Quick Overview
- 1#1: Stack - Cloud-based construction takeoff and estimating platform with real-time collaboration and bidding tools.
- 2#2: PlanSwift - Digital takeoff and estimating software that allows drag-and-drop assemblies for rapid quantity calculation.
- 3#3: Bluebeam Revu - PDF-based markup and measurement tool optimized for construction takeoffs and document collaboration.
- 4#4: Togal.AI - AI-powered automated takeoff software that instantly measures plans and exports to estimating platforms.
- 5#5: On-Screen Takeoff - Precise on-screen digital takeoff solution with seamless integration to estimating databases.
- 6#6: Autodesk Takeoff - Cloud-based 2D and 3D quantity takeoff tool integrated with Autodesk Construction Cloud.
- 7#7: ProEst - Cloud estimating software with built-in takeoff, invitation to bid, and project management features.
- 8#8: Sage Estimating - Comprehensive construction cost estimating with CAD/BIM import and customizable databases.
- 9#9: Kreo - Collaborative cloud platform for 2D takeoff, estimating, and tender management with BIM support.
- 10#10: Buildxact - Takeoff and estimating software tailored for residential builders with job costing integration.
Tools were ranked based on performance metrics, including takeoff accuracy, workflow integration, user-friendliness, and value, ensuring they deliver robust solutions for professionals across commercial and residential sectors.
Comparison Table
Effective takeoff and estimating software is vital for optimizing construction project planning, with options ranging from specialized tools to all-in-one platforms. This comparison table explores leading platforms like Stack, PlanSwift, Bluebeam Revu, Togal.AI, and On-Screen Takeoff, highlighting features, pricing, and usability to help readers find the right fit for their needs.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Stack Cloud-based construction takeoff and estimating platform with real-time collaboration and bidding tools. | specialized | 9.5/10 | 9.8/10 | 9.2/10 | 9.0/10 |
| 2 | PlanSwift Digital takeoff and estimating software that allows drag-and-drop assemblies for rapid quantity calculation. | specialized | 9.1/10 | 9.4/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.9/10 |
| 3 | Bluebeam Revu PDF-based markup and measurement tool optimized for construction takeoffs and document collaboration. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 4 | Togal.AI AI-powered automated takeoff software that instantly measures plans and exports to estimating platforms. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.3/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 5 | On-Screen Takeoff Precise on-screen digital takeoff solution with seamless integration to estimating databases. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 6 | Autodesk Takeoff Cloud-based 2D and 3D quantity takeoff tool integrated with Autodesk Construction Cloud. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.4/10 | 7.9/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 7 | ProEst Cloud estimating software with built-in takeoff, invitation to bid, and project management features. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.5/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 8 | Sage Estimating Comprehensive construction cost estimating with CAD/BIM import and customizable databases. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 9.2/10 | 6.8/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 9 | Kreo Collaborative cloud platform for 2D takeoff, estimating, and tender management with BIM support. | specialized | 8.5/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.3/10 |
| 10 | Buildxact Takeoff and estimating software tailored for residential builders with job costing integration. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.8/10 | 8.3/10 |
Cloud-based construction takeoff and estimating platform with real-time collaboration and bidding tools.
Digital takeoff and estimating software that allows drag-and-drop assemblies for rapid quantity calculation.
PDF-based markup and measurement tool optimized for construction takeoffs and document collaboration.
AI-powered automated takeoff software that instantly measures plans and exports to estimating platforms.
Precise on-screen digital takeoff solution with seamless integration to estimating databases.
Cloud-based 2D and 3D quantity takeoff tool integrated with Autodesk Construction Cloud.
Cloud estimating software with built-in takeoff, invitation to bid, and project management features.
Comprehensive construction cost estimating with CAD/BIM import and customizable databases.
Collaborative cloud platform for 2D takeoff, estimating, and tender management with BIM support.
Takeoff and estimating software tailored for residential builders with job costing integration.
Stack
specializedCloud-based construction takeoff and estimating platform with real-time collaboration and bidding tools.
AI Auto-Takeoff that instantly measures quantities from plans in seconds with high accuracy
Stack (stackct.com) is a leading cloud-based takeoff and estimating software tailored for construction professionals, enabling rapid digital quantity takeoffs from PDFs, CAD files, and images using AI-driven automation. It streamlines the estimating process with customizable assemblies, real-time collaboration tools, and detailed reporting for accurate bids. The platform integrates seamlessly with tools like Procore, QuickBooks, and Excel, making it a comprehensive solution for efficient project workflows.
Pros
- AI-powered auto-takeoffs drastically reduce manual measurement time
- Real-time cloud collaboration for teams
- Robust integrations with major construction software
Cons
- Premium pricing may deter small firms
- Steeper learning curve for advanced assemblies
- Limited offline functionality due to cloud reliance
Best For
Mid-to-large construction firms and estimating teams seeking fast, accurate, collaborative takeoff and bidding tools.
Pricing
Starts at $2,495 per user/year for Pro plan; custom Enterprise pricing available.
PlanSwift
specializedDigital takeoff and estimating software that allows drag-and-drop assemblies for rapid quantity calculation.
Drag-and-Drop Assemblies for instant application of pre-built cost items during takeoff
PlanSwift is a leading digital takeoff and estimating software tailored for construction professionals, enabling fast and accurate quantity takeoffs from PDFs, blueprints, CAD files, and images via an intuitive point-and-click interface. It features drag-and-drop assemblies for quick cost estimating, customizable databases, and robust reporting tools that integrate seamlessly with Excel and popular accounting software. Ideal for streamlining pre-construction workflows, it supports on-screen measurements, real-time calculations, and project visualizations to enhance bidding accuracy.
Pros
- Extremely fast point-and-click takeoffs with high precision
- Powerful drag-and-drop assemblies and customizable item databases
- Strong integrations with Excel, QuickBooks, and other estimating tools
Cons
- Windows-only compatibility (no native Mac support)
- Steep initial learning curve for advanced features
- Higher upfront cost may deter very small operations
Best For
Mid-sized construction contractors and estimators managing complex projects who prioritize speed and accuracy in digital takeoffs.
Pricing
Perpetual license starting at $1,595 per user, plus optional annual maintenance (~20% of license cost) for updates and support.
Bluebeam Revu
specializedPDF-based markup and measurement tool optimized for construction takeoffs and document collaboration.
Quantity Link: Dynamically links takeoff measurements to Excel, automatically updating quantities and calculations as markups change.
Bluebeam Revu is a versatile PDF-based software designed for the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry, excelling in digital takeoffs, measurements, and basic estimating from PDF drawings. It features precise measurement tools, customizable markups, and seamless export to Excel for quantity takeoffs and cost estimating. With real-time collaboration through Bluebeam Studio, it streamlines workflows for teams handling project documentation and bidding processes.
Pros
- Highly accurate and customizable takeoff measurement tools with scripting support
- Quantity Link feature for real-time syncing of quantities to Excel spreadsheets
- Strong collaboration via Studio Sessions and robust PDF editing capabilities
Cons
- Steep learning curve for advanced takeoff and customization features
- Subscription model is pricey for small firms or solo users
- Lacks advanced estimating functionalities like full assemblies or job costing compared to dedicated tools
Best For
Mid-to-large AEC firms and estimators who specialize in PDF-based digital takeoffs and need integration with Excel for quantity-driven estimating.
Pricing
Subscription starts at ~$240/user/year (Basics), $350 (Core), up to $550+ (Complete); perpetual licenses available for Windows at higher upfront costs.
Togal.AI
specializedAI-powered automated takeoff software that instantly measures plans and exports to estimating platforms.
Patented AI engine that automatically detects and measures 1,000+ building components from any plan with 95%+ accuracy in seconds
Togal.AI is an AI-powered takeoff and estimating software that automates the extraction of measurements from digital blueprints, PDFs, and images using machine learning. It identifies and quantifies elements like walls, doors, windows, and areas in seconds, significantly reducing manual takeoff time. The platform supports collaboration, custom reporting, and integrations with popular estimating tools like Procore and PlanSwift.
Pros
- Ultra-fast AI-driven takeoffs that process plans in minutes instead of hours
- High accuracy for standard architectural elements with minimal manual corrections
- Real-time collaboration and seamless exports to estimating software
Cons
- Pricing can be steep for small firms or low-volume users
- Performance may dip on highly complex or non-standard plans requiring tweaks
- Limited free trial and onboarding can feel sales-heavy
Best For
Mid-sized construction firms and estimators handling high volumes of plans who need speed and accuracy in pre-bid workflows.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing starting at ~$1,000/month for teams (5-10 users), with pay-per-project options; contact sales for demo and quote.
On-Screen Takeoff
specializedPrecise on-screen digital takeoff solution with seamless integration to estimating databases.
Advanced digitizer tool for pixel-perfect measurements from scaled digital plans
On-Screen Takeoff by ConstructConnect is a specialized digital takeoff software for construction professionals, enabling precise quantity extraction from PDF, DWF, and other plan formats without printing. It supports linear, area, volume, and count measurements, with tools to organize takeoffs into customizable assemblies for estimating. The software integrates seamlessly with popular estimating platforms like Sage Estimating and produces detailed reports for bidding.
Pros
- Exceptionally accurate on-screen measurements and digitizing tools
- Powerful assembly builder for linking quantities to bid items
- Strong integration with Sage and other estimating software
Cons
- Dated interface that feels clunky compared to modern competitors
- Steep learning curve for new users
- Relatively high pricing without full cloud collaboration features
Best For
Experienced construction estimators handling complex plans who prioritize precision and integration with existing estimating workflows.
Pricing
Subscription at $349/month per user or perpetual license around $1,495 plus annual maintenance; volume discounts available.
Autodesk Takeoff
enterpriseCloud-based 2D and 3D quantity takeoff tool integrated with Autodesk Construction Cloud.
Multi-user cloud collaboration allowing simultaneous editing of takeoff sheets in real-time
Autodesk Takeoff is a cloud-based tool within the Autodesk Construction Cloud suite, designed for construction professionals to perform accurate 2D quantity takeoffs from PDF and CAD plans. It enables users to create customizable cost estimates using assemblies and item libraries, streamlining preconstruction workflows. The software supports real-time collaboration, allowing multiple team members to work on the same takeoff simultaneously.
Pros
- Seamless integration with Autodesk Construction Cloud and Revit for unified workflows
- Real-time cloud collaboration for team-based takeoffs and estimates
- Precise 2D measurement tools with customizable conditions and assemblies
Cons
- Limited native 3D model takeoff capabilities compared to specialized competitors
- Subscription pricing can be high for small firms or non-Autodesk users
- Interface has a learning curve for those unfamiliar with Autodesk products
Best For
Mid-sized construction teams already in the Autodesk ecosystem needing collaborative 2D takeoff and estimating.
Pricing
Included in Autodesk Construction Cloud subscriptions; Build plan starts at ~$975/year per user (billed annually).
ProEst
enterpriseCloud estimating software with built-in takeoff, invitation to bid, and project management features.
Its massive library of over 19,000 industry-standard pre-built assemblies, reducing manual data entry and ensuring estimate accuracy across trades.
ProEst is a cloud-based takeoff and estimating software tailored for construction professionals, enabling digital takeoffs from PDFs and CAD files, accurate cost estimating with customizable assemblies, and streamlined bid management. It features a vast library of over 19,000 pre-built assemblies across various trades, real-time collaboration tools, and integrations with accounting systems like Sage and project management platforms like Procore. The platform supports mobile access for on-site adjustments and labor planning, making it suitable for detailed pre-construction workflows.
Pros
- Extensive database of over 19,000 pre-built assemblies for quick and accurate estimating
- Strong integrations with Sage, QuickBooks, Procore, and other construction tools
- Cloud-based platform with mobile access for real-time collaboration and on-site use
Cons
- Steep learning curve, especially for users new to advanced estimating software
- Pricing is custom and can be high for smaller firms or basic needs
- User interface feels somewhat dated and occasionally slow with large projects
Best For
Mid-sized to large construction firms requiring robust, trade-specific estimating with extensive pre-built data and enterprise integrations.
Pricing
Custom subscription pricing based on users and modules; typically $250-$500 per user per month, with annual contracts and a demo required for quotes.
Sage Estimating
enterpriseComprehensive construction cost estimating with CAD/BIM import and customizable databases.
Trade-specific item channels with conditional logic for dynamic, highly detailed cost modeling
Sage Estimating is a powerful construction takeoff and estimating software that enables users to perform 2D takeoffs from PDFs and digital plans while leveraging a centralized national database of costs, assemblies, and labor rates. It supports detailed bid creation across 21 trades with customizable templates, conditional logic, and item channels for precise breakdowns. The platform excels in enterprise environments by integrating with Sage 300 accounting and project management tools for end-to-end workflows.
Pros
- Extensive pre-built assemblies and national cost database for accuracy
- Deep integration with Sage ecosystem for accounting and PM
- Advanced customization, reporting, and conditional estimating logic
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring training
- Dated interface compared to modern cloud competitors
- High upfront and ongoing costs
Best For
Mid-to-large construction firms with dedicated estimators handling complex, multi-trade projects in the Sage ecosystem.
Pricing
Perpetual licenses start at ~$5,000 per seat plus annual maintenance (~20-25%); cloud subscription options from $200+/month per user.
Kreo
specializedCollaborative cloud platform for 2D takeoff, estimating, and tender management with BIM support.
Patented AI engine that automatically detects and measures elements from PDFs and models without manual tracing
Kreo is an AI-powered takeoff and estimating software designed for construction professionals, enabling automated measurements from 2D PDFs, CAD files, and 3D BIM models. It streamlines quantity takeoff, cost estimating, and reporting with high accuracy and speed, reducing manual errors. The platform integrates seamlessly with popular project management tools and supports collaborative workflows for teams.
Pros
- AI automation drastically reduces takeoff time from hours to minutes
- Excellent support for 2D, 3D, and BIM models with precise measurements
- Customizable templates and real-time collaboration features
Cons
- Steep learning curve for advanced BIM integrations
- Pricing can be high for small firms or infrequent users
- Limited third-party integrations compared to established competitors
Best For
Mid-sized construction firms and quantity surveyors needing fast, accurate AI-driven takeoffs from diverse file formats.
Pricing
Subscription starts at $99/user/month for Basic plan, up to $299/user/month for Enterprise with custom quotes available.
Buildxact
specializedTakeoff and estimating software tailored for residential builders with job costing integration.
Live pricing updates from integrated supplier databases for real-time accurate estimates
Buildxact is a cloud-based takeoff and estimating software tailored for residential builders, remodelers, and trade contractors. It enables digital takeoffs from PDFs, CAD files, or images, with automated calculations and customizable estimating templates. The platform also supports job costing, scheduling, and seamless integrations with accounting software like QuickBooks and Xero.
Pros
- Intuitive drag-and-drop takeoff tools
- Extensive pre-built material libraries with auto-pricing
- Strong integrations with accounting and supplier systems
Cons
- Primarily optimized for residential projects
- Advanced features locked behind higher tiers
- Reporting customization could be more flexible
Best For
Small to medium residential builders and remodelers needing quick, accurate estimates without a steep learning curve.
Pricing
Starts at $149/user/month (Solo, billed annually); Pro at $299/month; Premier at $499/month; custom enterprise options available.
Conclusion
Among the reviewed tools, Stack rises as the top pick, boasting cloud-based collaboration and bidding tools that streamline workflows. PlanSwift stands out for its drag-and-drop assemblies, enabling rapid quantity calculation, while Bluebeam Revu excels with PDF-based markup and measurement, enhancing document collaboration. Each top tool caters to distinct needs, but Stack leads as the overall best.
Take the first step toward optimized takeoff and estimating—try Stack today to unlock its powerful features and boost your project efficiency.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison