Quick Overview
- 1#1: PlanSwift - Digital takeoff software enabling fast, accurate measurements and assemblies from PDFs and CAD files for construction estimating.
- 2#2: Bluebeam Revu - Powerful PDF-based tool for precise on-screen takeoffs, markups, and collaborative estimating in construction projects.
- 3#3: Stack - Cloud-based platform for rapid digital takeoffs, quantity calculation, and collaborative bidding workflows.
- 4#4: Togal.AI - AI-driven automated takeoff software that instantly detects and measures building elements from digital plans.
- 5#5: Autodesk Takeoff - Cloud-integrated quantity takeoff solution for extracting measurements from 2D and 3D models in Autodesk Construction Cloud.
- 6#6: Kreo - AI-assisted 2D/3D takeoff and estimating platform with real-time collaboration for AEC professionals.
- 7#7: On-Screen Takeoff - Desktop-based software for detailed on-screen quantity takeoffs with seamless Excel export and integration.
- 8#8: ProEst - Cloud estimating software featuring integrated digital takeoff tools for accurate cost projections.
- 9#9: Buildxact - All-in-one takeoff and estimating solution designed for residential builders with job costing features.
- 10#10: Methvin - Online takeoff and estimating calculator suite with customizable templates for construction quantity surveying.
Tools were ranked based on key factors including precision, integration capabilities, user-friendliness, and overall value, ensuring a balanced evaluation of both functionality and practical utility for diverse project needs.
Comparison Table
This comparison table explores leading takeoff software tools, such as PlanSwift, Bluebeam Revu, Stack, Togal.AI, and Autodesk Takeoff, to guide users in understanding their unique strengths and ideal use cases. It breaks down key features, workflow efficiencies, and capabilities, helping readers identify the right tool for their project needs.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | PlanSwift Digital takeoff software enabling fast, accurate measurements and assemblies from PDFs and CAD files for construction estimating. | specialized | 9.3/10 | 9.6/10 | 8.4/10 | 8.9/10 |
| 2 | Bluebeam Revu Powerful PDF-based tool for precise on-screen takeoffs, markups, and collaborative estimating in construction projects. | specialized | 9.2/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 3 | Stack Cloud-based platform for rapid digital takeoffs, quantity calculation, and collaborative bidding workflows. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 4 | Togal.AI AI-driven automated takeoff software that instantly detects and measures building elements from digital plans. | general_ai | 8.7/10 | 9.3/10 | 8.4/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 5 | Autodesk Takeoff Cloud-integrated quantity takeoff solution for extracting measurements from 2D and 3D models in Autodesk Construction Cloud. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.9/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 6 | Kreo AI-assisted 2D/3D takeoff and estimating platform with real-time collaboration for AEC professionals. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 7 | On-Screen Takeoff Desktop-based software for detailed on-screen quantity takeoffs with seamless Excel export and integration. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.8/10 | 7.2/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 8 | ProEst Cloud estimating software featuring integrated digital takeoff tools for accurate cost projections. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.7/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 9 | Buildxact All-in-one takeoff and estimating solution designed for residential builders with job costing features. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 8.6/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 10 | Methvin Online takeoff and estimating calculator suite with customizable templates for construction quantity surveying. | other | 7.8/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.5/10 | 8.2/10 |
Digital takeoff software enabling fast, accurate measurements and assemblies from PDFs and CAD files for construction estimating.
Powerful PDF-based tool for precise on-screen takeoffs, markups, and collaborative estimating in construction projects.
Cloud-based platform for rapid digital takeoffs, quantity calculation, and collaborative bidding workflows.
AI-driven automated takeoff software that instantly detects and measures building elements from digital plans.
Cloud-integrated quantity takeoff solution for extracting measurements from 2D and 3D models in Autodesk Construction Cloud.
AI-assisted 2D/3D takeoff and estimating platform with real-time collaboration for AEC professionals.
Desktop-based software for detailed on-screen quantity takeoffs with seamless Excel export and integration.
Cloud estimating software featuring integrated digital takeoff tools for accurate cost projections.
All-in-one takeoff and estimating solution designed for residential builders with job costing features.
Online takeoff and estimating calculator suite with customizable templates for construction quantity surveying.
PlanSwift
specializedDigital takeoff software enabling fast, accurate measurements and assemblies from PDFs and CAD files for construction estimating.
Patented point-and-click takeoff technology that enables simultaneous measurement of multiple items with drag-and-drop assemblies for instant cost calculations
PlanSwift is a premier digital takeoff and estimating software designed for construction professionals, allowing users to import PDF plans, blueprints, or CAD files and perform precise quantity takeoffs with simple point-and-click tools. It features customizable assemblies that automatically calculate costs, labor, and materials, streamlining the pre-construction bidding process. The software supports on-screen takeoffs, real-time reporting, and integrations with popular accounting systems for seamless workflow.
Pros
- Lightning-fast point-and-click takeoffs that significantly reduce measurement time
- Highly customizable assemblies and databases for accurate estimating across trades
- Robust reporting, export options, and integrations with accounting software
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users despite intuitive interface
- Windows-only compatibility, limiting use on Mac or mobile devices
- High upfront cost may deter small contractors or solo users
Best For
Professional construction estimators and contractors managing complex projects who prioritize speed, accuracy, and detailed bid preparation.
Pricing
Perpetual license starts at $1,749 per user, with annual maintenance fees around $500-$600; volume discounts available.
Bluebeam Revu
specializedPowerful PDF-based tool for precise on-screen takeoffs, markups, and collaborative estimating in construction projects.
Customizable measurement tool sets with dynamic summaries and multi-page takeoff totaling
Bluebeam Revu is a leading PDF-based software solution designed for the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry, specializing in digital takeoffs, markups, and collaboration. It enables users to perform precise quantity takeoffs directly from PDF drawings, measuring lengths, areas, volumes, and counts with customizable tools and automatic calculations. The software supports exporting takeoff data to Excel, generating summaries, and integrating with project workflows for efficient estimating.
Pros
- Highly accurate and flexible digital takeoff tools with calibration and scaling
- Seamless integration with Excel for data export and reporting
- Robust collaboration via Studio Sessions and real-time markups
Cons
- Steep learning curve for advanced customization and scripting
- Limited functionality on Mac compared to Windows version
- Subscription pricing can be expensive for small teams
Best For
Construction estimators and AEC professionals who work primarily with PDF blueprints and require precise, scalable takeoff capabilities integrated into collaborative workflows.
Pricing
Annual subscription: Basics $249/user, Core $349/user, Complete $449/user; volume discounts available.
Stack
enterpriseCloud-based platform for rapid digital takeoffs, quantity calculation, and collaborative bidding workflows.
AI-powered automated takeoff that extracts quantities from PDFs with high accuracy in minutes
Stack (stackct.com) is an AI-powered takeoff software designed for construction professionals to automate quantity takeoffs directly from PDF plans and blueprints. It offers real-time collaboration, precise measurements, and seamless integrations with tools like Procore, QuickBooks, and Autodesk. The platform streamlines the bidding process by reducing manual data entry and enabling teams to work efficiently from anywhere.
Pros
- AI automation significantly speeds up takeoffs from digital plans
- Strong real-time collaboration and cloud accessibility
- Robust integrations with popular construction management tools
Cons
- Pricing can be steep for smaller teams
- Limited built-in estimating beyond basic takeoffs
- Occasional learning curve for advanced AI features
Best For
Mid-sized contractors and estimators seeking fast, AI-driven takeoffs with team collaboration.
Pricing
Starts at $99/user/month (Starter), $199/user/month (Pro), with custom Enterprise plans and annual discounts available.
Togal.AI
general_aiAI-driven automated takeoff software that instantly detects and measures building elements from digital plans.
Patented AI object detection that auto-detects, counts, and measures thousands of elements instantly without tracing
Togal.AI is an AI-powered takeoff software that automates quantity extraction from construction blueprints and PDFs, identifying and measuring elements like walls, doors, windows, and areas with machine learning algorithms. It streamlines the pre-construction bidding process by generating accurate takeoffs in minutes rather than hours, supporting both 2D plans and BIM models. Users can collaborate in real-time, export data to popular estimating tools, and customize measurements for precision.
Pros
- Ultra-fast AI-driven automatic takeoffs reduce manual work by up to 90%
- High accuracy for standard architectural elements and scalable for large projects
- Strong integrations with Procore, PlanSwift, and Excel for seamless workflows
Cons
- Can misinterpret complex or handwritten plans requiring manual corrections
- Pricing is premium and may not suit very small firms or infrequent users
- Limited advanced customization for highly specialized takeoff needs
Best For
Mid-to-large construction estimators and GCs handling high-volume blueprints who prioritize speed and AI automation.
Pricing
Subscription-based with custom quotes; starts around $99/user/month for Pro plan, scaling to enterprise tiers with volume discounts.
Autodesk Takeoff
enterpriseCloud-integrated quantity takeoff solution for extracting measurements from 2D and 3D models in Autodesk Construction Cloud.
Integrated 2D and 3D takeoff capabilities that pull quantities directly from BIM models for federated data accuracy
Autodesk Takeoff is a cloud-based quantity takeoff solution designed for construction professionals to perform accurate 2D and 3D measurements from PDFs, CAD files, and BIM models. It streamlines the estimating process by automating quantity extraction, assembling items into estimates, and supporting cost analysis. Integrated into the Autodesk Construction Cloud, it enables real-time collaboration and data sharing across project teams.
Pros
- Seamless integration with Autodesk ecosystem like Revit and BIM 360
- Robust 2D takeoff tools from PDFs and images with high accuracy
- Cloud collaboration for team-based estimating and issue tracking
Cons
- Relatively high subscription pricing
- Steep learning curve for users new to Autodesk software
- Limited advanced customization for complex workflows
Best For
Construction estimators and firms already using Autodesk tools who need precise digital takeoffs integrated with BIM workflows.
Pricing
Subscription-based; Autodesk Takeoff Pro starts at ~$1,075/user/year (annual billing), with free tier limited to basic 2D functionality.
Kreo
specializedAI-assisted 2D/3D takeoff and estimating platform with real-time collaboration for AEC professionals.
AI Auto-Takeoff that intelligently detects and quantifies elements from drawings with user-trainable accuracy
Kreo (kreo.so) is an AI-powered construction takeoff and estimating software that automates quantity extraction from 2D PDFs, CAD files, and BIM models. It enables rapid generation of accurate material takeoffs, cost estimates, and reports, streamlining workflows for estimators. The platform supports real-time collaboration and integrates with tools like Procore and PlanSwift, making it suitable for mid-to-large construction projects.
Pros
- AI-driven automation drastically reduces takeoff time from hours to minutes
- High accuracy with trainable AI that improves over time
- Seamless cloud collaboration and export options to Excel/CSV
Cons
- Pricing is custom and can be expensive for small teams
- Occasional inaccuracies on highly complex or non-standard drawings
- Limited native integrations compared to established competitors
Best For
Mid-sized contractors and estimators managing high-volume, repetitive takeoff tasks who benefit from AI acceleration.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing starting around $100/user/month; free trial available.
On-Screen Takeoff
specializedDesktop-based software for detailed on-screen quantity takeoffs with seamless Excel export and integration.
Nested assembly conditions with formulas for handling intricate, conditional estimating logic
On-Screen Takeoff (OST) by ConstructConnect is a robust desktop software solution for construction professionals, enabling precise digital quantity takeoffs directly from PDF, CAD, and image files. It supports measuring lengths, areas, volumes, and counts with high accuracy, while allowing users to organize items into customizable assemblies for estimating and reporting. The software excels in handling complex projects and integrates seamlessly with Quick Bid for full estimating workflows.
Pros
- Highly precise takeoff tools with support for multiple plan formats
- Advanced customizable assemblies and detailed reporting
- Strong integration with Quick Bid for estimating
Cons
- Steep learning curve for beginners
- Desktop-only (Windows), no cloud or mobile access
- Higher pricing compared to some cloud-based competitors
Best For
Experienced construction estimators and quantity surveyors handling complex, detailed projects requiring maximum accuracy.
Pricing
Annual subscription starts at $1,799 per user; perpetual licenses available with annual maintenance fees around 20%.
ProEst
enterpriseCloud estimating software featuring integrated digital takeoff tools for accurate cost projections.
Dynamic assemblies database with live cost data from RSMeans for instant, accurate bid generation
ProEst is a cloud-based construction takeoff and estimating software designed to streamline digital quantity takeoffs from PDF plans and blueprints. It enables users to assemble accurate cost estimates using a vast database of pre-built assemblies, real-time labor and material pricing, and seamless integrations with tools like QuickBooks, Procore, and Sage. Primarily targeted at estimators, it supports collaborative bidding processes and bid management for construction projects.
Pros
- Robust digital takeoff tools with precise area, length, and count measurements
- Extensive integrations with accounting and project management software
- Cloud-based collaboration for team bidding and real-time updates
Cons
- Moderate learning curve for beginners due to extensive feature set
- Takeoff speed lags behind specialized tools like PlanSwift
- Pricing can be costly for small firms or solo estimators
Best For
Mid-sized general contractors and subcontractors needing integrated takeoff and full estimating workflows.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; typically $250–$500 per user/month depending on modules and user count, with annual contracts.
Buildxact
specializedAll-in-one takeoff and estimating solution designed for residential builders with job costing features.
Live supplier price feeds for real-time, accurate material costing without manual updates
Buildxact is a cloud-based takeoff and estimating software tailored for residential builders, remodelers, and trade contractors. It enables quick digital takeoffs from PDFs, CAD files, and images using 2D tools and assemblies, automatically generating material lists and cost estimates. The platform also supports job costing, scheduling, and integrations with QuickBooks and suppliers for streamlined workflows from quote to completion.
Pros
- Intuitive drag-and-drop takeoff interface speeds up quantity extraction
- Pre-built assemblies and templates for rapid estimating
- Strong integrations with QuickBooks and live supplier pricing
Cons
- Pricing can be steep for solo users or small teams
- Limited support for complex commercial or large-scale projects
- Occasional glitches in PDF import for non-standard files
Best For
Small to medium residential builders and remodelers seeking an user-friendly all-in-one tool for takeoffs, estimating, and job management.
Pricing
Starts at $149/user/month (Solo plan), with Build ($299) and Complete ($499) tiers; annual billing offers discounts.
Methvin
otherOnline takeoff and estimating calculator suite with customizable templates for construction quantity surveying.
Vast customizable template library with global rate databases for rapid project setup
Methvin (methvin.org) is a cloud-based takeoff and estimating software designed for construction professionals, enabling digital quantity takeoffs from PDFs, CAD files, images, and BIM models. It supports 2D/3D measurements for areas, lengths, counts, and volumes, with built-in estimating tools, customizable templates, and a vast library of rates. The platform emphasizes collaboration, allowing real-time sharing and cloud access across devices, making it suitable for small to medium-sized projects.
Pros
- Cloud-based with real-time collaboration and mobile access
- Extensive template library and rate databases for quick estimating
- Supports diverse file formats including PDFs, CAD, and BIM
Cons
- Interface feels somewhat dated compared to modern competitors
- Limited advanced automation and AI features
- Customer support can be slower for non-premium users
Best For
Small to medium construction firms and estimators seeking affordable, collaborative takeoff tools without complex enterprise needs.
Pricing
Free basic calculators available; paid plans start at $29/month for Pro takeoff features, with enterprise options on request.
Conclusion
Choosing the right takeoff software depends on project requirements, but PlanSwift leads as the top option, offering fast, accurate measurements from PDFs and CAD files for efficient construction estimating. Bluebeam Revu, ranked second, impresses with PDF-based precision and collaborative features, while Stack takes third place with cloud-driven speed for rapid takeoffs and bidding workflows. All tools deliver value, but PlanSwift stands out as the best for its balance of efficiency and reliability.
Take the first step toward streamlining your estimating process—explore PlanSwift today to unlock its unmatched speed and accuracy for your next project.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison