Quick Overview
- 1#1: Buildxact - Cloud-based estimating, takeoff, and job management software designed for simplicity in residential construction.
- 2#2: Clear Estimates - User-friendly estimating software that allows contractors to create professional estimates quickly without complexity.
- 3#3: Estimate Rocket - Mobile-first estimating app for contractors to build and send accurate estimates on the go.
- 4#4: Stack - AI-powered takeoff and estimating platform that simplifies preconstruction workflows for trade contractors.
- 5#5: JobTread - Construction management software with straightforward estimating tools for small to mid-sized contractors.
- 6#6: ProEst - Cloud estimating software that streamlines bid creation and cost management for construction projects.
- 7#7: PlanSwift - Digital takeoff and estimating tool that accelerates quantity takeoffs from plans.
- 8#8: Knowify - Job costing and estimating platform tailored for subcontractors with simple trade-specific templates.
- 9#9: Jobber - Field service software featuring easy estimate creation and conversion to jobs for small businesses.
- 10#10: Leap - All-in-one platform for home service contractors with integrated simple estimating and scheduling.
Tools were rigorously evaluated based on user-friendliness, functional depth (including takeoff, job management, and bid optimization), reliability, and value, ensuring they balance simplicity with the robust features needed to meet the diverse needs of small to mid-sized businesses and trade professionals alike.
Comparison Table
Simple estimating software simplifies project planning, and this comparison table highlights leading tools like Buildxact, Clear Estimates, Estimate Rocket, and others to help users identify the right fit. Readers will learn key features, pricing models, and ideal use cases for each, enabling informed decisions tailored to their project needs.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Buildxact Cloud-based estimating, takeoff, and job management software designed for simplicity in residential construction. | specialized | 9.5/10 | 9.6/10 | 9.3/10 | 9.1/10 |
| 2 | Clear Estimates User-friendly estimating software that allows contractors to create professional estimates quickly without complexity. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 8.2/10 | 9.3/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 3 | Estimate Rocket Mobile-first estimating app for contractors to build and send accurate estimates on the go. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.8/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 4 | Stack AI-powered takeoff and estimating platform that simplifies preconstruction workflows for trade contractors. | specialized | 8.3/10 | 8.0/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 5 | JobTread Construction management software with straightforward estimating tools for small to mid-sized contractors. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.4/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.7/10 |
| 6 | ProEst Cloud estimating software that streamlines bid creation and cost management for construction projects. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 9.0/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.7/10 |
| 7 | PlanSwift Digital takeoff and estimating tool that accelerates quantity takeoffs from plans. | specialized | 7.8/10 | 8.4/10 | 7.2/10 | 7.1/10 |
| 8 | Knowify Job costing and estimating platform tailored for subcontractors with simple trade-specific templates. | specialized | 7.8/10 | 8.3/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.2/10 |
| 9 | Jobber Field service software featuring easy estimate creation and conversion to jobs for small businesses. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.3/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 10 | Leap All-in-one platform for home service contractors with integrated simple estimating and scheduling. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.6/10 | 7.8/10 |
Cloud-based estimating, takeoff, and job management software designed for simplicity in residential construction.
User-friendly estimating software that allows contractors to create professional estimates quickly without complexity.
Mobile-first estimating app for contractors to build and send accurate estimates on the go.
AI-powered takeoff and estimating platform that simplifies preconstruction workflows for trade contractors.
Construction management software with straightforward estimating tools for small to mid-sized contractors.
Cloud estimating software that streamlines bid creation and cost management for construction projects.
Digital takeoff and estimating tool that accelerates quantity takeoffs from plans.
Job costing and estimating platform tailored for subcontractors with simple trade-specific templates.
Field service software featuring easy estimate creation and conversion to jobs for small businesses.
All-in-one platform for home service contractors with integrated simple estimating and scheduling.
Buildxact
specializedCloud-based estimating, takeoff, and job management software designed for simplicity in residential construction.
Real-time material pricing directly from supplier databases, eliminating manual cost updates
Buildxact is a cloud-based estimating software tailored for residential builders, remodelers, and trade professionals, offering fast digital takeoffs from PDFs and plans, accurate material pricing with live supplier data, and professional quote generation. It simplifies the estimating process with pre-built templates, job costing, and scheduling tools, while integrating seamlessly with accounting software like Xero and QuickBooks. Users can manage entire projects from estimate to completion, ensuring profitability tracking in real-time.
Pros
- Lightning-fast digital takeoff tools with PDF import and auto-counting
- Live pricing from 200+ suppliers for accurate, up-to-date estimates
- Intuitive mobile app and seamless accounting integrations for end-to-end workflow
Cons
- Pricing can be steep for solo tradespeople or very small operations
- Advanced customization options are somewhat limited compared to enterprise tools
- Occasional learning curve for users new to cloud-based estimating
Best For
Small to medium residential builders and remodelers seeking simple, accurate estimating without the complexity of full-scale ERP systems.
Pricing
Starts at $149/month (Essentials plan), up to $299/month (Pro plan), with annual discounts and a 14-day free trial.
Clear Estimates
specializedUser-friendly estimating software that allows contractors to create professional estimates quickly without complexity.
Patented Assemblies system for one-click estimate generation from common job templates
Clear Estimates is a cloud-based estimating software tailored for home improvement and remodeling contractors, enabling quick creation of professional estimates using pre-built assemblies and a vast pricing database. It streamlines the process from site visit to invoice with mobile access and seamless QuickBooks integration. The tool emphasizes simplicity, allowing users to generate accurate bids in minutes without complex setups.
Pros
- Intuitive drag-and-drop interface for rapid estimate building
- Extensive library of 1,000+ pre-built assemblies for common jobs
- Strong mobile app support for on-site data entry and client presentations
Cons
- Limited advanced reporting and analytics compared to enterprise tools
- Customization of templates and pricing is somewhat restricted
- Steeper learning curve for non-remodeling trade users
Best For
Small to mid-sized remodeling contractors who prioritize speed and simplicity in generating accurate estimates over advanced project management features.
Pricing
Starts at $79/user/month (billed annually) for Basic, $129 for Pro, and $199 for Enterprise with advanced integrations.
Estimate Rocket
specializedMobile-first estimating app for contractors to build and send accurate estimates on the go.
Roofing-specific calculators and automated waste factors for precise material takeoffs
Estimate Rocket is a cloud-based estimating and takeoff software designed primarily for roofing, siding, and exterior contractors. It enables users to perform digital takeoffs from PDFs or images, generate professional proposals, and convert estimates into invoices seamlessly. The platform emphasizes simplicity with mobile access and QuickBooks integration, making it ideal for field-based teams needing quick, accurate bids.
Pros
- Intuitive digital takeoff tools for fast measurements
- Seamless proposal and invoice generation
- Strong mobile app for on-site estimating
Cons
- Limited to specific trades like roofing and siding
- Customization options are somewhat basic
- No free trial or steep learning curve for advanced takeoffs
Best For
Small to mid-sized roofing and exterior contractors who need simple, trade-specific estimating without complex enterprise features.
Pricing
Starts at $165/month for Basic (1 user), $265/month for Pro (3 users), up to $395/month for Enterprise; annual billing offers discounts.
Stack
specializedAI-powered takeoff and estimating platform that simplifies preconstruction workflows for trade contractors.
Lightning-fast AI-assisted PDF takeoffs that allow point-and-click measurements in seconds
Stack (stack.build) is a cloud-based construction estimating and takeoff software tailored for trade contractors, enabling quick digital takeoffs from PDFs and blueprints. It streamlines the estimating process with pre-built assemblies, mobile access, and seamless export to bidding tools. Designed for simplicity, it helps small to mid-sized teams generate accurate bids faster without complex setups.
Pros
- Intuitive digital takeoff tools that speed up measurements by up to 5x
- Strong mobile app for on-site estimating and collaboration
- Integrates well with QuickBooks and Excel for easy financial handoff
Cons
- Limited advanced customization for complex assemblies
- Reporting features could be more robust for enterprise needs
- Pricing scales up quickly for teams with multiple users
Best For
Small to medium trade contractors like framers or concrete subs who need fast, simple estimating on the go without steep learning curves.
Pricing
Free for basic takeoffs; Pro plan starts at $99/month for unlimited projects and advanced features; Enterprise custom pricing.
JobTread
specializedConstruction management software with straightforward estimating tools for small to mid-sized contractors.
One-click conversion of estimates into trackable jobs with real-time cost updates
JobTread is a cloud-based construction management platform designed for contractors, with a strong focus on simple estimating alongside job costing, scheduling, and invoicing. It enables quick creation of professional estimates using customizable assemblies, digital takeoffs, and templates, streamlining the bidding process for small to mid-sized projects. The software integrates estimating directly with job tracking, allowing seamless transitions from bid to build without data re-entry.
Pros
- Intuitive drag-and-drop estimating with pre-built assemblies for speed
- Mobile app for on-site estimate approvals and updates
- Automatic conversion of estimates to jobs for end-to-end workflow
Cons
- Pricing can add up for multi-user teams
- Limited advanced takeoff tools compared to specialized software
- Occasional reports of slow performance during peak usage
Best For
Small construction contractors needing straightforward estimating integrated with basic project management.
Pricing
Starts at $99/user/month for Basic plan; Pro at $169/user/month; Enterprise custom pricing.
ProEst
enterpriseCloud estimating software that streamlines bid creation and cost management for construction projects.
Intelligent Digital Takeoff engine that automates measurements and calculations from PDFs and blueprints
ProEst is a cloud-based construction estimating software that enables digital takeoffs, assembly-based estimating, and bid management for contractors. It features a vast library of pre-built assemblies, real-time cost updates, and seamless integrations with accounting systems like QuickBooks and Sage. Primarily targeted at specialty trades such as electrical, mechanical, and plumbing, it aims to accelerate accurate bidding while reducing manual errors.
Pros
- Extensive database of customizable assemblies for quick estimating
- Cloud-based access with mobile support for on-site use
- Strong integrations with ERP and accounting software
Cons
- Steeper learning curve for non-expert users
- Pricing is quote-based and relatively high for small teams
- Limited advanced reporting compared to enterprise competitors
Best For
Mid-sized specialty contractors needing robust takeoff and estimating tools with scalability.
Pricing
Custom quote-based; typically starts at $4,995/year for basic plans, scaling with users and features.
PlanSwift
specializedDigital takeoff and estimating tool that accelerates quantity takeoffs from plans.
Point-and-click digital takeoff with automatic scaling and assembly linking
PlanSwift is a digital takeoff and estimating software tailored for construction professionals, enabling point-and-click quantity takeoffs from PDF, DWG, or scanned plans. It features drag-and-drop assemblies for rapid cost estimating, customizable databases, and exports to Excel or QuickBooks. The tool streamlines pre-construction bidding by automating measurements and generating detailed reports.
Pros
- Fast point-and-click takeoff from digital plans
- Drag-and-drop assemblies for quick estimating
- Strong integration with Excel and accounting software
Cons
- Moderate learning curve for advanced customization
- Windows-only compatibility limits accessibility
- Higher upfront cost compared to cloud-based alternatives
Best For
Small to mid-sized construction contractors seeking efficient on-screen takeoffs without complex enterprise features.
Pricing
Perpetual license starts at $1,749 plus $449 annual maintenance; subscription options available around $150/month.
Knowify
specializedJob costing and estimating platform tailored for subcontractors with simple trade-specific templates.
Dynamic assemblies that allow reusable templates for rapid, accurate estimate generation
Knowify is a cloud-based construction management platform with integrated estimating tools designed for trade contractors. It enables quick creation of estimates using digital takeoffs, pre-built assemblies, and cost databases, while supporting job costing and invoicing. The software integrates seamlessly with QuickBooks for streamlined financial workflows.
Pros
- Seamless QuickBooks integration for accurate cost tracking
- Digital takeoff and assembly tools speed up estimating
- Mobile app for on-site estimate adjustments
Cons
- Learning curve for non-construction users
- Pricing can be steep for solo estimators
- Overkill for purely simple estimating without full project management
Best For
Small to mid-sized trade contractors seeking estimating integrated with job costing and accounting.
Pricing
Starts at $149/user/month (Launch plan), with Pro at $299/user/month and custom Enterprise options.
Jobber
specializedField service software featuring easy estimate creation and conversion to jobs for small businesses.
On-the-go mobile estimating with real-time client approval and payment collection
Jobber is an all-in-one field service management platform that excels in simple estimating for home service businesses like landscaping, HVAC, and plumbing. It allows users to create customizable quotes and estimates quickly via a mobile app or desktop, send them digitally for client approval with e-signatures, and convert them directly into jobs or invoices. Beyond estimating, it integrates scheduling, invoicing, and CRM features for streamlined operations.
Pros
- Intuitive mobile estimating with professional templates and branding options
- Seamless conversion of estimates to invoices and jobs with client e-signatures
- Strong integration with payments and QuickBooks for efficient workflows
Cons
- Overkill for users needing only basic estimating without full business management
- Pricing scales quickly with users and advanced features
- Steeper learning curve for non-estimating modules
Best For
Small service-based businesses seeking simple estimating integrated with scheduling and invoicing.
Pricing
Starts at $69/month (Core plan, billed annually) for solo users; higher tiers like Connect ($169/month) and Grow ($349/month) add users and advanced tools.
Leap
specializedAll-in-one platform for home service contractors with integrated simple estimating and scheduling.
Instant in-app financing approvals that let customers get pre-qualified during the estimate presentation
Leap is an all-in-one platform designed for home service contractors, offering robust estimating tools to create professional proposals quickly using customizable templates and mobile apps. It streamlines the sales process by integrating instant financing options, CRM, scheduling, and invoicing directly into the estimating workflow. While powerful for trades like HVAC, plumbing, and roofing, it extends beyond simple estimating into full business management.
Pros
- Lightning-fast estimate creation with pre-built templates and digital signatures
- Seamless integration of financing approvals to increase close rates
- Mobile-first design for on-site estimating and deal closing
Cons
- Can feel overwhelming for users needing only basic estimating without full CRM features
- Pricing is on the higher end and requires custom quotes
- Steeper learning curve for non-tech-savvy contractors
Best For
Home service contractors in HVAC, plumbing, or roofing who want integrated estimating with financing and sales tools to scale their business.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing starting around $149/user/month for core plans; includes Essentials, Pro, and Enterprise tiers with add-ons for financing.
Conclusion
Reviewing the top 10 simple estimating software tools reveals each caters to distinct needs, but Buildxact leads as the top choice, praised for its cloud-based simplicity in residential work. Clear Estimates and Estimate Rocket round out the top three, with the former impressing with quick, professional estimates and the latter shining as a mobile-first solution for on-the-go use.
Take the next step—try Buildxact to experience its intuitive design, or explore Clear Estimates or Estimate Rocket based on whether you prioritize speed or mobility.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison