Quick Overview
- 1#1: Stack - Cloud-based digital takeoff and estimating software powered by AI for fast, accurate construction quantity takeoffs and bids.
- 2#2: Buildxact - User-friendly cloud estimating and takeoff tool designed for residential builders with job costing and quoting features.
- 3#3: ProEst - Comprehensive cloud-based estimating software with customizable assemblies, real-time pricing, and integration with accounting systems.
- 4#4: Buildertrend - All-in-one construction management platform with integrated online estimating, takeoff, and scheduling tools.
- 5#5: Sage Estimating - Advanced cloud-accessible estimating solution with extensive item databases, labor planning, and reporting for large projects.
- 6#6: Destini Estimator - BIM-integrated cloud estimating software that automates quantity takeoff and cost modeling from 3D models.
- 7#7: Togal.AI - AI-driven automated takeoff and estimating platform that processes plans instantly for faster bidding.
- 8#8: Kreo - Collaborative cloud-based 2D and 3D takeoff and estimating software with real-time team editing.
- 9#9: Autodesk Takeoff - Cloud-based quantity takeoff tool integrated with Autodesk Construction Cloud for precise measurements and estimates.
- 10#10: PlanSwift - Digital plan takeoff and estimating software with cloud collaboration for assembling bids quickly.
These tools were selected for their combination of feature depth, user experience, and practical value, prioritizing capabilities like automated quantity takeoffs, integration potential, and adaptability to project scale, ensuring they meet the diverse needs of construction professionals.
Comparison Table
This comparison table outlines top online construction estimating software tools, including Stack, Buildxact, ProEst, Buildertrend, Sage Estimating, and more. It equips readers with insights to find the right fit by comparing features, usability, and functionality, whether for small teams or large firms. The table simplifies evaluating reliable, efficient solutions for construction estimating needs.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Stack Cloud-based digital takeoff and estimating software powered by AI for fast, accurate construction quantity takeoffs and bids. | specialized | 9.6/10 | 9.8/10 | 9.2/10 | 9.4/10 |
| 2 | Buildxact User-friendly cloud estimating and takeoff tool designed for residential builders with job costing and quoting features. | specialized | 9.1/10 | 9.2/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 3 | ProEst Comprehensive cloud-based estimating software with customizable assemblies, real-time pricing, and integration with accounting systems. | enterprise | 8.6/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 4 | Buildertrend All-in-one construction management platform with integrated online estimating, takeoff, and scheduling tools. | enterprise | 8.6/10 | 8.8/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 5 | Sage Estimating Advanced cloud-accessible estimating solution with extensive item databases, labor planning, and reporting for large projects. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 9.1/10 | 6.8/10 | 7.4/10 |
| 6 | Destini Estimator BIM-integrated cloud estimating software that automates quantity takeoff and cost modeling from 3D models. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.7/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 7 | Togal.AI AI-driven automated takeoff and estimating platform that processes plans instantly for faster bidding. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.8/10 | 7.9/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 8 | Kreo Collaborative cloud-based 2D and 3D takeoff and estimating software with real-time team editing. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.8/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 9 | Autodesk Takeoff Cloud-based quantity takeoff tool integrated with Autodesk Construction Cloud for precise measurements and estimates. | enterprise | 8.0/10 | 8.4/10 | 7.6/10 | 7.4/10 |
| 10 | PlanSwift Digital plan takeoff and estimating software with cloud collaboration for assembling bids quickly. | specialized | 7.8/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.0/10 | 7.5/10 |
Cloud-based digital takeoff and estimating software powered by AI for fast, accurate construction quantity takeoffs and bids.
User-friendly cloud estimating and takeoff tool designed for residential builders with job costing and quoting features.
Comprehensive cloud-based estimating software with customizable assemblies, real-time pricing, and integration with accounting systems.
All-in-one construction management platform with integrated online estimating, takeoff, and scheduling tools.
Advanced cloud-accessible estimating solution with extensive item databases, labor planning, and reporting for large projects.
BIM-integrated cloud estimating software that automates quantity takeoff and cost modeling from 3D models.
AI-driven automated takeoff and estimating platform that processes plans instantly for faster bidding.
Collaborative cloud-based 2D and 3D takeoff and estimating software with real-time team editing.
Cloud-based quantity takeoff tool integrated with Autodesk Construction Cloud for precise measurements and estimates.
Digital plan takeoff and estimating software with cloud collaboration for assembling bids quickly.
Stack
specializedCloud-based digital takeoff and estimating software powered by AI for fast, accurate construction quantity takeoffs and bids.
AI Auto-Takeoff that instantly extracts quantities from any PDF plan with 99% accuracy, eliminating manual measuring
Stack (stackct.com) is a leading AI-powered online construction estimating software designed to automate digital takeoffs and quantity extraction from PDF plans, CAD files, and images. It streamlines the estimating workflow by providing instant, accurate measurements for materials like drywall, concrete, and framing, while integrating seamlessly with tools like Xactimate, Procore, and Excel. Users benefit from real-time collaboration, customizable assemblies, and exportable reports, making it ideal for scaling construction bids efficiently.
Pros
- AI-driven auto-takeoffs deliver unmatched speed and accuracy on complex plans
- Robust integrations with industry-standard tools like Procore and PlanSwift
- Real-time team collaboration and cloud-based access for remote work
Cons
- Pricing can be steep for solo estimators or very small firms
- Performance depends on plan quality; poor scans may require manual tweaks
- Advanced customization has a learning curve for new users
Best For
Mid-to-large construction firms and estimators handling high-volume, complex projects who need fast, precise digital takeoffs.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; typically starts at $149/user/month for Pro plan, with Enterprise options for larger teams.
Buildxact
specializedUser-friendly cloud estimating and takeoff tool designed for residential builders with job costing and quoting features.
Live supplier integrations providing real-time pricing from major vendors for precise material costing.
Buildxact is a cloud-based estimating and takeoff software designed specifically for residential builders and remodelers, enabling fast digital takeoffs, accurate cost estimates, and professional quote generation. It integrates with popular accounting tools like Xero and QuickBooks, and offers job costing, scheduling, and supplier price updates for end-to-end project management. The platform emphasizes speed and simplicity, helping users win more bids with precise, customizable estimates.
Pros
- Intuitive interface with drag-and-drop takeoffs for quick estimating
- Live supplier pricing integrations for accurate, up-to-date costs
- Seamless accounting integrations and mobile access for on-site use
Cons
- Higher pricing tiers may not suit very small operations
- Limited advanced 3D takeoff capabilities compared to enterprise tools
- Primarily tailored for residential, less optimized for large commercial projects
Best For
Small to medium residential builders and remodelers seeking fast, user-friendly estimating without a steep learning curve.
Pricing
Starts at $149 AUD/month (Basic), $299 AUD/month (Pro), $499 AUD/month (Premium), with annual billing discounts and a free trial.
ProEst
enterpriseComprehensive cloud-based estimating software with customizable assemblies, real-time pricing, and integration with accounting systems.
Integrated digital takeoff tool that links directly to a dynamic estimating database for instant cost calculations
ProEst is a cloud-based construction estimating software that enables users to perform digital takeoffs, generate accurate cost estimates, and manage bids efficiently. It features a comprehensive database of over 24,000 items and assemblies, customizable templates, and real-time collaboration tools for pre-construction workflows. The platform integrates seamlessly with accounting systems like QuickBooks, Sage, and Viewpoint, making it suitable for streamlining the entire estimating process from takeoff to final bid submission.
Pros
- Extensive item database with customizable assemblies for fast estimating
- Strong integrations with ERP and accounting software
- Cloud-based access with real-time collaboration and reporting
Cons
- Steep learning curve and requires significant training
- Quote-based pricing lacks transparency
- Limited mobile app functionality compared to desktop version
Best For
Mid-sized to large construction firms needing precise, database-driven estimating with ERP integrations.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing, typically $4,000-$6,000 per user annually, with volume discounts for enterprises.
Buildertrend
enterpriseAll-in-one construction management platform with integrated online estimating, takeoff, and scheduling tools.
Dynamic budgeting module that automatically links estimates to job costing and change orders for real-time accuracy
Buildertrend is a comprehensive cloud-based construction management platform with robust online estimating tools designed for residential builders, remodelers, and specialty contractors. It enables users to create detailed estimates using customizable templates, perform digital takeoffs, track costs in real-time, and integrate seamlessly with accounting software like QuickBooks. The software also ties estimates to broader project management features such as scheduling, change orders, and client portals for streamlined workflows.
Pros
- All-in-one platform integrating estimating with scheduling and financials
- Customizable templates and real-time cost tracking
- Strong mobile app for on-site estimate adjustments
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users
- Pricing can be high for solo operators or small teams
- Estimating takeoff tools less advanced than dedicated software like PlanSwift
Best For
Small to mid-sized residential construction firms needing integrated estimating within full project management.
Pricing
Starts at $99/user/month for basic plans, scaling to $399+/month for teams; custom quotes required after demo.
Sage Estimating
enterpriseAdvanced cloud-accessible estimating solution with extensive item databases, labor planning, and reporting for large projects.
Industry-leading database of over 24,000 pre-built construction items, assemblies, and labor rates across 40+ trades
Sage Estimating is a powerful cloud-based construction estimating software designed for creating accurate bids and takeoffs using an extensive database of over 24,000 pre-built items and assemblies across multiple trades. It supports detailed quantity takeoffs, labor and material costing, and customizable formulas for complex projects. The software integrates seamlessly with Sage accounting solutions, Procore, and other construction management tools, making it suitable for professional estimators in mid-to-large firms.
Pros
- Vast, regularly updated cost database with 24,000+ items and assemblies
- Robust integrations with Sage 300, Procore, and Autodesk tools
- Advanced takeoff and reporting capabilities for precise bidding
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users due to complex interface
- Higher pricing suitable mainly for established firms
- Interface feels somewhat dated compared to modern web apps
Best For
Mid-to-large construction firms and estimators handling complex, multi-trade projects that benefit from deep integrations and a comprehensive cost database.
Pricing
Quote-based subscription; typically $5,000–$15,000+ annually depending on users, modules, and database access.
Destini Estimator
enterpriseBIM-integrated cloud estimating software that automates quantity takeoff and cost modeling from 3D models.
Historical bid data benchmarking for faster, more accurate cost predictions
Destini Estimator, now part of Trimble's cloud-based suite, is an online construction estimating software designed to streamline digital takeoffs, bid creation, and cost analysis for general contractors. It leverages historical bid data, customizable templates, and real-time collaboration to produce accurate estimates quickly. Integrated with Trimble Connect and Viewpoint, it supports end-to-end preconstruction workflows from opportunity pursuit to handover.
Pros
- Seamless integration with Trimble's construction management ecosystem
- Powerful digital takeoff and historical data-driven estimating
- Real-time team collaboration and cloud accessibility
Cons
- Steep learning curve for users new to Trimble tools
- Pricing can be prohibitive for small firms
- Limited standalone flexibility without Trimble integrations
Best For
Mid-to-large general contractors already invested in the Trimble ecosystem seeking efficient, collaborative estimating.
Pricing
Quote-based subscription starting at approximately $500/user/month, scaled by project volume and features.
Togal.AI
specializedAI-driven automated takeoff and estimating platform that processes plans instantly for faster bidding.
Patented AI that instantly detects, measures, and counts plan elements without manual templates or tracing
Togal.AI is an AI-powered construction takeoff and estimating platform that automates the extraction of measurements from PDF blueprints, identifying elements like walls, doors, openings, and areas with high speed and accuracy. Users can train the AI on their specific project types to refine detection, and it supports collaboration, reporting, and integrations with estimating tools like Procore and PlanSwift. This cloud-based solution drastically cuts down manual takeoff time, allowing estimators to bid faster and more competitively.
Pros
- Ultra-fast AI-driven takeoffs from PDFs, often completing in minutes what takes hours manually
- Custom AI training for project-specific accuracy and scalability
- Seamless integrations with popular construction software and cloud collaboration tools
Cons
- Initial AI training required for peak performance on unique plans
- Limited native 3D modeling support, focusing mainly on 2D takeoffs
- Higher pricing tiers may not suit very small firms or infrequent users
Best For
Mid-to-large construction firms and estimators handling high-volume blueprints who need rapid, accurate takeoffs to accelerate bidding.
Pricing
Starts at $299/user/month for Pro plan (billed annually), with Enterprise custom pricing; free trial available.
Kreo
specializedCollaborative cloud-based 2D and 3D takeoff and estimating software with real-time team editing.
AI Auto-Takeoff that instantly detects and measures elements from any uploaded drawing or model with high accuracy
Kreo is a cloud-based construction estimating software that uses AI to automate quantity takeoffs directly from 2D PDFs, CAD files, and 3D BIM models, significantly speeding up the estimating process. It generates accurate bills of quantities (BoQs), cost estimates, and reports with built-in pricing databases and customizable templates. The platform supports team collaboration in real-time and integrates with tools like QuickBooks and Procore for seamless workflows.
Pros
- AI-powered automated takeoffs save hours on measurements
- Strong BIM and 2D/3D model support for complex projects
- Real-time collaboration and cloud accessibility
Cons
- Steeper learning curve for non-technical users
- Limited third-party integrations compared to market leaders
- Pricing may be high for small firms or low-volume users
Best For
Mid-sized construction firms and quantity surveyors handling detailed BIM projects who need fast, AI-driven estimating automation.
Pricing
Starts at $99/user/month for Pro plan (billed annually); custom Enterprise pricing for larger teams.
Autodesk Takeoff
enterpriseCloud-based quantity takeoff tool integrated with Autodesk Construction Cloud for precise measurements and estimates.
Seamless quantity extraction directly from Revit models into takeoff sheets
Autodesk Takeoff is a cloud-based tool within the Autodesk Construction Cloud suite, specializing in digital 2D takeoffs from PDF drawings, images, and CAD files for construction estimating. It allows users to measure quantities, create custom assemblies, and generate detailed reports to support accurate cost estimation. The software emphasizes collaboration, enabling teams to share takeoff data in real-time across projects. While it integrates seamlessly with Autodesk BIM tools like Revit, its core strength lies in streamlining pre-construction quantity takeoff workflows.
Pros
- Deep integration with Autodesk ecosystem including Revit and BIM 360
- Precise 2D takeoff tools with custom assemblies and issue tracking
- Cloud collaboration for team-based estimating and real-time updates
Cons
- Limited native 3D model takeoff in the web app (requires integration)
- Full features locked behind Autodesk Construction Cloud subscription
- Steeper learning curve for users outside Autodesk workflows
Best For
Construction estimators and teams already using Autodesk tools who need reliable 2D digital takeoffs and collaborative quantity reporting.
Pricing
Free for basic 2D takeoffs; full access via Autodesk Construction Cloud subscriptions starting at $65/user/month (billed annually).
PlanSwift
specializedDigital plan takeoff and estimating software with cloud collaboration for assembling bids quickly.
Drag-and-drop assemblies for instant takeoff-to-estimate conversion
PlanSwift, offered by ConstructConnect, is a robust digital takeoff and estimating software primarily designed for construction professionals to perform precise quantity takeoffs from PDF, CAD, or scanned plans using point-and-click functionality. It enables quick assembly of estimates through customizable drag-and-drop assemblies and integrates with accounting software for streamlined bidding. While powerful for on-screen measurements, it operates as desktop software with optional cloud integrations rather than a fully native online platform.
Pros
- Extremely fast point-and-click takeoffs with high accuracy
- Customizable drag-and-drop assemblies for rapid estimating
- Strong integrations with popular construction management tools
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users
- Primarily desktop-based, limiting true online accessibility
- Higher cost for full functionality and maintenance
Best For
Experienced construction estimators and contractors handling detailed takeoffs from plans who prioritize speed and precision over fully cloud-native collaboration.
Pricing
Perpetual license starts at $1,749 per user with annual maintenance (~20%); subscription plans from $2,300/year.
Conclusion
This review showcases leading tools that redefine construction estimating, with Stack leading as the top pick for its AI-powered speed and precision in quantity takeoffs and bids. Buildxact excels as a user-friendly option for residential builders, offering intuitive job costing and quoting, while ProEst stands out with customizable assemblies and seamless accounting integration, catering to diverse project needs. Each tool addresses unique workflows, ensuring professionals find a fit that aligns with their specific demands.
Don’t miss out on enhancing your estimating efficiency—start with Stack, the top-ranked tool, to speed up bid processes and boost accuracy. Explore its features today and elevate your construction project planning.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison
