Quick Overview
- 1#1: PlanSwift - Digital takeoff and estimating software that enables rapid quantity calculation and cost estimation from plans.
- 2#2: Bluebeam Revu - PDF markup and measurement tool for precise material takeoffs and construction document collaboration.
- 3#3: On-Screen Takeoff - Robust desktop software for detailed digital plan takeoffs integrated with estimating databases.
- 4#4: Stack - Cloud-based platform for collaborative construction takeoffs and real-time material quantity tracking.
- 5#5: Togal.AI - AI-powered automated takeoff software that instantly measures and quantifies elements from digital plans.
- 6#6: Kreo - AI-driven 2D takeoff and estimating tool for accurate material quantities and BIM integration.
- 7#7: Groundplan - AI takeoff software that generates instant material takeoffs and cost estimates from uploaded drawings.
- 8#8: Takeoff Live - Cloud-based takeoff solution with live pricing integration for real-time material cost calculations.
- 9#9: Buildxact - Integrated takeoff and estimating software designed for residential builders and trade contractors.
- 10#10: Methvin - Flexible online takeoff and estimating platform with customizable templates for material quantification.
Tools were evaluated based on key metrics: feature robustness (including automation and integration), output quality, user-friendliness, and overall value, ensuring the list reflects the most reliable and impactful options for modern construction teams.
Comparison Table
Material takeoff software is essential for optimizing construction and renovation projects, streamlining quantity measurement and cost planning. This comparison table features top tools including PlanSwift, Bluebeam Revu, On-Screen Takeoff, Stack, Togal.AI, and more, breaking down their key features, ease of use, and ideal use cases. Readers will gain clear insights to select the software that best fits their project needs and team workflows.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | PlanSwift Digital takeoff and estimating software that enables rapid quantity calculation and cost estimation from plans. | specialized | 9.5/10 | 9.8/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.9/10 |
| 2 | Bluebeam Revu PDF markup and measurement tool for precise material takeoffs and construction document collaboration. | specialized | 9.2/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.4/10 | 8.9/10 |
| 3 | On-Screen Takeoff Robust desktop software for detailed digital plan takeoffs integrated with estimating databases. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 4 | Stack Cloud-based platform for collaborative construction takeoffs and real-time material quantity tracking. | enterprise | 8.6/10 | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 5 | Togal.AI AI-powered automated takeoff software that instantly measures and quantifies elements from digital plans. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 6 | Kreo AI-driven 2D takeoff and estimating tool for accurate material quantities and BIM integration. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 9.0/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 7 | Groundplan AI takeoff software that generates instant material takeoffs and cost estimates from uploaded drawings. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.4/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 8 | Takeoff Live Cloud-based takeoff solution with live pricing integration for real-time material cost calculations. | specialized | 7.8/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.2/10 |
| 9 | Buildxact Integrated takeoff and estimating software designed for residential builders and trade contractors. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 8.7/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 10 | Methvin Flexible online takeoff and estimating platform with customizable templates for material quantification. | specialized | 7.6/10 | 8.1/10 | 7.2/10 | 7.4/10 |
Digital takeoff and estimating software that enables rapid quantity calculation and cost estimation from plans.
PDF markup and measurement tool for precise material takeoffs and construction document collaboration.
Robust desktop software for detailed digital plan takeoffs integrated with estimating databases.
Cloud-based platform for collaborative construction takeoffs and real-time material quantity tracking.
AI-powered automated takeoff software that instantly measures and quantifies elements from digital plans.
AI-driven 2D takeoff and estimating tool for accurate material quantities and BIM integration.
AI takeoff software that generates instant material takeoffs and cost estimates from uploaded drawings.
Cloud-based takeoff solution with live pricing integration for real-time material cost calculations.
Integrated takeoff and estimating software designed for residential builders and trade contractors.
Flexible online takeoff and estimating platform with customizable templates for material quantification.
PlanSwift
specializedDigital takeoff and estimating software that enables rapid quantity calculation and cost estimation from plans.
Point-and-click visual takeoff engine that allows instant measurements without manual scaling or drawing tools
PlanSwift is a premier digital takeoff and estimating software tailored for construction professionals, enabling rapid material quantity takeoffs from PDF plans, scanned images, CAD files, and more. Users perform measurements via an intuitive point-and-click interface, automatically calculating areas, lengths, volumes, and counts while assigning costs and labor. It supports customizable assemblies, reporting, and integrations with estimating tools like Quick Bid for comprehensive project bidding.
Pros
- Lightning-fast point-and-click takeoffs with real-time calculations
- Powerful assembly builder for complex material groupings and custom databases
- Seamless integrations with popular estimating software and robust reporting tools
Cons
- High upfront licensing cost without subscription flexibility
- Windows-only compatibility limits accessibility
- Steep learning curve for advanced customization features
Best For
Construction estimators and contractors handling large-scale projects who prioritize speed and precision in digital plan takeoffs.
Pricing
One-time license starting at $1,595 for Solo edition, up to $1,995 for Enterprise, plus optional annual maintenance around $400-600.
Bluebeam Revu
specializedPDF markup and measurement tool for precise material takeoffs and construction document collaboration.
Quantity Link for automatic syncing of takeoff data to Excel spreadsheets with real-time updates
Bluebeam Revu is a robust PDF editing and markup software tailored for the AEC industry, with powerful material takeoff capabilities for extracting quantities from 2D drawings and plans. It offers precise measurement tools, customizable symbols, and automated counting for materials like rebar, drywall, and concrete. Users can link takeoffs directly to Excel via Quantity Link for dynamic reporting and estimation workflows.
Pros
- Highly accurate measurement and takeoff tools with customizable sets
- Seamless Excel integration via Quantity Link for live data syncing
- Strong collaboration features through Bluebeam Studio Sessions
Cons
- Steep learning curve for advanced takeoff customization
- Limited native 3D/BIM support compared to specialized tools
- Subscription model adds ongoing costs for smaller firms
Best For
Construction estimators and takeoff specialists working with PDF-based 2D plans who need precise, customizable quantity extraction.
Pricing
Subscription from $25/user/month (Basics) to $50/user/month (Complete); perpetual licenses $349-$549 plus annual maintenance.
On-Screen Takeoff
enterpriseRobust desktop software for detailed digital plan takeoffs integrated with estimating databases.
Advanced customizable assemblies that apply user-defined formulas to takeoff items for automated material, labor, and cost breakdowns
On-Screen Takeoff (OST) by ConstructConnect is a desktop-based software specialized in digital quantity takeoff for construction projects, enabling users to measure lengths, areas, volumes, and counts directly from PDF plans, scanned drawings, or CAD files. It features customizable assemblies that group takeoff items into material estimates with automatic calculations for labor, costs, and more. OST supports detailed reporting, custom queries, and integration with estimating tools like Quick Bid, making it a robust solution for pre-construction takeoff workflows.
Pros
- Exceptionally precise measuring tools with sub-millimeter accuracy
- Powerful customizable assemblies and formula-based estimating
- Strong integration with ConstructConnect's estimating and bid management suite
Cons
- Steep learning curve for beginners due to dense interface
- Windows desktop-only with no native mobile or web access
- Relatively high cost without a free tier for basic use
Best For
Mid-to-large construction estimators and contractors handling complex blueprints who require detailed, assembly-driven material takeoffs.
Pricing
Annual subscription starts at ~$1,749 per user; discounts for multi-user licenses and bundles with Quick Bid.
Stack
enterpriseCloud-based platform for collaborative construction takeoffs and real-time material quantity tracking.
AI Auto-Takeoff that instantly quantifies entire plans without manual tracing
Stack (stackct.com) is an AI-powered material takeoff software designed for construction estimators, automating quantity takeoffs directly from PDF plans and drawings. It supports measurements for counts, lengths, areas, and volumes, with features like instant AI extraction and export to Excel or estimating tools. The cloud-based platform emphasizes speed and collaboration for residential and commercial projects.
Pros
- Ultra-fast AI-driven takeoffs from PDFs
- Intuitive drag-and-drop interface
- Strong integrations with tools like Quick Bid and Procore
Cons
- Limited advanced assembly libraries
- Performance dependent on PDF quality
- Fewer customization options than legacy tools
Best For
Busy estimators and small-to-mid contractors seeking rapid digital takeoffs for residential and light commercial bids.
Pricing
Starts at $99/user/month (Starter), $199/user/month (Pro), custom Enterprise plans.
Togal.AI
specializedAI-powered automated takeoff software that instantly measures and quantifies elements from digital plans.
AI computer vision that automatically detects and quantifies takeoff items from blueprints without manual tracing
Togal.AI is an AI-powered platform designed for automating material takeoffs in construction projects by analyzing digital blueprints and PDFs. It uses computer vision technology to automatically detect, measure, and quantify elements such as walls, doors, windows, openings, and areas with minimal user input. The software generates detailed reports and exports data to Excel or integrates with popular estimating tools, streamlining the pre-construction bidding process.
Pros
- Ultra-fast AI-driven takeoffs that save hours compared to manual methods
- High accuracy for standard 2D plan elements like walls and openings
- Seamless collaboration and exports to Excel, PlanSwift, and other tools
Cons
- Performance drops with poor-quality or hand-drawn plans
- Limited support for complex 3D models or highly customized elements
- Pricing requires custom quotes and may be high for small firms
Best For
Construction estimators and mid-sized firms processing high volumes of PDF blueprints for competitive bidding.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; Pro plans start around $300-500/user/month, with pay-per-project options and Enterprise tiers available.
Kreo
specializedAI-driven 2D takeoff and estimating tool for accurate material quantities and BIM integration.
AI-powered automatic quantity takeoff that instantly extracts measurements from any uploaded PDF or BIM file with high accuracy.
Kreo is an AI-powered cloud-based software designed for material takeoff and quantity estimating in construction projects. It automates measurements and extractions from 2D PDFs, CAD files, and 3D BIM models, generating accurate bills of quantities (BoQs) and reports. The platform supports real-time collaboration, customizable templates, and integration with estimating workflows to streamline pre-construction processes.
Pros
- AI automation drastically reduces manual takeoff time
- Versatile support for 2D drawings, PDFs, and BIM models
- Real-time team collaboration and cloud accessibility
- Accurate measurements with visual verification tools
Cons
- Pricing is quote-based and can be expensive for small teams
- Internet dependency limits offline use
- Learning curve for advanced BIM features
- Limited integrations with some accounting software
Best For
Mid-sized construction estimators and quantity surveyors who need fast, AI-driven takeoffs from diverse drawing formats.
Pricing
Custom subscription pricing starting around $99/user/month for basic plans, scaling to enterprise levels with quotes required.
Groundplan
specializedAI takeoff software that generates instant material takeoffs and cost estimates from uploaded drawings.
AI-powered Instant Takeoff that automatically detects and quantifies roofing materials from uploaded plans in seconds
Groundplan is a cloud-based material takeoff and estimating software tailored for construction professionals, particularly in roofing and exterior trades. It enables users to upload PDF plans and perform digital takeoffs with automated measurements and material calculations. The platform generates detailed estimates, reports, and proposals, integrating takeoff data with accounting tools like QuickBooks.
Pros
- AI-assisted automatic takeoffs for faster measurements
- Intuitive drag-and-drop interface for plan annotation
- Seamless export to estimates and QuickBooks integration
Cons
- Limited customization for non-roofing assemblies
- Subscription model can be pricey for small teams
- Occasional accuracy issues with complex plans
Best For
Roofing contractors and small-to-medium construction firms needing quick, automated material takeoffs from digital plans.
Pricing
Starts at $99/user/month for Pro plan; Enterprise custom pricing available.
Takeoff Live
specializedCloud-based takeoff solution with live pricing integration for real-time material cost calculations.
Comprehensive pre-defined assemblies for concrete, steel, masonry, and more, tailored specifically for structural engineering takeoffs
Takeoff Live by Digital Canal is a cloud-based material takeoff software tailored for construction professionals, enabling precise quantity extraction from PDF plans, CAD files, and images. It features an extensive library of pre-built assemblies for structural elements like concrete, steel, masonry, and sitework, accelerating the takeoff process. The platform supports real-time collaboration, custom reporting, and integration with Digital Canal's estimating tools for comprehensive project bidding.
Pros
- Extensive pre-built assembly library for structural materials saves setup time
- Cloud-based real-time collaboration for team takeoffs
- Intuitive PDF and CAD import with accurate measurement tools
Cons
- Subscription pricing can be steep for small firms or infrequent users
- Limited third-party integrations beyond Digital Canal ecosystem
- Advanced reporting customization requires some learning
Best For
Mid-sized contractors and structural estimators handling PDF-based takeoffs for bidding on structural projects.
Pricing
Monthly subscriptions start at $99/user (Basic), $149/user (Pro), up to $249/user (Enterprise), with annual discounts available.
Buildxact
enterpriseIntegrated takeoff and estimating software designed for residential builders and trade contractors.
Real-time material pricing pulled directly from integrated suppliers like Home Depot and local yards
Buildxact is a cloud-based estimating and takeoff software tailored for residential builders and remodelers, enabling digital takeoffs from PDF plans and blueprints. It automates material quantity calculations, integrates live pricing from suppliers like Home Depot, and generates accurate quotes and job costs. The platform also supports job management, scheduling, and invoicing to streamline construction workflows from estimate to completion.
Pros
- Intuitive drag-and-drop takeoff tools for quick plan analysis
- Live supplier pricing integration for accurate costing
- Seamless transition from takeoff to quoting and job tracking
Cons
- Limited advanced features for large-scale commercial projects
- Pricing can add up for teams with multiple users
- Some reporting customization requires workarounds
Best For
Small to medium residential builders and remodelers seeking user-friendly takeoff and estimating without complex setups.
Pricing
Starts at $149/user/month (billed annually) for Essentials plan; scales to $399/user/month for Premium with full job management.
Methvin
specializedFlexible online takeoff and estimating platform with customizable templates for material quantification.
Integrated tender exchange portal for posting and bidding on projects directly within the platform
Methvin is a cloud-based construction software platform specializing in material takeoff, quantity surveying, and cost estimating from digital plans like PDFs and CAD files. It enables users to perform precise measurements, build customizable bills of quantities, and manage tenders with real-time collaboration. The tool integrates job costing and reporting, making it a versatile solution for pre-construction workflows.
Pros
- Cloud-based access with real-time multi-user collaboration
- Supports diverse file formats including PDF, CAD, and images for accurate takeoffs
- Customizable databases and templates for efficient estimating
Cons
- User interface appears dated and less intuitive than modern competitors
- Limited automation and AI features for complex takeoffs
- Occasional performance lags with large plan sets
Best For
Small to medium construction firms and independent quantity surveyors needing affordable integrated takeoff and tender management.
Pricing
Free basic takeoff plan available; paid tiers start at ~$49/user/month for full estimating and collaboration features.
Conclusion
The top material takeoff software reviewed showcase varied strengths, but the top three rise above for their performance: PlanSwift leads as the best choice, excelling in rapid quantity calculation and cost estimation; Bluebeam Revu follows, prized for precise measurements and collaborative features; and On-Screen Takeoff completes the top, known for detailed takeoffs integrated with estimating databases. Each tool meets distinct needs, with PlanSwift standing out as the clear favorite for efficiency.
Explore PlanSwift to streamline your takeoff process and experience its unmatched speed and accuracy today.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison