on 2D quantity takeoff and basic estimating for construction projects, enabling users to measure and quantify materials directly from PDFs, CAD files, and scanned plans. It supports customizable assemblies, cost databases, and report generation to aid general contractors in preconstruction bidding. The tool integrates deeply with the Autodesk Construction Cloud ecosystem, facilitating collaboration and data sharing across project teams.
Pros
- Seamless integration with Autodesk BIM 360 and Construction Cloud for end-to-end workflows
- Precise 2D takeoff tools with automated measurements and customizable item libraries
- Cloud collaboration allowing real-time sharing and team access to takeoffs
Cons
- Steeper learning curve for users unfamiliar with Autodesk interface
- Limited advanced 3D takeoff and modeling compared to specialized competitors
- Higher pricing may not suit small contractors or solo estimators
Best For
Mid-to-large general contractors already in the Autodesk ecosystem seeking reliable 2D takeoff integrated with project management tools.
Pricing
Subscription-based via Autodesk Construction Cloud; Takeoff Pro starts at ~$1,075/user/year, with bundles up to $3,000+ for full suites.
Buildertrend
enterpriseAll-in-one construction software with takeoff, estimating, and scheduling tools for managing bids and projects.
Real-time job costing that automatically syncs estimate changes to budgets and financial tracking
Buildertrend is an all-in-one construction management platform designed for general contractors, featuring dedicated estimating tools for creating detailed bids, digital takeoffs, and cost breakdowns. It integrates estimating seamlessly with scheduling, job costing, and client portals, allowing real-time updates and collaboration across projects. While not a standalone estimating specialist, its comprehensive workflow makes it ideal for contractors managing full project lifecycles.
Pros
- Seamless integration of estimating with scheduling and job costing
- Mobile app for on-site estimate adjustments and approvals
- Robust client portal for sharing bids and change orders
Cons
- Steep learning curve for advanced estimating features
- Pricing can be high for small teams
- Estimating tools less advanced than dedicated software like PlanSwift
Best For
General contractors seeking an integrated platform that combines estimating with end-to-end project management.
Pricing
Custom quotes starting at ~$99/user/month (annual billing); typically $300-$600/month for mid-sized teams with onboarding fees.
Knowify
specializedConstruction management platform offering estimating, job costing, and invoicing for trade contractors.
Pre-built estimating assemblies with real-time cost database updates and automatic QuickBooks export
Knowify is a cloud-based construction management software tailored for general contractors and subcontractors, featuring robust estimating tools for digital takeoffs, assemblies, and cost databases. It streamlines the process from bid creation to job costing, invoicing, and payments, with real-time tracking of project finances. The platform integrates deeply with QuickBooks Online, enabling seamless data sync between estimating and accounting.
Pros
- Deep QuickBooks integration for effortless accounting sync
- Digital takeoff and estimating with customizable assemblies
- Mobile app for on-site estimating and job tracking
Cons
- Steep learning curve for advanced estimating features
- Pricing can be expensive for small teams or solo contractors
- Limited third-party integrations beyond core accounting tools
Best For
Mid-sized general contractors who need integrated estimating, job costing, and QuickBooks connectivity without complex enterprise setups.
Pricing
Starts at $99/user/month for Essential plan; Pro at $149/user/month and Enterprise custom pricing, billed annually.
Clear Estimates
specializedSimple, template-based estimating software that generates professional proposals quickly for small to mid-sized contractors.
Pre-built assemblies that enable complete job estimates in minutes by selecting high-level project types rather than itemizing every component
Clear Estimates is a Windows-based desktop software designed specifically for general contractors, remodelers, and home builders to create fast and accurate construction estimates. It features a vast library of pre-built assemblies—comprehensive estimating templates for common jobs like kitchens, bathrooms, and additions—that streamline the bidding process. The tool includes regularly updated national cost databases, customizable line items, and exports professional PDF proposals with integrated contract and change order features.
Pros
- Extensive library of pre-built assemblies for rapid estimating
- Frequently updated cost data from reliable sources like RSMeans
- Seamless integration with QuickBooks and professional proposal generation
Cons
- Desktop-only (Windows), lacking cloud or mobile access
- Initial learning curve for mastering assemblies and customization
- Upfront cost without free tier or trial limitations
Best For
General contractors and remodelers handling residential projects who value desktop precision and speed over cloud collaboration.
Pricing
One-time license starting at $1,495 for the Pro version, plus optional annual maintenance ($395-$495) for cost database updates; 14-day free trial available.
Conclusion
A thorough review of these leading estimating tools reveals they deliver speed, accuracy, and efficiency to modern contractors. At the apex, PlanSwift excels with its intuitive PDF takeoff, streamlining estimate creation. Stack and Bluebeam Revu also stand out—Stack for AI-powered bid generation, Bluebeam for robust PDF markup and collaboration—offering tailored solutions for diverse needs. Together, they demonstrate how the right software can transform estimating from a challenge into a competitive advantage.
Take the first step toward smoother, more profitable bids: try PlanSwift today and experience the difference of industry-leading estimating power.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison