Quick Overview
- 1#1: PataBid - AI-powered estimating software that automates takeoffs and cost calculations specifically for mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and drywall contractors.
- 2#2: Destini Estimator - Advanced 3D model-based platform delivering fast, accurate quantity takeoffs and cost estimates for MEP projects.
- 3#3: PlanSwift - Digital takeoff and estimating tool that enables quick measurements and assemblies for mechanical construction bids.
- 4#4: Sage Estimating - Comprehensive database-driven estimating software supporting detailed mechanical cost breakdowns and bid management.
- 5#5: ProEst - Cloud-based estimating solution with real-time pricing and integration for mechanical contractors' workflows.
- 6#6: ConEst IntelliBid - Robust bid management software with extensive mechanical databases for precise labor and material estimates.
- 7#7: On-Screen Takeoff - Industry-standard digital takeoff software optimized for extracting mechanical quantities from plans.
- 8#8: Stack - AI-assisted takeoff platform that speeds up mechanical quantity extraction and preliminary estimating.
- 9#9: Bluebeam Revu - PDF markup and takeoff tool with customizable toolsets for mechanical estimating and collaboration.
- 10#10: Togal.AI - AI-driven automated takeoff software that generates accurate mechanical quantities from digital plans instantly.
We evaluated these tools based on automation strength, accuracy, user-friendliness, integration capabilities, and value, ensuring the list prioritizes both innovative features and practical performance for mechanical contractors
Comparison Table
This comparison table explores leading mechanical estimating software, featuring tools like PataBid, Destini Estimator, PlanSwift, Sage Estimating, ProEst, and more, to guide users in understanding their key differences. Readers will discover how each tool performs across features, usability, and workflow fit, empowering them to select the right software for their needs.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | PataBid AI-powered estimating software that automates takeoffs and cost calculations specifically for mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and drywall contractors. | specialized | 9.7/10 | 9.8/10 | 9.2/10 | 9.5/10 |
| 2 | Destini Estimator Advanced 3D model-based platform delivering fast, accurate quantity takeoffs and cost estimates for MEP projects. | specialized | 9.2/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.8/10 |
| 3 | PlanSwift Digital takeoff and estimating tool that enables quick measurements and assemblies for mechanical construction bids. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.8/10 | 8.3/10 |
| 4 | Sage Estimating Comprehensive database-driven estimating software supporting detailed mechanical cost breakdowns and bid management. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.2/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 5 | ProEst Cloud-based estimating solution with real-time pricing and integration for mechanical contractors' workflows. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 6 | ConEst IntelliBid Robust bid management software with extensive mechanical databases for precise labor and material estimates. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.5/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 7 | On-Screen Takeoff Industry-standard digital takeoff software optimized for extracting mechanical quantities from plans. | enterprise | 7.9/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 8 | Stack AI-assisted takeoff platform that speeds up mechanical quantity extraction and preliminary estimating. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 9 | Bluebeam Revu PDF markup and takeoff tool with customizable toolsets for mechanical estimating and collaboration. | enterprise | 7.8/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.0/10 |
| 10 | Togal.AI AI-driven automated takeoff software that generates accurate mechanical quantities from digital plans instantly. | specialized | 7.4/10 | 7.6/10 | 8.3/10 | 6.7/10 |
AI-powered estimating software that automates takeoffs and cost calculations specifically for mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and drywall contractors.
Advanced 3D model-based platform delivering fast, accurate quantity takeoffs and cost estimates for MEP projects.
Digital takeoff and estimating tool that enables quick measurements and assemblies for mechanical construction bids.
Comprehensive database-driven estimating software supporting detailed mechanical cost breakdowns and bid management.
Cloud-based estimating solution with real-time pricing and integration for mechanical contractors' workflows.
Robust bid management software with extensive mechanical databases for precise labor and material estimates.
Industry-standard digital takeoff software optimized for extracting mechanical quantities from plans.
AI-assisted takeoff platform that speeds up mechanical quantity extraction and preliminary estimating.
PDF markup and takeoff tool with customizable toolsets for mechanical estimating and collaboration.
AI-driven automated takeoff software that generates accurate mechanical quantities from digital plans instantly.
PataBid
specializedAI-powered estimating software that automates takeoffs and cost calculations specifically for mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and drywall contractors.
Patabot AI engine for automated, hyper-accurate material takeoffs and dynamic pricing adjustments
PataBid is a cloud-based AI-powered estimating software designed specifically for mechanical contractors in HVAC, plumbing, piping, and related trades. It streamlines the entire estimating process with digital plan takeoffs, automated material and labor pricing from a vast database, and customizable assemblies for complex projects. The platform enables real-time collaboration, mobile access, and professional bid presentations to help users win more profitable work.
Pros
- Lightning-fast digital takeoffs from PDFs and CAD files with AI assistance
- Comprehensive, real-time pricing database with supplier integrations and labor calculations
- Robust reporting, collaboration tools, and customizable templates for scalable workflows
Cons
- Steep initial learning curve for non-tech-savvy users
- Pricing is premium, better suited for mid-to-large firms
- Requires reliable internet for cloud-based functionality
Best For
Mid-to-large mechanical contractors handling complex HVAC, plumbing, and piping projects who need accurate, rapid estimating to stay competitive.
Pricing
Subscription-based starting at ~$495/month for solo users, scaling to $1,500+/month for teams; custom enterprise quotes available.
Destini Estimator
specializedAdvanced 3D model-based platform delivering fast, accurate quantity takeoffs and cost estimates for MEP projects.
Live BIM model integration that pulls dynamic quantities and specifications directly into estimates without manual re-entry
Destini Estimator by Beck Technology is a cloud-based estimating software tailored for MEP contractors, specializing in mechanical, electrical, and plumbing takeoffs and cost estimation. It automates quantity extraction directly from BIM models like Revit, enabling rapid and accurate mechanical estimating for HVAC, piping, and ductwork systems. The platform supports customizable labor and material databases, real-time team collaboration, and seamless integration with ERP/accounting systems for streamlined workflows.
Pros
- Seamless BIM model integration for automated, error-free quantity takeoffs
- Robust mechanical databases with real-time updates and customization
- Cloud-based collaboration enabling multi-user access and version control
Cons
- Steep learning curve for users without BIM experience
- Enterprise-level pricing may be prohibitive for small firms
- Heavily reliant on high-quality BIM models for optimal performance
Best For
Large MEP contractors with established BIM workflows seeking precise, model-driven mechanical estimating at scale.
Pricing
Custom enterprise subscription pricing, typically starting at $20,000+ annually based on users and modules.
PlanSwift
enterpriseDigital takeoff and estimating tool that enables quick measurements and assemblies for mechanical construction bids.
Drag-and-drop assemblies with dynamic formulas for instant mechanical quantity calculations
PlanSwift is a versatile digital takeoff and estimating software widely used in construction, including mechanical trades for quantifying materials like ducts, pipes, fittings, and equipment from 2D plans. It features point-and-click measurement tools, customizable assemblies, and formula-driven calculations tailored for mechanical estimating workflows. Users can import PDFs, CAD files, or scans to generate detailed takeoffs and export data to Excel for cost integration, streamlining bid preparation.
Pros
- Intuitive point-and-click takeoff accelerates quantity extraction from plans
- Customizable databases and assemblies support mechanical items like HVAC and plumbing
- Seamless Excel integration for estimating and reporting
Cons
- Limited 3D/BIM capabilities compared to specialized mechanical tools
- Requires manual setup for complex formulas and lacks automated pricing
- Annual maintenance fees add to long-term costs
Best For
Mechanical estimators and contractors focused on fast 2D takeoffs from digital plans in mid-sized projects.
Pricing
Perpetual license starting at ~$1,600, plus optional annual maintenance (~20% of license cost) and training add-ons.
Sage Estimating
enterpriseComprehensive database-driven estimating software supporting detailed mechanical cost breakdowns and bid management.
Industry-leading mechanical assemblies database with labor-optimized, customizable components for rapid yet highly accurate HVAC, plumbing, and piping estimates
Sage Estimating is a robust construction cost estimating software tailored for mechanical contractors, offering extensive pre-built databases with millions of mechanical items, assemblies, and labor units for accurate bid preparation. It supports digital takeoffs from PDFs and CAD files, customizable formulas, and real-time cost updates from historical data. The platform integrates seamlessly with Sage accounting and project management tools, streamlining the transition from estimate to job costing.
Pros
- Comprehensive mechanical-specific databases with over 20 million line items and assemblies
- Powerful digital takeoff and visual estimating tools for precise mechanical quantities
- Strong integrations with Sage ERP and accounting systems for end-to-end workflow
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to complex interface and customization options
- High pricing requires significant investment, especially for smaller firms
- Primarily desktop-based with limited cloud mobility compared to modern competitors
Best For
Mid-to-large mechanical contractors managing complex commercial projects who prioritize database depth and ERP integration over simplicity.
Pricing
Quote-based subscription starting at approximately $5,000-$15,000 annually per user, depending on modules, database access, and support level.
ProEst
enterpriseCloud-based estimating solution with real-time pricing and integration for mechanical contractors' workflows.
Neural assemblies library with thousands of mechanical-specific items for lightning-fast bid assembly
ProEst is a cloud-based construction estimating platform tailored for mechanical contractors, offering digital takeoff, customizable assemblies for HVAC, piping, and plumbing, and bid management tools. It enables rapid creation of detailed estimates using a vast database of mechanical items and supports real-time collaboration during bid day. The software integrates seamlessly with popular accounting and project management systems like Sage and Procore, streamlining workflows from takeoff to final bid submission.
Pros
- Extensive library of pre-built mechanical assemblies for fast, accurate estimating
- Cloud-based real-time collaboration and bid day features
- Strong integrations with ERP and project management tools
Cons
- Steep learning curve for advanced customization
- Higher cost may deter small firms
- Reporting and analytics could be more flexible
Best For
Mid-sized mechanical contractors needing scalable, database-driven estimating with team collaboration.
Pricing
Quote-based annual subscriptions starting around $5,000, scaled by users and modules.
ConEst IntelliBid
specializedRobust bid management software with extensive mechanical databases for precise labor and material estimates.
Dynamic labor factoring that intelligently adjusts man-hours based on installation conditions, position, and crew productivity
ConEst IntelliBid is a robust desktop-based estimating software tailored for mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) contractors, enabling precise digital takeoff, material and labor takeoffs, and bid generation. It features an extensive pre-built database of mechanical assemblies, assemblies, and fixtures, with advanced labor factoring for accurate cost projections. The software supports customizable reports, integration with CAD files, and export to bidding platforms, streamlining the pre-construction bidding process for complex projects.
Pros
- Comprehensive mechanical databases with thousands of pre-built assemblies and labor units
- Advanced digital takeoff tools with precise measuring and annotation capabilities
- Powerful labor factoring engine that accounts for position, difficulty, and productivity factors
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring significant training for full proficiency
- Primarily Windows desktop application with limited mobile or cloud accessibility
- High upfront costs and ongoing maintenance fees
Best For
Experienced mechanical contractors managing large-scale commercial projects who prioritize detailed accuracy over simplicity.
Pricing
Perpetual licenses start at around $6,000-$10,000 per user depending on modules, plus 18-20% annual maintenance; subscription plans available from $200-$400/month.
On-Screen Takeoff
enterpriseIndustry-standard digital takeoff software optimized for extracting mechanical quantities from plans.
Customizable takeoff assemblies and routines that enable mechanical-specific quantifications like automatic fittings counts based on linear measurements
On-Screen Takeoff (OST) is a digital takeoff software designed for construction professionals to perform precise quantity takeoffs directly from PDFs, scanned plans, and CAD files. In mechanical estimating, it excels at measuring linear items like piping and ductwork, areas for sheet metal, and counts for fittings through customizable assemblies and routines. It generates detailed reports and integrates with estimating tools like Quick Bid, streamlining workflows for mechanical contractors focused on 2D plan-based quantification.
Pros
- Highly accurate digital measurements with zoom and calibration for complex plans
- Flexible assembly builder tailored for mechanical items like ducts, pipes, and HVAC components
- Seamless integration with Quick Bid for estimating and Excel for reporting
Cons
- Lacks native 3D/BIM integration, limiting use for model-based mechanical workflows
- Steep learning curve for advanced custom routines and assemblies
- Primarily Windows desktop app with limited mobile or cloud-native collaboration
Best For
Mechanical estimators and contractors who rely on 2D plans for quantity takeoff and need robust customization without requiring full BIM capabilities.
Pricing
Annual subscription starts at ~$1,995 per user; perpetual licenses with annual maintenance (~20%) also available.
Stack
specializedAI-assisted takeoff platform that speeds up mechanical quantity extraction and preliminary estimating.
Patented AI Intelligence engine that learns from user corrections to improve takeoff accuracy for mechanical trades over time
Stack (stackct.com) is a cloud-based construction takeoff and estimating software tailored for specialty trades like mechanical, plumbing, and electrical contractors. It uses AI-driven intelligence to automatically detect, measure, and quantify elements such as ducts, pipes, fittings, equipment, and hangers directly from PDF plans and drawings. The platform enables rapid assembly of detailed estimates with built-in assemblies, pricing databases, and real-time collaboration tools for teams.
Pros
- AI-powered automated takeoffs drastically reduce manual measuring time for mechanical elements like HVAC and piping
- Strong collaboration features for sharing plans and estimates in real-time
- Integrates with popular accounting and project management tools like QuickBooks and Procore
Cons
- Subscription pricing can be steep for smaller firms
- AI accuracy may require manual corrections for complex or non-standard mechanical drawings
- Limited advanced customization for highly specialized mechanical estimating workflows
Best For
Mid-sized mechanical contractors seeking fast, AI-assisted takeoffs and team collaboration without deep expertise in specialized estimating software.
Pricing
Quote-based enterprise pricing, typically starting at $250/user/month with annual contracts and volume discounts.
Bluebeam Revu
enterprisePDF markup and takeoff tool with customizable toolsets for mechanical estimating and collaboration.
Customizable quantity takeoff tools with dynamic measurements and exportable summaries for mechanical assemblies
Bluebeam Revu is a powerful PDF editing and markup software widely used in construction for digital takeoffs and quantity measurements from blueprints, making it suitable for mechanical estimating tasks like calculating ductwork, piping, and HVAC components. It features customizable tool sets and measurement tools that allow users to annotate plans, generate reports, and export data to Excel for cost integration. While excels at pre-estimating takeoffs, it lacks built-in pricing databases or automated assemblies found in dedicated estimating software.
Pros
- Highly accurate digital takeoff and measurement tools for mechanical elements like pipes and ducts
- Customizable symbol libraries and markup toolsets tailored to HVAC/plumbing workflows
- Seamless collaboration via Bluebeam Studio for team reviews
Cons
- No native cost databases, labor rates, or full estimating assemblies—requires Excel export
- Subscription model can be expensive for takeoff-only use
- Advanced customizations have a learning curve for non-PDF experts
Best For
Mechanical estimators focused on precise quantity takeoffs from PDFs who integrate with external spreadsheets for pricing.
Pricing
Subscription-based: Essentials $240/user/year, Core $360/user/year, Complete $720/user/year.
Togal.AI
specializedAI-driven automated takeoff software that generates accurate mechanical quantities from digital plans instantly.
AI-powered instant takeoffs that automatically detect and measure mechanical elements directly from uploaded blueprint PDFs
Togal.AI is an AI-powered takeoff and estimating platform designed to automate quantity measurements from 2D construction blueprints and PDFs, drastically reducing manual takeoff time from hours to minutes. It uses computer vision to detect and quantify elements such as areas, lengths, counts, ducts, pipes, and equipment in plans, making it applicable to mechanical estimating workflows. While not exclusively tailored for mechanical trades, it supports rapid quantity extraction that can feed into estimating software, though complex assemblies or 3D modeling require additional tools.
Pros
- Ultra-fast AI-driven takeoffs from PDFs in seconds
- High accuracy for standard 2D mechanical elements like ducts and pipes
- Cloud-based collaboration and easy export to estimating tools
Cons
- Lacks built-in mechanical pricing databases or labor calculations
- May struggle with highly detailed or non-standard mechanical drawings requiring manual corrections
- Enterprise-level pricing may not suit small mechanical contractors
Best For
Mechanical estimators in mid-sized construction firms seeking to accelerate 2D quantity takeoffs without investing in fully specialized mechanical software.
Pricing
Subscription-based starting at around $299/month per user for basic plans, with enterprise custom pricing; project-based options available upon request.
Conclusion
This curated list of mechanical estimating software showcases exceptional tools, with PataBid at the forefront, leveraging AI to automate takeoffs and cost calculations for streamlined workflows. Destini Estimator and PlanSwift stand as strong alternatives—Destini for its 3D model-based precision, and PlanSwift for rapid measurements and assemblies—each addressing unique needs. Together, these solutions redefine efficiency, ensuring accuracy and speed in mechanical contracting bids.
Don’t miss out on the top-performing tool—try PataBid today to transform your estimating process and gain a competitive edge.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison