Top 10 Best Simple Construction Estimating Software of 2026

Buildxact is a cloud-based construction estimating software tailored for small to medium-sized builders, remodelers, and contractors, enabling quick creation of professional estimates from PDFs, CAD files, or sketches. It automates takeoffs, calculates material costs with live pricing data, and integrates seamlessly with accounting tools like QuickBooks and Xero. The platform simplifies job costing, variation tracking, and tender management, making it ideal for residential construction projects.

Clear Estimates is a Windows-based desktop software tailored for small construction contractors, enabling quick creation of professional estimates for residential projects like remodeling, roofing, and siding. It features pre-loaded pricing databases and assemblies that allow users to build estimates rapidly without starting from scratch. The tool supports customization, PDF exports, and QuickBooks integration, making it ideal for straightforward estimating workflows.

Joist is a mobile-first app designed for small construction contractors to quickly create professional estimates, invoices, and manage jobs on the go. It simplifies the estimating process with customizable templates, drag-and-drop items, and instant sharing via email or text. Users can track job progress, accept payments, and integrate with QuickBooks, making it a streamlined solution for simple construction estimating needs.

Groundplan is a cloud-based construction estimating software tailored for simple takeoffs and estimates, particularly for flooring, tiling, painting, and similar area-based trades. Users draw floor plans directly on touch-enabled devices like iPads using their finger or stylus, and the software instantly calculates square footage, linear footage, material quantities, labor, and total costs. It supports on-site estimating, customizable pricing databases, and integrations with QuickBooks for invoicing and payments.

Methvin (methvin.org) is a cloud-based construction estimating software tailored for builders, contractors, and estimators, offering digital takeoff tools, bill of quantities (BOQ) generation, and cost calculation features. It simplifies the estimating process with customizable templates, real-time collaboration, and integration with common file formats like PDF and Excel. Primarily aimed at small to medium projects, it emphasizes accuracy and speed over enterprise-level complexity.

Stack (stackct.com) is a cloud-based takeoff and estimating software designed for construction professionals to perform quick quantity takeoffs directly from PDF plans. It streamlines the estimating process with customizable assemblies, real-time collaboration, and seamless export to Excel or CSV formats. The platform emphasizes simplicity, making it accessible for users transitioning from manual methods without requiring extensive training.

Knowify is a cloud-based construction management software designed for trade contractors, offering robust estimating tools alongside job costing, invoicing, and project tracking. It enables users to perform digital takeoffs, build estimates using customizable assemblies and cost databases, and seamlessly integrate with QuickBooks for accurate financial tracking. Ideal for simplifying the bid-to-payment process, it supports both office and field workflows through a mobile app.

PlanSwift is a digital takeoff and estimating software tailored for construction professionals, enabling users to import PDF plans or images and perform precise point-and-click measurements. It features drag-and-drop assemblies that instantly generate estimates based on quantified takeoffs, supporting quick bid preparation. The tool includes customizable databases for materials and labor, along with export options to Excel and accounting software.

ProEst is a cloud-based construction estimating software designed to streamline digital takeoff, cost estimation, and bid management for contractors. It features pre-built assemblies, real-time material and labor pricing from national databases, and seamless integration with accounting systems like QuickBooks and Sage. While powerful for accurate bids, it caters more to professional estimators than absolute beginners seeking ultra-simple tools.

Buildertrend is an all-in-one construction management platform that includes estimating tools for digital takeoffs, assemblies, and budget creation. It enables users to generate professional estimates quickly while integrating them with scheduling, invoicing, and client communication features. Designed for contractors, it streamlines workflows but may feel comprehensive beyond basic estimating needs.