Quick Overview
- 1#1: drycon - Advanced 3D CAD software for detailed planning, static calculation, and quantity takeoff of drywall partitions, suspended ceilings, and dry construction systems.
- 2#2: Planfix - Professional planning tool for designing Fermacell drywall systems, floors, and ceilings with automatic calculations and static verification.
- 3#3: Digitalplaner - Online configurator and planner for Rigips drywall constructions, enabling quick design of walls, ceilings, and cladding with material lists.
- 4#4: Knauf Konfigurator - 3D configurator for Knauf Trockenbau systems, supporting intuitive design of partitions, linings, and suspensions with precise quantity determination.
- 5#5: Revit - BIM software for creating intelligent 3D models of drywall assemblies, interiors, and building structures with clash detection and scheduling.
- 6#6: ArchiCAD - BIM platform for architectural design including detailed Trockenbau modeling, automated documentation, and collaboration on interior partitions.
- 7#7: Allplan - CAD/BIM solution tailored for construction professionals, offering precise modeling and reinforcement planning for dry construction elements.
- 8#8: Vectorworks Architect - Integrated BIM and 2D/3D CAD tool for designing interior fit-outs, drywall layouts, and generating construction documents.
- 9#9: PlanSwift - Digital takeoff and estimating software that accelerates quantity calculation and cost estimation from Trockenbau blueprints and models.
- 10#10: Bluebeam Revu - PDF-based tool for markup, measurement, and collaboration on Trockenbau drawings, plans, and specifications in construction workflows.
Tools were selected based on their ability to deliver accurate 3D modeling, static calculation, and automated quantity takeoff, paired with intuitive interfaces that reduce workflow friction. Integration capabilities, collaboration features, and alignment with diverse project scales were prioritized to ensure broad applicability and long-term value for dry construction practitioners.
Comparison Table
This comparison table reviews popular Trockenbau software tools such as drycon, Planfix, Digitalplaner, Knauf Konfigurator, Revit, and more, offering a clear overview of their unique strengths. Readers will gain insights into key features, usability, and suitability for different dry construction workflows, aiding in informed software selection.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | drycon Advanced 3D CAD software for detailed planning, static calculation, and quantity takeoff of drywall partitions, suspended ceilings, and dry construction systems. | specialized | 9.6/10 | 9.8/10 | 9.2/10 | 9.4/10 |
| 2 | Planfix Professional planning tool for designing Fermacell drywall systems, floors, and ceilings with automatic calculations and static verification. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.1/10 | 9.5/10 |
| 3 | Digitalplaner Online configurator and planner for Rigips drywall constructions, enabling quick design of walls, ceilings, and cladding with material lists. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.0/10 | 9.5/10 |
| 4 | Knauf Konfigurator 3D configurator for Knauf Trockenbau systems, supporting intuitive design of partitions, linings, and suspensions with precise quantity determination. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 8.8/10 | 7.9/10 | 9.5/10 |
| 5 | Revit BIM software for creating intelligent 3D models of drywall assemblies, interiors, and building structures with clash detection and scheduling. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 9.0/10 | 6.5/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 6 | ArchiCAD BIM platform for architectural design including detailed Trockenbau modeling, automated documentation, and collaboration on interior partitions. | enterprise | 7.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 6.4/10 | 6.9/10 |
| 7 | Allplan CAD/BIM solution tailored for construction professionals, offering precise modeling and reinforcement planning for dry construction elements. | enterprise | 7.8/10 | 8.3/10 | 7.1/10 | 7.4/10 |
| 8 | Vectorworks Architect Integrated BIM and 2D/3D CAD tool for designing interior fit-outs, drywall layouts, and generating construction documents. | enterprise | 7.6/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.0/10 | 7.2/10 |
| 9 | PlanSwift Digital takeoff and estimating software that accelerates quantity calculation and cost estimation from Trockenbau blueprints and models. | other | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 10 | Bluebeam Revu PDF-based tool for markup, measurement, and collaboration on Trockenbau drawings, plans, and specifications in construction workflows. | other | 7.6/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.0/10 | 7.1/10 |
Advanced 3D CAD software for detailed planning, static calculation, and quantity takeoff of drywall partitions, suspended ceilings, and dry construction systems.
Professional planning tool for designing Fermacell drywall systems, floors, and ceilings with automatic calculations and static verification.
Online configurator and planner for Rigips drywall constructions, enabling quick design of walls, ceilings, and cladding with material lists.
3D configurator for Knauf Trockenbau systems, supporting intuitive design of partitions, linings, and suspensions with precise quantity determination.
BIM software for creating intelligent 3D models of drywall assemblies, interiors, and building structures with clash detection and scheduling.
BIM platform for architectural design including detailed Trockenbau modeling, automated documentation, and collaboration on interior partitions.
CAD/BIM solution tailored for construction professionals, offering precise modeling and reinforcement planning for dry construction elements.
Integrated BIM and 2D/3D CAD tool for designing interior fit-outs, drywall layouts, and generating construction documents.
Digital takeoff and estimating software that accelerates quantity calculation and cost estimation from Trockenbau blueprints and models.
PDF-based tool for markup, measurement, and collaboration on Trockenbau drawings, plans, and specifications in construction workflows.
drycon
specializedAdvanced 3D CAD software for detailed planning, static calculation, and quantity takeoff of drywall partitions, suspended ceilings, and dry construction systems.
Advanced Schnellrechner for instant, DIN-compliant quantity and cost calculations from CAD imports
Drycon is a comprehensive software solution tailored specifically for Trockenbau (drywall construction) professionals, enabling precise material quantity takeoffs, cost calculations, and professional offer generation. It supports end-to-end project management, from initial planning and 3D visualizations to invoicing and site progress tracking. With modules for Schnellangebot (quick quoting) and Baustellenabrechnung (construction site billing), it streamlines workflows for German drywall firms.
Pros
- Highly accurate calculation engine for complex Trockenbau structures and materials
- Integrated 3D planning and visualization tools for precise project previews
- Excellent German-language support and compliance with local construction standards
Cons
- Steep initial learning curve for advanced modules
- Limited third-party integrations compared to general construction software
- Pricing may be high for very small operations
Best For
Mid-to-large Trockenbau firms in Germany seeking a specialized, all-in-one solution for quoting, planning, and billing.
Pricing
Subscription starts at €99/month per user, with enterprise plans and modular pricing available; free trial offered.
Planfix
specializedProfessional planning tool for designing Fermacell drywall systems, floors, and ceilings with automatic calculations and static verification.
Integrated Fermacell product database with automatic, construction-standard quantity calculations for partitions and ceilings
Planfix is a specialized planning software from Fermacell designed for Trockenbau (dry construction) projects, enabling users to create 2D and 3D designs for partitions, suspended ceilings, and cladding systems. It automatically calculates precise material quantities based on Fermacell's gypsum fibreboard products and generates detailed bills of quantities, plans, and exports in PDF or DXF formats. Ideal for professionals in the construction industry, it streamlines project planning and tender preparation with a focus on accuracy and efficiency.
Pros
- Highly accurate material quantity calculations tailored to Fermacell products
- Free to download and use with no licensing fees
- Supports 2D/3D visualization and easy export options for plans and reports
Cons
- Limited flexibility for non-Fermacell materials and systems
- Interface primarily in German, which may hinder non-German speakers
- Lacks advanced BIM/IFC integration for seamless workflow with other CAD tools
Best For
Trockenbau contractors and planners who primarily use Fermacell products and need cost-effective, precise quantity takeoff tools.
Pricing
Completely free to download and use indefinitely.
Digitalplaner
specializedOnline configurator and planner for Rigips drywall constructions, enabling quick design of walls, ceilings, and cladding with material lists.
Seamless Rigips product database integration for automated, manufacturer-accurate quantity surveying and BOM generation
Digitalplaner from rigips.de is a free web-based planning tool specialized for Trockenbau (drywall construction) projects using Rigips gypsum products. It supports 2D/3D modeling of partitions, suspended ceilings, and wall linings, with automatic material quantity calculations and generation of plans, sections, and BOMs. Ideal for quick, product-specific planning in the Rigips ecosystem, it streamlines workflows for craftsmen and estimators.
Pros
- Completely free with no usage limits
- Precise Rigips product integration for accurate BOQs
- Intuitive 2D/3D visualization and plan exports
Cons
- Limited to Rigips products, less flexible for competitors
- Web-only, requires stable internet and no offline mode
- Basic compared to full BIM suites, lacks advanced simulations
Best For
Trockenbau craftsmen and small planning teams specializing in Rigips drywall systems who need quick, cost-free material takeoffs.
Pricing
Free for all users, no subscription required.
Knauf Konfigurator
specialized3D configurator for Knauf Trockenbau systems, supporting intuitive design of partitions, linings, and suspensions with precise quantity determination.
Integrated static proof engine for verifying drywall construct stability
Knauf Konfigurator is a free web-based tool from Knauf for dry construction (Trockenbau) professionals, enabling the configuration of drywall systems including walls, ceilings, and partitions. It offers detailed material calculations, static verifications, and generation of plans, BOMs, and PDFs compliant with German standards. Primarily targeted at the German market, it streamlines planning for Knauf-specific products with 2D/3D visualizations.
Pros
- Comprehensive static calculations and verifications
- Free access with no subscription required
- Seamless export of plans, lists, and CAD data
Cons
- Limited to Knauf products only
- Primarily German interface and documentation
- Web-only with no offline capability
Best For
Knauf-using Trockenbau contractors and planners in Germany needing standardized system configurations.
Pricing
Completely free to use.
Revit
enterpriseBIM software for creating intelligent 3D models of drywall assemblies, interiors, and building structures with clash detection and scheduling.
Intelligent parametric families and schedules for precise Trockenbau material takeoffs and clash-free coordination
Revit by Autodesk is a comprehensive BIM (Building Information Modeling) software that excels in 3D modeling of architectural, structural, and MEP elements, including detailed dry construction (Trockenbau) assemblies like drywall partitions, suspended ceilings, and cladding systems. It supports parametric families for gypsum boards, metal studs, and insulation, enabling accurate quantity takeoffs, clash detection, and fabrication drawings. While highly capable for integrated building projects, it requires customization via add-ins for specialized Trockenbau workflows.
Pros
- Powerful parametric modeling for complex Trockenbau assemblies
- Seamless BIM integration with scheduling and quantity extraction
- Vast ecosystem of add-ins and Autodesk interoperability
Cons
- Steep learning curve for non-BIM experts
- High cost and resource demands
- Overkill for simple Trockenbau-only projects
Best For
AEC professionals and firms managing full-scale building projects that incorporate dry construction within broader BIM workflows.
Pricing
Subscription: $2,585 USD/year standalone; included in AEC Collection (~$3,575 USD/year).
ArchiCAD
enterpriseBIM platform for architectural design including detailed Trockenbau modeling, automated documentation, and collaboration on interior partitions.
Complex Profile Manager for defining precise metal framing and drywall compositions parametrically
ArchiCAD is a professional BIM (Building Information Modeling) software developed by Graphisoft, primarily used for architectural design, 3D modeling, and construction documentation. In the context of Trockenbau (drywall and dry construction), it excels at creating parametric wall systems, partitions, and ceiling models using complex profiles for metal studs, tracks, and insulation layers. It supports quantity takeoffs, clash detection, and IFC export for collaboration, though it requires custom setups for specialized Trockenbau workflows.
Pros
- Powerful parametric modeling with complex profiles ideal for accurate Trockenbau assemblies
- Strong BIM integration for clash detection and quantity extraction in large projects
- Excellent 3D visualization and rendering for client presentations
Cons
- Steep learning curve for non-architects focused solely on Trockenbau
- High cost with no lightweight version for simple drywall tasks
- Requires add-ons or custom libraries for optimal Trockenbau-specific detailing
Best For
Architects and multidisciplinary teams integrating Trockenbau elements into full building designs rather than standalone drywall specialists.
Pricing
Subscription-based: Collaborate edition ~€2,400/year per user; Solo ~€1,900/year; free trial available.
Allplan
enterpriseCAD/BIM solution tailored for construction professionals, offering precise modeling and reinforcement planning for dry construction elements.
PythonParts library for highly customizable, parametric Trockenbau components like adaptive drywall systems.
Allplan is a comprehensive BIM/CAD software from Nemetschek Group, widely used in architecture, engineering, and construction for 2D drafting and 3D modeling. It supports Trockenbau (dry construction) through parametric objects for drywall partitions, metal stud framing, suspended ceilings, and insulation systems, enabling detailed quantity takeoffs and clash detection. The platform integrates with IFC standards for collaboration and offers visualization tools like animations and renders tailored to building projects.
Pros
- Powerful BIM integration for multidisciplinary projects
- Extensive libraries for Trockenbau elements like drywall and metal frames
- Advanced automation via Python scripting for custom detailing
Cons
- Steep learning curve for non-expert users
- Higher pricing compared to Trockenbau-specific tools
- Occasional performance issues with very large models
Best For
Architecture and engineering firms handling complex, multi-discipline projects that include Trockenbau alongside other construction elements.
Pricing
Annual subscription from €2,400/user; perpetual licenses around €5,000+ with maintenance fees.
Vectorworks Architect
enterpriseIntegrated BIM and 2D/3D CAD tool for designing interior fit-outs, drywall layouts, and generating construction documents.
Advanced Wall tool with layered assemblies for precise simulation of drywall systems and insulation
Vectorworks Architect is a versatile BIM/CAD platform tailored for architects, offering robust 2D drafting, 3D modeling, and information-rich building documentation. It supports Trockenbau workflows through advanced wall and partition tools that allow customization of drywall assemblies, cavities, insulation, and sheathing layers. While capable of generating detailed models for dry construction elements like suspended ceilings and interior partitions, it relies on general BIM features rather than niche-specific automation for material takeoffs or joint detailing.
Pros
- Hybrid 2D/3D environment ideal for iterative design
- Strong BIM tools with IFC export for collaboration
- Customizable wall styles for accurate Trockenbau assemblies
Cons
- No built-in Trockenbau-specific quantity takeoff or cost estimation
- Steep learning curve due to extensive feature set
- Subscription model can be costly for niche dry construction use
Best For
Architects and general designers handling mixed architectural projects that include Trockenbau modeling alongside broader building design.
Pricing
Annual subscription starting at $1,835/year ($153/month) for Architect license; perpetual options discontinued.
PlanSwift
otherDigital takeoff and estimating software that accelerates quantity calculation and cost estimation from Trockenbau blueprints and models.
Dynamic assemblies that automatically calculate material, labor, and waste for complex Trockenbau configurations with a single click
PlanSwift is a powerful digital takeoff and estimating software designed for construction professionals, enabling quick quantity takeoffs from PDF, CAD, and image files using point-and-click tools. It excels in creating customizable assemblies for trades like Trockenbau, automating calculations for drywall sheets, metal framing, insulation, and joint compounds based on linear, area, or count measurements. The software generates professional bid reports and integrates with popular estimating tools, streamlining the pre-construction bidding process for dry construction projects.
Pros
- Lightning-fast point-and-click takeoffs reduce manual measuring time significantly
- Highly customizable assemblies tailored for Trockenbau elements like partitions and ceilings
- Robust reporting and export options for accurate bids and integration with Excel/estimating software
Cons
- Steep learning curve requires substantial training for new users
- Desktop-only application lacks cloud collaboration features
- High upfront cost and annual maintenance fees may deter small firms
Best For
Experienced Trockenbau estimators and general contractors who prioritize speed and precision in digital takeoffs from plans.
Pricing
Perpetual license starts at $1,595 per user, plus $395 annual maintenance; volume discounts available.
Bluebeam Revu
otherPDF-based tool for markup, measurement, and collaboration on Trockenbau drawings, plans, and specifications in construction workflows.
Studio cloud collaboration for real-time, multi-user markups on project PDFs
Bluebeam Revu is a powerful PDF software suite tailored for the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry, providing markup, measurement, and collaboration tools that support Trockenbau workflows like reviewing drywall plans and performing quantity takeoffs. It enables users to annotate blueprints, measure areas and lengths for materials such as plasterboard and insulation, and share sessions via the cloud-based Studio platform. While versatile for general construction documentation, it excels in handling large PDF sets common in dry construction projects but lacks deep specialization in Trockenbau-specific calculations or BIM integration.
Pros
- Robust markup and measurement tools for accurate quantity takeoffs on plans
- Real-time collaboration through Studio Sessions
- Customizable tool sets and scripting for repetitive Trockenbau tasks
Cons
- Steep learning curve for advanced features
- Windows-only (limited Mac support)
- No built-in Trockenbau-specific modules like automated drywall optimization
Best For
Trockenbau professionals and firms needing reliable PDF markup and team collaboration for construction documentation.
Pricing
Annual subscriptions from $240/user (Basics) to $350/user (Complete); perpetual licenses start at $360.
Conclusion
The top 10 tools offer diverse strengths, with drycon leading for its advanced 3D CAD features in detailed planning, static calculations, and quantity takeoff. Planfix and Digitalplaner follow as strong alternatives—Planfix for Fermacell systems with automatic verification, and Digitalplaner for quick Rigips design with material lists, catering to varied needs.
For professionals seeking a comprehensive solution, drycon is the ideal choice to streamline dry construction workflows.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison