Quick Overview
- 1#1: PlanSwift - Lightning-fast digital takeoff and estimating software that extracts quantities directly from digital plans.
- 2#2: Bluebeam Revu - Powerful PDF markup and takeoff tool with precise measurement and collaboration features for construction documents.
- 3#3: Stack - Cloud-based construction takeoff and estimating platform designed for speed and accuracy in quantity calculations.
- 4#4: Togal.AI - AI-powered software that automates takeoffs by instantly detecting and quantifying elements from blueprints.
- 5#5: Autodesk Takeoff - Cloud-based 2D takeoff solution integrated with Autodesk Construction Cloud for seamless estimating workflows.
- 6#6: On-Screen Takeoff - Precise on-screen digital takeoff software with integration to estimating tools like Quick Bid.
- 7#7: Kreo Software - Cloud-native takeoff and estimating platform supporting 2D plans and BIM models for accurate quantities.
- 8#8: Beam AI - Generative AI tool that delivers instant, accurate construction takeoffs and cost estimates from plans.
- 9#9: Buildxact - Integrated takeoff, estimating, and job management software tailored for residential builders.
- 10#10: ConEst - Comprehensive digital takeoff and estimating system with database-driven assemblies for detailed bids.
We ranked these tools based on key benchmarks: robust feature sets (including automation, precision, and cross-platform integration), user experience (intuitiveness and scalability), and overall value, ensuring they meet the diverse needs of construction teams from residential to large-scale commercial projects.
Comparison Table
This comparison table outlines key features of popular construction software tools, including PlanSwift, Bluebeam Revu, Stack, Togal.AI, and Autodesk Takeoff, to help readers evaluate options for their projects. By comparing functionality, usability, and industry applications, users can identify the best fit for their workflow needs efficiently.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | PlanSwift Lightning-fast digital takeoff and estimating software that extracts quantities directly from digital plans. | specialized | 9.4/10 | 9.7/10 | 8.8/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 2 | Bluebeam Revu Powerful PDF markup and takeoff tool with precise measurement and collaboration features for construction documents. | specialized | 9.2/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.9/10 |
| 3 | Stack Cloud-based construction takeoff and estimating platform designed for speed and accuracy in quantity calculations. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 4 | Togal.AI AI-powered software that automates takeoffs by instantly detecting and quantifying elements from blueprints. | general_ai | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 5 | Autodesk Takeoff Cloud-based 2D takeoff solution integrated with Autodesk Construction Cloud for seamless estimating workflows. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.6/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 6 | On-Screen Takeoff Precise on-screen digital takeoff software with integration to estimating tools like Quick Bid. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.6/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 7 | Kreo Software Cloud-native takeoff and estimating platform supporting 2D plans and BIM models for accurate quantities. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 9.0/10 | 7.7/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 8 | Beam AI Generative AI tool that delivers instant, accurate construction takeoffs and cost estimates from plans. | general_ai | 8.2/10 | 8.8/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 9 | Buildxact Integrated takeoff, estimating, and job management software tailored for residential builders. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 10 | ConEst Comprehensive digital takeoff and estimating system with database-driven assemblies for detailed bids. | specialized | 7.6/10 | 8.1/10 | 6.8/10 | 7.4/10 |
Lightning-fast digital takeoff and estimating software that extracts quantities directly from digital plans.
Powerful PDF markup and takeoff tool with precise measurement and collaboration features for construction documents.
Cloud-based construction takeoff and estimating platform designed for speed and accuracy in quantity calculations.
AI-powered software that automates takeoffs by instantly detecting and quantifying elements from blueprints.
Cloud-based 2D takeoff solution integrated with Autodesk Construction Cloud for seamless estimating workflows.
Precise on-screen digital takeoff software with integration to estimating tools like Quick Bid.
Cloud-native takeoff and estimating platform supporting 2D plans and BIM models for accurate quantities.
Generative AI tool that delivers instant, accurate construction takeoffs and cost estimates from plans.
Integrated takeoff, estimating, and job management software tailored for residential builders.
Comprehensive digital takeoff and estimating system with database-driven assemblies for detailed bids.
PlanSwift
specializedLightning-fast digital takeoff and estimating software that extracts quantities directly from digital plans.
Drag-and-drop assemblies that instantly apply predefined formulas, counts, and costs to measurements for automated estimating.
PlanSwift is a premier on-premises takeoff and estimating software tailored for construction professionals, enabling rapid digital measurements from PDF, CAD, scanned images, and blueprint files via an intuitive point-and-click interface. It automates quantity takeoffs, supports customizable assemblies and databases for cost estimating, and generates detailed reports for bidding. The software excels in handling complex projects with formula-driven calculations and seamless integrations with tools like Excel, QuickBooks, and Sage.
Pros
- Exceptionally fast point-and-click takeoffs with real-time quantity calculations
- Highly customizable assemblies, formulas, and reporting for precise estimating
- Strong integrations with accounting and CAD software
Cons
- Desktop-only (no cloud or mobile access)
- Steep initial learning curve for advanced customization
- Requires robust Windows PC hardware for optimal performance
Best For
Construction estimators, contractors, and subcontractors handling detailed takeoffs and bids on mid-to-large projects who prefer powerful desktop software.
Pricing
Perpetual license starts at ~$1,595 per user (Classic edition), up to $1,995 (Ultimate), plus optional ~20% annual maintenance.
Bluebeam Revu
specializedPowerful PDF markup and takeoff tool with precise measurement and collaboration features for construction documents.
Dynamic measurement tools with automatic quantity linking and scalable sets for effortless updates across multi-page drawings
Bluebeam Revu is a robust PDF-based software solution designed specifically for the AEC industry, enabling precise digital takeoffs, markups, and quantity estimations directly from construction plans. It offers advanced measurement tools, customizable toolsets, and automated quantity calculations that export to Excel or other formats for bidding and project management. With strong collaboration features like Studio Sessions and Projects, it streamlines workflows for teams working on 2D PDF documents.
Pros
- Exceptional accuracy in 2D takeoffs with dynamic measurements and visual overlays
- Superior collaboration tools including real-time Studio Sessions and cloud project sharing
- Highly customizable toolsets and seamless integration with Excel and other AEC software
Cons
- Limited native support for 3D models or BIM integration compared to specialized takeoff tools
- Subscription pricing can be steep for solo users or small firms
- Initial learning curve for advanced takeoff and scripting features
Best For
Construction estimators and project teams handling large volumes of PDF plans who need reliable 2D takeoffs and team collaboration.
Pricing
Subscription-based: Basics at $240/user/year, Core at $360/user/year, Complete at $500/user/year; perpetual licenses also available.
Stack
specializedCloud-based construction takeoff and estimating platform designed for speed and accuracy in quantity calculations.
Patented ultra-fast takeoff engine that processes PDFs in seconds for unmatched speed
Stack (stackct.com) is a cloud-based takeoff and estimating software tailored for construction professionals, enabling rapid digital quantity takeoffs from PDF and CAD files. It supports assembling takeoffs into detailed estimates, real-time team collaboration, and seamless integrations with tools like Procore and Quick Bid. The platform emphasizes speed and accuracy, replacing traditional manual methods with intuitive digital workflows.
Pros
- Lightning-fast PDF and CAD takeoffs with patented technology
- Real-time collaboration and cloud accessibility
- Robust integrations with popular construction software
Cons
- Higher pricing compared to some competitors
- Mobile app lacks full desktop functionality
- Steeper learning curve for advanced estimating assemblies
Best For
Mid-sized construction estimators and teams handling high-volume digital plans who prioritize speed and collaboration.
Pricing
Starts at $2,495/year per user for Basic; Pro ($3,995/year) and custom Enterprise plans available.
Togal.AI
general_aiAI-powered software that automates takeoffs by instantly detecting and quantifying elements from blueprints.
Patented AI engine that automatically detects and measures plan elements without manual tracing or templates
Togal.AI is an AI-powered takeoff and estimating software designed for the construction industry, automating the detection, measurement, and quantification of elements like walls, doors, windows, and areas directly from PDF blueprints or images. It leverages machine learning to deliver rapid, accurate takeoffs, significantly reducing manual labor compared to traditional tools. The platform supports real-time collaboration, customizable reports, and integrations with popular estimating software like Procore and PlanSwift.
Pros
- Ultra-fast AI-driven takeoffs that process plans in seconds
- High accuracy for standard architectural elements
- Seamless cloud collaboration and export options
Cons
- Struggles with highly complex or non-standard plans
- Requires human review for critical accuracy
- Higher pricing limits appeal for small solo operators
Best For
Mid-sized construction firms and estimators focused on high-volume, repetitive takeoffs from standard blueprints.
Pricing
Starts at $125/user/month for Pro plan (billed annually), with Enterprise custom pricing; free trial available.
Autodesk Takeoff
enterpriseCloud-based 2D takeoff solution integrated with Autodesk Construction Cloud for seamless estimating workflows.
Automated quantity extraction directly from native 3D BIM models with intelligent object recognition and classification
Autodesk Takeoff is a cloud-based tool within the Autodesk Construction Cloud suite designed for digital quantity takeoff and estimating in construction projects. It enables users to extract accurate quantities from 2D PDFs, CAD files, and 3D BIM models like Revit, supporting both manual and automated measurements. The software facilitates collaboration by allowing teams to share takeoffs, issue RFIs, and integrate data into bidding and estimating workflows.
Pros
- Deep integration with Autodesk Revit and BIM 360/ACC for seamless workflows
- Supports automated 2D/3D takeoffs from diverse file formats including PDFs and models
- Real-time cloud collaboration and markup tools for team efficiency
Cons
- Steep learning curve, especially for users new to Autodesk ecosystem
- Subscription pricing can be expensive for small firms or solo estimators
- Performance lags with very large or complex 3D models
Best For
Medium to large AEC firms already using Autodesk tools that require integrated BIM-based takeoff and collaborative estimating.
Pricing
Included in Autodesk Construction Cloud Docs ($975/year/user) and Premium ($1,525/year/user) plans; standalone access via subscription starting around $1,000/year.
On-Screen Takeoff
specializedPrecise on-screen digital takeoff software with integration to estimating tools like Quick Bid.
Advanced customizable assemblies that automatically calculate costs from takeoff quantities
On-Screen Takeoff by ConstructConnect is a desktop-based construction takeoff software designed for accurate quantity extraction from digital plans like PDFs, scans, and CAD files. It supports precise measurements for lengths, areas, volumes, and counts, with customizable assemblies that link takeoffs to cost estimating. The tool excels in detailed pre-construction quantity surveying and integrates with Quick Bid for bidding workflows.
Pros
- Highly precise on-screen measurement tools with customizable scales and overlays
- Robust assembly library for linking quantities to costs efficiently
- Seamless integration with ConstructConnect's Quick Bid for end-to-end estimating
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users due to dense interface
- Primarily desktop-focused with limited native mobile or cloud collaboration
- Higher cost compared to some cloud-native competitors
Best For
Mid-sized general contractors and estimators who prioritize detailed desktop takeoffs and integration with traditional estimating software.
Pricing
Annual subscription starts at around $1,349 for a single-user license, with add-ons for advanced modules and multi-user plans up to $2,500+.
Kreo Software
specializedCloud-native takeoff and estimating platform supporting 2D plans and BIM models for accurate quantities.
AI Auto-Measure that learns from user inputs to automate intelligent quantity extraction from drawings
Kreo Software is a cloud-based platform specializing in AI-powered takeoff and estimating for construction projects. It automates 2D measurements from PDFs and 3D quantities from BIM models, reducing manual effort and errors. The tool supports real-time collaboration, issue tracking, and integration with estimating software, making it suitable for quantity surveyors and estimators.
Pros
- AI-driven automation for fast, accurate takeoffs from PDFs and BIM
- Real-time team collaboration and cloud accessibility
- Customizable templates and reporting tools
Cons
- Initial learning curve for advanced AI and BIM features
- Pricing may be steep for small firms or solo users
- Limited native integrations with some legacy estimating software
Best For
Mid-sized construction firms and quantity surveyors needing AI-accelerated 2D/3D takeoffs with collaboration.
Pricing
Subscription starts at ~$99/user/month for basic plans; custom enterprise pricing scales with users and features.
Beam AI
general_aiGenerative AI tool that delivers instant, accurate construction takeoffs and cost estimates from plans.
AI computer vision that automatically detects and quantifies plan elements without manual tracing
Beam AI is an AI-powered construction takeoff software that automates quantity extraction from PDF blueprints using advanced computer vision and machine learning. It identifies and measures elements like walls, doors, windows, areas, and volumes with minimal user input, generating detailed reports for bidding and estimating. The platform supports collaboration, exports to Excel and popular estimating tools, and integrates takeoff data into streamlined workflows for construction professionals.
Pros
- Rapid AI-driven takeoffs save hours of manual work
- High accuracy for standard plans and common elements
- Cloud-based collaboration and easy exports to Excel/estimating software
Cons
- Struggles with highly complex or non-standard plans
- Subscription pricing may be steep for solo users
- Limited integrations compared to established competitors
Best For
Construction estimators and small-to-medium firms focused on residential and light commercial projects needing quick AI automation.
Pricing
Starts at $149/user/month (billed annually); custom enterprise plans available; 14-day free trial.
Buildxact
enterpriseIntegrated takeoff, estimating, and job management software tailored for residential builders.
Real-time integration with hundreds of suppliers for up-to-date material pricing during takeoff
Buildxact is a cloud-based construction management software tailored for residential builders, offering robust takeoff and estimating tools to streamline material quantity calculations from PDFs and CAD files. It integrates real-time supplier pricing, job costing, and quoting functionalities to help users create accurate bids and manage projects efficiently. The platform also supports scheduling, variation tracking, and mobile access for on-site use.
Pros
- Intuitive 2D digital takeoff with PDF import and auto-counting
- Live supplier price integration for accurate estimating
- Seamless job management from quote to invoice
Cons
- Primarily geared toward residential construction, less ideal for commercial
- Higher pricing tiers required for advanced features
- Limited 3D takeoff capabilities compared to specialized tools
Best For
Small to medium residential builders seeking an all-in-one takeoff, estimating, and job management solution.
Pricing
Starts at $149/user/month (Build plan); $299/user/month (Complete plan) with annual discounts available.
ConEst
specializedComprehensive digital takeoff and estimating system with database-driven assemblies for detailed bids.
Patented Digital Takeoff engine with automatic assembly recognition for rapid, error-reducing quantity extraction
ConEst is a robust takeoff and estimating software solution tailored primarily for electrical contractors, offering digital takeoff capabilities from PDFs, CAD files, and paper plans. It integrates seamless takeoff with advanced estimating through pre-built assemblies and labor factors, enabling accurate quantity takeoffs and bid generation. While versatile for other trades like mechanical and plumbing, its core strength lies in electrical-specific tools for comprehensive project costing.
Pros
- Extensive library of pre-built assemblies for electrical and mechanical trades
- Precise digital takeoff tools supporting multiple file formats
- Strong integration with accounting and project management software
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to complex interface
- Dated user experience compared to modern cloud-native competitors
- Limited mobile accessibility and real-time collaboration features
Best For
Electrical contractors and estimators seeking integrated takeoff and detailed estimating for complex bids.
Pricing
Quote-based pricing, typically $2,500-$6,000 annually per user depending on modules and deployment (cloud or on-premise).
Conclusion
The top three tools shine as leaders in the construction takeoff space: PlanSwift, our top choice, excels with lightning-fast digital takeoff and direct quantity extraction from plans. Bluebeam Revu stands out for its powerful PDF markup and collaboration features, while Stack impresses with cloud-based speed and accuracy in quantity calculations. Each offers unique strengths, but PlanSwift rises as the clear top pick for those seeking efficiency.
Ready to streamline your process? Dive into PlanSwift to experience its unmatched speed and precision in construction takeoffs—your projects will thank you.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison