Quick Overview
- 1#1: Bluebeam Revu - Provides precise digital quantity takeoff, measurement, and markup directly from PDF drawings for construction professionals.
- 2#2: PlanSwift - Automates fast and accurate quantity takeoffs from digital plans with drag-and-drop assemblies and real-time calculations.
- 3#3: On-Screen Takeoff - Delivers industry-standard on-screen digital takeoff capabilities for precise quantity extraction from blueprints.
- 4#4: Stack - Offers cloud-based collaborative takeoff and estimating with unlimited users and storage for construction projects.
- 5#5: Togal.AI - Uses AI to automatically detect and quantify elements from plans, generating takeoffs in minutes.
- 6#6: Autodesk Takeoff - Integrates 2D and 3D quantity takeoff within Autodesk Construction Cloud for streamlined project estimating.
- 7#7: CostX - Combines 2D takeoff, 3D BIM modeling, and live-linked estimating for accurate quantity calculations.
- 8#8: Kreo - Leverages AI for 2D/3D hybrid takeoff and collaborative estimating from any file format.
- 9#9: ProEst - Cloud estimating software with integrated digital takeoff and real-time pricing databases.
- 10#10: Buildxact - Simplifies takeoff and estimating for residential builders with templates and mobile access.
Tools were ranked based on features like accuracy, ease of use, integration capabilities, and value, ensuring they deliver reliable performance for professionals across project scales and needs.
Comparison Table
This comparison table examines key features, workflows, and benefits of leading quantity takeoff software, including Bluebeam Revu, PlanSwift, On-Screen Takeoff, Stack, Togal.AI, and more, helping readers identify tools aligned with their project requirements.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Bluebeam Revu Provides precise digital quantity takeoff, measurement, and markup directly from PDF drawings for construction professionals. | specialized | 9.7/10 | 9.8/10 | 8.6/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 2 | PlanSwift Automates fast and accurate quantity takeoffs from digital plans with drag-and-drop assemblies and real-time calculations. | specialized | 8.9/10 | 9.3/10 | 8.6/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 3 | On-Screen Takeoff Delivers industry-standard on-screen digital takeoff capabilities for precise quantity extraction from blueprints. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.2/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 4 | Stack Offers cloud-based collaborative takeoff and estimating with unlimited users and storage for construction projects. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 5 | Togal.AI Uses AI to automatically detect and quantify elements from plans, generating takeoffs in minutes. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 6 | Autodesk Takeoff Integrates 2D and 3D quantity takeoff within Autodesk Construction Cloud for streamlined project estimating. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.6/10 | 7.7/10 | 7.4/10 |
| 7 | CostX Combines 2D takeoff, 3D BIM modeling, and live-linked estimating for accurate quantity calculations. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.2/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 8 | Kreo Leverages AI for 2D/3D hybrid takeoff and collaborative estimating from any file format. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.9/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 9 | ProEst Cloud estimating software with integrated digital takeoff and real-time pricing databases. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.7/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 10 | Buildxact Simplifies takeoff and estimating for residential builders with templates and mobile access. | specialized | 7.8/10 | 7.5/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.0/10 |
Provides precise digital quantity takeoff, measurement, and markup directly from PDF drawings for construction professionals.
Automates fast and accurate quantity takeoffs from digital plans with drag-and-drop assemblies and real-time calculations.
Delivers industry-standard on-screen digital takeoff capabilities for precise quantity extraction from blueprints.
Offers cloud-based collaborative takeoff and estimating with unlimited users and storage for construction projects.
Uses AI to automatically detect and quantify elements from plans, generating takeoffs in minutes.
Integrates 2D and 3D quantity takeoff within Autodesk Construction Cloud for streamlined project estimating.
Combines 2D takeoff, 3D BIM modeling, and live-linked estimating for accurate quantity calculations.
Leverages AI for 2D/3D hybrid takeoff and collaborative estimating from any file format.
Cloud estimating software with integrated digital takeoff and real-time pricing databases.
Simplifies takeoff and estimating for residential builders with templates and mobile access.
Bluebeam Revu
specializedProvides precise digital quantity takeoff, measurement, and markup directly from PDF drawings for construction professionals.
Customizable measurement tool chests with visual legends and automatic quantity linking for scalable, repeatable takeoffs across multi-sheet drawings
Bluebeam Revu is a premier PDF-centric software designed for the AEC industry, excelling in quantity takeoff by enabling precise measurements of lengths, areas, volumes, and counts directly from digital plans. It features customizable tool sets, visual legends, and automated calculations that generate detailed summaries exportable to Excel or CSV. Beyond takeoffs, it integrates markup, collaboration via Bluebeam Studio, and document management, streamlining pre-construction workflows. As a top-ranked solution, it supports complex assemblies and scripting for advanced estimation needs.
Pros
- Exceptionally accurate and customizable takeoff tools with dynamic scaling and assemblies
- Seamless Excel integration and customizable reports for professional estimating
- Robust collaboration features including real-time cloud sharing via Studio Sessions
Cons
- Steep learning curve for advanced scripting and custom toolsets
- Windows-primary (Mac version limited), no native mobile app for fieldwork
- Premium pricing may deter small firms or solo users
Best For
Estimators, quantity surveyors, and construction teams handling PDF-based plans who need integrated takeoff, markup, and team collaboration.
Pricing
Subscription tiers: Basics (~$240/user/year), Core (~$350/user/year), Complete (~$550/user/year); volume discounts available.
PlanSwift
specializedAutomates fast and accurate quantity takeoffs from digital plans with drag-and-drop assemblies and real-time calculations.
Drag-and-drop assemblies that instantly apply formulas, quantities, and costs to measurements in real-time
PlanSwift is a leading on-screen digital takeoff and estimating software tailored for construction professionals, allowing users to import plans from PDFs, CAD files, or images and perform rapid quantity takeoffs using intuitive point-and-click tools. It excels in assembling measurements into customizable templates, generating accurate material lists, labor estimates, and professional reports with real-time cost calculations. Widely used for its speed and flexibility, it integrates seamlessly with Excel, QuickBooks, and other estimating platforms to streamline pre-construction workflows.
Pros
- Lightning-fast point-and-click takeoffs with support for multiple plan formats
- Highly customizable assemblies and databases for precise quantity and cost calculations
- Robust reporting tools and integrations with popular estimating and accounting software
Cons
- Primarily desktop-based with limited cloud collaboration features
- Steep learning curve for advanced customization and scripting
- High upfront licensing cost without a free tier or trial for all features
Best For
Construction estimators, contractors, and subcontractors handling complex projects who prioritize speed and accuracy in digital quantity takeoffs from plans.
Pricing
Perpetual license starts at $1,749 per user (Classic edition), with higher tiers up to $2,595; annual maintenance ~20% of license cost required for updates and support.
On-Screen Takeoff
specializedDelivers industry-standard on-screen digital takeoff capabilities for precise quantity extraction from blueprints.
Dynamic Assemblies system for pre-defining and instantly applying material, labor, and cost data to takeoff measurements
On-Screen Takeoff (OST) by ConstructConnect is a desktop-based quantity takeoff software designed for construction estimators to perform precise measurements directly from digital plans like PDFs, scans, and CAD files. It excels in linear, area, volume, and count takeoffs, with tools for annotating plans and generating detailed reports. The software supports customizable assemblies to bundle items with costs, streamlining the transition from takeoff to estimating.
Pros
- Exceptionally accurate on-screen measurements with sub-millimeter precision
- Powerful customizable assemblies for rapid item configuration and cost assignment
- Seamless integration with Quick Bid and other estimating tools
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users due to dense interface
- Primarily desktop-only with limited cloud or mobile capabilities
- Higher upfront cost without flexible subscription options
Best For
Experienced construction estimators handling complex, large-scale projects who prioritize precision over simplicity.
Pricing
Perpetual license starts at ~$1,800 per user plus annual maintenance (~20% of license cost); volume discounts available.
Stack
specializedOffers cloud-based collaborative takeoff and estimating with unlimited users and storage for construction projects.
AI-powered instant quantity recognition that processes entire plans in seconds without templates
Stack (stackct.com) is an AI-powered quantity takeoff software designed for construction professionals to automate material quantity extraction from digital plans, PDFs, and images. It uses advanced machine learning to instantly identify and measure elements like areas, lengths, volumes, and counts with high accuracy, minimizing manual input. The platform integrates takeoff data seamlessly into estimating tools, reports, and bid sheets, enabling faster project bidding and cost analysis.
Pros
- Lightning-fast AI-automated takeoffs from any plan format
- High accuracy with minimal manual corrections needed
- Cloud-based collaboration and easy integration with estimating workflows
Cons
- Limited advanced manual editing tools for highly complex or non-standard plans
- Subscription pricing can add up for small teams with low volume
- Occasional AI inaccuracies on poor-quality scans requiring verification
Best For
Mid-sized construction contractors and estimators handling high-volume bids who prioritize speed and AI automation over extensive manual customization.
Pricing
Starts at $149/user/month for Pro plan (unlimited projects), with Starter at $49/month (limited projects) and custom Enterprise pricing.
Togal.AI
specializedUses AI to automatically detect and quantify elements from plans, generating takeoffs in minutes.
Patented AI that automatically detects, counts, and measures thousands of elements from drawings in one click
Togal.AI is an AI-powered quantity takeoff software designed for construction professionals, automating the measurement of elements like walls, doors, windows, and areas directly from PDF blueprints and drawings. It uses machine learning to detect and quantify features with high speed and accuracy, reducing manual effort significantly. The tool supports exports to Excel, On-Screen Takeoff, and integration with estimating platforms, making it efficient for pre-construction workflows.
Pros
- Ultra-fast AI automation for takeoffs, often completing jobs in minutes that take hours manually
- High accuracy on standard architectural elements with trainable AI for custom needs
- Seamless integrations and exports to popular estimating tools like Excel and OST
Cons
- Struggles with highly complex or non-standard drawings requiring manual corrections
- Pricing can be steep for small firms or low-volume users
- Limited 3D/BIM support compared to more comprehensive suites
Best For
Mid-sized construction estimators and teams handling high volumes of 2D plans who prioritize speed and AI automation over full manual control.
Pricing
Starts at $99/user/month for Starter plan (limited projects), $299/user/month for Pro (unlimited), with Enterprise custom pricing.
Autodesk Takeoff
enterpriseIntegrates 2D and 3D quantity takeoff within Autodesk Construction Cloud for streamlined project estimating.
Native BIM model integration for automated 3D quantity extraction directly from Revit files
Autodesk Takeoff is a cloud-based quantity takeoff solution within the Autodesk Construction Cloud ecosystem, enabling users to perform precise 2D measurements from PDFs and CAD files, as well as 3D quantity extraction from BIM models. It supports custom assemblies, real-time collaboration, and seamless integration with Autodesk tools like Revit and Autodesk Docs for streamlined preconstruction workflows. Ideal for construction estimators, it automates quantity calculations and exports data to estimating software, reducing manual errors.
Pros
- Seamless integration with Autodesk Revit and BIM 360 for model-based takeoffs
- Real-time cloud collaboration for team reviews and markups
- Robust support for 2D/3D measurements with custom sheets and assemblies
Cons
- Steep learning curve for users unfamiliar with Autodesk ecosystem
- Subscription pricing can be high for small firms without bundle discounts
- Limited offline functionality requires reliable internet
Best For
Mid-to-large construction firms already invested in the Autodesk Construction Cloud who need integrated BIM-driven quantity takeoffs.
Pricing
Included in Autodesk Construction Cloud Pro ($65/user/month annually) and Premium ($100/user/month); standalone access via Autodesk Build plans starting at $975/year per user.
CostX
specializedCombines 2D takeoff, 3D BIM modeling, and live-linked estimating for accurate quantity calculations.
Live graphical takeoff linking to Excel for dynamic, error-free quantity updates
CostX by Exactal is a robust quantity takeoff and estimating software tailored for construction professionals, enabling precise measurements from 2D drawings like PDFs and CAD files, as well as 3D BIM models. It features live linking between graphical takeoffs and Excel spreadsheets for real-time updates and automatic recalculations. The tool supports comprehensive estimating, reporting, and tendering workflows, making it suitable for detailed project cost management.
Pros
- Live Excel integration for instant takeoff updates
- Strong support for 2D CAD/PDF and 3D BIM (IFC) files
- Advanced customization and reporting capabilities
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users
- High pricing limits accessibility for small firms
- Windows-only platform with limited mobile support
Best For
Mid-to-large construction firms and estimators managing complex projects with BIM integration needs.
Pricing
Quote-based pricing with perpetual licenses starting around $5,000-$10,000 per user plus annual maintenance (15-20%)
Kreo
specializedLeverages AI for 2D/3D hybrid takeoff and collaborative estimating from any file format.
AI-driven automatic recognition and quantification of construction elements from PDFs and BIM models without manual tracing
Kreo (kreo.net) is an AI-powered quantity takeoff and estimating platform tailored for construction professionals, automating measurements from 2D PDFs, CAD files, and 3D BIM models. It streamlines the takeoff process by using machine learning to identify and quantify elements like walls, doors, and rebar with high accuracy. Additionally, it supports real-time collaboration, customizable templates, and integrations with ERP and estimating software for end-to-end project workflows.
Pros
- AI automation drastically reduces manual takeoff time
- Strong support for both 2D and 3D models with accurate recognition
- Cloud-based collaboration enables team access and real-time updates
Cons
- Steep learning curve for advanced AI and BIM features
- Pricing can be high for small firms or infrequent users
- Occasional inaccuracies with complex or non-standard drawings
Best For
Mid-sized construction estimators and quantity surveyors seeking AI-assisted automation for efficient takeoffs from diverse drawing formats.
Pricing
Subscription-based plans starting at $99/user/month for Basic, up to Enterprise custom pricing.
ProEst
enterpriseCloud estimating software with integrated digital takeoff and real-time pricing databases.
Patent-pending Visual Assemblies for drag-and-drop takeoff of complex systems like electrical panels or HVAC units
ProEst is a cloud-based construction estimating and quantity takeoff software designed primarily for mechanical, electrical, plumbing (MEP), and general contractors. It enables digital takeoffs from PDF plans, automatic quantity calculations, and seamless integration into detailed cost estimates using pre-built assemblies and real-time labor/material pricing. The platform supports collaboration across teams with mobile access and reporting tools, streamlining the pre-construction bidding process.
Pros
- Seamless integration of digital takeoff with estimating and assemblies
- Cloud-based collaboration and mobile access for field teams
- Extensive database of pre-built assemblies for MEP trades
Cons
- Steep learning curve for users new to integrated estimating platforms
- Higher pricing may not suit very small firms
- Limited advanced customization for complex takeoff workflows
Best For
Mid-sized MEP contractors seeking an all-in-one solution for quantity takeoff and estimating.
Pricing
Subscription-based with custom quotes; typically starts at $4,995/year for basic single-user plans, scaling to $20,000+ for enterprise multi-user setups.
Buildxact
specializedSimplifies takeoff and estimating for residential builders with templates and mobile access.
Direct takeoff-to-estimate integration that auto-populates material lists and pricing with one click
Buildxact is a cloud-based construction management software tailored for residential builders, featuring digital quantity takeoff tools that extract measurements directly from PDF plans. It automates material takeoffs, generates bills of materials, and integrates seamlessly with estimating, quoting, and job costing functionalities. This makes it a comprehensive solution for streamlining pre-construction workflows in small to medium-sized projects.
Pros
- Intuitive PDF-based takeoff with automatic quantity calculations
- Seamless integration of takeoff data into estimating and quoting
- Cloud-based access for real-time team collaboration
Cons
- Limited advanced tools for complex or 3D takeoffs compared to specialists
- Best suited for residential rather than large commercial projects
- Relies heavily on plan quality and may require manual adjustments
Best For
Small to medium residential builders needing an all-in-one takeoff and estimating tool without complex standalone software.
Pricing
Subscription plans start at $149/user/month (Essentials) up to $499/user/month (Premium), with annual billing discounts.
Conclusion
From precision PDF takeoff to automated assembly workflows and industry-standard digital capabilities, the reviewed tools excel in diverse ways. At the top, Bluebeam Revu leads with its precise, PDF-based measurements, while PlanSwift impresses with fast, drag-and-drop automation and On-Screen Takeoff stands out for reliable blueprint extraction—each offering unique strengths. Together, they set new benchmarks for efficiency in construction estimating.
Ready to elevate your takeoff process? Try the top-ranked Bluebeam Revu to experience its seamless, detailed capabilities firsthand and streamline your project workflow.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison