Quick Overview
- 1#1: Stack - AI-powered cloud-based takeoff and estimating platform that automates quantity extraction from plans for faster construction bidding.
- 2#2: Buildxact - Web-based estimating, takeoff, and job costing software tailored for residential builders and remodelers.
- 3#3: ProEst - Cloud-native construction estimating software with database assemblies, digital takeoff, and real-time collaboration.
- 4#4: Buildertrend - All-in-one web platform for construction management including advanced estimating, takeoff, and scheduling tools.
- 5#5: Togal.AI - AI-driven automated takeoff software that instantly detects and measures elements from PDF plans for estimating.
- 6#6: Kreo - AI-assisted 2D digital takeoff and estimating tool for quantity surveyors and estimators in construction.
- 7#7: Destini Estimator - Cloud-based 5D BIM estimating software integrating models for precise quantity and cost analysis.
- 8#8: Groundplan - Online digital measuring and takeoff software for quick plan analysis and cost estimating in construction.
- 9#9: Joist - Web and mobile estimating app enabling trade professionals to create, send, and track professional estimates.
- 10#10: Knowify - Cloud construction management platform with built-in estimating, takeoff, and job costing for subcontractors.
Tools were selected based on rigorous evaluation of core functionality (e.g., takeoff automation, BIM integration), user experience (intuitiveness, accessibility), reliability (security, performance), and value (cost vs. feature set), ensuring alignment with diverse construction needs.
Comparison Table
Web-based construction estimating software simplifies project budgeting, but choosing the right tool—such as Stack, Buildxact, ProEst, Buildertrend, or Togal.AI—requires clarity on features and usability. This comparison table outlines key differences, helping readers evaluate tools based on their workflow, team size, and project needs.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Stack AI-powered cloud-based takeoff and estimating platform that automates quantity extraction from plans for faster construction bidding. | specialized | 9.7/10 | 9.9/10 | 9.4/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 2 | Buildxact Web-based estimating, takeoff, and job costing software tailored for residential builders and remodelers. | specialized | 8.9/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 3 | ProEst Cloud-native construction estimating software with database assemblies, digital takeoff, and real-time collaboration. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.6/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 4 | Buildertrend All-in-one web platform for construction management including advanced estimating, takeoff, and scheduling tools. | enterprise | 8.6/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.9/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 5 | Togal.AI AI-driven automated takeoff software that instantly detects and measures elements from PDF plans for estimating. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.3/10 | 8.4/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 6 | Kreo AI-assisted 2D digital takeoff and estimating tool for quantity surveyors and estimators in construction. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.8/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 7 | Destini Estimator Cloud-based 5D BIM estimating software integrating models for precise quantity and cost analysis. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 9.0/10 | 7.5/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 8 | Groundplan Online digital measuring and takeoff software for quick plan analysis and cost estimating in construction. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 9 | Joist Web and mobile estimating app enabling trade professionals to create, send, and track professional estimates. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 7.8/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 10 | Knowify Cloud construction management platform with built-in estimating, takeoff, and job costing for subcontractors. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.8/10 | 7.6/10 |
AI-powered cloud-based takeoff and estimating platform that automates quantity extraction from plans for faster construction bidding.
Web-based estimating, takeoff, and job costing software tailored for residential builders and remodelers.
Cloud-native construction estimating software with database assemblies, digital takeoff, and real-time collaboration.
All-in-one web platform for construction management including advanced estimating, takeoff, and scheduling tools.
AI-driven automated takeoff software that instantly detects and measures elements from PDF plans for estimating.
AI-assisted 2D digital takeoff and estimating tool for quantity surveyors and estimators in construction.
Cloud-based 5D BIM estimating software integrating models for precise quantity and cost analysis.
Online digital measuring and takeoff software for quick plan analysis and cost estimating in construction.
Web and mobile estimating app enabling trade professionals to create, send, and track professional estimates.
Cloud construction management platform with built-in estimating, takeoff, and job costing for subcontractors.
Stack
specializedAI-powered cloud-based takeoff and estimating platform that automates quantity extraction from plans for faster construction bidding.
Automated PDF takeoff engine that instantly assembles precise measurements from plans, saving hours per project
Stack (stackct.com) is a leading cloud-based construction takeoff and estimating software that enables users to perform fast, accurate digital takeoffs directly from PDF plans and drawings. It streamlines the estimating process by automating measurements, generating material lists, and facilitating real-time collaboration among teams. With mobile accessibility and integrations like QuickBooks, it's designed to reduce bidding errors and accelerate project turnaround for construction professionals.
Pros
- Lightning-fast PDF takeoff processing that handles entire plans in seconds
- Robust collaboration tools with real-time sharing and cloud storage
- Seamless integrations with accounting and project management software
Cons
- Higher pricing may deter very small operations
- Steeper learning curve for advanced customization
- Limited 3D modeling capabilities compared to specialized BIM tools
Best For
Subcontractors and estimators managing high-volume PDF-based bids who prioritize speed and team collaboration.
Pricing
Starts at $2,499/year for Pro plan (1 user); Team ($4,999/year for 3 users) and custom Enterprise pricing available.
Buildxact
specializedWeb-based estimating, takeoff, and job costing software tailored for residential builders and remodelers.
Ultra-fast 2D/3D digital takeoffs that process PDFs in seconds with intelligent auto-detection
Buildxact is a cloud-based construction estimating and takeoff software tailored for residential builders, remodelers, and trade contractors. It enables users to perform fast digital takeoffs from PDFs, create professional estimates with customizable templates, and manage jobs from quoting to invoicing. The platform integrates seamlessly with accounting tools like QuickBooks and Xero, supporting real-time collaboration and mobile access for on-site efficiency.
Pros
- Lightning-fast PDF takeoffs with auto-counting
- Robust job costing and variation tracking
- Strong integrations with QuickBooks and suppliers
Cons
- Pricing can be steep for solo users
- Limited advanced reporting customization
- Occasional glitches in 3D takeoff previews
Best For
Small to medium residential builders and remodelers needing quick, accurate estimating and job management.
Pricing
Starts at $149/user/month (Essentials), $299/user/month (Pro), $499/user/month (Premier), with annual discounts and a 14-day free trial.
ProEst
enterpriseCloud-native construction estimating software with database assemblies, digital takeoff, and real-time collaboration.
Dynamic assemblies library with over 20,000 pre-built items for lightning-fast, accurate cost assembly
ProEst is a cloud-based construction estimating software designed to streamline digital takeoff, cost estimating, and bid management for contractors and estimators. It features an extensive pre-built assemblies database, real-time collaboration tools, and seamless integrations with accounting software like QuickBooks and Sage. The platform enables accurate, scalable estimating from any device, reducing manual errors and speeding up the pre-construction bidding process.
Pros
- Extensive customizable assemblies database for rapid estimating
- Strong integrations with accounting and project management tools
- Cloud accessibility with mobile support for on-site use
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users due to complex interface
- Pricing is quote-based and can be expensive for small teams
- Limited advanced reporting customization compared to competitors
Best For
Mid-sized construction firms and estimators handling complex commercial projects who need robust takeoff and assembly-based estimating.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; typically starts at around $5,000 annually for basic plans, scaling with users and features.
Buildertrend
enterpriseAll-in-one web platform for construction management including advanced estimating, takeoff, and scheduling tools.
Seamless estimate-to-schedule integration that auto-populates budgets and timelines from bids
Buildertrend is a comprehensive web-based construction management platform with integrated estimating tools designed for residential builders, remodelers, and contractors. It enables digital takeoffs, customizable cost databases, assemblies, and professional bid proposals, while linking estimates directly to budgeting, scheduling, and change orders. The software streamlines workflows by combining estimating with project tracking, client portals, and financial tools in a single cloud-based system.
Pros
- All-in-one integration of estimating with scheduling, budgeting, and client communication
- Robust mobile app for on-site takeoffs and updates
- Extensive template library and customizable cost items for quick setup
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users due to feature depth
- Higher pricing may not suit very small operations
- Estimating lacks advanced 3D takeoff capabilities compared to specialized tools
Best For
Medium-sized residential construction firms needing an integrated estimating and project management solution.
Pricing
Starts at $399/month for the Essentials plan (up to 20 users/projects), scaling to $1,500+/month for enterprise; custom quotes available.
Togal.AI
specializedAI-driven automated takeoff software that instantly detects and measures elements from PDF plans for estimating.
Patented AI engine that auto-detects and quantifies plan elements in seconds with user-trainable accuracy
Togal.AI is a web-based construction takeoff and estimating platform powered by AI that automates the detection and measurement of elements like walls, doors, openings, and fixtures directly from PDF blueprints. It significantly reduces manual takeoff time from hours to minutes, allowing estimators to focus on bidding and analysis. The cloud-based tool supports collaboration and integrates with popular estimating software like Procore and PlanSwift.
Pros
- AI-driven automation drastically cuts takeoff time by up to 90%
- High accuracy for 2D plans with customizable machine learning
- Seamless cloud collaboration and integrations with estimating tools
Cons
- Pricing is quote-based and can be expensive for small firms
- Learning curve for optimizing AI results on complex plans
- Primarily focused on takeoffs, with less emphasis on full estimating workflows
Best For
Mid-sized construction estimators and contractors handling high-volume 2D blueprint takeoffs who need speed and accuracy.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; typically $200-$500+ per user/month depending on project volume and features.
Kreo
specializedAI-assisted 2D digital takeoff and estimating tool for quantity surveyors and estimators in construction.
AI-powered automatic quantity extraction from PDFs and BIM models
Kreo is a web-based construction estimating software that uses AI-powered tools and BIM integration to automate 2D and 3D takeoffs from PDFs, CAD files, and models. It generates accurate bills of quantities (BOQs), cost estimates, and supports real-time team collaboration in the cloud. Ideal for speeding up pre-construction workflows, it combines digital measurement with customizable pricing databases for efficient project bidding.
Pros
- AI-automated takeoffs reduce manual effort by up to 80%
- Seamless BIM and PDF import for precise 2D/3D measurements
- Real-time cloud collaboration and customizable estimating templates
Cons
- Pricing can be steep for small firms without high-volume use
- Steeper learning curve for advanced BIM features
- Limited native integrations with some accounting tools
Best For
Mid-sized construction firms and estimators handling complex BIM projects who need fast, accurate digital takeoffs.
Pricing
Starts at $99/user/month for Pro plan (billed annually); pay-per-project options and custom Enterprise pricing available.
Destini Estimator
enterpriseCloud-based 5D BIM estimating software integrating models for precise quantity and cost analysis.
Direct 3D model-to-estimate linkage with parametric assemblies for rapid, model-driven accuracy
Destini Estimator by Beck Technology is a cloud-based construction estimating software that integrates BIM and 3D models for automated quantity takeoffs and cost estimation. It enables real-time cost modeling by linking architectural models directly to customizable cost databases and assemblies. The platform supports collaborative workflows for developers, contractors, and estimators handling large-scale projects.
Pros
- Seamless BIM/3D model integration for accurate automated takeoffs
- AI-driven real-time cost updates and scenario analysis
- Strong collaboration tools for team-based estimating
Cons
- Steep learning curve for users new to BIM workflows
- Enterprise pricing may be prohibitive for small firms
- Limited customization for non-model-based estimating
Best For
Large real estate developers and general contractors using BIM for complex, high-value projects.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing upon request; typically subscription-based starting at several thousand dollars per year per user.
Groundplan
specializedOnline digital measuring and takeoff software for quick plan analysis and cost estimating in construction.
Sketch recognition technology that instantly transforms hand-drawn sketches into editable digital floor plans
Groundplan is a web-based construction estimating software that enables users to quickly convert hand-drawn sketches into professional 2D floor plans. It automatically performs material takeoffs, generates cost estimates, and includes customizable templates for assemblies, labor, and supplier pricing. Designed for contractors, it streamlines bidding by integrating planning and estimating in a cloud-based platform accessible from any device.
Pros
- Rapid sketch-to-floor-plan conversion saves significant time
- Automated takeoffs and integrated estimating reduce errors
- Cloud collaboration and mobile access for on-site use
Cons
- Primarily focused on 2D residential plans, less ideal for complex 3D or commercial projects
- Limited native integrations with popular accounting or project management tools
- Advanced customization requires higher-tier plans
Best For
Small to medium residential contractors and builders who prioritize speed in creating estimates from rough sketches.
Pricing
Starts at $19/month (Solo), $49/month (Pro with unlimited plans), Enterprise custom pricing.
Joist
specializedWeb and mobile estimating app enabling trade professionals to create, send, and track professional estimates.
One-click conversion of estimates to trackable invoices with payment collection
Joist is a web-based platform designed for small construction businesses, enabling quick creation of professional estimates, invoices, and job management tools. It features customizable templates for rapid estimating, seamless conversion of estimates to invoices, and integrated payment processing. Accessible via web dashboard and mobile apps, it's built for on-the-go use by contractors handling residential repairs and remodels.
Pros
- Intuitive interface for fast estimate creation
- Seamless estimate-to-invoice conversion
- Strong mobile and web accessibility
Cons
- Limited advanced takeoff and cost database tools
- Basic reporting and analytics
- Fewer enterprise-level integrations
Best For
Small contractors and solo tradespeople needing simple, mobile-first estimating and invoicing for residential projects.
Pricing
Free basic plan; paid tiers from $9/month (Solo) to $99/month (Pro Team for 10+ users).
Knowify
enterpriseCloud construction management platform with built-in estimating, takeoff, and job costing for subcontractors.
Intelligent Assemblies library for rapid, accurate bid creation from digital takeoffs
Knowify is a cloud-based construction management software designed primarily for specialty trade contractors, offering robust tools for digital takeoff, estimating, job costing, invoicing, and project management. It streamlines the bidding process with customizable assemblies, real-time cost tracking, and seamless integration with QuickBooks and other accounting software. The platform emphasizes mobility with a dedicated app for field updates, making it suitable for small to mid-sized firms seeking an all-in-one solution.
Pros
- Powerful digital takeoff and estimating with pre-built assemblies
- Real-time job costing and profitability tracking
- Strong mobile app for field-to-office connectivity
Cons
- Steeper learning curve for advanced features
- Pricing can be high for smaller teams
- Limited customization in reporting compared to enterprise tools
Best For
Small to mid-sized specialty contractors needing integrated estimating and job management without complex enterprise overhead.
Pricing
Starts at $149/user/month for Essential plan; Pro at $199/user/month; custom Enterprise pricing available.
Conclusion
The tools reviewed offer diverse strengths, but Stack leads as the top choice, with AI automation streamlining quantity extraction for faster bidding. Buildxact, tailored for residential builders, excels in simplicity, while ProEst stands out with robust database assemblies and real-time collaboration, serving distinct needs. Together, they highlight the range of solutions available to enhance construction estimating efficiency.
Don’t miss out—start with Stack, the AI-powered leader, and unlock faster, more accurate estimating to stay ahead in your projects.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison