Quick Overview
- 1#1: Procore - Comprehensive cloud-based construction management platform that streamlines project management, financials, and collaboration for subcontractors.
- 2#2: Buildertrend - All-in-one construction software for scheduling, budgeting, client communication, and job costing tailored to subcontractors.
- 3#3: Knowify - Subcontractor-focused platform for job costing, invoicing, time tracking, and QuickBooks integration.
- 4#4: Fieldwire - Mobile-first field management app for task assignment, plan viewing, and real-time communication on job sites.
- 5#5: Stack - Construction tech platform for budgeting, forecasting, and draw management specifically for subcontractors.
- 6#6: eSUB - Cloud-based subcontractor management software for project tracking, labor management, and reporting.
- 7#7: Foundation - Construction accounting and job costing software designed for contractors and subcontractors.
- 8#8: JobTread - Construction CRM and project management tool for lead tracking, estimating, and job management for subs.
- 9#9: Jobber - Field service management software for scheduling, invoicing, and customer management for trade subcontractors.
- 10#10: Housecall Pro - All-in-one platform for home service subcontractors handling booking, dispatching, and payments.
We ranked these tools by evaluating core features (specifically designed for subcontractor workflows), user-centric design (intuitive interfaces, onboarding support), reliability (real-world performance, uptime), and value (cost-effectiveness relative to functionality) to ensure the best options for modern subcontracted operations.
Comparison Table
Subcontractor software is vital for managing workflows, and this comparison table highlights leading tools like Procore, Buildertrend, Knowify, Fieldwire, and Stack, along with others. It breaks down features, capabilities, and practical use cases, helping readers identify the best fit for their project needs.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Procore Comprehensive cloud-based construction management platform that streamlines project management, financials, and collaboration for subcontractors. | enterprise | 9.4/10 | 9.6/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.8/10 |
| 2 | Buildertrend All-in-one construction software for scheduling, budgeting, client communication, and job costing tailored to subcontractors. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.3/10 |
| 3 | Knowify Subcontractor-focused platform for job costing, invoicing, time tracking, and QuickBooks integration. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.4/10 |
| 4 | Fieldwire Mobile-first field management app for task assignment, plan viewing, and real-time communication on job sites. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.6/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 5 | Stack Construction tech platform for budgeting, forecasting, and draw management specifically for subcontractors. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.3/10 |
| 6 | eSUB Cloud-based subcontractor management software for project tracking, labor management, and reporting. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.4/10 | 7.9/10 | 7.7/10 |
| 7 | Foundation Construction accounting and job costing software designed for contractors and subcontractors. | enterprise | 7.8/10 | 8.5/10 | 6.5/10 | 7.2/10 |
| 8 | JobTread Construction CRM and project management tool for lead tracking, estimating, and job management for subs. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 9 | Jobber Field service management software for scheduling, invoicing, and customer management for trade subcontractors. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 8.6/10 | 9.0/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 10 | Housecall Pro All-in-one platform for home service subcontractors handling booking, dispatching, and payments. | specialized | 8.6/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.3/10 | 7.9/10 |
Comprehensive cloud-based construction management platform that streamlines project management, financials, and collaboration for subcontractors.
All-in-one construction software for scheduling, budgeting, client communication, and job costing tailored to subcontractors.
Subcontractor-focused platform for job costing, invoicing, time tracking, and QuickBooks integration.
Mobile-first field management app for task assignment, plan viewing, and real-time communication on job sites.
Construction tech platform for budgeting, forecasting, and draw management specifically for subcontractors.
Cloud-based subcontractor management software for project tracking, labor management, and reporting.
Construction accounting and job costing software designed for contractors and subcontractors.
Construction CRM and project management tool for lead tracking, estimating, and job management for subs.
Field service management software for scheduling, invoicing, and customer management for trade subcontractors.
All-in-one platform for home service subcontractors handling booking, dispatching, and payments.
Procore
enterpriseComprehensive cloud-based construction management platform that streamlines project management, financials, and collaboration for subcontractors.
Advanced commitment and invoice management tailored for subcontractors, automating lien waivers and pay apps with GC approval workflows.
Procore is a comprehensive cloud-based construction management platform designed to streamline subcontractor workflows across project planning, execution, and financials. It offers tools for document management, RFIs, submittals, daily logs, timesheets, invoicing, and lien waivers, enabling seamless collaboration with general contractors and owners. The mobile-first approach ensures field teams can access real-time data, photos, and updates from any site, reducing errors and delays in complex projects.
Pros
- All-in-one platform covering bidding, field ops, financials, and quality/safety
- Powerful mobile app with offline capabilities for on-site productivity
- Extensive integrations with accounting software like QuickBooks and Sage
Cons
- High subscription costs can strain small subcontractors
- Steep learning curve due to extensive features
- Customization requires admin support or training
Best For
Mid-to-large subcontractors managing multiple complex projects that require robust collaboration with GCs and real-time field visibility.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing starting at around $500-$1,000/month per project or per user, with tiers for Essentials, Plus, and Enterprise.
Buildertrend
enterpriseAll-in-one construction software for scheduling, budgeting, client communication, and job costing tailored to subcontractors.
Free subcontractor portal providing real-time access to schedules, docs, and updates without a full subscription
Buildertrend is a robust cloud-based construction management platform designed primarily for general contractors but offering valuable tools for subcontractors, including scheduling, time tracking, daily logs, and invoicing. Subcontractors can access project details, submit timecards and change orders, and communicate via a dedicated portal, especially when invited by a GC using the software. Its mobile app enables on-site updates, photos, and real-time collaboration, making it a comprehensive solution for managing subcontractor workflows within larger projects.
Pros
- Comprehensive mobile app for on-site time tracking and updates
- Seamless subcontractor portal for free access when invited by GCs
- Strong communication and document management tools
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users
- Pricing can be high for standalone subcontractors without GC invitation
- Some features are more GC-oriented, leading to underutilization
Best For
Subcontractors collaborating closely with general contractors who use Buildertrend, needing integrated project management and communication.
Pricing
Starts at $99/month for solo users (Pro plan), scaling to $399+/month for teams; free subcontractor portal access for those invited by paying GC accounts.
Knowify
specializedSubcontractor-focused platform for job costing, invoicing, time tracking, and QuickBooks integration.
Two-way QuickBooks sync that automatically pushes job costs, invoices, and payments for precise bookkeeping without manual entry.
Knowify is a cloud-based construction management software tailored for subcontractors, offering tools for estimating, job costing, time tracking, scheduling, and invoicing. It excels in field-to-office workflows with a robust mobile app and seamless integrations, particularly with QuickBooks Online for accurate financial syncing. Designed for trade contractors like electricians, plumbers, and HVAC pros, it helps manage projects from bid to payment efficiently.
Pros
- Seamless two-way QuickBooks Online integration for real-time financial accuracy
- Intuitive mobile app for field time tracking and job photos
- Comprehensive job costing and estimating with digital takeoff tools
Cons
- Pricing can be steep for very small teams or solo operators
- Initial learning curve for advanced features like custom reporting
- Customer support response times vary, with some users reporting delays
Best For
Mid-sized subcontractors in trades like electrical, plumbing, or HVAC who need strong QuickBooks integration and job costing for efficient project management.
Pricing
Starts at $149/month for up to 5 users (Pro plan), scales to $299+/month for larger teams or Enterprise with custom pricing; annual billing discounts available.
Fieldwire
specializedMobile-first field management app for task assignment, plan viewing, and real-time communication on job sites.
Sheet Link technology that hyperlinks tasks, photos, RFIs, and issues directly to exact locations on digital blueprints
Fieldwire is a mobile-first construction management platform tailored for subcontractors and field teams, facilitating real-time collaboration on job sites. It offers tools for task assignment, blueprint viewing with markups, photo documentation, RFIs, punch lists, and automated daily reports. The software supports offline access, ensuring productivity in low-connectivity environments common on construction sites.
Pros
- Exceptional mobile app with offline capabilities
- Precise plan markups and Sheet Link for location-specific tasks
- Streamlined reporting and task tracking for field teams
Cons
- Pricing scales quickly with team size and projects
- Limited native integrations with accounting or BIM software
- Advanced customization requires higher-tier plans
Best For
Subcontractors and on-site supervisors managing daily field tasks, documentation, and coordination with general contractors.
Pricing
Starts at $54/user/month (Pro plan) billed annually, up to $89/user/month (Business Plus); free trial available, with per-project options for small teams.
Stack
specializedConstruction tech platform for budgeting, forecasting, and draw management specifically for subcontractors.
Construction-specific marketplace connecting subcontractors directly to vetted GC projects for easy bid submission
Stack (stackct.com) is a specialized platform for construction subcontractors, offering tools to discover new projects through a marketplace, submit bids, manage job progress, and handle payments. It streamlines pre-construction workflows by connecting subs directly with general contractors and automating bid tracking and approvals. Additionally, it provides project management features like time tracking, document sharing, and invoicing to keep operations efficient from bid to closeout.
Pros
- Robust project marketplace for discovering bids from GCs
- Fast payment processing with instant approvals
- Mobile app for on-site project management
Cons
- Limited third-party integrations (e.g., QuickBooks is basic)
- Higher tiers needed for advanced reporting
- Customer support response times can vary
Best For
Small to mid-sized subcontractors focused on winning more bids and streamlining payments without complex enterprise setups.
Pricing
Free plan for basic bidding; Pro at $99/user/month; Enterprise custom pricing.
eSUB
specializedCloud-based subcontractor management software for project tracking, labor management, and reporting.
Mobile-first daily production tracking and timecard approval workflow
eSUB is a cloud-based construction management software tailored specifically for subcontractors, providing tools for project management, time tracking, daily logging, document control, safety compliance, and billing. It emphasizes mobile-first functionality to support field teams in real-time data capture and collaboration. The platform integrates with popular accounting systems like QuickBooks and Sage, helping subs streamline operations from bid to closeout.
Pros
- Subcontractor-specific workflows for daily logs and timecards
- Robust mobile app for field productivity
- Strong safety and compliance tracking tools
Cons
- Steeper learning curve for new users
- Higher pricing for smaller teams
- Limited native integrations with non-construction tools
Best For
Mid-sized construction subcontractors needing specialized field management and compliance features.
Pricing
Custom quotes starting at around $65/user/month, with tiers based on users and modules.
Foundation
enterpriseConstruction accounting and job costing software designed for contractors and subcontractors.
The Job Cost Ledger, offering unlimited segmentation of costs by phase, cost type, and subcontractor for unparalleled project visibility.
Foundation Software is a robust, industry-specific accounting solution tailored for construction companies, including subcontractors, focusing on job costing, payroll, and financial management. It provides detailed tracking of project costs, labor, materials, and subcontractors from bid to completion. The platform excels in handling complex construction accounting needs with customizable reports and compliance features for the industry.
Pros
- Exceptional job costing with multi-level budgets and change order tracking
- Integrated payroll and certified payroll for union compliance
- Highly customizable reporting and dashboards for profitability analysis
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring significant training
- High upfront and ongoing costs
- Primarily on-premise with limited cloud flexibility compared to modern SaaS options
Best For
Mid-sized subcontractors managing multiple complex projects who prioritize detailed job costing over simplicity.
Pricing
Perpetual licenses start at $5,000-$10,000 per module plus annual maintenance fees of 15-20%; cloud subscription options available from $300/user/month.
JobTread
specializedConstruction CRM and project management tool for lead tracking, estimating, and job management for subs.
Real-time job costing dashboard that tracks expenses, labor, and profitability on every job instantly
JobTread is a cloud-based construction management platform tailored for subcontractors and trade contractors, handling everything from job estimating and bidding to scheduling, time tracking, invoicing, and job costing. It provides real-time visibility into project profitability through dashboards and integrates seamlessly with QuickBooks for accounting. The software also features a mobile app for on-site updates, making it suitable for field teams managing multiple jobs.
Pros
- Comprehensive job lifecycle management from bid to invoice
- Strong QuickBooks integration for seamless accounting
- Robust mobile app for field access and time tracking
Cons
- Pricing can be steep for solo operators or very small teams
- Learning curve for advanced job costing features
- Limited third-party integrations beyond core accounting tools
Best For
Small to mid-sized subcontractors in trades like electrical, plumbing, or HVAC who need an all-in-one platform for job tracking and profitability analysis.
Pricing
Starts at $99/month (Starter plan for 3 users), $199/month (Pro plan), up to $399/month (Enterprise); billed annually with custom quotes available.
Jobber
specializedField service management software for scheduling, invoicing, and customer management for trade subcontractors.
ClientHub self-service portal for clients to view quotes, schedules, and invoices independently
Jobber is a field service management platform tailored for home service businesses and subcontractors, offering tools for job scheduling, dispatching, quoting, invoicing, and client management. It features a mobile app for real-time updates, automated reminders, and integrations with accounting software like QuickBooks. Ideal for trades like HVAC, plumbing, and landscaping, it helps streamline operations from lead to payment.
Pros
- Intuitive scheduling and dispatching tools
- Robust mobile app for field teams
- Seamless invoicing and QuickBooks integration
Cons
- Pricing escalates quickly for teams and advanced features
- Limited depth for complex construction subcontracting like takeoffs
- Reporting customization requires higher tiers
Best For
Small to mid-sized service-based subcontractors needing efficient job tracking and client communication without deep construction-specific tools.
Pricing
Starts at $69/month (Core, billed annually) for basics, up to $349/month (Grow) for teams, with Plus enterprise custom pricing.
Housecall Pro
specializedAll-in-one platform for home service subcontractors handling booking, dispatching, and payments.
Real-time GPS-enabled dispatching board that optimizes routes and keeps teams coordinated
Housecall Pro is an all-in-one field service management platform tailored for home service subcontractors like plumbers, electricians, HVAC technicians, and cleaners. It provides tools for online booking, intelligent scheduling, real-time dispatching, invoicing, payments, and QuickBooks integration to streamline operations. The software also features a robust mobile app, customer communication tools, and marketing automation to help grow businesses.
Pros
- Comprehensive feature set including GPS dispatching and instant invoicing
- Strong mobile app for field technicians
- Seamless integrations with QuickBooks and other tools
Cons
- Pricing scales quickly for larger teams
- Initial setup and learning curve can be steep
- Limited advanced reporting customization
Best For
Small to mid-sized home service subcontractors needing an all-in-one tool for scheduling, dispatching, and customer management.
Pricing
Starts at $69/month for solo users (Essential plan), with tiers up to $429+/month for larger teams (Pro plan); annual billing offers discounts.
Conclusion
The top three tools—Procore, Buildertrend, and Knowify—emerge as leaders, each with unique strengths to enhance subcontractor operations. Procore sets the standard with its comprehensive cloud-based management, while Buildertrend shines in all-in-one scheduling and client communication, and Knowify excels in job costing and integration. Whether focusing on end-to-end oversight, financial precision, or collaboration, these tools offer tailored solutions for diverse needs.
Take the next step in optimizing your workflow by trying Procore, the top choice, or explore Buildertrend and Knowify to find the tool that aligns best with your specific requirements.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison